Brandon Jennings signs with European club Virtus Roma
July 16, 2008 by Tobias
Here we go: Brandon Jennings makes history for officially signing with a Euroleague team straight out of high school. His team: Virtus Roma. Since I spent the last year in Rome, I’m not sure this city is a good environment for Brandon; basketball-wise, it could be a good fit, though. From Roma’s official statement, it seems Brandon is bringing over his entire family!
Roma will play against Spanish top club Tau Ceramica, Fenerbahce Ulker from Turkey, Olympia Ljubljana (Slovenia), DKV Joventut (Spain), and Alba Berlin (Germany) during the group stage of the Euroleague season.
Why is Roma interested in Jennings? Well, they just lost Roko Ukic to the NBA, but still has Ibrahim Jaaber at the point guard. It is more than obvious that Brandon wants to prove himself in Europe and then leave the club for the NBA.
Personally, I am excited … well, curious. I know that most Americans don’t think the Euroleague is competition for ANY American player, but this year’s Euroleague will be on a whole other level. What if Brandon doesn’t succeed - don’t forget this guy is still “only” a high school star - as Kobe Bryant, Lebron James and Kevin Garnett have…?
(Thanks to “name” who provided us with the link within our comments.)
“I know that most Americans don’t think the Euroleague is competition…”
I don”t speak for everyone, but that perception is changing. Seeing your national team lose two consecutive international tournaments will force you to change your opinion - as does seeing a lot of former Euroleague stars do just as well in the NBA as they did in Europe. A lot is said about European clubs’ farming system versus American AAU system for young players, and most people know that the European system develops young players far better.
Brandon Jennings isn’t a sure thing.
Brandon Jennings will probably stay with Virtus Roma for one year, maybe two. Then he will go to the NBA Draft.
Why was Roma interested?
Because Brandon brings publicity. They could get better TV deals. Maybe have some games shown on ESPN in the US.
Also if he does well there, goes back to America and tells everyone how good the club was, other American high school stars, and players who don’t get drafted, would be interested in playing there.
Both parties get something out of this arrangement.