7 to 9 Months: Anadolu Efes Signs Cameron Payne After Mike James Injury

Anadolu Efes has completed the signing of 32-year-old American point guard Cameron Payne for the remainder of the 2026-2027 season, stepping into the market after losing star guard Mike James to a ruptured Achilles tendon that sidelined him for seven to nine months, Backdoor Podcast reported.

Anadolu Efes Turns to Cameron Payne After Mike James Achilles Injury

The Turkish club moved quickly to secure Payne after losing James, whom the club had positioned as its primary offensive centerpiece for the season. According to transfer market expert Orazio Cauchi during an episode of the Basketmercato podcast, the sudden injury created an immediate crisis for the Istanbul management team. Efes was forced to return to the market for an alternative capable of absorbing heavy playmaking minutes.

Payne arrived as a free agent after starting the previous season in Europe with Partizan Belgrade before returning to the NBA with the Philadelphia 76ers. The left-handed guard brings extensive top-tier experience to Istanbul, having logged 477 NBA regular-season appearances and 72 playoff games.

How Cameron Payne Performed in Europe and the NBA

Euroleague audiences first caught an extended look at Payne last season when he joined Partizan Belgrade on December 23 during a turbulent stretch for the Serbian club. Across a two-month stint in Belgrade, Payne averaged 12.4 points and 3.9 assists per contest.

Following his time in Serbia, Payne re-signed with the Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA, where he posted 7.4 points and 2.6 assists across 22 appearances. Over his broader career in North America, he has maintained averages of 7.7 points and 3.2 assists per game. When NBA offers failed to materialize during the summer free-agency window, the 1994-born guard accepted the offer from Anadolu Efes to run their control room.

Locker Room Chemistry and Tactical Adjustments Ahead

Stepping into the shoes of a charismatic leader like Mike James mid-season presents a steep tactical and psychological challenge for any roster. While Payne brings fresh offensive pace and veteran savvy to the backcourt, his ultimate utility in Istanbul rests on how swiftly he masters the coaching staff’s playbook.

Efes management views the addition as a stabilizing force to keep their continental campaign on track despite the long-term absence of their marquee signing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cameron Payne Signing with Anadolu Efes

Why did Anadolu Efes sign Cameron Payne?

Anadolu Efes signed Cameron Payne to fill the roster spot left empty by Mike James, who suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon that will keep him sidelined for seven to nine months.

What are Cameron Payne’s career statistics in the NBA?

Cameron Payne has appeared in 477 NBA regular-season games and 72 playoff contests, averaging 7.7 points and 3.2 assists over his career.

How did Payne perform during his previous stint in the Euroleague?

During a two-month spell with Partizan Belgrade last season after joining on December 23, Payne averaged 12.4 points and 3.9 assists per game.