Knicks reserve guard fights to stay in NBA: ‘I don’t want to go back abroad’

The New York Knicks saw plenty of energy and grit from veteran guard Cameron Payne during last year’s postseason against the Philadelphia 76ers. That performance convinced the Knicks to offer him a one-year, $3 million deal, but for Payne, now 30, the deal represents more than just an NBA opportunity. After a brief stint overseas, he’s fighting to stay in the league, having gained a new perspective on what life outside the NBA is like.

Payne is determined to give the Knicks everything he’s got, which is exactly what they expect of him. He played in 78 games last season, splitting time between the Milwaukee Bucks and the Philadelphia 76ers. During that time, he averaged 7.4 points, 2.6 assists and shot .432 from the field, including an impressive .390 from three-point range.

“The biggest experience was when I got waived and went overseas,” Payne said, via SNY . “I don’t want to go back abroad. That’s my identity. I’ll put all my heart into it. I’ll do whatever it takes to help the team win.”