UNLV Rebels

By Rob Miech · September 6, 2008 · 8:09 AM

Former UNLV point guard Kevin Kruger will report to the Milwaukee Bucks’ camp Sept. 14.

Kruger, 25, was the last player cut by the Orlando Magic before its season started a year ago.

The 6-foot-2, 185-pound gritty guard averaged 13.3 point and 7.1 assists last season for the NBA Development League team in Utah.

The Bucks are stacked at guard, having made an offseason trade for Luke Ridnour. Tyronn Lue and Ramon Sessions are also on the roster that’s been formed by new Milwaukee general manager John Hammond.

Scott Skiles, a scrappy guard in his playing days who might see a lot of himself in Kruger, will coach the Bucks for the first time this season.

UNLV coach Lon Kruger confirmed that his son will participate in fall camp with the Bucks. If it doesn’t materialize into a roster spot, options will include Europe or a return to the D-League.

The D-League was established in 2001. Teams can only sends first- or second-year players to the minor league.

After a game in Los Angeles last season, Kevin Kruger said he might favor playing in Europe over another campaign in the D-League, whose average salary is less than $20,000.

Players in European leagues typically receive six-figure contract, and those teams usually provide them with housing and the use of a vehicle, and pay the taxes on their salaries.

The Bucks have a deal with the Fort Wayne Mad Ants, as do Detroit and Indiana, in the D-League.

Hammond got rid of Bobby Simmons and Mo Williams, whose big contracts sapped Milwaukee, after getting the job in April. He also dealt Yi Jianlian to New Jersey for Richard Jefferson.

Hammond acquired the 6-2 Ridnour, 27, in a six-player, three-team trade.

UNLV fans will not soon forget Kevin Kruger, who led the Rebels to the Sweet 16 two years ago in his only season in Las Vegas.