Shabazz Napier was named BBL Finals MVP in the summer, but the guard was unable to agree on a contract extension with FC Bayern Munich. The playmaker now has a new role.
As reported by Hoops Hype, Napier is ending his playing career after leaving FC Bayern and will now devote himself to coaching. The 34-year-old will learn as a coaching apprentice with the Washington Wizards under Brian Keefe.
The experienced point guard had already hinted last year that he would consider such a move, and now Napier is making the immediate transition. Napier played in 33 games for Bayern in the EuroLeague, averaging 10.3 points and 3.2 assists.
Napier shone in the BBL playoffs
However, the former NBA player became even more valuable in the BBL playoffs, where Munich had to do without the injured Carsen Edwards and Napier took on a more important role. The 34-year-old previously played for Red Star Belgrade and Olimpia Milan in the EuroLeague.
Napier also played six years in the NBA for six different teams – the Miami Heat, Orlando Magic, Portland Trail Blazers, Brooklyn Nets, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Washington Wizards. The guard averaged 7.1 points, but Napier was unable to build on the great successes he celebrated in college for UConn (two titles) alongside Niels Giffey.
