Matt Howard, Media Darling, Will Play In Euroleague Next Season

Matt Howard seemed like he had just enough grit and determination to sneak onto an NBA roster next season despite his not being selected in the 2011 NBA Draft. That won't be the case, however, as the Butler big man has decided to begin career playing in the Euroleague next season.

Howard has signed to play with Olympiacos in Greece, it was announced on the Euroleague website Thursday, and will be joined by another undrafted rookie in Michigan State point guard Kalin Lucas.

The Butler forward averaged 16.7 points and 7.7 rebounds while leading the Bulldogs on yet another Cinderella run in the NCAA tournament, but the media darlings fell short against Connecticut in the NCAA Championship game. 

Howard had previously worked out for the Phoenix Suns following the draft, but obviously decided that Europe was a safer option with the NBA lockout looming for the foreseeable future.

"It is a big decision for me but coming to a team with such great tradition as Olympiacos was easy. Players like Josh Childress or Rasho Nesterovic were here, so I know this one of the best teams in Europe and always has high goals," Howard said. "When you go to the next level, you have to prove you deserve. I come to Olympiacos to help and learn from my teammates and our legendary coach."

There is not going to be a lot of talent left for NBA training camp fodder -- and, with that, the D-League -- this fall.