Zalgiris underwent a major roster shakeup this summer, but no new addition brings the raw, physical impact of 26-year-old center Kaodirichi Akobundu-Ehiogu.
Zalgiris lost Moses Wright this offseason, who joined Milano, while Jonas Valanciunas and Kaodirichi Akobundu-Ehiogu arrived as replacements.
While the experienced Lithuanian center arrives as someone who can anchor the offense and be one of the best in EuroLeague, the Nigerian brings something never seen before in Kaunas – his explosive athleticism.
Akobundu-Ehiogu may not be expected to score from various positions, but his impact could certainly be felt in the minutes spent relieving Valanciunas, bringing massive energy to both ends of the floor. On defense, he will serve as a very solid rim protector, while on offense, he can contribute as a high-flying lob threat.
This is clearly evident in the training footage published by Zalgiris on their Instagram profile. A series of brutal dunks that rocked the rim look like a great preview of what to expect in the EuroLeague next season.
Akobundu-Ehiogu played for Manresa last season, having previously featured for Varese and Tubingen.
During the 2025/26 season, he averaged 4.4 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks in 13 minutes per game in EuroCup, while converting 79.1% of his field-goal attempts.
The center posted similar numbers in Liga Endesa, registering 4.8 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game on 81.6% shooting from the field.
Last season, the EuroLeague was captivated by Kai Jones at Anadolu Efes, and now fans will get to watch two insanely athletic centers ready to punish rims across Europe.
