Hooped Up

The Rockets see Brent Barry as the first guy off the bench and potentially playing the point at the end of games. In those situations, they could have five scorers on the floor.

They love his passing skills. He has averaged more than five assists three different seasons.

They like the fact he has two championship rings and see him as a calming influence on the floor and off.

They think his personality, his professionalism, will fit nicely in a locker room that’s already as solid as any.

They like his versatility. Depending on the matchup, he could get his minutes at small forward, off-guard or the point. He’s right for Rick Adelman’s system.

Now to the real reason the Rockets pursued Brent Barry twice in four months. 

Houston Chronicle

Brent Barry will not be playing for Phoenix. Suns General Manager Steve Kerr said the 36-year-old guard told him tonight that he chose San Antonio over Phoenix, as well as suitors like Boston, Dallas and Houston. Barry cleared waivers Tuesday after being traded by San Antonio last week to Seattle, which released him Friday to set off a week of recruiting.

Arizona Republic

The Suns expect to hear from free agent guard Brent Barry either late Monday or early Tuesday regarding Barry’s choice of teams, an NBA source said Monday… It is believed that the Suns and Spurs are the leading contenders, but Houston and Boston are also in the mix.

East Valley Tribune

In an effort to bolster their frontline, the San Antonio Spurs acquired Kurt Thomas from the Seattle Supersonics for Brent Barry, Francisco Elson and a 2009 first round pick.

The Spurs needed to make a move to keep up with conference rivals Phoenix, Dallas and Los Angeles.

“I think the landscape of the West has put a premium on interior defense,” Spurs general manager R.C. Buford said. “Now with the trades of recent days, that’s only improved.”

At age 35, Thomas provides the Spurs experience and consistency in the paint. His presence should benefit Tim Duncan. Thomas will likely draw the assignment of guarding the opposing team’s best post player.