GRE – Panathinaikos could be destination for Calathes

GAINSVILLE (EuroBasket 2009) – Nick Calathes looks set to start his professional career in Europe instead of the NBA.

The American-born Calathes, who played for Greece at last year’s U20 European Championship, announced last month he was leaving the University of Florida after his sophomore season and declaring for the NBA draft.

Now the point guard is reportedly signing with European champions Panathinaikos instead of going to the NBA, where he is projected to be a late first-round pick.

Neither Panathinaikos nor Calathes have confirmed he is to play for the Greens, but the media in the player's home state of Florida has cited unnamed sources close to the player and reported that he is headed to Greece.

The Orlando Sentinel says he will receive $1.1 million per year from Panathinaikos.

His total package would be on par with what the NBA rookie salary scale provides a late-lottery selection, while endorsements could take his earnings even higher.

The NBA team that does select Calathes will retain his rights.

Calathes' brother, Pat, played college basketball at St Joseph's in Philadelphia and is on the books of another team in Athens, Maroussi.

Nick Calathes is expected to be named in Greece’s preliminary squad for EuroBasket 2009.

FIBA