Celtics First-Rounder Chris Cenac Jr. Signs Rookie Deal

Former University of Houston big man Chris Cenac Jr. has signed his rookie scale contract with the Celtics, per the NBA’s transaction log.

Boston selected the 19-year-old forward/center with the 27th overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. The New Orleans native was considered a potential top-10 pick entering his lone college season, but his stock slipped a little in 2025/26.

While Cenac is viewed as more of a long-term prospect rather than a player who is expected to contribute right away at the NBA level, he could eventually end up looking like a steal after he was selected late in the first round. He averaged 9.5 points and 7.9 rebounds in 24.8 minutes per game as a freshman for the Cougars, with a shooting slash line of .485/.333/.621.

Assuming he received 120% of the rookie scale amount like virtually every first-rounder does, Cenac will earn a little under $3MM as a rookie next season and $15.3MM over his first four years. The third and fourth seasons on his contract are team options.