The Pistons have signed Ugonna Onyenso to a two-way contract, per NBA.com’s transactions log. Michael Scotto of HoopsHype first reported the news (via Twitter).

A 7’0″ center from Nigeria, Onyenso was the 53rd overall pick in last month’s draft. He was technically drafted by the Rockets, who traded the 53rd selection to New York when they moved up to No. 31 to acquire Bruce Thornton; the Knicks later traded the rights to Onyenso to Detroit for cash.

As a senior with Virginia in 2025/26, Onyenso averaged 6.5 points, 4.9 rebounds, and an ACC-best 2.9 blocks in just 18.6 minutes per game across 36 appearances. Onyenso, who played two seasons of college ball at Kentucky and one at Kansas State prior to transferring to the Cavaliers, was named to the All-ACC Defensive Team last season.

Onyenso possesses a massive 9’5″ standing reach and was viewed as one of the top rim protectors in the 2026 class. However, his offensive game is considered fairly limited, which explains why he never averaged more than 18.8 minutes per game in a single season during his four years in college.

Onyenso will earn about $679K on his two-way contract, which is non-guaranteed and doesn’t count against the salary cap. He can be active for up 50 NBA games as a rookie and won’t be eligible to compete in the playoffs unless he’s promoted to the standard roster. NBA teams can have up to three players on two-way deals, and Onyenso will be Detroit’s second, joining Isaac Jones.