The Cleveland Cavaliers have signed power forward JT Thor to a two-way contract, following his standout performance at the Paris Olympic Games. Thor, a 21-year-old of South Sudanese descent, impressed with his energy and contributions for South Sudan during the Olympics.
In the group stage, Thor averaged 6.7 points and 4.7 rebounds per game coming off the bench, although South Sudan did not advance to the knockout rounds. His most notable performance occurred during a pre-Olympics exhibition game, where South Sudan nearly upset Team USA. In that game, Thor scored 14 points in just 18 minutes, drawing fouls and hitting multiple three-pointers.
Thor has prior NBA experience, having been selected 37th overall in the 2021 NBA Draft by the Charlotte Hornets. Over three seasons with the Hornets, he averaged 3.2 points and 2.1 rebounds per game in limited playing time. Despite going unsigned earlier this summer, his Olympic performance likely helped secure this new opportunity with the Cavaliers.
There had been speculation that the Cavaliers might sign a different breakout player from the Olympics, but they have decided to take a chance on Thor. With several roster spots still available, the team may have the flexibility to add more talent.
