Gophers standout Dawson Garcia is getting his NBA opportunity. According to a Friday post on X by Darren Wolfson, Garcia has reached a deal with the Detroit Pistons.
Garcia was viewed as a longshot to be selected late in the second round, but after going undrafted, he’s now headed to the Detroit Pistons as an undrafted free agent. While details of the deal haven’t been disclosed, the quick turnaround suggests it’s likely an Exhibit-10 contract. That would give Garcia a spot on Detroit’s Summer League team and a chance to compete in training camp as he works to earn a two-way deal or a spot on the G League roster.
While Garcia didn’t enjoy the same postseason spotlight as some prospects, his individual run at Minnesota was nothing short of stellar. Over three seasons, he posted averages of 15.3, 17.6, and 19.2 points per game—making his stretch one of the most productive in recent Gophers history.
Despite opportunities to cash in through the transfer portal, Garcia chose loyalty over money, staying home to represent Minnesota. He’ll turn 24 in September and now has a shot to prove he belongs at the next level this summer.
With this move, Garcia joins fellow Gophers Amir Coffey, Cam Christie, and Jamison Battle as alumni currently in the NBA ranks.
SOURCES: SI.COM, GopherSports.Com, SportsFan
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