Varese Transfer Market: Former Olimpia Player Signed

Openjobmetis Varese has signed a former player: Ismael Kamagate. The French player, born in 2001, who previously played in Italy from 2003 to 2005 for Olimpia Milano and Derthona, had recently been linked to the red-and-white club, which has now decided to make a serious move. Two weeks ago, according to rumors, Varese had presented a multi-year offer that was subsequently rejected by the center. The Lombardy-based team has returned to the fray, resuming contract negotiations through the French player’s new agency and finalizing the deal.

“Pallacanestro Varese is pleased to announce that it has reached a multi-year agreement with Ismaël Kamagate, a French center born in 2001 who stands 211 centimeters tall and weighs 100 kilograms, who will wear the red-and-white jersey starting with the 2026–2027 season. Kamagate is a modern big man who combines great athleticism, mobility, and defensive instincts. He is an excellent rim protector thanks to his timing on blocks and his ability to switch onto smaller players without losing effectiveness. On offense, he is a major threat as a roller in the pick-and-roll, where he uses his explosiveness and vertical leap to finish over the rim, while also providing a presence on the offensive boards. His energy, transition speed, and impact on both ends of the court make him a player capable of making an all-around impact.”.

“We’re very pleased to have wrapped up our summer roster moves with the arrival of a player who adds another level of versatility to our roster,” said Maksim Horowitz, General Manager of Basketball Strategy at Pallacanestro Varese. “ “Ismaël is a big man capable of bringing solidity to our defense, protecting the rim, and ensuring a dominant presence in the paint on offense as well. His two seasons in Italy have allowed him to gain a deep understanding of the league and the level of competition in Serie A. He brings talent, room for growth, and significant potential—valuable qualities that are hard to find all in one player. We can’t wait to see him on the court in a Varese jersey.”

Kamagate played last season for Besiktas, where he reached the EuroCup final. In the Turkish league, he averaged 8.4 points and 5.9 rebounds, in line with his performance during his season at Derthona.