Free agent big man Kai Jones signs in Turkey

Kai Jones is headed overseas.

The 24-year-old big man has officially signed with Anadolu Efes in Turkey, per Eurohoops. His deal is expected to include an exit clause in January, according to BasketNews’ Donatas Urbonas, meaning a possible NBA return could still be on the table.

Jones, the No. 19 pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, split last season between the Clippers and Mavericks. He appeared in 40 games overall, averaging 5.0 points and 3.1 rebounds in just under 12 minutes per night, while shooting an eye-popping 79.8 percent from the floor.

He began the year on a two-way contract with the Clippers before being waived on March 1 to make room for new signings.

Dallas quickly scooped him up to help with frontcourt depth during an injury-plagued stretch, and Jones gave them solid minutes off the bench.

Jones worked out for the Heat last month and was also linked to Italy’s Virtus Bologna, but instead he’ll join one of Europe’s premier clubs. Anadolu Efes will give him a chance to reset his career, while still leaving the door open for an NBA return later this season.