Archibald rebuffs Ukraine return

By Mark Woods

Robert Archibald is the only Scot ever to play in the NBA

Scottish basketball star Robert Archibald has flown back to the USA to ponder his future.

The former NBA forward, 28, was named Most Valuable Player of the Ukrainian League after leading Azovmash Mariupol to a national championship.

It earnt Archibald a lucrative contract offer for next season.

However the Scot, who will play for Britain in this summer's Eurobasket qualifiers, has yet to commit to returning to his present club.

He said: "It was challenging being in Ukraine. It's been tough living here. The basketball level outside of the top teams is poor and there are some very bad facilities. But I'm happy to finish on a high note with the championship."

The Paisley-born giant, who began his career with Dunfermline Reign, could yet consider a return to the NBA after a four-year hiatus since he last played in the league with the Toronto Raptors.

He also had spells with the Orlando Magic and Phoenix Suns, as well as the Memphis Grizzlies, who originally drafted him out of the University of Illinois.