Yuta Watanabe is on the verge of finalizing a deal with the Chiba Jets of Japan’s B.League. After six seasons in the NBA, Watanabe announced earlier this offseason his intention to play in Japan for the upcoming season.
During his NBA career, Watanabe has suited up for the Memphis Grizzlies, Toronto Raptors, Brooklyn Nets, and Phoenix Suns. In the previous season, he inked a two-year contract with the Suns, only to be traded back to the Grizzlies halfway through. To join the Jets, Watanabe will need to decline his $2.6 million player option for the upcoming season.
Watanabe is set to represent Japan at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris before making a return to his home country as one of the top Japanese stars to grace the nation’s premier league.
