Making It Reign In Italy

Over the past few days, we saw Michael Phelps toy with the rest of the world and Brett Favre throw his first touchdown as a member of the J-E-T-S (so what if it was preseason), making it easy to overlook the real headline of the weekend -- the return of the Reign Man to the hardwood.

In case you haven't heard, Shawn Kemp took a break from fathering illegitimate children and dabbling with narcotics to sign with Italy's Premiata Montegranaro. The signing instantly makes him the most accomplished NBA player to cross the pond and sign with a European team, even if his best days are a decade behind him.

Combine this news with all the talk in recent weeks about LeBron and Kobe going to Europe for an absurd sum of money (an estimated $50 million a year), and you've got to think that some other past-their-prime former All-Stars could be suiting up for another run at glory and a few extra Euros.

Who would we like to see back in action? We're so glad you asked.

Charles Oakley

The former Knickerbocker - and current muscle for His Airness - could teach the rest of the world a thing or two about intimidation and protecting the paint.

Gary Payton

Over the years, one of the biggest knocks on the Euro-ballers has been their lack of defensive skills. While the Glove may not be able to lock down his opponent like he did in years past, you have to think he'd be a solid influence on a team's younger backcourt.

Reggie Miller

His constant hustle and clutch shooting never got him a ring, but maybe the open style of play found in Europe will serve as the fountain of youth for "Uncle Reg" and he'll finally win a title.

Larry Johnson
Spain is still playing the ‘92 version of NBA Jam, where LJ and Zo were better than cheat codes. They’ll flock to him like American tourists on churros.

Latrell Sprewell

'Cause his family's gotta eat and the NBA aint showing him no love.