Justin Harper in France: Orlando Magic Rookie's Scores 12 as Strasbourg IG Falls to Orleans

Orlando Magic rookie Justin Harper scored 12 points for Strasbourg IG on Saturday night, but his effort wasn't enough to put it over the top against Orleans, as Strasbourg lost by a 73-66 final. In a season-low 22 minutes, the former Richmond Spider shot 5-of-11 for 12 points, grabbed five rebounds, and tallied a steal.

Strasbourg failed to contain Orleans' Cedrick Banks, who scored 16 points on 11 shots to lead the team. Marc-Antoine Pellin ran an exceptionally efficient offense, dishing 10 assists and helping his club to shoot 48.3 percent from the field.

On the season, Harper is averaging 11 points per game on 40.5 percent shooting from the field and 27.8 percent on three-pointers. He's also hauling in 6.5 rebounds.

The Magic obtained Harper's draft rights from the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for two future second-round selections. Harper averaged 17.9 points in 318 minutes per game in his senior season at Richmond. A small forward in college, Harper figures to play both forward positions at the NBA level, if he's able to fill out his wiry frame.

In August, Harper signed with Strasbourg in order to earn a living during the NBA lockout, which has dragged on. His deal with Strasbourg reportedly includes an NBA out clause, so if the league is able to resolve its labor dispute, Harper will be free to return stateside and to sign with the Magic.