OAKLAND, California (AFP) - The Golden State Warriors signed French swingman Mickael Pietrus, the 11th overall pick in June's National Basketball Association draft. Terms were not disclosed, but Pietrus is eligible for a three-year deal worth at least 4.45 million dollars under the NBA's collective bargaining agreement. The Warriors also would hold the option for the 2006-07 season at 1.9 million dollars. Pietrus was considered the best athlete and top pure shooting guard prospect in the draft. He is a product of the Pau Orthez junior system in France. The 21-year-old has seen his scoring average rise each of his last four years with Pau Orthez, which competes in France's top division. Pietrus averaged 12.2 points last season and also performed well in Pau Orthez's Euroleague play, scoring 16 points against German team Alba Berlin.
