Former NBA star Tracy McGrady receives spring training invite from Sugar Land Skeeters

Two-time NBA scoring champion Tracy McGrady hopes to earn a roster spot with the Skeeters. (AP Photo/Pat Sullivan)

Former NBA All-Star Tracy McGrady has been invited to spring training by the Sugar Land Skeeters of the independent Atlantic League of Professional Baseball, the team announced Monday.

McGrady retired from the NBA last August after 16 seasons and has said that he wants to try to make it as professional pitcher.

“I got called into the skipper’s office after practice and he let me know that I was going to be a part of the Skeeters’ Spring Training camp,” McGrady said. “This has been a goal of mine and it’s a great challenge. I’m looking forward to competing and I’m excited about this great opportunity.”

Roger Clemens famously came back and played for the Skeeters in 2012, and the longtime major league pitcher was reportedly helping McGrady prepare for his baseball career.

The team acknowledged last month that they were interested in the seven-time All-Star possibly working out for the team.

"We’re intrigued by the progress Tracy has made thus far and really commend him for putting in the work,” Skeeters manager Gary Gaetti said. “He will report to Spring Training with the other players and officially have his opportunity to earn a spot on the team. I’m really interested and excited to see how he continues to improve.”

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