Former Spartan Britton Johnsen signs with Argentine hoop team

So much for retirement.

Former Murray High basketball standout Britton Johnsen, who had announced his retirement earlier this year due to injuries, has signed a professional contract to play for Quilmes de Mar del Plata, which is based in the Buenos Aires province of Argentina.

Johnsen, 32, already has extensive experience playing overseas, including stops in Spain, France, Turkey and Greece in addition to NBA stints in Orlando, Indiana and New Orleans. He was also a member of the Utah Jazz summer league team, but never made it past training camp. Prior to announcing his retirement, Johnsen had played on one of the top European teams in Greece.

Thus far, Quilmes has started 0-3 in the Liga Nacional de Basquet (National League of Basketball) south division. It is considered the top level of the Argentina league system. The sports club was founded in 1922 and plays its home basketball games at Estadio Once Unidos.

Johnsen has not shown much rust, averaging 12 points and eight rebounds per game for Quilmes. He posted 19 points and 16 rebounds in a 74-64 loss to Wuber-Est. Bahia, and 14 points and six rebounds in a 77-58 loss to Penarol. Johnsen also had two points and two rebounds in a 90-74 loss to Obras.

The former University of Utah standout had his knees scoped about 16 months ago after years of wear and tear. He had also been working out with personal trainer John Madsen at Flex Athletic Performance in Draper and played pick-up games in Bountiful and American Fork.

Prior to signing with Quilmes, Johnsen said it would have to take a “blockbuster deal” for him to return to the court. Terms of his contract were not available. Johnsen said much would factor into his decision, especially his family. He and his wife, Lindsey, have two children – Houston, 6, and Scarlett, 3. The couple is also expecting another child in February.