By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Eurohoops scanning the free-agent market shaped the latest Top 10 list.
Approaching August, the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague clubs are looking to put the finishing touches on their rosters. Meanwhile, many free agents, based in Europe or elsewhere, seeking potential NBA opportunities can become available later in the offseason. The situation can be considered complicated but also normal and somewhat expected as a regular part of the calendar year.
Nevertheless, the players listed in our Top 10 would all be solid late additions for EuroLeague teams.
Here we go…
1. Tornike Sengelia
EuroLeague experience: 9 seasons (199 games)
2021-22 stats: 12.7 ppg, 4.7 rpg, 2.5 apg (CSKA)
Apparently looking for a second opportunity in the NBA, Tornike Shengelia is our top-ranked free agent still in the market. Probably deserving more than the 2018 All-EuroLeague First Team nod on the list of individual distinctions in EuroLeague, he definitely is a game-changer. Any team picking him up late in the offseason would shift championship odds in its favor and also produce a milestone with Shengelia’s 200th appearance.
Shengelia, 30, wrapped up the 2021-22 season at Virtus Segafredo Bologna following the departure from CSKA. Earlier on, he emerged as the captain at Laboral Kutxa/Kirolbet Baskonia. Back in 2011-12, he introduced himself as a 20-year-old forward of Belgacom Spirou Charleroi, before heading to the NBA.
2. Dwayne Bacon
EuroLeague experience: 1 season (29 games)
2021-22 stats: 14.0 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 1.1 apg, 1.0 spg (AS Monaco)
Moving on to Lakeland-born Dwayne Bacon. Breaking out to a spectacular debut in EuroLeague, he was among the key factors as AS Monaco reached the Playoffs in its respective debut.
Bacon, 26, seems to have lost ground in the market. Teams are hesitant to produce an offer due to circulating rumors about lacking focus slipping outside the EuroLeague. His shooting abilities and crazy skills are more than enough to set him up as a star for any team.
3. Pierria Henry
EuroLeague experience: 3 seasons (87 games)
2021-22 stats: 7.9 ppg, 4.2 apg, 3.4 rpg, 1.8 spg (Fenerbahce Beko)
Starting with an asterisk is important. Fenerbahce Beko owns his rights in Europe.
Pierria Henry’s career is a book waiting to be written. From turning pro in Georgia to building his way up to becoming a solid EuroLeague player and from there landing in the third place of our list. Omitting the last part as our Top 10 does not win games, he is an established defensive specialist capable of carrying his side in the offense as well.
Henry, 29, is currently looking into his NBA options. If that does not materialize, Fener or another interested team would happily bring him on board.