Nick Calathes, a recently-turned former University of Florida college basketball player, has decided to sign with a European team, Panathinaikos of Greece. Luke Winn covers the story at Sports Illustrated.com. Apparently Greece has been eyeing the young hoops star since his days in high school. Nick has some Greek relatives, and had contact with the youth Greek National Team. He’s the latest player in a growing trend to opt to head off to Europe instead of play out his college career and try to enter the NBA in a traditional manner.
Tyler Smith, a forward on the Tennessee Volunteers, is mulling a decision these days. He can return to school and complete his senior season with Tennessee. He could opt to enter the NBA Draft, as he has until June 15 to decide not to go to the NBA. He would likely be a second round pick in the Draft. Or he could go to Europe, which is becoming more and more of a viable option for Smith. He has a young son and wants to get a paycheck to support his family. What will he decide? Stay tuned.
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