Rutgers' Ironman Starter Turned International Journeyman
Issa Thiam, the 6-10 Spanish-born forward, was a Rutgers staple in the 2019-20 season, starting a team-high 33 of 34 games while averaging 7.0 PPG and 4.4 RPG in 29.0 MPG, fueling key wins including a 6-2 mark when he hit double figures. His relentless intensity and durability shone through, but modest career stats (5.1 PPG, 2.7 RPG per RealGM) and undrafted 2020 NBA status highlight shooting limitations (33.8% FG in 2024-25 abroad). Now 28 and a free agent playing in Spain's lower leagues, Thiam offers veteran rebounding grit and Big Ten experience—ideal for teams needing a high-motor role player off the bench.
