Apr 14, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Metta World Peace (15) is defended by San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) at the Staples Center. The Lakers defeated the Spurs 91-88. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Metta World Peace is taking the route most players who are amnestied have in the past: threaten you’ll retire. For most, it’s mentioned once to scare off teams, then not thought much about later. However, MWP appears far more serious with his claim.
Metta World Peace just told @mcten and I that he has no desire to play in the NBA next season. Not for Knick, Nets, Clippers..no one #Lakers
— Shahan Ahmed (@shahanLA) July 12, 2013
Metta said his top desires are playing in China, working with a team as a player development coach, and playing arena football. #Lakers
— Shahan Ahmed (@shahanLA) July 12, 2013
Yes, MWP has interest in joining the Arena Football League. And you know you’d watch if he played. The one team most thought MWP would play for would be his hometown Knicks, who he has always publicly supported. However, according to this, they’re even off the list. In regards to the China allegations, it’s not the first time he’s mentioned playing in China.
I'm going to play for Yao Mings team in china!
— Metta (@MettaWorld37) July 11, 2013
I can't wait to arrive in Shanghai !!
World Peace has maintain a relationship with Yao Ming throughout his former teammate’s retirement, so it seems like a possibility. It’s not the first avenue of a prospective career that Metta has explored.
Ok. Magic didnt call me so I can not play for dodgers. I'm the best MLB player that ever touched the earth. I bat .500
— Metta (@MettaWorld37) July 12, 2013
I also decided not to play hockey because all the players said they would retire. I told them I am a nice guy , don't be intimidated
— Metta (@MettaWorld37) July 12, 2013
Nevertheless, only Metta knows what he’ll do next.