DES MOINES, IOWA ? Former Drake basketball standout Ajay Calvin is heading to Austria to pursue a professional basketball career.

The 6-foot 6-inch forward from Detroit, Mich., recently signed a contract with the Gussing Knights.

“It feels great to have signed my first professional contract," said Calvin, who was a two-year starter for Drake in 2005-07. "It was a long process, but it was worth it. I am going to play for a very good organization in Austria.”

“It has been a hectic couple of days, signing my contract, packing and spending time with my family before I leave next Monday.”

When asked about his new role with the Knights, Calvin added: “We have good size, 7'1”, 6'10”, and a couple of 6'7” power forwards, so they are planning to play me at the small forward position”.

Calvin made an immediate impact at Drake upon his arrival in 2005 after transferring from Butler (Kan.) Community College.

Calvin, who earned honorable mention All-Missouri Valley Conference playing honors as a senior, was the only player to rank in the top 10 in the MVC in both scoring (third, 16.2 avg.) and rebounding (10th, 6.1 avg.). He also ranked third in the MVC in offensive rebounding with a 2.50 avg.

Calvin scored in double figures in 30 games during the 2006-2007 season and was selected to the MVC Most Improved Team. He was named the most valuable player on the 2006-07 Drake basketball team.

Calvin also was named the most valuable player after leading the Bulldogs to the title in the 2006 Drake Regency Challenge Tournament. He also was named to the all-tournament teams at the Top of the World Classic and the Sun Bowl Tournament.

During the 2005-06 season he started in 28 games, averaging 10.5 points along with a team high 5.3 rebounds,

“Our staff is excited about the opportunity for Ajay to continue his basketball career overseas,” said Drake coach Keno Davis. “His hard work and dedication in the classroom and on the court will be a model for our future student athletes at Drake.”