Former UNC Guard PJ Hairston Joins D-League

 

by Bill DiFilippo / @bflip33

Now that his collegiate career is over, former North Carolina sharpshooter P.J. Hairston has found a new place to play basketball: The NBA’s Development League.

After North Carolina decided that it would not seek reinstatement for its former All-ACC honorable mention guard almost a month ago, Hairston has been trying to figure out where he was going to go next with his hoops career. While he could have transferred to another school, he decided that he was going to play in the professional ranks.

On Tuesday afternoon, the Texas Legends of the D-League—the league’s Dallas Mavericks affiliate—decided to sign Hairston, and he will see his first live action on Saturday for the first time since last year’s NCAA Tournament.

From The Dallas Morning News:

“We are excited to add a player like PJ Hairston,” commented Legends Owner and Dallas Mavericks President of Basketball Operations Donnie Nelson.  “PJ has been on the NBA radar for a number of years now, and the opportunity for him to develop and showcase his ability with the Legends is unique.  We are surrounding PJ with all of the necessary tools to prepare himself for the NBA Draft.  I am excited to see him in a Legends uniform this weekend.”

“I’m extremely grateful that the Texas Legends organization believes in my abilities, and thank them for signing me to their team” commented Hairston.  “I intend to take full advantage of this opportunity.  This is another positive step towards accomplishing the goals I set out for myself.  This is an exciting time.”

The Tar Heels could certainly used Hairston’s services this season. The team is 10-6 on the year, unranked, and has gone 0-3 in ACC play.