William McDowell-White signs 4-year deal in Germany
Rising star William McDowell-White has officially turned professional, signing a rare 4-year deal with German Pro A side Baunach.
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After experiencing eligibility issues that delayed his collegiate debut with Fresno State last season, the 6'5 guard has permanently turned his back on the NCAA pathway and will instead pursue his NBA aspirations via Europe.
Baunach is the 'farm team' of German Bundesliga club Brose Bamburg who currently participates in the EuroLeague and was a former club of Australian Boomer Mark Worthington. McDowell-White's contract is reported to be held with Bamburg, therefore providing a potentially lucrative development pathway for the 18-year-old.
Queenslander McDowell-White was touted as the top Australian college prospect entering the 2016-17 college season, however once he was determined ineligible, it was always a more likely scenario that he would eventually turn professional.
Signed as a development player with the Sydney Kings last season in the NBL, McDowell-White showed his potential across 7 games in which he averaged 2.1 points and 1.1 assists per game. Able to play point or off the ball, the guard has an explosive first step and an ability to blow past players and get to the rim.
"I am really looking forward to moving to the Bamberg organization," said McDowell-White in a team statement. "I have only heard good things about the club. I can hardly wait to continue my career here and develop as best as possible."
McDowell-White, the son of former Aussie Rules footballer Darryl White, has represented Australia on multiple occasions, including the 2015 FIBA U19 World Championships where Australia finished in seventh place. He also took part in the 2014 adidas Nations Global and 2016 Nike Hoop Summit.
Long considered an athlete with NBA potential, McDowell-White's move to Germany could be the breakthrough next step to realising his talent. Baunach finished a lowly thirteenth last season with a 10-20 record, the young Aussie will have a chance to make a real difference, lead the team, and possibly break into the Bamburg side.