Sprewell wants extension by season opener

ST. PAUL (AP) -- Latrell Sprewell says he's set a Nov. 3 deadline for the Minnesota Timberwolves to extend his contract or he won't be back with the team next season, according to a published report.

Sprewell said he doesn't want to negotiate after that date, the season opener, and would ask for a sign-and-trade deal or wait to become a free agent at the end of the season, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reported Friday.

Sprewell said he wouldn't re-sign with the Wolves if he becomes a free agent.

"For me, they're not showing the interest that they would want to keep me," Sprewell told the newspaper.

"That's how I would look at it. Especially for what I've done; not only me but what Sam [Cassell] has done for this organization. That would be somewhat a smack in the face if they don't step up and get something done."

Neither Sprewell's agent, Robert Gist, nor Wolves vice president Kevin McHale immediately returned calls Friday from The Associated Press. Wolves owner Glen Taylor told the Pioneer Press there's no timetable for negotiations with Sprewell.

Sprewell, 34, is due to make $14.6 million this season. He wants a two- or three-year extension. He averaged 16.8 points last season.