Get ready to scream for ice cream! NBA star Deni Avdija is taking his high-energy persona from the court to your freezer with a brand-new, guilt-free ice cream venture. This is not just another celebrity endorsement; it's a passion project born from Avdija's love for sweets, his need for protein, and his self-proclaimed foodie status. But how did this all come about? Let's dive in!
This exciting news broke on December 2, 2025, thanks to Joe Freeman of The Oregonian/OregonLive.
Avdija, a forward for the Portland Trail Blazers, is the mastermind behind "Turbo," the ice cream brand. The name is a nod to his basketball nickname, which was given to him by teammate Kyle Kuzma during his third season in the NBA, as Avdija was starting to make a name for himself with the Washington Wizards. It seems his relentless, coast-to-coast playing style, often likened to a runaway freight train, reminded Kuzma of the "turbo" button on the NBA 2K video game.
So, what's the scoop on Turbo ice cream? Avdija aims to create a protein-based ice cream that tastes delicious without the guilt. He's partnering with a team in Israel, investing in research and development to perfect the recipe. They're even working with "ice cream chefs" to ensure a top-notch product. The initial flavors will include mango, vanilla, and chocolate hazelnut, with plans to add more exciting options like pistachio and strawberry.
But here's where it gets interesting... The brand's origin story is as unique as the ice cream itself. The nickname "Turbo" wasn't just a random label; it perfectly captured Avdija's on-court intensity. During his third season, he saw a significant jump in his stats, averaging career-highs in points, assists, rebounds, and minutes played. His fast-break scoring also increased, showcasing his ability to dominate opposing defenses in transition. Now, three years later, his nickname has evolved into a promising business venture.
Avdija plans to launch Turbo in Israel first, with hopes of bringing it to the United States, potentially even Portland, soon after.
What do you think about this fusion of sports and sweets? Will you be on the lookout for Turbo ice cream in your local grocery store? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! And, a big shoutout to Joe Freeman, a seasoned journalist with over 25 years of experience, for covering the story. He's been with The Oregonian since 1999 and continues to provide valuable insights into the Portland Trail Blazers and the NBA.
