OKLAHOMA CITY -- Free agent Desmond Mason will not be returning to the Oklahoma City Thunder next season.
Mason's agent, Roger Montgomery, confirmed to The Associated Press on Wednesday night that talks between the nine-year NBA veteran and the Thunder had broken down and the two sides wouldn't be agreeing on a new contract.
Mason was one of the Thunder's most popular players after playing in college at Oklahoma State and later returning to Oklahoma City when the New Orleans Hornets spent most of two seasons in the city after Hurricane Katrina. He had expressed his desire to remain in Oklahoma City after a hyperextended right knee forced him to miss the second half of last season.
Montgomery said the two sides weren't able to agree on a role for Mason, who still wants to make significant contributions.
"Desmond is not ready to be relegated to a cheerleader and relegated to a mentor for the younger players," Montgomery said. "Desmond's got a lot left in the tank."
Do we still have space
for a wing in spite of
Dunleavy's reported
early return?
I think he's the type of
player Larry Bird would
like as he's known for
his work ethic, is a
tough-nosed competitor,
super-athletic, has
high basketball IQ,
and is a good citizen.
Could be a good signing
for us, if ever.
Your thoughts.
