University of Minnesota Athletics
King Signs Professional Contract in Finland
8/17/2016 12:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
Recent Minnesota graduate Joey King will continue his playing career as a professional, as the Kataja basketball team in Joensuun, Finland announced their signing of the forward on Monday.
"I'm thankful for the opportunity to continue my basketball career," said King, a native of Eagan, Minn. "Kataja gives me a platform to compete internationally which is an important component of an overseas resume. It will serve as a great starting point for my professional career."
King finished a three-year career with the Golden Gophers in March, after he scored more than 1,100 points in his career, appeared in 131 games, and finished his career as the best free throw shooter in school history making 84 percent of his attempts from the line.
He is one of two former Gophers who will compete professionally in Finland this season, as Austin Hollins recently signed a contract with Kauhajoki Karhu. Hollins' team, along with Kataja, plays in the Korisliiga, Finland's top professional basketball league.
"As always, thank you to the loyal Gopher fans who have supported me over three special years, and best of luck to our future gophers," King added.
King becomes the eighth former Minnesota Golden Gopher player under head coach Richard Pitino to sign a professional contract, spanning the past three years.
Kataja's full release can be found here.
