Basketball's 2025 free agency is almost here, and even though a lot of attention will be on players with expiring NBA contracts, it's also an exciting time for international players. With roster spots opening up across the Association, overseas players have an opportunity to realize their North American dreams, whether it's for the first time or a part of a comeback attempt.
Several former Atlanta Hawks players could be looking to return to the NBA after spending some time overseas, including Justin Anderson. Having said that, the door for a potential comeback might be put on hold, judging by the latest international basketball rumors.
Former Hawks Wing Justin Anderson Reportedly Drawing Dubai BC's Attention
On Sunday, international basketball reporter Chema de Lucas reported that the Adriatic Basketball Association's Dubai BC "is making a strong bid" to add Anderson to their roster this offseason.
The former Virginia Cavalier has spent the last two seasons playing overseas, so he's far from a stranger internationally. He most recently spent the 2024-25 campaign playing for FC Barcelona on a one-year contract, which is set to expire on June 30.
After a stellar career at the University of Virginia, Anderson was drafted 21st overall by the Dallas Mavericks in 2015. He played games for the Mavericks and Philadelphia 76ers before being traded to the Hawks during the 2018 offseason in a three-team deal that saw former Atlanta guard Dennis Schroder end up in Oklahoma City.
Anderson's time with the Hawks was forgettable, to say the least. He only made four starts across his 48 appearances and failed to make the most of those limited opportunities, only averaging 3.7 points and 1.8 rebounds while shooting 40.8% from the field and 31.2% from the three-point line. Atlanta opted not to re-sign him in the offseason, leading to brief tenures with the Brooklyn Nets, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Indiana Pacers before taking his career to Europe.
Fortunately for him, Anderson's career has been on the upswing lately. He averaged 6.9 points on .543/.413/865 shooting splits in 32 EuroLeague games with Barcelona while also putting up 8.1 points with a 49.1 FG% and 47.8 3P% in 30 Liga ACB outings. After a performance like that, it wouldn't be shocking if some NBA teams were also interested in his services to help flesh out their bench.
For now, it looks like Anderson will be signing another international contract when his current one expires at the end of the month. If he can capitalize on that opportunity, too, perhaps the former Hawks wing will find his way back to an NBA bench role one day.