The Los Angeles Lakers have signed Chris Manon, a former Ivy League All-League First Team player from Cornell, to a two-way NBA deal. This transfer was revealed on July 24, 2025, following the Golden State Warriors’ outstanding Summer League performance.

From the Ivy League to the NBA

Chris Manon started his college career at Cornell University, where he rapidly became a defensive force. By the time he graduated in 2024, he was the program’s all-time leader in steals per game (2.08), second in overall steals, and eighth in field goal percentage (.535). His senior year concluded with First Team All-Ivy awards and an excellent NIT run, making it the most successful season in recent Cornell history.

He subsequently went to Vanderbilt University for his graduate year, where he improved his skills in the more competitive Southeastern Conference. He averaged roughly 7.0 points, 3.9 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 1.9 steals, and 1.2 blocks per game, demonstrating that his two-way influence extended over to higher levels of play.

Summer League Spotlight

Manon made an impression while playing for the Golden State Warriors in the 2025 Summer League. In seven games, he averaged 9.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 1.6 steals, and 1.4 blocks, showing his overall hustle and on-ball defense. His outstanding performance included:

17 points, five rebounds, four steals, two assists, and two blocks in a victory over Cleveland.

14 points, nine rebounds, and several defensive plays against Toronto.

He had a solid first game in the California Classic, finishing with eight points, three rebounds, three steals, and two blocked shots.

The Lakers definitely saw his excellent basketball IQ and drive, qualities they look for in role players who can grow into rotation contributors.

Why the Lakers Signed Him

Los Angeles appreciates Chris Manon’s exceptional perimeter defense, passion, and analytical approach to the game. He averaged two steals per game in college over four seasons and carried that defensive edge into higher-level play.

Despite his average scoring statistics, Manon’s potential as a defensive specialist matches the Lakers’ developing philosophy. At 6-foot-6 with 1.9 steals and 1.2 blocks per game at Vanderbilt, he meets many of the criteria for a two-way player who can guard different positions while also providing high-effort minutes off the bench.

Contract & Roster Details

Manon agreed to a standard two-way contract, allowing him to split time between the Los Angeles Lakers and their G-League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers. This arrangement restricts his NBA games to 50, unless he converts to a normal contract. His contract is comparable to an entry-level two-way salary and allows the team to be flexible as he develops.

What the Future Holds

Development path: Manon is expected to improve his abilities in the G League while occasionally playing in the NBA in games that call for defensive agility.

Learning environment: He will be mentored by guys like Marcus Smart and Jarred Vanderbilt, who have defensive instincts similar to Manon’s.

Rotation potential: If he adjusts to the NBA speed and improves his shooting, particularly from distance, he may develop into a consistent 3-and-D wing option.

Summary: Lakers’ Long-Term Vision

The Lakers’ acquisition of Chris Manon adds to their summer strategy of targeting high-character, defensively focused talents with promise. Manon’s path from Cornell to Vanderbilt exemplifies both progress and flexibility, qualities that Lakers management appears to appreciate greatly.

Manon, as an undrafted two-way signing, is a low-risk, possibly high-reward acquisition. His success could lead to a multi-year NBA rotation spot, giving Minnesota more flexibility in their developmental pipeline.

Final Thoughts

Chris Manon joins a growing group of versatile defenders in the Lakers’ lineup. Not a flashy scoring guard, but a cerebral, gritty competitor who contributes to the game’s defense and effort. His signing is consistent with a team identity that emphasizes discipline, intelligence, and player development.

As his summer league performance transitions into official Lakers camp, fans and analysts will be looking to see if Manon can translate his defensive strengths into a consistent NBA presence. With the appropriate circumstances and mentoring, the former Ivy League standout might fulfill his promise.