Photo: Golden State Warriors/Twitter

JaVale McGee has officially joined Vaqueros de Bayamón, a top-tier basketball team in Puerto Rico.

Over 16 seasons in the NBA, the big man played 909 regular-season games while representing nine different teams, including notable stints with the Washington Wizards, Denver Nuggets, Golden State Warriors, and Los Angeles Lakers.

Known for his shot-blocking ability, alley-oop finishes, and infectious energy, McGee has carved out a reputation as a reliable big man on championship-caliber teams.

A three-time NBA champion, McGee won back-to-back titles with the Warriors in 2017 and 2018, followed by another ring with the Lakers in 2020.

He also captured Olympic gold as part of Team USA at the Tokyo Games in 2021, further cementing his legacy as a proven winner at the highest levels of basketball.

Most recently, McGee played for the Sacramento Kings during the 2023-24 season, appearing in 46 games as a bench contributor.

He averaged 4.0 points and 2.7 rebounds in just 7.4 minutes per game, serving primarily as a veteran presence and situational defender.

However, when his contract with the Kings expired in June, he remained unsigned for the 2024/25 NBA season, becoming a free agent.

McGee’s decision to join Vaqueros de Bayamón aligns with a growing trend of NBA veterans seeking opportunities in international leagues. Notably, he isn’t the only former NBA star heading to Puerto Rico.

Vaqueros recently secured the services of forward Danilo Gallinari, another seasoned professional with extensive NBA experience.

McGee and Gallinari share a history as teammates during their time with the Denver Nuggets from 2012 to 2015.

Gallinari’s contract reportedly includes an opt-out clause, allowing him to return to the NBA if another opportunity arises.

While the specific terms of McGee’s agreement have not been disclosed, it remains uncertain whether he has a similar option built into his deal.

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