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Colton Iverson to play overseas next season

Colton had said that he wanted to help the Celtics in any way possible. Playing in Turkey next season might be the only way for him to do that this season.

USA TODAY Sports

After some speculation yesterday that this had already gone through despite multiple reports denying it, Gary Washburn is reporting that it's a done deal:

Celtics' draft pick Colton Iverson agrees to Turkish deal

The center signed a two-year contract with Besiktas of the Turkish League with an out after the first season, according to the team. Playing overseas had been a consideration for Iverson since he was drafted 53d overall by the Celtics, who will still own Iverson's rights.

Iverson showed some guts in the Orlando summer league, making hustle plays and rebounding the ball, but he's not the skilled player that Kelly Olynyk is. Combine that with the addition of El Hombre Indestructible and the further education of Fab Melo and you've got a crowded front court of developing young talent. A year abroad might help young Iverson.

For Ainge, stashing him in Europe helps his need to trim down the roster. The Celtics will still hold his NBA rights. The team stands at 16 as of now with an option coming up on Thursday on whether or not the team wants to guarantee Shavlik Randolph's contract for next season.

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