By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Andy Rautins has penned a deal with AEK, the team announced Thursday.
Per the press release: “AEK BC announces the signing of Andy Rautins. The Canadian guard signed today (13/01) its deal with the Queen.”
Rautins, 35, last played for Panathinaikos. He concluded his run with the Greens in March 2020.
It was considered the end of his playing days but he will return to Greece nearly two years forward to resume his career. Meanwhile, he served as the assistant general manager of the Ottawa BlackJacks of the Canadian pro-League CEBL.
His active FIBA athlete license carried by the Greek basketball federation since his stint at Panathinaikos made the move possible. AEK has been banned from international transfers due to past debts but with no need for a letter of clearance, the team was able to complete the deal.
The Canadian sharpshooter will reunite with Stefanos Dedas. The Greek tactician, currently in charge of the Queen, was the head coach at Bahcesehir Koleji through his 2018-19 stint as a member of the Turkish team.
Coming out of Syracuse, Rautins was selected with the 38th overall pick of the 2010 NBA draft by the New York Knicks. He was limited to five appearances in NBA games before spending the majority of the next seasons displaying his talents overseas.
After being eliminated from the Basketball Champions League, AEK continues the 2021-22 campaign focusing on domestic competitions, the Stoiximan Basket League and Greek Cup. The 5-5 W-L tally ranks sixth out of the 13 teams in Greece’s top-flight division.
Photo Credit: Basketball Champions League