The Miami Heat did not do much in the NBA draft this past summer, but after trading for second round pick James Ennis, many wondered what role he could have with the team and it appears that it won't be a significant one this year, as he signed with an Australian team.
According to Pro Basketball Talk, Ennis signed with the Perth Wildcats is a surprising move after being acquired as a second round pick and one reason was likely due to the salary he will get from the team. The Heat can still bring him back, as his contract has an out clause for him to return to the NBA if the Heat sign him, but after bringing in Greg Oden, he likely will have more of a role in the future and not this season.
Ennis will earn six figures in Australia and his other option was to play on a $25,500 contract to play in the D-League. The team still could get hi8m to do that after signing on to a hybrid agreement with the Sioux Falls Skyforce, but clearly Ennis is ready to go down under, as he said he is excited to join his new teammates in a press release. The Atlanta Hawks original selected Ennis before trading him to the Heat and he comes after being named Big West Player of the Year and averaging 16.5 points, 6.7 rebounds and 1.8 steals as a senior at Long Beach State.
"I can't wait to get over to Australia and join my new teammates," Ennis said in a press release. "Obviously I would have liked to be playing in the NBA this season, but it's a huge opportunity to develop my skills in a good competition and put on a show for the fans in Perth."
