The Spurs have officially signed Australian big man Aron Baynes, the team announced today in a press release. Two weeks ago, we heard that San Antonio was working to finalize a buyout with Baynes' club overseas and bring him stateside.
Baynes, 26, had been playing for Union Olimpija of the Slovenian Basketball League this season, averaging 13.8 PPG and 9.8 RPG in 10 contests (26.2 MPG). The Washington State product has also played for Australia in international competition, including at the 2010 World Championships and the 2012 Olympics.
Because the Spurs went to the effort of buying out Baynes' contract and adding him after this year's guarantee deadline, his deal figures to be guaranteed for at least the rest of this season, and perhaps next year as well. Jonathan Givony of DraftExpress.com reported earlier this month that Baynes would receive a four-year deal, with two guaranteed seasons and two team options.
San Antonio had been carrying just 14 players, so the team had an open roster spot and won't need to make a corresponding move to clear room for Baynes.