From Record-Breaking Move to Early Exit: Cameron Payne Waived by the 76ers

Short stint in Philadelphia

Cameron Payne returned to the NBA in February after leaving Partizan and signed with the Philadelphia 76ers, but the team waived him less than two months later to open a roster spot. The move reportedly allowed the club to convert a two-way contract into a guaranteed deal. Payne spent most of his time as a bench player and didn’t appear to be part of the coach’s plans for the play-in window or a postseason run.

Season recap and what’s next

In about 17 minutes per game with the 76ers, Payne averaged 7.4 points, 2 rebounds and 2.6 assists. He delivered a standout performance in March, scoring a career-high 32 points against the Memphis Grizzlies, but that effort wasn’t enough to keep him on the playoff roster. Because the waiver occurred after the roster deadline, he isn’t eligible to be added for this season’s playoffs.

Prior to rejoining the NBA, Payne had a solid stint in Europe: nine EuroLeague games at roughly 14.4 points and 3.9 assists per contest, plus an average of 10.8 points in the regional league. With the season effectively over for him, Payne will likely weigh his options during the offseason, whether that means another NBA shot, a return overseas, or other opportunities.