By Stavros Barbarousis/ info@eurohoops.net
Walter Tavares has been with Real Madrid since 2017, but is nearing a deal that will keep him with the team of Spain’s capital for five more years, according to Eurohoops sources. The deal, which includes NBA-outs after 2021, will make the 27-year-old Cape Verdean center the highest paid big man in Europe.
Tavares is already under contract for the 2019-20 season and has a buy-out option for the NBA this summer. However, his new deal with Real almost triples his annual salary.
The enormous rim protector was named EuroLeague’s Best Defender, included in All-EuroLeague Second Team as well. He also was the MVP of the Month in October.
Tavares finished his second EuroLeague campaign with the Whites averaging 7.4 points, 6.2 rebounds and 1.7 blocks. During his 2018-19 ACB season, he has 7.1 points, 7.2 rebounds and 1.9 blocks per game.