Bulls Complete Two-Way Deal With Tobe Awaka

The Bulls have formally finalized their two-way deal with former Arizona big man Tobe Awaka, according to the NBA’s transaction log.

After Akawa went undrafted last week, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that he’d be signing a two-way contract with Chicago. Now it’s official.

Awaka spent his final two collegiate seasons at Arizona following a two-year stint at Tennessee. After starting 36 of 37 games in 2024/25, he moved into a reserve role for the Wildcats as a senior, averaging 9.3 points and 9.1 rebounds in just 20.8 minutes per game off the bench and earning the Big 12’s Sixth Man of the Year award.

Despite his modest role, Awaka ranked third in the NCAA in total offensive rebounds and eighth in total rebounds. The 6’8″ forward/center was the No. 47 prospect on Jeremy Woo’s final pre-draft big board for ESPN and came in at No. 72 in Sam Vecenie’s draft guide for The Athletic. Vecenie referred to Awaka as the best rebounder in the draft class but noted that he’s undersized for the five. His offensive game is also limited.

Awaka is the first player to sign a two-way contract with the Bulls this summer. Chicago is also expected to complete a two-way deal with former Providence guard Jaylin Sellers, another undrafted free agent.