The New Mr. Wizard

Arenas chooses Washington's offer over hometown Clippers

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Gilbert Arenas, the top point guard available in free agency, has signed an offer sheet to play for the Washington Wizards.

Arenas fills a major void for the Wizards, whose only true point guard on the roster is second-round draft pick Steve Blake. Larry Hughes and Juan Dixon played the position last year, but both are natural shooting guards.

"Gilbert is an outstanding young player who fits in very well with the core of our team," the Wizards' president of basketball operations, Ernie Grunfeld, said Tuesday. "The team is full of talented young players who can grow together and be a playoff contender for years to come."

Arenas' six-year deal is worth more than $60 million, his father told the San Francisco Chronicle. The Golden State Warriors will have 15 days to match the offer, but aren't expected to do so because they have little room to maneuver under the salary cap.

Arenas helped lead the Warriors to respectability last year and was selected as the NBA's Most Improved Player after averaging 18.3 points, 6.3 assists and 4.7 rebounds. One of the most sought-after free agents this offseason, he was courted heavily in recent days by the Los Angeles Clippers.

Arenas' signing is another coup for Wizards owner Abe Pollin, who is trying to restore credibility to the franchise after his contentious dismissal of Michael Jordan two months ago. Since then, Pollin has hired Eddie Jordan as the new coach and Grunfeld to run the front office.

Pollin wooed Arenas and Arenas' father during a two-day visit to Washington last week.

"I don't think he wanted to leave the Warriors' organization, but this was a great opportunity for him," Arenas Sr. told the Chronicle. "He had a great time. Let's face it, you're in the West and you have the fans behind you. It was hard for him to make a decision."

 

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