Veteran guard/forward Lance Stephenson was selected by the Grand Rapids Gold with the No. 13 overall pick in Saturday’s G League draft, and by all accounts intends to play as he works toward an NBA comeback.
The Gold are entering their first season as the Nuggets’ affiliate.
Stephenson, 31, is 6-foot-6 and last played for the Liaoning Flying Leopards of the Chinese Basketball Association. His last NBA run came with the Lakers in 2018-19, when he averaged 7.2 points and 3.2 rebounds in 68 games.
He made a name for himself with the Pacers, but has also spent time with the Timberwolves, Pelicans, Grizzlies, Clippers and Hornets. He’s actually served two stints with Indiana.
Stephenson was unstoppable in China, with averages of averaged 26.7 points, 7.5 rebounds and 3.8 assists. He has recently worked out for several NBA teams, but has yet to land a deal.
Stephenson was one of 100-plus players entering the pool of G League draft prospects. Those eligible include college players who went undrafted by the NBA, international prospects and players who were recently waived by NBA teams, as well as veteran free agents.
Point guard Shamorie Ponds was the first overall pick by the Delaware Blue Coats, the 76ers’ affiliate.
Hoops Wire will post the G League draft in its entirely upon completion.
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