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Swift move: Houston inks free agent forward

08.2.2005

Houston, TX (Basketball News) - Free agent forward Stromile Swift has agreed to a deal with the Houston Rockets. Although terms were not released, the Houston Chronicle reported in mid-July that the deal was worth about $30 million over five years — consistent with the midlevel salary exception available to Houston, which is over the cap.

"It was an easy decision for me," Swift said when asked about his choice of Houston as a destination. "To be a part of this organization, I’m excited. I’m really happy and my family’s happy."

Swift spent his first five NBA seasons with Memphis and netted 9.0 points and 5.0 rebounds per contest. Last year, he posted 10.1 points and 4.6 rebounds in 60 games. In 2001-02, he posted career-highs in points (11.8) and boards (6.3), his second season in the league.

"If you have a race out there (on the court), he may win the race," Rockets general manager Carroll Dawson said. "He’s very athletic for his size. Our chemistry was excellent last year. I think this will do nothing but add to it."

The Grizzlies, then based in Vancouver, selected Swift with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2000 NBA Draft. Memphis made the playoffs twice with Swift, but lost both post season appearances, getting swept by San Antonio in 2004 and Phoenix this past season.

HOU

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