Matt Gatens signs with Spanish team
Former Iowa basketball standout Matt Gatens has signed a one-year deal to play professionally in Spain. The Hawkeyes’ No. 6 career scorer will play for UCAM Murcia, located in Murcia, Spain. He expects to report to his new club later this month.
“Just to get this opportunity is awesome,” Gatens said Tuesday. “It’s a great opportunity to see the world and be paid to play basketball.”
UCAM Marcia plays in the top level ACB, which includes teams like defending champion FCB Regal and Real Madrid. UCAM Murcia tied for 13th in the 18-team league last season.
“The ultimate goal is the NBA, but this is the best alternative,” Gatens said. “It’s the best league in Europe. This is definitely a good start.”
Gatens, a 6-foot-5 guard, averaged 15.2 points as a senior, shooting 41 percent from 3. Undrafted, the second-team all-Big Ten selection worked out with seven different NBA teams and played for the Phoenix Suns in last month’s summer league.
“I’m told the fans (in Spain) are wild, crazy and passionate,” said Gatens, who declined to discuss the financial terms of his deal. “It should be pretty cool.”
Category: Iowa Hawkeyes men's basketball
