The Milwaukee Bucks got bigger Thursday, agreeing to terms with free-agent center Greg Monroe, league sources confirmed to ESPN.
Monroe spurned the New York Knicks among other teams by agreeing to terms with the Bucks on a three-year maximum deal worth approximately $50 million with a player option for the final year, sources said.
Yahoo! Sports reported the agreement earlier Thursday.
The 25-year-old Monroe joins a promising young nucleus in Milwaukee that features Giannis Antetokounmpo (age 20), Jabari Parker (20), Khris Middleton (23) and Michael Carter-Williams (23).
Monroe, the 6-foot-11 big man out of Georgetown, was linked to the Knicks as a primary free agent target because of his ability to score, rebound and pass and his potential fit in the triangle offense. Monroe’s decision to join the Bucks is a blow for New York, which is looking to add more talent around star Carmelo Anthony. The Los Angeles Lakers and Portland Trail Blazers also reportedly met with Monroe this week.
David Falk, Monroe’s agent, said all four teams offered his client a maximum deal. NBA free agency started Wednesday, but teams can’t officially sign players until July 9. Monroe immediately gives the Bucks an offensive and rebounding presence inside.