Weems will take his talents to Europe
Written by Jeff Jugo on Sunday, July 10th, 2011
Sonny Weems has joined Zalgiris Kaunas of Lithuania, signing a contract will keep him in Europe all season rather risk sitting out the entire year if in case NBA lockout lasts.
Roger Montgomery, Weems’ agent, Weems could play 70 games next season between the Lithuanian and Euroleague schedules, a good opportunity for a young player instead of losing the entire year if the NBA and players don’t reach a deal. He didn’t disclose the value of the contract.
Montgomery told his client signed the deal Thursday without an NBA opt-out clause because he believes the league’s uncertain labor situation makes it “in our best interest to unpack our bags and stay the entire year.”
Weems played last season for Toronto and was a restricted free agent. The Raptors extended a qualifying offer, meaning they would maintain the right to match any offer by another team if he returned to the NBA.
Montgomery started looking for opportunities for his players at the urging of the union, which had been telling agents to be prepared for a long work stoppage. He quickly found a match in the Lithuanian champs, a team he described as needing “one little boost to get over that hump” and believes the swingman is that player.
“Sonny will be able to go in and make a true impact,” Montgomery said, helping a team “really in the middle of the pack maybe go to the top of the pack.”
Weems averaged 9.2 points in 59 games for the Raptors last season. Because he is not currently under NBA contract, he is free to make the jump without worry of FIBA approval.
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