"Detroit Pistons free agent Tracy McGrady denies a report that a deal is "in the works" for the 14-year veteran to play in China during the NBA lockout.

In fact, McGrady ruled out even exploring the option of playing overseas if the lockout threatens the regular season, which is scheduled to begin next month.

"Not at all," McGrady texted the Free Press this afternoon when asked whether playing overseas is an option."