Guard Jordan Ford, who played six games for the Kings last season, has signed with Italy’s Aquila Basket Trento, according to an announcement by the club on Twitter.
Ford became a free agent when the Kings opted not to extend a qualifying offer to him by the June 30 deadline. His tenure with the Kings included playing on a two-way contract last season, a deal that was upgraded from a training camp contract in September.
During this month’s Summer League, Ford played for the New Orleans Pelicans, appearing in five games, three of which he started. He posted impressive averages of 15 points, 3.6 assists, and 3.0 rebounds per game, showcasing his skills and versatility on the court.
In the previous season with the G League’s Stockton Kings, Ford was a key player, starting in 24 games. He averaged 15.5 points, 4.0 assists, and 2.8 rebounds per game. His performance highlighted his scoring ability and playmaking skills, making him one of the standout players for the Stockton Kings.
Ford’s journey began with a standout college career at Saint Mary’s, where he was a prolific scorer and floor general. His transition to professional basketball saw him initially struggle to secure a permanent spot in the NBA, leading to his two-way contract with the Kings. His time in the G League helped him develop further, as evidenced by his solid averages and consistent performances.
Now, Ford is taking his talents overseas to Aquila Basket Trento, a team competing in the Italian Lega Basket Serie A (LBA) and the EuroCup. This move represents a significant step in his career, offering him the opportunity to play a prominent role in a competitive European league. Ford’s addition to Trento is expected to bring scoring, leadership, and experience to the team as they aim for success in both domestic and international competitions.
The decision to move to Italy could be seen as a strategic one, providing Ford with consistent playing time and a chance to further refine his skills on an international stage. For Trento, signing a player of Ford’s caliber is a notable acquisition, likely to enhance their backcourt and overall team dynamics.
As Ford embarks on this new chapter, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how he adapts to European basketball and whether this experience will serve as a stepping stone for a potential return to the NBA in the future.