Toko continues the basketball dynasty: his father Kakha played for USSR junior team in the end of 80s – beginning of 90s, he is considered one of the best players in the history of the country. Shengelia Jr. obtained his basketball education at Valencia, then adapted to adult basketball at Belgium. He was noted by NBA scouts there, in 2012 Tornike was drafted by Philadelphia (54th pick) and traded to Brooklyn. He spent two seasons overseas between NBA and G-League but decided to get back to Europe. Shengelia played for Baskonia last 6 seasons and earned reputation of one of the best power forwards on the continent.
Toko was selected to numerous all-tournaments team, he was chosen to All-Euroleague First Team in 2018. Shengelia averaged 15.9 points, 5.6 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 1.0 steals and 0.5 blocked shots in 30.4 minutes in EuroLeague last season, 15.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.2 steals and 0.3 blocked shots in 32.2 minutes in Spanish league. The forward was an integral part of Baskonia title run last June by averaging 13.3 points, 5.5 rebounds and 3.3 assists in 29.0 minutes.
Dimitris Itoudis, CSKA head coach:
I think we made a great move, so I would like to congratulate the club, Andrey Vatutin, and our owners Nornickel for this. I also congratulate Toko that the deal is here, because he expressed HUGE (with capital letters) desire to join CSKA. He was on our radar for many years and, finally, we were able to make a move. Hopefully, together with other players, Toko will help us remain among top teams in European basketball. He is a versatile, highly competitive player and he is at his best age. So I officially welcome Toko to our team and wish that his desire and skill will meet our expectations. I also know that the fans are happy to have Shengelia on our roster. I think that our fans see the decisiveness by the club’s management to create the winning team, that they will continue to support us and come in bigger and bigger numbers if the situation allows.
Tornike Shengelia, CSKA forward:
I am excited to join the defending Euroleague champions and looking forward to playing with an amazing group of players and coaching staff. I hope to achieve many successes in the Euroleague and VTB League with CSKA Basketball.
