Cleveland Charge forward Tristan Enaruna has been selected as the 2025-26 Kia NBA G League Most Improved Player, the league announced Thursday. The honor was determined through voting by the league's 30 head coaches and general managers.
Enaruna's remarkable transformation this season caught the attention of basketball executives throughout the developmental league. His head coach emphasized the dedication behind the achievement.
"This award is a huge testament to the daily work Tristan puts in, how intentional he's been with his development, and the growing confidence he continues to play with," said Charge Head Coach Eli Kell-Abrams. "We could not be happier for T and we are excited for him to continue to grow during a long and successful career in this game."
The 6-foot-8 forward appeared in 38 games for the Charge, averaging 20.3 points on 54.8% shooting while adding 5.6 rebounds and 1.2 steals in 31.2 minutes per contest. His outstanding performance earned him an NBA call-up when the Cleveland Cavaliers signed him to a two-way contract on January 28.
Statistical analysis reveals the scope of Enaruna's improvement. He nearly doubled his scoring output from the previous season, jumping from 11.0 to 20.3 points per game. His shooting efficiency saw dramatic gains across the board, with his true shooting percentage climbing from 51.8% to 62.0%.
Enaruna's field goal percentage improved from 46.6% to 54.8%, while his three-point accuracy surged from 29.2% to 37.2%. Perhaps most impressively, he transformed his free throw shooting from a liability to a strength, elevating his percentage from 58.8% to 75.0%.
The forward's journey to Cleveland began when the Charge acquired him in a trade with the Maine Celtics prior to the start of the season. The move proved beneficial for both player and team as Enaruna flourished in his new environment.
Enaruna's recognition comes as part of the NBA G League's annual awards announcements. Recent honors include Sean Pedulla being named Rookie of the Year and Jamarion Sharp earning Defensive Player of the Year accolades.
The Most Improved Player award typically signals a player's readiness for increased opportunity at the NBA level. With his two-way contract already securing him time with the Cavaliers, Enaruna appears positioned to continue his development trajectory between both leagues next season.
