NEW YORK - Michael Curry, who played only two of his 11 pro seasons in the National Basketball Association, was named the league's vice president of basketball operations, NBA commissioner David Stern said.

Michael Curry(L) and NBA Commissioner David Stern pose for a photo in June 2005. Curry, who played only two of his 11 pro seasons in the National Basketball Association, was named the league's vice president of basketball operations, Stern said.[AFP]

Curry, 37, assumes basketball operations responsibilities for the league, reporting to executive vice president of operations Stu Jackson, and oversee the NBA's US-based development league, which he worked with since September.

He had been president of the NBA Players Association from 2000 through 2004.

Curry began his pro career in Europe, playing in Germany, Belgium, France and Italy from 1990 through 1994 before joining a US developmental league.

Curry suited up for 667 NBA games with six clubs, averaging 4.6 points and 1.6 rebounds and developing a reputation as a strong defender. His most success came at Detroit, where he made 152 of his 269 starts from 2001 through 2003.