NBA talent Kyle Singler, the 33rd overall pick in the 2011 NBA draft by the Detroit Pistons, said he has no regret over his decision to spurn the Pistons to play professional basketball in Spain.
The Real Madrid forward, selected by Detroit with the 3rd pick in the second round of the draft, is one of a handful of players who didn’t return to America once the NBA lockout ended.
The former Duke Blue Devils star and 2010 NCAA Tournament MOP has decided to stay in Spain and hone his skills.
From the AP:
“I knew they were upset, a little disappointed. The bottom line was that I was a little selfish, I wanted the best for myself, I wanted to be happy,” Singler told The Associated Press from Madrid’s training facilities on the outskirts of the Spanish capital.
“It was difficult but, at the end of the day, if I never play in the NBA, would I be disappointed? Sure, but I’m happy I made the decision I made.”
Consider this the college basketball player of the Grand Tour, a journey taken by gentlemen of Western, Anglo-Saxon men for centuries. Singler is a Dukie so I would consider him part of this class. The Grand Tour was a European travel adventure experienced by young British adult men immediately after completing his collegiate education. Consider this a pro basketball player answer to this phenomena.
The motor city can wait.
Singler first joined Spanish club Lucentum Alicante for the duration of the lockout, and moved to Madrid on a one-year deal rather than go to Detroit after the new CBA was signed. Singler averages 14.4 points for the Spanish league leaders. The Pistons are currently 4-15, last place in Central division.
Paul M. Banks is CEO of The Sports Bank.net, an official Google News site that generates millions of unique visitors. He’s also a regular contributor to Chicago Now, Walter Football.com, Yardbarker, and Fox Sports
A Fulbright scholar and MBA, Banks has appeared on live radio shows all across the world. The President of the United States follows him on Twitter (@Paul_M_BanksTSB) You should too.