Free agent forward and center Chimezie Metu is reportedly close to finalizing a contract to join AS Monaco, according to Donatas Urbonas of BasketNews.
Metu suffered a significant injury in March when he ruptured his Achilles tendon. Because of this, the 28-year-old’s potential contract with Monaco depends on him passing a series of medical examinations.
These health checks are expected to take place sometime next week as part of the team’s due diligence. Metu is aiming to make a comeback around January, following his rehabilitation.
Metu has an extensive basketball resume, having played six seasons in the NBA, including three with the Sacramento Kings.
Between 2018 and 2024, he appeared in 260 regular-season NBA games, averaging 5.9 points and 3.5 rebounds per contest.
Last season, he played overseas with Barcelona, where he posted improved numbers – averaging 11.0 points and 4.8 rebounds in 20 minutes per game across 24 EuroLeague appearances.
Notably, he shot 36.4% from beyond the arc, showcasing his ability to stretch the floor as an athletic big man. If Metu signs with AS Monaco, he would be joining a squad rich in former NBA talent.
The roster already includes players like Daniel Theis, Nikola Mirotic, Donatas Motiejunas, Mike James, Elie Okobo, Jaron Blossomgame, and Nick Calathes.
Monaco had a strong EuroLeague campaign last season, reaching the Finals before falling to Fenerbahce 81-70.
Urbonas also mentions that Metu had been in advanced negotiations with Fenerbahce earlier this summer. However, those talks fell apart for reasons that are not entirely clear.
It remains uncertain whether concerns about his Achilles injury and recovery played a part in the deal not coming to fruition.
Chimezie Metu Nearing Deal With Monaco https://t.co/CqdxkrjAMr pic.twitter.com/aFNwYVvbgf
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) August 9, 2025
