ASSOCIATED PRESSThe Reign Man is making a comeback, but you won't be seeing him in the NBA.
Shawn Kemp, the former high-flying forward of the Seattle Sonics who lost much of his hops as he gained weight later in his career, has agreed to play in Italy for Premiata Montegranaro.
The team, which plays in the top professional league in Italy, announced the signing on Sunday.
"I am happy that a player that has made basketball history would come to Montegranaro," coach Alessandro Finelli told ESPN.
Kemp, 38, is a six-time All-Star who averaged 14.6 points and 8.4 rebounds per game over 14 NBA seasons. During his prime from 1993-97, he averaged 18-20 points and 10-11 rebounds per game, and was known for his incredible athleticism and ferocious dunks.
Kemp also played for the Cleveland Cavaliers, Portland Trail Blazers, and Orlando Magic.
"He is very motivated," Finelli said. "And he has been staying in shape to show up at our camp in good shape."
Kemp has made several half-hearted comeback attempts since retiring in 2003, but has not made it past the workout stage with any NBA teams.
PBT: San Antonio executed its game plan well in Game 1, shutting down Grizzlies star Zach Randolph.
PBT: Spurs guard Tony Parker repeatedly sliced through the Grizzlies' defense, creating 20 points and nine assists in an easy Game 1 win for San Antonio.
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