Former NBA guard/forward Lance Stephenson is making a significant move in his basketball career by signing an NBA G League contract to join the Iowa Wolves, the affiliate team of the Minnesota Timberwolves. This development, reported by Michael Scotto of HoopsHype and confirmed by Iowa in a press release, marks a pivotal step for Stephenson, who aims to revitalize his professional journey.
The Iowa Wolves secured Stephenson’s returning player rights from the Grand Rapids Gold, Denver’s affiliate, in a strategic exchange that involved trading Craig Randall II’s rights.
Stephenson, renowned for his contributions to various NBA franchises over ten seasons, notably with the Indiana Pacers, last featured in an NBA game in April 2022 while concluding the 2021/22 season with the Pacers. His career spans 554 regular-season games, boasting an average of 8.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.9 assists, demonstrating his versatile skill set on the court. Additionally, Stephenson has previously played in China and, most recently, Puerto Rico.
Despite his notable NBA history, Stephenson remained a free agent after expressing his desire to return to the league, particularly with the New York Knicks or Brooklyn Nets during the offseason. Unfortunately, a formal contract with either team didn’t materialize.
The 33-year-old Brooklyn native seeks to make a strong impression by aligning himself with the Timberwolves’ affiliate, Iowa Wolves, while aiming to secure an NBA roster spot. Stephenson’s decision to join the G League does not restrict his status as an unrestricted free agent, preserving the possibility of an NBA return.
With an open roster spot on the Timberwolves’ lineup, Stephenson’s strategic move to showcase his talents with Iowa signals his determination to re-establish himself in the NBA arena. His tenure with the Iowa Wolves represents a strategic move to garner attention and potentially secure a return to the highest level of basketball.
As Stephenson gears up for this new chapter in his career, basketball enthusiasts eagerly anticipate witnessing his performance and impact with the Iowa Wolves, potentially paving the way for a remarkable comeback to the NBA.
