After turning down an offer from the Philadelphia 76ers and initially planning to return to Europe, forward Nemanja Bjelica has signed a three-year contract worth $20.5 million with the Sacramento Kings, as reported by Yahoo Sports.
Sources within the league have indicated that the third year of the contract is not guaranteed. Initially, Bjelica had verbally accepted a one-year deal worth $4.4 million with the 76ers, but he did not finalize the agreement and informed the team of his decision to return to Europe for the upcoming season. However, after being approached by Kings’ general manager Vlade Divac, Bjelica had a change of heart and decided to opt out of the 76ers deal, convinced by the potential benefits of remaining in the NBA as opposed to going back to Europe.
In a statement to Yahoo Sports, Bjelica said, “I had extensive discussions with Vlade, and as a legend in our country, he offered valuable insights into what it takes to succeed in the NBA as a player.” He added, “The organization’s faith in me and their dedication truly resonated with my family and me. I am committed to contributing in every way possible to the Kings and becoming part of the Sacramento community.”
The 30-year-old Bjelica is seen as a significant addition to the Kings roster, as they see him as a skilled player who can provide spacing for their young team. He posted averages of 6.8 points and 4.1 rebounds in 67 games for the Minnesota Timberwolves in the 2017-18 season.
Bjelica ultimately chose the Kings’ offer over the 76ers due to family, personal, and professional considerations. Drafted 35th overall in the 2010 NBA draft from Serbia, he spent three seasons in the NBA with the Minnesota Timberwolves.
