The Atlanta Hawks wrapped up the 2025 NBA Draft as one of the clear winners. Entering the week with the 13th and 22nd overall picks, the Hawks ended up with Kristaps Porzingis, Georgia standout Asa Newell, and an unprotected first-round pick from the Pelicans or the Bucks for next season. Not only did GM Onsi Saleh build a more competitive roster for next season, but he also added a big future asset to the coffers.
On Thursday, the Hawks continued their impressive showing. After the second round of the draft, Atlanta signed Eli John Ndiaye of Real Madrid to a two-way contract, per Shams Charania.
Real Madrid’s Eli John Ndiaye agreed to a two-way contract with Atlanta Hawks, sources tell ESPN.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 27, 2025
Hawks Sign PF Eli John Ndiaye to Two-Way Contract After NBA Draft
Ndiaye is a 21-year-old Senegalese power forward who has been in Real Madrid's youth system since 2017. He has become an important part of the rotation over the last few years, playing 14.7 minutes per game in the 2024-25 season for one of the best teams in Europe.
In 2023, Ndiaye won a EuroLeague championship with Real Madrid and has won the domestic Spanish league for the last three seasons. He has been a low-usage player for the Spanish giants offensively and was more utilized as an energy big off the bench. Despite being undersized at 6'8", Ndiaye makes up for it with his athleticism and strength, which shows up in his rebounding and defense.
While he is obviously not the most polished offensive player, resulting in him going undrafted, his high-level experience playing on one of the best non-NBA teams in the world shouldn't be discounted. Ndiaye will likely spend a ton of time in the G League on the College Park Skyhawks, but if he shows flashes, there will be an opportunity for him in the NBA.
How much Ndiaye will get to play in the revamped frontcourt of Porzingis, Onyeka Okongwu, Jalen Johnson, and Newell, (what happens with Clint Capela and Larry Nance Jr. is unclear) remains to be seen, but this is a worthy swing from the Hawks' front office.