Ex-NBA player Josh Smith signs lucrative deal to play in China

The Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) has become the premier destination for former NBA stars of late and, apparently, Josh Smith is headed there as well.

After failing to land an NBA contract this off season, the 12-year league veteran reached an agreement to play for the Sichuan Blue Whales for three months in an estimated  $1.5 million “plus” deal, according to overseas basketball reporter David Pick.

READ: Unsigned Josh Smith still looking for NBA team

OFFICIAL: Josh Smith has signed with Chinese champs Sichuan Whales. Source said three-month $1.5+ million deal. pic.twitter.com/MPSF7wJ2O1

— David Pick (@IAmDPick) November 8, 2016

The 30-year-old forward, who split time last year between Los Angeles and Houston, is expected to instantly take a starring role with the team alongside former NBA journeyman Mike Harris.

Despite being one of the most athletically gifted players in the league, the former lottery pick was plagued with inconsistent play and notched the worst season of his professional career last year after notching career lows in every major category.

His averages of 6 points, 3.5 rebounds and 1.6 assists, including a dreadful 36.4 field-goal percentage, were so bad that NBA teams refused to give him a shot at making it to their roster.

Smith is expected to bolster an already loaded lineup filled with local Chinese talents, which is fresh off its first championship in franchise history.  Khristian Ibarrola