Hooped Up

Damon Stoudamire will sign a pro-rated contract with the Spurs as early as Thursday, after two conversations with Suns general manager Steve Kerr within the past 24 hours led nowhere. “We spoke to him. He understands what we had to offer and he felt San Antonio was the better opportunity,” Kerr said.

East Valley Tribune

Soon-to-be free agent point guard Damon Stoudamire said yesterday that it would be “dumb” not to seriously consider the Celtics if they wanted him.

Stoudamire’s agent, Aaron Goodwin, confirmed yesterday that his client has agreed in principle to a buyout with the Memphis Grizzlies, expected to become official tomorrow. While terms were not disclosed, Stoudamire was guaranteed $2.1 million this season and $2.3 million next season, excluding bonuses.

Stoudamire acknowledged yesterday that the Celtics, Suns, and Raptors are among the teams expected to have interest in him. The 5-foot-10-inch, 171-pounder could be an unrestricted free agent Wednesday after clearing waivers.

Damon Stoudamire, according to NBA front-office sources, is intrigued by the idea of signing with the Toronto Raptors and returning to the franchise that drafted him and gave him the platform to win Rookie of the Year honors in 1995-96.

ESPN.com

If Memphis’ Damon Stoudamire reaches a buyout agreement with Memphis, it seems likely the Suns would be interested in him. It would not be costly. He likely would sign with a contender for a pro-rated veteran’s minimum.

Stoudamire, 34, could give Phoenix a good open-court point guard who shoots well and is a vocal, veteran leader. He is also an ex-Portland teammate of Suns’ GM Steve Kerr, and both played at Arizona.

Grizzlies veteran point guard Damon Stoudamire will seek a trade or contract buyout, his agent said Thursday. Stoudamire was removed from the starting lineup in favor of first-round draft pick Mike Conley. Stoudamire was on the inactive list for the Grizzlies’ victory Wednesday over Indiana. Aaron Goodwin, an experienced NBA agent with a star-studded client list, called the decision to relegate Stoudamire to an insurance player at the point unacceptable and disrespectful.

Memphis Commercial Appeal