This past summer, another superstar landed in the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague when Kemba Walker joined AS Monaco's backcourt.
Monaco made a big splash back in July when it signed Walker, a four-time NBA All-Star and a former All-NBA Third Team selection.
"I've been to Monaco one time before, which actually influenced my decision on coming here," Walker says. "I just remembered how beautiful of a place it was. I always said I would love to come back."
During his NBA career, which spanned over 12 seasons and 781 games, Walker scored more than 15,000 points and dished 4,000 assists, good for impressive career averages of 19.3 points and 5.2 assists.
The 33-year-old star, a household name among the basketball fans all over the world, decided to bring his skillset, abilities and experience to Monaco, but is aware that differences in style of play between the EuroLeague and NBA will require some adjustments that he is not expecting to be easy.
"I love challenges, I love to compete at the highest level," Walker says. "To me, basketball is basketball. I just have to adjust to a new team, I just have to adapt. I am just looking forward to the next chapter in my basketball career."
Monaco made history by reaching the EuroLeague Final Four and winning the French League title last season, both firsts for the club. Walker's arrival this summer signaled Monaco wants to go even further.
Although he has yet to play a game, Walker is now practicing with the team. He joins backcourt that also features the likes of Mike James, Jordan Loyd and Elie Okobo.
"I am excited to be a part of this team and help and do what I can", Walker says. "I just want to win, that's what it is all about. I want to continue to have success for this club."