Ex-Celtics Guard Leaves NBA for China image
Eric Canha-Imagn Images
Dalano Banton's basketball career is taking him overseas.
The former Boston Celtics guard has reportedly signed with the Chinese Basketball Association's Shandong Hi-Speed Kirin.
Banton, 26, was the 46th pick in the 2021 NBA Draft. He started his career with the Toronto Raptors before stints with the LA Clippers, Portland Trail Blazers and Celtics.
Banton appeared in 24 games with the Celtics in the 2023-24 season and an additional four games in the 2025-26 season. Boston waived him in July 2026, making him an unrestricted free agent.
Banton averaged 2.2 points and 1.4 rebounds over 28 games (one start) with the Celtics.
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Banton had his most productive NBA stint in Portland. Not only did he average 10.9 points per game with the Trail Blazers, but he became the first player in franchise history to score 20 points in 12 minutes or fewer.
Banton has also spent time in the G League, playing for the Raptors 905, Maine Celtics and Texas Legends. In 2025-26, he averaged 25.0 points, 6.7 assists and 3.7 rebounds per game with the Legends.
Before joining the CBA, Banton reportedly drew interest from several EuroLeague teams, including Olympiacos.
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