Matthew Bryan-Armaning headed to Turkey

Great Britain forward Matthew Bryan-Amaning has signed his first professional contract, putting pen to paper with Turkish side Hacettepe.

The Ankara-based team have just been promoted to the first division and hope the former University of Washington Husky will add size and athleticism to their frontcourt.

Talking to Hoopsfix, Bryan-Amaning expressed his relief at sorting out his destination for next season

“It’s a relief. I kinda went into hibernation after things didn’t go my way on June 23rd (draft day). Now I know where I’m gonna be next year, I can breathe a sigh of relief and be excited.”

“I feel it is right place for me after talking to my people, and agent. The biggest thing I need right now is experience and with this team I’ll be getting good court time playing the four.”

Bryan-Amaning admitted he had never been to Turkey but has heard it is “hot and beautiful”.  Despite signing the 1 year contract, the Pac-10′s Most Improved Player last season remains clear the NBA is still his goal,  but with the uncertainty around the lockout felt signing abroad was the right decision even though he is sitting on training camp invites from various NBA teams.

“My goal is still the NBA, it has been a dream of mine since I can remember but to have a solid career in Europe with good money isn’t a bad plan B! My game allows me to put the ball in the hole, rebound, play defense and block shots being a presence on both ends of the court, I’m very motivated to show my abilities at a professional level. ”

“With this lockout, there’s no guaranteeing how long it will last.  I’ve been invited to a few training camps and had roster spots for summer league teams but if the lockout last months into the season I have no source of income.”

Hoopsfix understands the 6’9″ GB forward has a get-out clause in his contract which allows him to be released if he has an NBA offer.

Hacapette’s coaching staff speak fluent English, making the transition for MBA a little easier, and the team practices at one of the biggest universities in Turkey. Their home games are played at the Ankara Arena, the same stadium that was built for, and hosted, the 2010 FIBA World Championships.

MBA also had interest from teams in Italy, Israel, France and Korea, whilst New York, Miami, Phoenix, Sacramento, Portland and Indiana all had told him they had a summer league roster spot for him this year before it was cancelled.

Hoopsfix wants to wish MBA all the best with his professional career!

http://www.hoopsfix.com/2011/07/matthew-bryan-amaning-headed-to-turkey/