Former Kentucky basketball player Randoph Morris signed a two-year deal today with the NY Knicks, less than week after he played his final collegiate game. ESPN reports the deal is worth $1.6 million.
I previously explained the circumstances that made Morris a free agent.
The short version: In 2004 Morris "tested the NBA waters" after his freshman year. He wasn't drafted. NCAA rules allow players who are not drafted to return as long they don't agree to be represented by an agent (The NCAA asserted that Morris violated this rule, but the initial season-long banishment was reduced to 14 games). Players are only eligible for draft one time. Therefore, Morris enters the NBA as a free agent.
While some have suggested that this sets a bad precedent, keep in mind that all players who aren't drafted become free agents. If they sign a pro contract it is almost always for the league minimum. The only difference in this situation is that Morris played well his Junior year and increased his market value.
While many are calling on the NBA and NCAA to close the loophole that allowed Morris to enter the NBA as a free agent, I don't think it is necessary. It was just an unusual situation that will likely never be repeated.
Morris is WAY over rated. He will get blisters on his butt from sitting on the bleachers all year while playing for the Knicks.
Posted by: ashley | April 04, 2007 at 11:32 AM