DJ Burns starts pro career in South Korea

DJ Burns, a former NC State men's basketball player, is embarking on his professional career in South Korea with the Goyang Sono Skygunners of the Korean Basketball League. This move comes after a challenging stint with the Cleveland Cavaliers' Summer League team, where he struggled to make a significant impact, averaging limited minutes and modest statistics. Despite high expectations from NBA fans, Burns' performance did not meet the anticipated standards during this period. In addition to his basketball pursuits, Burns attracted attention from NFL teams due to his impressive size and athleticism, which led to speculation about a potential career as an offensive lineman. However, he opted to focus on basketball, making notable improvements to his physique by losing 45 pounds over the summer, which ultimately shifted his focus back to the hardwood. Financially, Burns is set to benefit significantly from his decision to play in South Korea, where he is expected to earn $40,000 a month, a substantial increase compared to the annual salary he would have received in the G League. This financial incentive played a crucial role in his decision to join the KBL, highlighting the economic realities faced by professional athletes. Burns' talent has not gone unnoticed, with NBA star Nikola Jokic praising his skills during the NCAA tournament. Jokic's endorsement reflects Burns' potential and the positive impression he left during his college career, suggesting that he may still have a bright future ahead in professional basketball.