[jwplayer n9U7MN0D]
On Saturday, the Cleveland Cavaliers announced that they have signed Auburn Tigers forward Isaac Okoro to his rookie-scale contract as the fifth overall pick in the NBA draft.
Okoro will earn $5,334,100 next season as the fifth overall pick.
The 19-year-old drew interest from a few teams near the top of the draft before the Cavaliers ultimately selected him on Wednesday. Okoro was said to have even received a draft promise from a team following a strong showing in interviews.
Okoro was named to the All-SEC Second Team after averaging 12.9 points, 4.4 rebounds and two assists. He is considered to be one of the best defensive players in the draft and projects to be a strong offensive player inside of the paint.
The Cavaliers finished last in defense during the 2019-20 season, allowing 114.8 points per 100 possessions, and figure to get a huge boost on that end of the floor with the addition of Okoro.
Okoro will wear the No. 35 with the Cavaliers.
[lawrence-related id=24381,24339,24286]
[listicle id=24420]