Webber to Greece his Palms?
Never a stranger to accepting money, Chris Webber is reportedly mulling an offer to join Greek club Olympiakos. The offer is estimated to be worth between $10-12 million over two years.
Webber played last season with the Detroit Pistons and the team showed some interest in having him return. However, Detroit wanted to wait until after training camp for salary cap reasons. It is unclear whether they would be willing or able to match the offer in terms of contract length or salary. He made $407,000 with the Pistons last season after reaching a buyout with Philadelphia.
The former Michigan standout has averaged 20.9 ppg and 9.8 rpg over the course of his 14 year career. He was rookie of the year in 1994, and a 5-time NBA all-star. Though previous injuries have taken their toll, Webber was still productive for the Pistons last season averaging 11.3 ppg and 7.2 rpg.
Should he choose to sign with Olympiakos, Webber would be the most high-profile American player to play overseas, discounting Scottie Pippen’s alleged deal to play two games for Finnish club Torpan Pojat.
Knicks guard Stephon Marbury has also stated a desire to play in Italy when his Knicks contract expires.
Is there a danger of an American talent drain to Europe? Not likely. But, if contract offers like that keep coming, there will be a shortage of veterans hanging around to get that 12th spot on the bench and that last veterans’ minimum contract.
ESPN is now reporting that Webber will remain with the Pistons for the coming season.
