Pierce Headed to Europe?

Pierce Headed to Europe?

December 15, 1998

   Paul Pierce may make his professional debut in a month, and it may not be for the Celtics.

Boston's top pick in last June's NBA draft has three offers to play in Europe and is seriously considering accepting one if the lockout doesn't end soon, his agent said yesterday.

"His dilemma," said agent Aaron Goodwin, "is that if he accepts an offer, he has to stay over there for the season. They want a commitment for the last 3 1/2 to 4 months of their season. He doesn't want to make a hasty decision."

Goodwin would not identify the teams, only to say that they were in Italy and Greece. Pierce participated in a charity game over the weekend in Los Angeles and told reporters he was close to making a decision.

"After Christmas, if I see a point where there's not a lot being done, then I'll have to consider some other options," Pierce said. "It's a little disappointing when you hear nothing's going on with the talks."

Efforts to reach Pierce yesterday were unsuccesful. The lockout is into its sixth month and both sides remain far apart. "Paul wants to be a Boston Celtic," Goodwin said. "If the owners loosen up a little, he will come to Boston." If not, it could be arrivederci.