Utah Jazz Bolster Roster with Veteran Center Mo Bamba on 10-Day Deal
In a strategic roster move ahead of their February 26 matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans, the Utah Jazz are set to sign veteran center Mo Bamba to a 10-day contract. This development, first reported by ESPN's Shams Charania, provides Bamba with a crucial opportunity to showcase his skills at the NBA level once again.
From G League Standout to NBA Opportunity
For the majority of the 2025-26 season, Mo Bamba has been a dominant force for the Salt Lake City Stars, the Jazz's NBA G League affiliate. His impressive performance with the Stars has been the catalyst for this NBA call-up. Bamba has been averaging 17.0 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game in the G League, demonstrating his capability as a double-double threat and defensive anchor.
This marks a significant resurgence for Bamba, who began the season with the Toronto Raptors on a one-year contract. However, his time in Toronto was brief, featuring only two appearances totaling three minutes of play before he was waived in early January 2026.
A Career Seeking Stability
Mo Bamba's journey through the NBA has been one of constant movement since being selected sixth overall by the Orlando Magic in the 2018 NBA Draft. Over eight NBA seasons, he has suited up for six different franchises, including:
- Orlando Magic (2018-2023)
- Los Angeles Lakers (2022-2023)
- Philadelphia 76ers (2023-2024)
- Los Angeles Clippers (2024-2025)
- New Orleans Pelicans (2025)
- Toronto Raptors (2025-2026)
Bamba's career-best season came during his fourth year with the Magic, when he appeared in 71 games and established himself as a reliable contributor. Throughout his NBA tenure, he has maintained averages of 6.2 points and 5.0 rebounds per game primarily in a reserve role.
The Path Back to the NBA
Bamba's connection with the Jazz organization began in September 2025 when he signed a contract before training camp. Although he didn't make the final roster after preseason, he officially joined the Salt Lake City Stars on October 27, where he has flourished.
In the G League regular season, Bamba has started half of his ten games, averaging 16.2 points and 11.8 rebounds per game while shooting 54% from the field and 35% from three-point range. His defensive presence has been equally notable with an average of two blocks per game.
Shams Charania confirmed the signing on social media, stating: "7-footer Mo Bamba is signing a 10-day contract with the Utah Jazz... Bamba spent time earlier this season with the Raptors and has averaged 17 points, 11.5 rebounds and 2.5 blocks for the Jazz's NBA G League affiliate."
What This Means for the Jazz
The 10-day contract gives both Bamba and the Jazz organization a chance to evaluate fit and performance. For Bamba, this represents another opportunity to revive an NBA career that began with high expectations as a top-10 draft pick. For the Jazz, it adds experienced depth at the center position as they navigate the remainder of the season.
Bamba's recent G League success suggests he may have found the rhythm and confidence needed to contribute at the NBA level. His ability to score, rebound, and protect the rim could provide valuable minutes off the bench for Utah.
As the February 26 game against the Pelicans approaches, all eyes will be on whether this 10-day contract can become something more permanent for the veteran center seeking to establish himself once again in the league.
