According to multiple media reports on Monday, Metta World Peace will sign a $1.43 million contract with Sichuan Blue Whales of the Chinese Basketball Association this week, making him the CBA's highest paid import.
Sources said World Peace's deal will be for one season, and he will pursue a contract in the NBA once the Chinese season ends.
World Peace, 34, will be the most decorated NBA talent in China next season - a one-time champion, All-Star and Defensive Player of the Year in 15 seasons.
Formerly known as Ron Artest, the 6-foot-7 forward enjoyed individual and team success in stops with the Indiana Pacers (2002-06) and Los Angeles Lakers (2009-13). He played in the Eastern Conference Finals in 2004 and won an NBA title with the Lakers in 2010 while making key defensive stands alongside Kobe Bryant.
After being released by the Lakers under the amnesty provision last summer, World Peace signed with the New York Knicks and averaged 4.8 points in 29 games.
Following two collegiate seasons at St. John's University, World Peace was the 19th overall pick by the Chicago Bulls in the 1999 draft. He averaged 13.8 points, 4.7 rebounds and 2.8 assists over his NBA career, with six different teams.
The Blue Whales, in their first CBA campaign, finished 12th in the 18-team circuit this past season, posting a record of 14-20.
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