Raynaud Draws French National Team Interest; Carlik Jones Extends in Belgrade; Bazley Waived in China; Montero Reportedly Courted by U.S. Colleges
raynaud-jones-bazley-montero-updates
Sacramento rookie center Maxime Raynaud is in the mix for France’s roster during this summer’s 2027 FIBA World Cup qualifying window, French outlet L’Équipe reported. Selected 43rd overall in 2025, the 7-footer is averaging 12.3 points and 7.5 rebounds across 73 games (55 starts, 26.4 minutes). Raynaud told reporter Maxime Aubin he has met several times with national team executive Boris Diaw and would “be very happy” to represent his country if selected.
Jones Signs Through 2027-28 With Partizan
Former NBA guard Carlik Jones has signed a multi-year extension with Partizan Belgrade, the Serbian club announced in a video release. Serbian outlet Mozzart Sport states the new deal runs through the 2027-28 season. Jones, 28, missed the first months of 2025-26 because of a fractured foot but has since averaged 15.6 points, 4.5 assists and 2.9 rebounds in 14 EuroLeague appearances, according to BasketNews.
Bazley Released by Ningbo Rockets
The Ningbo Rockets have parted ways with forward/center Darius Bazley a little more than a month after signing him, For The Win’s Bryan Kalbrosky reported. The 25-year-old was ejected from Wednesday’s matchup with the Shanghai Sharks after a turnover led to a heated exchange with teammate Zavier Simpson. Bazley subsequently threw the ensuing inbounds pass to a referee standing out of bounds and was later seen pushing a teammate who tried to intervene. The former first-round pick was released following the game.
Montero Linked to Seven-Figure NCAA Offers
Valencia Basket guard Jean Montero has received multiple scholarship offers exceeding $4 million in total value from U.S. college programs, Dominican journalist Shot Vetakis reported, with additional confirmation from outlets in the Dominican Republic. Montero, one of the top undrafted prospects in 2022, had been slated to sign an Exhibit 10 deal with the Knicks that summer, but the agreement collapsed due to a significant buyout clause with Spain’s Gran Canaria.
Source: Hoops Rumors
