By Eurohoops team / info@eurohoops.net
After finalizing a contract extension with Donatas Motiejunas, Monaco has announced the signing of the 12-year NBA veteran, Kemba Walker, for the upcoming season.
This is a significant move for the French champions, who have already secured the signings of Terry Tarpey, Petr Cornelie, and Mam Jaiteh this summer.
During the previous season, there were rumors about Walker potentially joining Olimpia Milano, but those were quickly shut down by Ettore Messina, leaving the 33-year-old point guard as a free agent since January.
Now, Walker has finally made the move to Europe, and Monaco has acquired a former NBA star with an impressive track record. Walker boasts 750 regular-season games and averages of 19.3 points, 5.3 assists, and 3.8 rebounds. Additionally, he has made 31 playoff appearances, averaging 19.6 points, 4.8 assists, and 3.8 rebounds during those games.
A former UConn player and NCAA champion, Walker was selected as the 9th overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft by the Charlotte Bobcats. He spent eight years with the Bobcats/Hornets, setting franchise records in points scored (12,009) and minutes played (20,607).
Walker then moved on to Boston, where he spent two seasons with the Celtics, before joining the New York Knicks for a year. Unfortunately, his NBA career began to decline during this period.
Last season, Walker signed with the Dallas Mavericks on November 28 but was waived on January 6. Despite lately dealing with injuries, he showcased his ability to still play at a high level and recorded a season-high 32 points and seven assists in an overtime loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers.