Celtics Bring Back Summer League Standout on 10-Day Contract

Boston signs Charles Bassey, who impressed in Summer League, to fill short-term roster need

Mar. 16, 2026 at 11:39pm

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The Boston Celtics have signed veteran big man Charles Bassey to a 10-day contract, bringing back a player who stood out for the team during last summer's NBA Summer League. Bassey, a 6-foot-10 journeyman, will provide short-term depth to the Celtics' frontcourt as they deal with an injury to veteran center Nikola Vucevic.

Why it matters

The Celtics have exceeded expectations this season thanks to strong play from their center rotation, led by Neemias Queta and Luka Garza. Bringing back Bassey, who impressed the team's coaching staff over the summer, allows Boston to maintain continuity and familiarity as they navigate Vucevic's absence.

The details

Bassey was a late addition to the Celtics' Summer League roster last July, but he made the most of his limited playing time, racking up 36 points, 24 rebounds and 5 blocks over his first two games. The 25-year-old has bounced around the NBA this season, with brief stints in Memphis, Philadelphia and the G League. Now he'll look to parlay his strong Summer League showing into a more permanent role with the Celtics.

  • Bassey signed his 10-day contract with the Celtics on Sunday, March 16, 2026.

The players

Charles Bassey

A 25-year-old veteran big man who impressed the Celtics during last summer's NBA Summer League.

Joe Mazzulla

The head coach of the Boston Celtics.

Neemias Queta

A Celtics center who has had a career year and been a key part of the team's frontcourt rotation.

Luka Garza

A Celtics reserve center who has also played well this season.

Nikola Vucevic

A veteran Celtics center who is currently sidelined with a fractured ring finger.

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What they’re saying

“He was good for us in Summer League. I think any time you can just continue to build a relationship — relationships with the assistants, relationship with our language, with some of the stuff from Summer League that carries over to now — any time you can have that continuity, it helps you, especially in a short period of time. Just the ability for him to potentially be able to help us was huge.”

— Joe Mazzulla, Head Coach (bostonherald.com)

What’s next

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The takeaway

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