The Toronto Raptors have signed former Clemson big man Trey Jemison to a one-year, two-way contract, NBA insider Chris Haynes reports. Jemison, who won an NBA championship with the New York Knicks just two months ago, joins his sixth NBA team as Toronto looks to strengthen its frontcourt depth. The Raptors are coming off a 114-102 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers on May 3, 2026, and have lost their last two games (2W-0D-3L in their last five).
Who is Trey Jemison and what does he bring to Toronto?
Jemison, a 6'11" center, played 13 games for the Knicks last season on a two-way deal, averaging 6.3 minutes per game. He totaled 13 points, 18 rebounds, 5 assists, 1 steal, and 2 blocks while serving as a backup behind Karl-Anthony Towns and Mitchell Robinson. Despite not dressing for the playoffs, head coach Brad Brownell praised Jemison as a hard worker with a great personality, comparing him to former Clemson star RJ Godfrey.
How did Jemison reach the NBA?
A three-star recruit from Birmingham, Alabama, Jemison chose Clemson over offers from Alabama, Auburn, and Georgia Tech. After limited playing time in his first two seasons, he transferred to UAB, where he started 101 of 102 games. As a senior, he averaged career-highs of 9.1 points and 8.4 rebounds per game. Though undrafted in 2023, he signed with the Memphis Grizzlies and had a standout performance in March 2024, scoring 24 points on 11-for-13 shooting against the Washington Wizards.
What does this signing mean for the Raptors?
Jemison joins a crowded Toronto frontcourt featuring Jakob Poetl, Scottie Barnes, Collin Murray-Boyles, and rookie Allen Graves. He will compete for backup center minutes behind Poetl, offering potential as a defensive presence and screener. The Raptors hope Jemison can develop into a reliable rotation option, providing 10-12 minutes per night off the bench. His championship experience could also bring valuable leadership to a young Toronto squad.
