Hawks fans will have to wait at least a season before they can fully appreciate Lucas Nogueira's hair live and in person.
According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Nogueira, who was taken by the Hawks 16th overall, will remain in Spain next season to continue his development with Asefa Estudiantes Madrid.
“We are very encouraged by what we’ve seen from Lucas this summer,” general manager Danny Ferry told the paper Monday. “Going back to Estudiantes will allow him to continue develop while also playing meaningful minutes against very good competition. We will closely monitor his progress as he works towards his goals as a basketball player.”
The 21-year-old Brazilian seven-footer impressed in Summer League, but still needs to develop, especially physically.
The Hawks retain Nogueira's draft rights and will have the option to bring him over to the roster next season.
With the signings of Paul Millsap and Elton Brand, Atlanta's frontcourt could have been a bit crowded for Nogueira, so staying in Spain gives him the opportunity to play and improve.
The Hawks drafted point guard Dennis Schroeder with the 17th overall pick, but all signs point to him joining this year's team.
