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Former Celtics’ big man Glen ‘Big Baby’ Davis wants to return to the NBA. According to an article this morning by the Undefeated’s Marc Spears, that could possibly mean a stint in the NBA G League. While Davis is an NBA champion and had a long career in the NBA, right now he believes that the G League is the best place for him to make a showcase of his skills. He has even discussed signing in the G League with Elton Brand, who was just named the general manager of the Delaware 87ers. Brand expressed interest in bringing Davis aboard, and it’s not unreasonable to think that other GMs would also be intrigued by his services.
Davis is only 31, and hasn’t played professional basketball in two years. He did have ankle surgery in 2015 (the reason why he wasn’t signed that summer), but says he doesn’t have any pain, and feels 100% healthy. Teams will obviously want to work him out to make sure his skills are still sharp (and to see if he’s in shape) before signing him, however. As long as Davis is close to the player he was a few years ago, he should easily be good enough to help a G League team in some capacity.
The other big draw to Davis, outside of his on-court play and veteran presence, is his name recognition and what that might do for fan interest. The G League added four new teams this summer, and having a player that more casual fans have knowledge of could help those teams drum up interest amongst their potential base. Even more established G-League teams could use Davis, as his outspoken personality could help them get attention in the media (hopefully not in a bad way).
If Davis does follow through and sign with a G League team, it would be great for both him and the league itself. He would provide a marketing boost for a league trying to expand and rebrand, and the league would offer him the best avenue at returning to the NBA. It seems like a perfect fit, and if Davis’ statements are how he really feels, the match could happen sooner rather than later.