Navarro Leaves NBA to Return To FC Barcelona
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The Washington Wizards never got anything from 2002 second-round pick Juan Carlos Navarro on the court, but they may still get a first-round pick for the long-range shooter. He announced yesterday that he is returning to Spain to play for FC Barcelona after a one-season stint with the Memphis Grizzlies.
Last summer, the Wizards traded Navarro's NBA rights to the Grizzlies in exchange for a conditional first-round pick, and the guard signed a one-year contract before averaging 10.9 points and 2.2 assists in 82 games. Navarro connected on 156 three-pointers, two short of an NBA rookie record.
Memphis will keep the pick in the upcoming June 26 draft because it was top-19 protected, meaning the Wizards would only have received it if Memphis held a first-round pick that was 20th or later.
The pick is top-16 protected in the 2009 draft, top-14 protected from 2010-2012 and top-12 protected in 2013.
If the Wizards have not received a pick by 2013, they will get a second-round pick and cash considerations. . . .
All-star forward Caron Butler will host a basketball camp for boys and girls ages 8-16 from Monday to Friday at Bishop McNamara High School in Forestville. For information, visit http:/
-- Ivan Carter
