Tyler Smith signs a deal with Bornova

Former Tennessee forward Tyler Smith has agreed in principal to play for Bornova of the Turkish Basketball League (TBL), Mike Griffith of GoVolsXtra.com reports.

According to Smith’s representative Jared Karnes, Smith strongly considered offers in several other European countries.

Smith played several games for Bornova last season after his dismissal from the UT program. He averaged 17 points and eight rebounds during his first stint with Bornova.

“It’s a pretty rare and favorable deal for Tyler, in that they’ve negotiated with him as though he played a full season,’’ Karnes said. “But he’s worked very hard for this, and I’m really proud of him. He has overcome some tough circumstances.’’

 Smith, whose deal is worth six figures, will leave for Turkey in mid-August.