Finley spurns more money to join Spurs
(China Daily)
Updated: 2005-09-02 05:48

SAN ANTONIO, Texas: Michael Finley, the most sought-after free agent in the National Basketball Association, has decided to sign with the league champion San Antonio Spurs, ESPN reported.

The sports television network's Internet site reported that the two-time All-Star swingman, who played the past seven of his nine NBA seasons in Dallas, rejected more money to join Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker.

Finley, set to receive about US$2.5 million this season, rejected a richer deal from Shaquille O'Neal-led Miami and the chance to play alongside friend and former teammate Steve Nash at Phoenix, the report said.

Finley, 32, could have made only US$1.1 million in Phoenix but up to US$5 million was available from the Heat, as well as the chance to play alongside "Shaq" and rising star guard Dwyane Wade.

NBA runner-up Detroit and Minnesota were also interested in Finley after he was waived by the Mavericks, Southwest division rivals of the Spurs.

"To be a part of a championship team, I'm excited," Finley was quoted as saying. "This is the closest I've ever been to a championship. I'm looking forward to the challenge of helping this team repeat."

Superstar centre Duncan, Argentine backcourt playmaker Ginobili and French guard Parker sparked the Spurs to the throne. Finley will add another three-point threat, likely backing up Ginobili in a star-studded lineup.

"In a nutshell, they're already a championship team but they have room for improvement and I feel my game can help them in the areas where they need improvement," Finley told ESPN.

Finley's decision comes two days after the Spurs signed Nick Van Exel. Van Exel and Finley were former Dallas teammates.

The Spurs also re-signed veteran clutch shooter Robert Horry and inked Argentina centre Fabricio Oberto since winning the NBA title.

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