Justin Harper was selected by the Orlando Magic with the 32nd pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, but the rookie from Richmond won't begin his professional career in Florida. Instead, Harper will be taking his talents to France until the NBA lockout is over after finalizing an agreement to play in France with SIG Strasbourg.
Justin Harper, Orlando Magic Draft Pick, Signs In France Until NBA Lockout Over
Harper, a 6-foot-9 forward, averaged 17.9 points and 6.9 rebounds with the Spiders this past season while helping Richmond to a second consecutive berth in the NCAA Tournament before falling to Kansas in the Southwest Regional’s semifinal round.
The Richmond alumnus won't be alone in Strasbourg as he'll join college teammate Kevin Anderson along with fellow draft pick Lavoy Allen, property of the Philadelphia 76ers.
Harper is the highest draft pick from this year’s draft class to sign in Europe so far this offseason. According to the team’s press release announcing his acquisition, he has an out-clause in his contract that would allow him to return the Magic as long as the NBA lockout ends prior to February.
See More:
