The Portland Trail Blazers recently converted Sidy Cissoko’s deal into a standard NBA contract, marking an important milestone in the young wing’s career.
According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, the contract is fully guaranteed for this season, while the following year remains non-guaranteed.
The move, however, came with an emotional element. In order to create a roster spot for Cissoko, Portland waived Rayan Rupert, his close friend and longtime teammate, making the promotion both a professional achievement and a personal challenge, as Sean Highkin of the Rose City Report explains.
“For me, it’s tough because he’s the guy that helped me with everything when I got here. I’ve got a lot of experience with him,” Cissoko said. “We’ve played together since we were 16 or 17.”
Despite the bittersweet circumstances, Cissoko remains focused on his long-term ambitions in the league.
He views the new contract not as a reason to change who he is as a player, but as validation that staying true to himself has worked so far.
“I’ve done great by being myself,” he said. “I’m not going to change because of my contract. It’s the same Sidy. I’m going to play the same way.”
Northwest Notes: Bailey, Jazz Fine, Nuggets' Clutch Play, Cissoko https://t.co/GqUtHebk8S pic.twitter.com/KGA194FB6k
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) February 26, 2026
