By Eurohoops team / info@eurohoops.net
FC Barcelona have reportedly finalized the signing of veteran guard Mike James, with the former AS Monaco star agreeing to join the club despite uncertainty surrounding head coach Xavi Pascual’s future.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Barça initially prioritized other backcourt targets, including Sylvain Francisco and Jean Montero, before turning to James due to market complications and rising competition across Europe.
Despite questions surrounding Pascual’s future, James was reportedly informed of the coaching situation before agreeing to the deal.
Interestingly, Barcelona’s leading coaching candidates — Vassilis Spanoulis and Ibon Navarro — both already know James well from previous stops at Monaco and Baskonia, where they developed strong working relationships with the veteran guard.
The 35-year-old remains one of the EuroLeague’s top guards, averaging 16.4 points and 6.5 assists this past season. Barça reportedly views his experience and scoring ability as key additions for a roster expected to undergo major changes this summer.