White Picks NBA’s Dallas Over Greece

Randy White, a power forward from Louisiana Tech who was being courted heavily by a Greek professional team, agreed today to sign with the Dallas Mavericks, the club announced.

White was the Mavericks’ No. 1 draft choice and the eighth choice overall in the June 27 draft. He averaged 21.2 points and 10.5 rebounds last season and was the American South Conference Player of the Year.

Contract terms will not be disclosed, the club said.

The offer by PAOK Salonica would have given White $1.3 million for one year, a condominium with luxury furnishings and several other perks.

White had said he was facing a tough decision after he returned from Greece Tuesday.

“It’s been a dream my whole life to play in the NBA. But over there I was treated more like a king than a basketball player,” White said.

After a Mavericks’ counteroffer of $3.675 million for five years plus $800,000 in incentive clauses, White left last Thursday for Greece. He abruptly returned.