The Cavaliers have filled two of their three two-way slots for the 2023/24 season by signing forward Isaiah Mobley and guard Craig Porter to two-way contracts, per NBA.com’s official transaction log.
Neither move comes as a surprise. Mobley was on a two-way deal last season and received a two-way qualifying offer last week that made him a restricted free agent. As for Porter, his agreement with Cleveland was reported shortly after he went undrafted on June 22.
Mobley, the older brother of rising Cavs star Evan Mobley, appeared in just 12 games and logged 84 total minutes at the NBA level last season after being drafted 49th overall out of USC. He played a much bigger role for the Cleveland Charge, the Cavs’ G League affiliate, averaging 21.0 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 4.0 assists with a .517/.353/.730 shooting line in 33.2 minutes per game across 22 regular season contests.
Porter, who went undrafted out of Wichita State, was a fifth-year senior who played three seasons with the Shockers after transferring from Vincennes. He had by far his best year in 2022/23, averaging 13.5 points, 6.2 rebounds and 4.9 assists in 31 games (33.6 MPG) and earning third-team All-AAC honors.
The Cavs have one open two-way slot left and it’s not yet clear who will fill it. Last season’s other two-way player, Mamadi Diakite, didn’t receive a qualifying offer, so No. 49 pick Emoni Bates looks like the leading candidate, unless he earns a spot on the standard 15-man roster.
Isiah Mobley has good stats at G-league. He’s more a true 4 than his brother. Knicks should be looking at him as a backup to Randle. Worth a look….
Another solid USC big man, hoping Isaiah can carve out a role in this league like Taj Gibson did before him. Speaking of, can we get Taj on a contender and a chance at a ring. Ideally in NY but Miami or LA would be cool
He should go to Suns. They could use him. He can toughen up Ayton. Even play next to him
Bates is hype created. We are so into finding the Next One. That we can’t even wait till kids grow up. Bates may never have an NBA body. And the story is his own family has stunted his growth.
I’m shocked there aren’t the usual group here calling him names. Bates would do him self a favor. If he added 30 LBs. Still has youth on his side.