Branden Carlson of the University of Utah men’s basketball team signed a two-way contract with the Toronto Raptors on Thursday as an undrafted free agent at the conclusion of the 2024 NBA Draft.

“I couldn’t be more excited to continue my basketball career with the Toronto Raptors organization,” Carlson said. “I’ve been blessed with a great support system my entire life.”

Carlson will have a familiar face welcoming him to Toronto in former Runnin’ Utes big man Jakob Poeltl, while also joining veterans Kyle Kuzma and Delon Wright in the NBA.

“So excited for Branden Carlson,” Utah head men’s basketball coach Craig Smith said. “Branden has worked so hard to get to the next level and his work ethic was evident of that each and every day. He is the embodiment of a Runnin’ Ute and will have left as one of the greats to have represented the University of Utah. We couldn’t be more proud and excited to follow his professional journey. The Raptors are getting a special player!”

Carlson recently wrapped up his career with the Runnin’ Utes and left as one of the top players in program history. The South Jordan native racked up a host of awards in his career, including but not limited to being, a three-time All-Pac-12 recipient, two-time AP All-Pac-12 honoree, two-time NABC All-District selection, three-time All-Pac-12 Player of the Week and the 2023 Utah State of Sports Male Collegiate Athlete of the Year.

The 7-footer finished his career with 1,892 points, 842 rebounds, 170 assists and 241 blocks while shooting a career .513 from the floor and .354 from 3-point range. Carlson left Utah as the program’s all-time leader in blocks and games played (146) while his 1,892 career points is fifth-most by a Ute.

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