Former All Star joining the Qingdao DoubleStar Eagles in hopes of reviving his career outside the NBA.
Former Atlanta Hawks player and seven time All Star Tracy McGrady has announced that he will be travelling to China to play for the Qingdao DoubleStar Eagles in the Chinese Basketball Association next season. McGrady will be the
highest-profile player in the CBA coming from an impressive career in the NBA that saw him compete in All Star games, Slam Dunk Contests and also lead the Houston Rockets for a time period in between. McGrady played with Chinese sensation Yao Ming as a member
of the Houston Rockets and hence, is very popular in China.
The terms of the new contract have not been announced yet but rumours are that the contract will be worth at least $1 million for the next season. McGrady wrote a farewell note on his website in which he thanked his former players
and mentors.
"I consider myself a student of the game as I have watched, studied and played with and against the best players in the world. I have experienced the best moments a player can experience and have had some dark ones too. Both equally
important in helping shape me into the man I am today,” wrote McGrady.
McGrady had a great career with the Toronto Raptors and the Houston Rockets, becoming one of the best basketball players in the league and earning consecutive All Star honours. However, he struggled with injuries over the later
part of his career and played as back up for the Atlanta Hawks last season. After failing to get a new contract in the NBA during the summer, McGrady finally decided to play for the CBA after being approached by a few teams.
"Thank you to every fan that has followed me and believed in me. Injuries and all, I wouldn't have changed a thing. I am proud of the mark I left on this game and am grateful to have been a part this league,” added McGrady.
McGrady will join Stephon Marbury in the CBA and become the latest player to pursue a career in China. Marbury helped the Beijing Ducks win the 2011-2012 CBA championship, having achieved personal success in the league as well.
McGrady hopes to follow in his footsteps.
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