First Euro-shot for Marcus Banks, last for hoops career

NBA veteran guard Marcus Banks, who last played for the Idaho Stampede (D-League), has left the United States and is expected in Greece, today, after agreeing to terms of a deal with Panathinaikos.

According to Banks' camp, although the former UNLV star never planned on playing outside American soil, Banks is simply excited about competing at a high level again, period. 

"The main goal for Marcus was to play, and since he wasn't doing so in the NBA, the Euroleague became the next best thing," one of Banks' advisors told Sportando. "(Banks) hopes to play at least 2-3 more years and he wanted to begin an new chapter basketball-wise, so overseas hoops became something that really intrigued him. Since Panathinaikos is a first class organization with great history, it was an easy decision for Marcus," he added.

Sources familiar with the negotiations told Sportando it was Banks' representatives who initiated contact with PAO officials, and that a final agreement was reached within a handful of days. 

Yet things might get tough for Banks, who is making his European debut at 30-years of age. In addition to the major differences between the NBA and European style of play, Banks will work through a speedy transition period in attempt to learn the team's offensive/defensive nuances. 

He will most likely be a game-time decision in Panathinaikos' crucial Euroleague match against visiting favorites Real Madrid.

Drafted by the Boston Celtics via Memphis Grizzlies with the 13th overall pick in the 2003 draft, the 6-foot-2-inch Banks played 348-NBA games with five teams throughout his eight-year career and has averaged 5.9 points, 1.5 rebounds and 2.1 assists during his run with Boston, Minnesota, Phoenix, Miami and Toronto.