The Golden State Warriors have matched the contract offer submitted to restricted free agent guard Kelenna Azubuike by the Los Angeles Clippers, it was announced today by Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations Chris Mullin. The Warriors had seven (7) days from receipt of the contract – Friday, July 18 – to match the offer from Los Angeles. Per team policy, terms of the agreement were not announced. Various reports have said it’s likely a three-year deal for around $3 million per season, but that’s not official in any way.
“We are pleased to have Kelenna back in the fold,” said Mullin. “He’s a young and talented player who has continued to improve during his two seasons with our team. His versatility, athleticism and ability to shoot the 3-pointer certainly fit our style of play. Additionally, we think he will continue to improve and expand his game.”
Azubuike, 24, appeared in 81 games with Golden State last season, averaging career-high figures in scoring (8.1), rebounds (4.0) and minutes played (21.4). The 6’5” guard scored a career-high 33 points on November 2 against the Clippers, one of 34 double figure scoring outings. In 17 starting assignments, he averaged 13.1 points and 5.7 rebounds.
The Warriors originally signed Azubuike on January 2, 2007 from the NBA Development League’s Ft. Worth Flyers. He appeared in 41 games during his rookie campaign, averaging 7.1 points and 2.3 rebounds. Overall, he has averaged 8.1 points and 3.4 rebounds in 122 career NBA games. The London, England native was never drafted by an NBA team after attending the University of Kentucky for three years (2002-03 – 2004-05).
