Free agent Sam Young has signed a contract with the Sydney Kings of the National Basketball League in a deal that contains an NBA escape clause, agent Joel Bell told RealGM.

“Sam had other options, but this one made the most sense and will pay him as the highest player in the league,” Bell said.

Young can opt out of his deal up until the start of Sydney’s playoffs to join an NBA team, a significant provision that swayed the 28-year-old’s decision.

Young had a reserve role for the Indiana Pacers a season ago, averaging 2.8 points and 2.2 rebounds and serving as a defensive stopper against explosive wing players. He signed with the San Antonio Spurs before training camp, but was waived early in preseason.

With Sydney, Young will play under successful Australian coach Shane Heal. A former NBA player with the Minnesota Timberwolves and Spurs, Heal is also a shooting coach expected to aid in improving Young’s outside jumper.

Young, a 6-foot-6 swingman, has also played with the Memphis Grizzlies and Philadelphia 76ers over his four NBA seasons.