Sonics Sign Ibrahim Kutluay

A 6-6 guard from Istanbul, Kutluay averaged 14 points during the 2003-04 Euroleague season while playing with Ulker Spor Kulbu Istanbul. As captain of the Turkish National Team, he played against the USA National Team during exhibition games prior to the 2004 Olympics and made 12-of-23 three-pointers while scoring 19 and 26 points in the two games, respectively.

“At 30 years old and as the leader of his national team, Ibrahim brings international experience and veteran leadership to one of the youngest teams in the NBA,” said Sund. “He’s a great catch-and-shoot player. Because we’re one of the best shooting teams in the league, his style of play fits in perfectly.”

“With his outstanding outside shot, Ibrahim made his way onto on our radar screen back when he was 18 years old,” said Sonics Director of Player Personnel David Pendergraft. “He is one of the top perimeter shooters in the world.”

Kutluay is currently playing with the Turkish National Team in the 2005 European Championship qualifying round. He is expected to return from Turkey for the start of Sonics Training Camp on Oct. 5, 2004.