Derek Willis signs deal with Italian professional team, Reyer Venezia

Former Kentucky forward Derek Willis is headed to Italy for his sixth stop as a professional basketball player.

Reyer Venezia of the Lega Basket Serie A (LBA) announced the former Wildcat’s signing on Wednesday, bringing Willis back to Venice. He previously suited up for the Grand Rapids Drive (2017-18), BG Göttingen (2018-19), Ratiopharm Ulm (2019-20), Happy Casa Brindisi (2020-21) and Club Joventut Badalona (2021-22).

“I am very grateful to Reyer,” Willis said in a statement. “I’m happy to play for this club and for the city of Venice. I can’t wait to get to know my new team and my new teammates, I think we can do very well. From the outside, I have always admired Reyer and this organization. It’s a great program. Also, as an opponent, I have never won against Reyer (laughs). I can’t wait to get started. See you in August!”

In 40 games this past season with Badalona, the former Wildcat averaged 9.6 points and 4.8 rebounds per contest, shooting 55.7% from the field and 43.9% from three. He averaged 9.0 points and 5.6 rebounds in 19 Eurocup games.

In four years at Kentucky, the 6-foot-9 forward averaged a combined 5.4 points and 3.4 rebounds in 15.0 minutes per contest. His final year in Lexington, Willis averaged 7.0 points on 47.8% shooting and 37.7% from three to go with 5.4 rebounds and 1.0 blocks in 21.9 minutes per game.

Now, the former Wildcat is taking his talents to Italy.