Paul Pierce says Clippers gave him “championship opportunity”
Paul Pierce said Tuesday he feels the Los Angeles Clippers give him the best shot at another title before he retires.
Though the newly re-signed DeAndre Jordan grabbed headlines after discussing his decision to return to L.A. and spurn the Dallas Mavericks at the last minute, Pierce also made a notable move, leaving the Washington Wizards after one season to join the Clippers.
Pierce, 38, is now on his third team in three seasons and chasing a second championship ring. He grew up in Inglewood, Calif. and said he saw the Clippers as an opportunity to return home and finish his career on a high note. He will also reunite with head coach Doc Rivers, with whom he won a title in Boston in 2008.
“I’m at the point in my career where it’s winding down,” Pierce told media on Tuesday during a press conference for the Clippers' free-agent signees. “I see the light at the end of the tunnel. I wanted another opportunity to win a championship. I thought just being here would be a great fit. I’m a veteran. I could be another voice in the locker room and I can just pretty much fill any role that they need me to play.”
• JENKINS: Jordan remains rare Clipper for life
According to The Washington Post, Pierce declined his $5.5 million player option for next season and then turned down a $6.6 million offer from the Wizards to join the Clippers on a three-year deal starting at $3.37 million. Pierce's third year is a team option. The Wizards declined to offer Pierce a guaranteed second year on his deal.
“Last year, I had an opportunity but sometimes things don’t work out the way you want them to,” said Pierce. “Would’ve loved to have been here last year but I had a chance to go to Washington, that was a great experience for me and I think things happen for a reason. And I think this is the right timing, perfect opportunity here today and I’m glad to say I’m a Clipper today.”
- Jeremy Woo
