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James Harden Publicly Labels Daryl Morey as a 'Liar'

Mavs Ex Kemba Walker Embracing EuroLeague Journey: 'It's a Big Step'

Former Mavs guard Kemba Walker is embracing his new opportunity to play for AS Monaco in the EuroLeague after a lengthy NBA career.

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Dallas Mavericks
Dallas Mavericks

DALLAS — Former Dallas Mavericks guard Kemba Walker departed from the NBA to join the EuroLeague. He will play the upcoming season for AS Monaco and he's embracing the opportunity ahead. 

“It’s a big step. Something different. I’m just looking forward to the opportunity. I just want to play basketball,” Walker said. “And what better place to be than Monaco. It’s going to be fun times.”

Walker went unsigned until November of last season after dealing with limiting knee issues. The Mavs understood the concern, but with the need for a third ball handler, they took the chance on a non-guaranteed contract. He appeared in only nine games before being waived, including a 32-point performance against the Cleveland Cavaliers in a near overtime win without Luka Doncic. 

The four-time NBA All-Star believes his play in EuroLeague could help to increase the popularity of the league as an option for other top professional players. Upon a successful stint, he envisions his impact being uplifting to the league going forward. 

“I hope I can help increase the notoriety of the EuroLeague,” Walker said. “To increase the style of play and just built it up more.”

The arena atmosphere, playing cities, and people involved in EuroLeague will all be new to Walker. He is strongly looking forward to the experience as he aims to help AS Monaco to compete for wins.  

“I’m looking forward to be in a different environment," Walker said. "Learning my teammates. Meeting new people… the coaching staff, medical guys, everything. Basketball is basketball. And I’m here to win games.”

It remains to be seen if Walker will manage to return to the NBA in the future. The 33-year-old isn't focused on where he's playing as opposed to embracing the opportunities he has until he can no longer play the game anymore. 

“I love this game so much that I don’t want to give it up just yet,” Walker said. “I don’t think my time is up yet. I want to continue until I can’t anymore. Have fun, enjoy it, and be surrounded by great people. I’m looking forward to this opportunity in Monaco, and I want to help build something.”

Grant Afseth is a Dallas Mavericks reporter for DallasBasketball.com and an NBA reporter for NBA Analysis Network. He previously covered the Indiana Pacers and NBA for CNHI's Kokomo Tribune and various NBA teams for USA TODAY Sports Media Group. Follow him on Twitter (@grantafseth), Facebook (@grantgafseth), and YouTube (@grantafseth).

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