Former NBA lottery pick nears agreement in Japan originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Charlotte Hornets have spent the past several seasons rebuilding their roster, and despite their current record, optimism has grown around the franchise. The addition of rookies Kon Knueppel, Ryan Kalkbrenner and Sion James in the latest NBA Draft has provided fresh depth and versatility. When paired with the team’s established core of LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller and Miles Bridges, Charlotte now features one of its most promising lineups in recent years.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementPlayer development, however, has not always been one of the Hornets’ strengths. One of the most notable examples is Frank Kaminsky, whom Charlotte selected with the No. 9 pick in the 2015 NBA Draft. The former Wisconsin standout entered the league following a highly decorated college career, but his transition to the NBA never fully matched expectations.
Kaminsky averaged 8.8 points, 3.8 rebounds and 1.6 assists over his career, spending four seasons with the Hornets before moving on to Phoenix for three years. He later had short stops with Atlanta and Houston, each lasting less than half a season. After his final NBA appearance during the 2022-23 campaign, Kaminsky took his career overseas, playing in Europe, China and most recently in the G League with the Toronto Raptors’ affiliate.
With Toronto, Kaminsky posted 13.5 points, 5.9 rebounds and 4.3 assists per game.
Now, he appears headed for another international opportunity. According to BasketNews, Kaminsky is nearing a deal with Alvark Tokyo of the Japanese B. League. The league has become a landing spot for several former NBA players, including former No. 3 pick Jahlil Okafor and veteran forward Yuta Watanabe.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementAt 32, Kaminsky remains hopeful that a strong showing in Japan could position him for another shot at the NBA.
More NBA news:
Lakers sign Gonzaga’s all-time leading scorer
Former first-round pick Aleksej Pokusevski reflects on NBA journey and possible return
Miles Bridges on Kon Knueppel: 'He’s been our best player this year'
Marcus Smart says playing with LeBron James 'feels different' after years as rivals
