Report: Thanasis Antetokounmpo to play in D-League, not overseas

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The New York Knicks drafted Thanasis Antetokounmpo in the second round of this year's draft not to help immediately, but as a long-term project. While older than his more famous brother Giannis Antetokounmpo, Thanasis is a little further behind on the development curve, and probably isn't NBA-ready.

Returning to Greece to play professionally for a year had been rumored previously, but that always seemed a little curious given the difficulties the family faced in their home country before departing, reportedly living in near-poverty for years.

Now, it appears Antetokounmpo will make less money but be closer to his brother and the Knicks, as he'll be heading to the D-League for a second consecutive season.

This comes via Shams Charania of RealGM:

After mulling between the NBA Development League and European clubs, New York draft pick Thanasis Antetokounmpo has decided to play next season with the Knicks’ affiliate in Westchester, sources told RealGM.

Antetokounmpo considered several significant contract offers in Europe if he elected to pass on a consecutive season in the D-League, but Knicks management made clear that it hoped Antetokounmpo would remain within the organization in 2014-15.

The Knicks' preference for Antetokounmpo to stay close makes plenty of sense, as he can play for the team's exclusive D-League affiliate in Westchester, allowing him to stay under a watchful eye and with a staff that has New York's best interests in mind.

For the player, it means turning down an appreciably higher salary, but possibly taking a shorter path to the NBA. Antetokounmpo won't be on the NBA roster but, should the Knicks deem him ready at any point, they could opt to sign him and call him up. 

Last season, Antetokounmpo appeared in 50 games for Delaware of the D-League, averaging 12 points, 4.3 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 1.2 steals and 1.3 blocks.