Kansas basketball: Brooklyn Nets, Jalen Wilson agree on two-way contract

LEXINGTON, KY - JANUARY 28: Jalen Wilson #10 of the Kansas Jayhawks is seen during the game against the Kentucky Wildcats at Rupp Arena on January 28, 2023 in Lexington, Kentucky. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
LEXINGTON, KY - JANUARY 28: Jalen Wilson #10 of the Kansas Jayhawks is seen during the game against the Kentucky Wildcats at Rupp Arena on January 28, 2023 in Lexington, Kentucky. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /
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Former Kansas basketball star Jalen Wilson will begin his professional career alternating between the NBA and his team’s G League affiliate.

One of the most accomplished Kansas Jayhawks in recent history, Jalen Wilson, snuck into the second round of this year’s NBA Draft. He eventually was selected by the Brooklyn Nets with the 51st overall pick, but he isn’t going to receive a fully guaranteed deal just yet.

The Nets signed him to a two-way contract, meaning he will see time between Brooklyn and their G League affiliate, the Long Island Nets. His contract is good for slightly more than $500,000. It states that Wilson cannot spend more than 50 games with the NBA Nets.

Wilson was among the best players in college basketball last season, leading the Big 12 in points and rebounds per game. His outstanding play earned him Conference Player of the Year honors, and he was named a First Team Consensus All-American.

He isn’t as highly touted at the next level as he was in college. Improving his 3-point shot and becoming more efficient will be vital to his success. Wilson is also a proven leader with an abundance of maturity for his age.

READ: Former KU star Gradey Dick signs rookie contract with Raptors

His KU teammate Gradey Dick — who was the Toronto Raptors’ lottery pick — received a fully guaranteed rookie deal. The two will face off on July 13 at 4 p.m. CT in a Summer League contest.

Brooklyn’s first Summer League game will come tomorrow (July 7) against the Cleveland Cavaliers. It’ll be Wilson’s first action with his new club, and he’ll look to prove to the organization that he is worth more than a two-way deal.

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