Lithuanian basketball titan Zalgiris Kaunas has enhanced its lineup by officially welcoming NBA free agent Edmond Sumner, strategically maneuvering following the departures of Ignas Brazdeikis and Naz Mitrou-Long, who recently joined Olympiacos. Sumner’s contract is until the conclusion of the 2023-24 season.
Sumner, a 27-year-old guard, entered free agency after the Charlotte Hornets waived him in October, just before the NBA season’s tip-off.
In the previous NBA season, Sumner exhibited his prowess with the Brooklyn Nets, averaging 7.1 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 13.9 minutes per game.
Originally drafted by the New Orleans Pelicans in 2017 and later traded to the Indiana Pacers, Sumner’s NBA journey has been characterized by versatility and impactful contributions on both ends of the court.
After a trade to the Brooklyn Nets in 2021 and a subsequent re-signing in 2022, Sumner found himself on the move again. On July 15, 2023, the Nets waived him, paving the way for the next chapter in his basketball odyssey.
Zalgiris intends to harness Sumner’s skills and experience as they navigate both domestic and international competitions.
Currently grappling with challenges, including five losses in six EuroLeague games and two losses in their last three LKL (Lithuanian Basketball League) encounters, Zalgiris aims to reignite momentum with the addition of Sumner.
In EuroLeague, the Greens currently occupy the 14th position, securing four wins and enduring six losses. Meanwhile, in the LKL, they stand at the second position with nine wins and two losses.
Despite Sumner’s imminent arrival in Kaunas this week, logistical constraints will prevent him from traveling with the team to the EuroLeague Round 11 game in Milan.
