Davis is 'going home' to the Clippers

By BEE NEWS SERVICES

last updated: July 02, 2008 05:17:39 AM

SAN FRANCISCO -- Baron Davis is on his way home.

A day after Davis shocked the Golden State Warriors by opting out of the final season of his contract to become a free agent, the big-game point guard is on the verge of signing a long-term deal with the Los Angeles Clippers.

Though Davis refused to directly confirm his agent's declaration to the Los Angeles Times that they've agreed to sign a five-year, $65 million deal with Golden State's Pacific Division rivals, he left no doubt about his upcoming move back to his native Southern California.

Davis can't sign with the Clippers until July 9, but he already was speaking about the Warriors in the past tense Tuesday night before attending the Bay Area premiere of "Made in America," a documentary he produced about gang life in Los Angeles. He grew up in a tough neighborhood before attending a ritzy high school in Santa Monica and later starring at UCLA.

Davis, 29, has never made a secret of his desire to play in his hometown near the film industry.

He said Tuesday, "I wanted to be here for a long time. (The Bay Area) is home. I still consider this home. The fans have done nothing but encourage, congratulate and support everything that I've ever done. ... I just took what was best for me."

The oft-injured playmaking point guard helped transform the Warriors' fortunes in just 3½ seasons with the club. Davis averaged 21.8 points, 7.6 assists and 4.7 rebounds while playing in all 82 games last season.

Clippers forward Elton Brand and swingman Corey Maggette also opted out of their contracts, but L.A. is expected to make a strong push to re-sign Brand.

Warriors top executive Chris Mullin has said he'll retain restricted free agents Monta Ellis and Andris Biedrins at any price. Golden State now has additional room under the salary cap. They're known to be interested in Washington guard Gilbert Arenas, who played his first two NBA seasons in Oakland but can make more money with the Wizards.

TIP-INS -- Chris Paul's agent hopes to complete today a contract extension that would keep the All-Star and Team USA point guard with New Orleans an additional three to five years. ... Washington celebrated signing free agent Antawn Jamison to a four-year, $50 million deal and opened talks with Arenas. ... Spurs guard Brent Barry opted out of his contract.

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