"Trevor Booker's first choice is to be sitting on the Washington Wizards' bench come November, ready to enter the game and provide some defensive energy. But if the NBA still is in a lockout when the season is scheduled to start, Booker has his backup plan in place.

He is heading overseas and will play for Bnei HaSharon of the Israeli Basketball League this season.

"I talked it over with my family, and we all decided it would be a good idea," Booker said. "I think the international competition will be a challenge."

Booker, who is under contract with the Wizards through next season, had his agent negotiate a deal with Bnei HaSharon that gives him insurance protection, and an opt-out clause to return to the NBA when the lockout ends.

"I am afraid we won't have an [NBA] season. I hope both sides will come to an agreement, but in case they don't, we have to make other plans," Booker said. "It will be discouraging if we end up losing the season, but if the lockout looks like it's going to drag on, I think a lot of other players will think about going overseas. Players just want to play."

Booker has spent his offseason traveling and working out at Clemson to stay in shape, but hasn't been involved in any summer-league games. He added that he's not concerned about getting injured."