‘Challenge Continues’ Sykes Signs Brooklyn Training Camp
The Brooklyn Nets have signed training camp contracts with Jordan Hall and Sykes,” said Brett Siegel, a reporter for the local media outlet, on the 21st (Korea Standard Time). Brooklyn also added Sykes to its official website roster.
Sykes recorded 15.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, 7.9 assists and one steal in an average of 31.9 minutes in 29 games (27 starts) on Motor City Cruises under the Detroit Pistons last season. The Brooklyn-affiliated Long Island Nets acquired Sykes by handing over the first round of the 2024 G League Draft with Trevion Graham to Motor City on the 19th, and Brooklyn signed a training camp contract with Sykes two days later.
Sykes was a foreign player who made a strong impression on KBL fans even though he had only one season. He played for Anyang KGC (currently Jeong Kwan-jang) in the 2016-2017 season and showed dunk shots and explosive power based on his amazing elasticity despite his 180cm height. After overcoming the crisis of being kicked out at the beginning of the season, he played with 15.1 points, three rebounds, 4.6 assists and 1.4 steals in an average of 24 minutes and 22 seconds in 54 games.
Sykes, who has since built his career in various leagues such as China, Turkey, and Italy, has achieved his dream of becoming an NBA leaguer in the 2021-2022 season. He made his debut with the Indiana Pacers, leaving him 5.6 points, 1.4 rebounds and 1.9 assists over 17.7 minutes in 32 games (11 starts). However, it was released at the end of the season due to an unguaranteed contract and a slump.
Sykes continued his dream of returning to the NBA by playing as the main scorer at Motor City last season. Although he was not called up, he refused a love call from a European league team in the offseason, strengthening his commitment to another NBA challenge.
Sykes signed a training camp contract with Brooklyn after the trade, which gave him the opportunity to be recognized by officials. Even if he fails to enter the NBA roster after training camp, he is expected to continue his challenge to rejoin the NBA by playing for Long Island.