Jimmer Fredette is returning to the Shanghai Sharks.
July 25 (UPI) — Jimmer Fredette is returning to the Shanghai Sharks.
The former BYU superstar agreed to a new deal Monday to remain with the Chinese Basketball Association power. Fredette, 28, was the No. 10 overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft. In 2013 the Sacramento Kings waived him in his third season. Fredette also spent time with the Chicago Bulls, New Orleans Pelicans and New York Knicks. His best NBA season came during his rookie campaign when he posted 7.6 points, 1.8 assists and 1.2 rebounds per game for the Kings.
«I’ve decided to go back to Shanghai for a two year contract, » Fredette wrote on Twitter. «Thanks to my family, friends, and fans who have with me throughout everything!»
Fredette turned down offers from multiple NBA teams in April, according to the Post-Star. His deal with the Sharks is for $1.8 million, according to reports.
Last season, Fredette posted 37.6 points, 8.2 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 1.6 steals per game for the Sharks. He was the CBA International MVP. The 2011 Wooden Award winner went viral when he posted a 73-point game last season against the Zhejiang Guangsha Lions.
Former New York Knicks star Stephon Marbury announced his return to the CBA last week. The two-time NBA All-Star will suit up for one final season with the Beijing Fly Dragons. Marbury, 40, played his last NBA season in 2008.
«So the story goes like this, » Marbury wrote on social media Wednesday. «I’m staying in Beijing for my last and final season. The other Beijing team. I have to put on for the city no matter the team. It’s a different mission and vision over here in the JING.»
«The fans said stay so I’m staying. They said «we will love you no matter where you go» It’s hard to leave that type of love. Thanking God for another contract! #Blessed by the most high. #loveislove #starbury.»
Marbury also played for the Beijing Ducks, winning three CBA crowns. He won the 2013 CBA International MVP Award.
Fredette and his wife Whitney welcomed a baby boy in February named Wesley James.
