Grizzlies sign European star Marc Gasol

MEMPHIS, July 9 (UPI) -- The Memphis Grizzlies Wednesday announced the signing of Spanish star Marc Gasol, younger brother of Pau Gasol of the Los Angeles Lakers.

Grizzlies General Manager Chris Wallace called Marc Gasol, 23, "one of the premier players in Europe"

The 7-foot-1 Gasol was the Most Valuable Player in the Spanish ACB League in 2008, averaging 16.2 points and 8.3 rebounds a game. He has been in the league five years.

"Marc is a very skilled center in terms of his shooting and passing, possesses outstanding toughness and is a winning, team-oriented player, " Wallace said.

Pau Gasol was the all-time leading scorer for the Grizzlies before he was traded to the Lakers this season, helping them reach the NBA championship series.