Lakers add undrafted Vanderbilt forward AK Okereke on two-way contract
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The Los Angeles Lakers quickly moved into the undrafted free-agent market after the 2026 NBA Draft, reaching an agreement with Vanderbilt forward AK Okereke on a two-way contract, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. The deal was struck shortly after the draft concluded on June 25.
Okereke, 22, is a 6-foot-7 forward from Clovis, California. He spent three seasons at Cornell before transferring to Vanderbilt for his senior year. In 2025-26, he started 35 of 36 games and averaged 9.6 points, 3.6 rebounds and 2.0 assists while shooting 48.1 percent from the field and 40.0 percent from three on 2.8 attempts per game. During his time at Cornell, he hit 31.7 percent of his three-point attempts.
This signing fills the first of the Lakers’ three available two-way slots. The club is expected to add two more players, either other undrafted rookies or free agents with previous NBA experience.
Draft-night activity
Los Angeles entered the 2026 draft with the No. 25 overall pick but paid cash considerations to the New York Knicks to move up one spot and select Baylor guard Cameron Carr at No. 24. The Lakers then purchased the No. 56 pick from the Chicago Bulls but later sent that selection to the Dallas Mavericks for additional cash. With no suitable center available when their second-round opportunity arrived, the front office opted to pass on making a pick.
After the draft, attention shifted to undrafted talent, leading to Okereke’s addition for Summer League and potential NBA minutes under his two-way agreement.
Source: LakersNation.com
