Ricky Rubio Considering Europe over NBA

According to ESPN, Minnesota Timberwolves draft pick PG Ricky Rubio, taken fifth overall, is considering offers from teams in Spain and Turkey over the NBA. Rubio, 18, has played as a professional, for Spain's DKV Joventut, since he was just 14 years old.Whether Rubio signs with the Timberwolves or not, that he would even consider a European team over the NBA is indicative of the failure of the NBA's policies. The age policy has made Europe a proving ground for international players and even Americans. The NBA's attempts to make basketball a world game have been somewhat successful, but the NBA underestimated the ability of European leagues to retain their own talent.Frankly, can European and Asian fans relate to the typical NBA player? In the most individual of the team sports, relatability matters. Now overseas organizations are willing to make the cash investment to keep their own talent. If Rubio is the first high draft pick to hold out against the NBA, it may be a s...