Al Jefferson to snub Pacers in favor of China move

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After two disappointing seasons with the Indiana Pacers, Al Jefferson is off to play in China.

According to NBA.com's David Aldridge, Jefferson chose a "nice payday" in China over re-signing with the Pacers.

He was waived early this month, but reportedly had a chance to return to Indiana for 2018-19. Instead, he is making the choice to head overseas.

The 33-year-old’s deal in Indiana was worth around 20 million US dollars for two years, was set to make 4 million US dollars this season before being waived, according to Spotrac.

Al Jefferson has averaged a double-double four times in his career, and topped 20 points per game three times. /VCG Photo

Jefferson was never an NBA All-Star, but he started off his career as an All-Rookie team member in 2005. His apex was in 2013-14 with Charlotte when he made third-team all-NBA. He averaged 21.8 points and 10.8 rebounds that season and helped Charlotte transition from the Bobcats era to the Hornets era.

Jefferson was a third-team All-NBA player with the Charlotte Bobcats in 2014 when he averaged 21.8 points and 10.8 rebounds per game. /VCG Photo

For his illustrious career, Jefferson posted averages of 15.7 points and 8.4 rebounds. He was a solidly above average center for about a decade and has a long list of accomplishments.

Jefferson has been to China before. Back in 2015, his Hornets were one of the teams that went to the Middle Kingdom as a part of the "NBA Global Games".

(With input from agencies)