This offseason has been exceptional for former Michigan State basketball players making moves in the professional arena. Several Spartans have secured new contracts in the NBA, and others have joined international teams.
Now, Michigan State icon Denzel Valentine is adding to this list by signing a new contract to play overseas. Since graduating from Michigan State in 2016, Valentine has had a noteworthy professional career. He was drafted 14th overall by the Chicago Bulls that same year and played with the team until 2021, with brief stints at the Cleveland Cavaliers and Utah Jazz.
DENZEL VALENTINE È BIANCOROSSO ⚪️🔴
Comunicato ufficiale: https://t.co/CQ3059FGdV#DenzelValentine #PallacanestroTrieste #RiseAsOne pic.twitter.com/3XIX5paUgF
— Pallacanestro Trieste (@PallTrieste) August 10, 2024
Valentine’s standout NBA season came in his second year with the Bulls, averaging 10.2 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game.
After a season with the Jazz in 2022, Valentine transitioned to international play, joining teams in Australia and Italy. For the 2024-25 season, he has signed with Pallacanestro Trieste, a team newly promoted to Italy’s top professional league. This move presents a challenge as Trieste adjusts to the higher level of competition, but Valentine’s NBA experience should provide a significant boost.
I’m looking forward to following Valentine’s progress this season. It’s a fantastic opportunity for him to make an impact with a team on the rise in Italian basketball.
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