The Cleveland Cavaliers have officially signed center Khalifa Diop, their second-round selection from the 2022 NBA Draft. The team announced the move on September 2, 2026, bringing the 24-year-old Senegalese player onto the roster after he spent the last three seasons playing professionally in Spain. This signing adds frontcourt depth as the Cavaliers look to move past a difficult end to their previous campaign, which concluded with a 93-130 loss to the New York Knicks on May 26, 2026.
Who is Khalifa Diop?
Khalifa Diop is a 6-foot-11, 231-pound center originally from Senegal. The Cavaliers selected him with the 39th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft. He did not immediately join the team, instead developing his game in one of Europe's top competitions. For the past three seasons, Diop played for Saski Baskonia in Spain's Liga ACB and the EuroLeague.
His most recent season, 2025-26, saw him appear in 47 games. He started 38 of those contests, averaging 3.8 points on an efficient 67% shooting from the field. Diop also contributed 4.2 rebounds and 0.7 blocks per game while playing 16.4 minutes per night. Before being drafted, his potential was recognized with the EuroCup Rising Star award while he played for Gran Canaria.
Why did the Cavaliers sign him now?
This move finalizes a draft selection made over four years ago. Player development paths vary, and the Cavaliers evidently believed Diop's time in Europe's professional leagues was beneficial for his growth. He already has a minor connection to the organization, having played for the Cavs' 2023 NBA Summer League championship team.
Diop provides size and defensive presence in the paint. His shot-blocking ability and high field goal percentage suggest he understands his role as a finisher and rim protector. For a Cavaliers team that ended last season on a five-game losing streak, adding a young, athletic big man could help address some defensive issues. You can track the team's progress and upcoming matchups on our [fixtures](/fixtures) page.
It's also worth clarifying that Khalifa Diop is not related to former Cavaliers player DeSagana Diop, who was a first-round pick in 2001. The newcomer will wear jersey number 18 for Cleveland.
What does this mean for the Cavaliers' roster?
Diop's signing adds another body to the Cavaliers' frontcourt rotation. His specific skill set as a defensive-minded center could offer a different look behind the team's primary big men. The Cavaliers' recent form, losing their final five games of the last season, highlighted areas needing reinforcement.
While not a headline-grabbing star signing, it represents a commitment to building depth through the draft. The team is betting on Diop's professional experience in Europe translating to the NBA. His development will be one of many storylines to follow as the Cavaliers prepare for a new season, aiming to improve upon their recent results. Fans can keep an eye on the team's overall [standings](/standings) as the year progresses.
George M. Thomas of the Akron Beacon Journal reported on this signing. He covers the Cavaliers and a range of sports topics for the publication.
