Brooklyn Nets Sign, Then Waive Cliff Alexander and Prince Ibeh

The Brooklyn Nets signed, then waived two Long Island Nets players: Cliff Alexander and Prince Ibeh before ultimately waiving them. What significance do these moves mean for the Nets?

On Tuesday, it was reported that the Brooklyn Nets had signed, then waived Cliff Alexander and Prince Ibeh. It was first reported by Basketball Insiders’ (not The Brooklyn Game’s anymore) Ben Nadeau after initially being announced by the Brooklyn Nets’ PR.

via @BKN_NETSPR, the Nets have signed and waived both Cliff Alexander and Prince Ibeh.
— Ben Nadeau (@Ben__Nadeau) April 4, 2017

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The move was done on Sunday night after Archie Goodwin‘s second 10-day contract expired and before the Nets signed him to a multi-year deal. Alexander played in 15 games for the Long Island Nets, and Ibeh played 10. Yahoo’s Bobby Marks later elaborated on the move.

Strong gesture by Nets management honoring the commitment to Cliff Alexander and Prince Ibeh.
— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) April 4, 2017

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General Manager Sean Marks stated the Nets had originally intended to sign the two big men to 10-day contracts, but injuries derailed the plans for both players. Both were acquired by the Long Island Nets later in the season. RealGM’s (and 16 Wins A Ring’s) Keith Smith later expanded upon the strange decision, stating the moves were Marks’ and the Nets’ front office honoring a commitment to the two. The moves cost the Nets around $30,000 each.

Why is this Important?

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Strangely, this news was done quietly, and after the Nets re-signed Goodwin. But, the move shows the Nets mastering the “little things.” Ibeh and Alexander may not have played for the Nets this season, but they may be part of the Nets’ future. The Nets made a commitment to the two, and although they were injured, the Nets still paid them.

This is a move to curry some favor to both the players and their agents. It shows that although the plans may not have worked out, the Nets still remain committed. Marks is proving to be a man of his word. Additionally, Alexander is represented by Priority Sports, who represent several of this year’s free agents and some Nets. Those clients include Tim Hardaway Jr., Gordon Hayward, Joe Harris and Sean Kilpatrick.

https://twitter.com/ignisyon/status/849281165471223808

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With the Nets’ free agency coming soon, they will try everything in their power to attract potential players and their agents. This puts the Nets in a positive light. Along with their spirited play in recent games, the Nets are nailing the front office decisions. These minor moves show just that.