Real Madrid has officially signed Serge Ibaka as the replacement for Vincent Poirier, who recently departed for Anadolu Efes. Ibaka, the Spanish-Congolese power forward, joins the team on a one-year contract, filling the void in Chus Mateo's squad.

At 34, soon to be 35, Ibaka is no stranger to Madrid, having played briefly with the team in 2011 during the NBA lockout, alongside players like Rudy Fernández. This previous stint left him with a deep respect for the club, which he now re-joins.

Although past his prime that saw him as one of the NBA's most impactful players, including winning a championship with the Toronto Raptors in 2019, Ibaka still possesses versatile skills that make him a valuable asset in the Euroleague. Last season, playing under Pablo Laso at Bayern Munich, Ibaka averaged 12.6 points and 6.8 rebounds in the Euroleague, showcasing his ongoing prowess.

Ibaka's defensive capabilities, rebounding excellence, and improved outside shooting make him a significant addition. He can operate as both a power forward ('4') and a center ('5'), potentially partnering with Edy Tavares on the court. His performance at Bayern, where he helped secure both the Cup and the German League, highlights his continued effectiveness in European basketball.

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