After an eventful Paris Olympics, Evan Fournier decided it was time to return to Europe. He put to bed his 12-year NBA career, having last played with the Detroit Pistons. He chose to sign with Greek side Olympiacos because of what many believed was a non-interest among NBA teams. However, Fournier had an offer on the table. It might have been the most convenient deal for him given the roster. The 32-year-old had other intentions though.

The Washington Wizards had reportedly put a two-year offer on his table. His role was detailed to be of a mentor since the Wizards are a youthful squad. Fournier simply wasn’t interested. He chose to sign for most likely less money to enjoy the adrenaline that comes with competing. Even though he had French comrades in Alex Sarr and Olympic teammate Bilal Coulibaly, Fournier didn’t want to be on a “losing team”. When discussing it on Gil’s Arena, the crew deemed his decision to be sensible.

“You got to watch Jordan Poole shoot that s**t. I was questioning f**king Valanciunas going there. Like what the hell was you thinking boy,” said Kenyon Martin about Fournier’s decision.

Even though basketball has come up with surprises, it’s hard to project the Wizards to being competitive in the near future. Even with the number one pick, their roster isn’t capable of beating the top teams for now. They had the second-worst record last season and have added no franchise-altering piece to the mix. Moreover, Fournier had to play mentor at a time when he could have been a significant rotation piece for most teams around the league.

Over the last two seasons, Fournier had found it challenging to get any playing time with the Knicks and Pistons. Having earned his merit with France being the third leading scorer for them in the Olympics, the 32-year-old knew he could still be a significant contributor. Moreover, after having fought to the brink and knowing what that feels like, Evan Fournier chose to capitalize on his window and play competitive basketball in the EuroLeague.

Interestingly, that was the team he always wanted to play for.

Evan Fournier lived up to his promise

The moment Evan Fournier came in front of the Olympiacos crowd, the audience went wild. They celebrated his arrival by cramming the streets and chanting his name. The elated Frenchman posted a video of the same, smiling from ear to ear. It wasn’t only attributed to the reception.

Evan Fournier had called him to sign with the Greek side two years prior.

Well, he didn’t predict it. However, he gave their signs his unofficial word during the 2022 EuroLeague Final Four. He took to Twitter and wrote, “If one day I had to return to Europe and I had the choice to go wherever I wanted, I think I would go for Olympiacos. It’s still a hell of a club,”.

As soon as the opportunity presented itself, Evan Fournier grabbed it with both hands. The 32-year-old has signed a two-year deal with an option for a third year. Earning around $2 million per season, he is among the highest earners in the competition. And as Olympiacos celebrates turning 100, Fournier will hope to elevate the celebrations by playing a key part in their rise.