Kai Jones is close to signing with Turkey’s Anadolu Efes, BasketNews’ Donatas Urbonas reports.
Jones worked out for the Heat last month but his chances of getting a contract with the club waned after it decided to ink Dru Smith. Prior to his workout, Jones was reportedly close to signing with Italy’s Virtus Bologna.
Jones played 40 games for the Clippers and Mavericks in ’24/25, averaging 5.0 PPG and 3.1 RPG while shooting 79.8% from the field in 11.7 MPG. Jones began last season on a two-way contract with the Clippers, then was waived on March 1 so the team could bring in a couple of new two-way players. He caught on immediately with the injury-plagued Mavericks, who were desperately seeking frontcourt depth as they pushed for a play-in spot.
The 24-year-old center was the 19th pick of the 2021 draft. He spent his first two seasons in the league with the Hornets.
Jones’ contract with Anadolu Efes in expected to include an exit clause in January, Urbonas adds.