NBA Grizzlies make Swift deal
(Agencies)
Updated: 2004-10-01 15:44

Stromile Swift (R), seen here 6 March 2004, signed a one-year deal worth six million dollars to stay with the Memphis Grizzlies, who refused to offer the forward a longer National Basketball Association contract. [AFP]

Stromile Swift signed a one-year deal worth six million dollars to stay with the Memphis Grizzlies, who refused to offer the forward a longer National Basketball Association contract.

Swift, preparing for his fifth NBA season, averaged 9.4 points and 4.9 rebounds with a career-best 118 blocked shots in 77 games last season. He can become a free agent on July 1.

"Obviously, this is a very important year for Stromile," Grizzlies president of basketball operations Jerry West said.

"I made Stromile and his agent numerous contract offers, and none were acceptable. We expect Stromile to go out and have a great year and pressure us to sign him to the type of contract he is seeking."

Selected second overall in the 2000 NBA Draft, defense-minded Swift has career averages of 8.8 points, 5.1 rebounds and 1.4 blocked shots in 292 games.

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