Zalgiris Kaunas strengthened the frontcourt with another new signing. The Lithuanian champions have signed 26-year-old, 208 cm center Kaodirichi Akobundu-Ehiogu to a 1+1 contract.
The big man had signed with Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana earlier this summer, but a EuroLeague release clause in his contract paved the way for his move to Kaunas.
“There were several reasons behind this signing. One of them is that he brings a completely different skill set compared to our other big men. Another is that, based on last season’s experience, we know how difficult the market becomes during the season if we decide to add a player. Good players simply aren’t available, and we’re not interested in settling for lesser options. That’s why we decided to make this investment before the season even starts” said Zalgiris Kaunas GM Gediminas Navickas.
“I’m very happy to become part of the green-and-white family. I can’t wait to experience the incredible atmosphere. I’m ready to give everything I’ve got!” the club’s newest addition said in his first message to Zalgiris fans.
The Nigeria-born center took an unconventional path to professional basketball. After moving to the United States as a teenager, he completed high school there before beginning his collegiate career at the NAIA level.
His career steadily progressed and he spent his final college season at the University of Memphis. During the 2022–23 season, he helped the Tigers capture the AAC Tournament title.
Standing 208 cm tall with an impressive 223 cm wingspan, Akobundu-Ehiogu began his professional career in Europe with Tigers Tubingen in Germany’s top division during the 2023-24 season.
A year later, he moved to Italy to join Openjobmetis Varese. In one of his first games with the club, the shot-blocking specialist showcased his defensive instincts by recording eight blocked shots.
He finished the 2024-25 Italian League season averaging 7.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks per game, leading the league in blocked shots.
Last season, he took another step forward by joining BAXI Manresa, competing in both the Spanish ACB League and the EuroCup.
In the EuroCup, Akobundu-Ehiogu averaged 4.4 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks in 13:31 minutes per game. His 1.6 blocks per game led the entire competition, while he also ranked third in the ACB League in blocked shots, once again proving himself as one of Europe’s premier rim protectors.
This summer, the future Zalgiris center made his third career appearance in the NBA Summer League. Representing the Dallas Mavericks, he produced several highlight-reel dunks and averaged 6.4 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks in 12 minutes across five games.
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