Mike James’ move to Anadolu Efes became one of the biggest EuroLeague transactions of the summer, but the veteran guard’s final destination surprised many across European basketball.
Before signing with Anadolu Efes, several destinations were linked with the EuroLeague’s all-time leading scorer, including Barcelona, Dubai and other potential suitors.
Interestingly, two of his former Monaco teammates, Chima Moneke and Jaron Blossomgame, expected James to choose a completely different path.
Former Monaco teammates expected a different path for Mike James
Months before Mike James officially joined Anadolu Efes, his former Monaco teammates Chima Moneke and Jaron Blossomgame discussed his future during an April appearance on the Triple Threat Show podcast.
“I like Spain for Mike James,” Moneke said.
Later in the conversation, Jaron Blossomgame shared his own view, suggesting that Spain or Italy were the most likely destinations.
“He hates Istanbul. I’m not saying he won’t go there, but he hates Istanbul,” Blossomgame said.
“I think he’ll end up in Barcelona or Milano. He’ll listen to offers from the Greek teams, but he doesn’t want to go back to Greece.”
Moneke then explained why he believed Barcelona could realistically make a move for James despite doubts surrounding the club’s financial situation.
“A huge signing. Mike (James) is a huge signing. They’ve been talking about Xavi (Pascual) coming back for years, and you think they won’t do whatever it takes? If he says he needs Josh Nebo, Moses Wright, and a star point guard, you think they won’t do whatever it takes? He inherited this year’s team. A lot of contracts will be up. Next season, he’ll build the team the way he wants.”
Ultimately, none of those predictions materialized, as James ended up signing with Anadolu Efes after weeks of speculation surrounding his future.
Barcelona deal collapsed despite reported agreement
Barcelona emerged as the frontrunner for Mike James’ signature before the move unexpectedly collapsed.
According to Mundo Deportivo, James was reportedly considering legal action against Barcelona for an alleged breach of agreement after the club reportedly changed course following internal decisions to rebuild and rejuvenate the roster.
The reports also claimed that James had already started looking for a house in Barcelona before the move ultimately collapsed.
“Staying in shape ain’t the hard part. It’s just being away. Honestly, going through a long season, I think that’s the hardest part now. But I would say I’m putting it this way.
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All my teammates and people that are around me always want me to play until, like, 40 something. I… pic.twitter.com/fod6eqhhfK
Mike James shut down Dubai rumors before Anadolu Efes move
Following the collapse of the reported Barcelona move, Mike James was heavily linked with Dubai, with several outlets suggesting the ambitious EuroLeague newcomer had emerged as a leading contender for his signature.
James, however, wasted little time shutting down the speculation.
“Y’all make up so much stories it’s hard to keep up. I wake up off a flight and I’m signed lol,” James wrote on social media.
