Report: Varejao nearing deal to play in Brazil

Former Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors center Anderson Varejao may be close to signing a contract offer from Brazilian club Flamengo, according to a report from GloboEsporte.com.

Varejao, 35, has been holding out for an NBA offer but without one seemingly on the way, could return to his native country.

He's a player that adds a lot to any team in every way -- spirit, determination," Flamengo coach Jose Neto told the website. "He will make a major difference in Brazilian basketball, just as I believe Leandro Barbosa would. They are players who have experience and who are successful."

Vareajo is 6-foot-11 and gained the nickname "Wild Thing" during his nearly 12 years with the Cavs -- with his endless energy earning hinm the respect of resident star LeBron James and former Cavs point guard Kyrie Irving, as well as opponents.