GER - Roller moves to Italy - initially on a limited contract

BIELLA (Lega A) - German international Pascal Roller finally announced his move abroad as the playmaker will lace his shoes up this season for Italian top flight side Angelico Biella.

Roller and the Italians, however, signed on a two-month contract - with an option for the remainder of the season.

In Italy, the 29-year-old German will be replacing the injured American guard Reece Gaines.

"I'm really happy that my wish to play abroad has finally come true. Biella is an established team, about which I've only heard positive things," Roller said.

"The season doesn't start until in 14 days, so I have enough time to get to know the team."

Biella finished eighth in Italy's top flight last season, and Roller helped the 2004 German champions Deutsche Bank Skyliners save relegation on the final day of last season.

Before last season Roller signed a six-year contract extension with the Frankfurt club.

Part of the contract however was also an out-clause for him to play a year abroad if he wished.

And he decided to use that option this season.

Roller's top wish would have been playing for a top notch club in Spain. And the crafty veteran hoped to use the 2006 FIBA World Championship as a tryout platform.

But Roller didn't earn the same playing time as he did in helping Germany to the silver medal at EuroBasket 2005 in Belgrade.

And numerous reports said the offers coming in for this season did not meet Roller's expectations.

By PA Sport