SUGAR LAND, Texas -- Former NBA star Tracy McGrady signed Wednesday to pitch for the Sugar Land Skeeters in the independent Atlantic League.
''It's an honor to be a part of this club,'' McGrady said in a statement released by the team. ''To be a part of the team means everything to me and it's a dream come true. I look forward to coming to the ballpark not only to play the game, but to be in the clubhouse building camaraderie with these guys. I am excited to start the journey we're going to take this season.''
The 6-foot-8 right-hander officially reported to spring camp last week and made his first scrimmage game appearance against Alvin Community College on April 16. In an inning of work, McGrady allowed one run on three hits with no walks and no strikeouts.
''We are excited about our team this season and having Tracy McGrady as a part of it,'' Skeeters manager Gary Gaetti said. ''We're also excited to see what unique opportunities this could present for us in putting a good product on the field and we look forward to Tracy helping us win some ball games.''
The 34-year-old McGrady spent 16 years in the NBA with the Toronto Raptors, Orlando Magic, Houston Rockets, New York Knicks, Detroit Pistons and Atlanta Hawks. The seven-time All-Star won two scoring titles.
