He Shoots! He Scores! Devendorf Gets First Points as "D" League Pro at Reno

Central High Product Becomes First Bay Cityan to Play Professionally

December 27, 2009
By: Dave Rogers

Bay City's Eric Devendorf played 14 minutes 33 seconds in his professional debut for the Reno Bighorns on Saturday night, the same day the team announced his signing.

Devendorf got on the board with two points, an assist and a defensive rebound to help the Bighorns (now 6-5) defeat the Tulsa 66ers 102-87 before 1,748 fans at the Reno Events Center.

A news release stated: "Bighorns Sign Syracuse Star Devendorf. The Reno Bighorns have signed 6-4 guard Eric Devendorf out of Syracuse University, the team announced Saturday, Dec. 26. Devendorf will be activated for tonight's game.

"The Bay City, Michigan native was a four-year standout for the Orange, finishing his career last season by averaging 15.7 points and 3.0 assists per game. Over the course of his stay at Syracuse, Devendorf averaged 14.5 points, averaging in double figures in all four seasons with the Orange.

"Devendorf takes the roster spot vacated by Dave Noel, who has been released due to injury."

Devendorf's picture was featured on the team's website.

Devendorf and the Bighorns today face-off with the Tulsa 66ers for a second consecutive contest. Game time is slated for 3 p.m.

Boilerplate promotional language on every team website states: "The NBA Development League, founded in 2001, is the NBA's official minor league whose teams have direct affiliations to NBA franchises. For the 2009-10 season, the league will feature 16 teams -- including the debut of the Maine Red Claws and the Springfield Armor.

"A proven developer of talent, 20 percent of players in the NBA at the conclusion of the 2008-09 season boasted NBA D-League experience, while the league continues to develop coaches, referees, and front office staff for the NBA and its teams.

"In fostering the league's connection to the community, its teams, players and staff promote health and wellness, support local needs and interests, and assist in educational development through NBA D-League Cares programs.

"The NBA D-League also advances the game of basketball as the research and development arm of the NBA. Throughout the season fans can watch all NBA D-League games on NBA Futurecast, the free live Web-streaming initiative found at nba.com/futurecast." ###