Italian club says deal for Bryant ’95 percent’ set

ROME (AP)—The president of Virtus Bologna said he has an agreement with Kobe Bryant(notes) that’s “95 percent done” for the Los Angeles Lakers star to play in Italy during the NBA lockout.

Bryant will be paid $3 million for the opening 40 days of the Italian league season, a person with knowledge of the negotiations told The Associated Press on Friday. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the deal has not been signed.

“We have reached an economic deal,” Virtus President Claudio Sabatini told a local radio station. “There’s still some things to arrange, but at this point I’m very optimistic. I would say it’s 95 percent done.”

http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slug=ap-bryant-bologna

I can't recall, has there ever been an NBA season missed because of labor issues?

the 99 season was shortened to, I think, 50 games.

IMHO, he should rest his legs and wait for the NBA to resume. I don't see what he would gain by going overseas.

I sure hope that this isn't about him needing money.