Sidy Cissoko's Journey From NBA Purgatory to Portland Key Contributor
After enduring a whirlwind of roster transactions in early 2025 that left his future uncertain, forward Sidy Cissoko has carved out a vital role as a starter for the Portland Trail Blazers.
🧠AI AnalysisPhoto: si.com
Key points
- Sidy Cissoko was associated with four different franchises in five days during February 2025 before joining Portland.
- He overcame a rookie ankle injury and depression to become a starter for the Trail Blazers.
- Selected 44th overall in the 2023 NBA Draft by San Antonio after playing for the G League Ignite.
In February 2025, Sidy Cissoko found himself navigating a turbulent period in professional basketball. Over a frantic five-day stretch, the young French guard was associated with four different franchises before landing in Portland on a two-way contract. At the time, his long-term prospects in the league appeared tenuous.
Nearly two years later, Cissoko has emerged as a key contributor for the Trail Blazers. Moving past early-career adversity—which included a significant ankle injury, subsequent surgery, and a difficult battle with depression during his rookie season with the San Antonio Spurs—he has established a strong work ethic. Cissoko even helped engineer an NBA Cup victory as a starter for the surging Portland squad.
Drawing inspiration from his father, Yaya Cissoko—a member of the 1980 Senegalese Olympic basketball team—Sidy moved from France to Spain at age 13 to develop his game with Baskonia. His path eventually led him through the G League Ignite alongside Scoot Henderson and a selection by the Spurs as the 44th overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft.
“If I can die on the court, I will die on the court,” Cissoko stated after a December 2025 game.
What to watch next: Cissoko's continued integration into Portland's starting lineup as the team pursues a deeper run in the standings.
Source si.com — si.com/nba/trailblazers/onsi/the-blazers-took-a-chance-on-sidy-ciss… ↗
Read next
🎓College SportsBoise State Clinches Pac-12 Title Game Hosting Rights Despite Defensive Woes
No. 24 Boise State secured home-field advantage for the Pac-12 championship after a 46-41 victory over Oregon State, though defensive struggles persist.
🎓College SportsOregon Dominates Michigan Behind Raiola’s Four Touchdowns
Dylan Raiola threw for 341 yards and four touchdowns as Oregon defeated Michigan 31-7 at Autzen Stadium. The Ducks extended their offensive resurgence under play-caller J…
⚾MLBYankees Prioritize Bullpen Retention With Free Agency Looming for Key Relievers
General manager Brian Cashman has identified the bullpen as the top offseason priority for the New York Yankees, with multiple key relievers entering free agency.
🧠AI AnalysisChristian Pulisic Shines in Return as USMNT Dominates Haiti
Christian Pulisic scored twice in two minutes during a 6-0 victory over Haiti in the Concacaf Nations League, marking his triumphant return to the U.S. national team afte…
🧠AI AnalysisNFL Trade Deadline Fallout: Inside the 49ers' High Price for Mac Jones and Cincy's Front Office Blunder
Recent reports reveal the San Francisco 49ers demanded a steep second-round pick and more for backup quarterback Mac Jones, while the Cincinnati Bengals botched a deal du…
🧠AI AnalysisChris Jones Rejoins Chiefs in Atlanta After Personal Travel Delay
Defensive tackle Chris Jones arrived in Atlanta independently and will play against the Falcons, resolving a brief travel complication for the 6-2 Kansas City Chiefs.