HOUSTON (AP) -Golden State coach Don Nelson had no reservations about reacquiring Chris Webber 13 years after the two clashed and Webber asked for a trade.
The free agent forward signed a contract Tuesday, returning to the team that drafted him in 1993. Warriors executive vice president Chris Mullin did not release details of the deal.
The Warriors were playing in Houston on Tuesday night and New Orleans on Wednesday. Nelson said Webber would join the Warriors on Thursday when the team returned to Oakland.
``He's one of the best passing big men to ever play the game,'' Nelson said. ``That's going to really help us. And then he's going to increase our team IQ. He's a very smart player. And he's another big man, he makes us one more deep all along the roster.
``I think it's going to work out great and I can't wait to see him.''
Nelson said Webber was working out with strength and conditioning coach John Murray in Oakland on Tuesday. Webber hasn't played in a game since Detroit lost to Cleveland in last season's Eastern Conference finals.
Nelson was hoping Webber would be ready for Golden State's Feb. 7 game against Chicago. The Warriors play Charlotte on Feb. 1, then have six days off before that game, giving Webber time to work on his conditioning.
``That's our job to get him in shape and get him where he feels good and comfortable,'' Nelson said.
Not long after he was drafted, Webber started fighting with Nelson and he demanded a trade before his second season. The former Michigan star eventually was dealt to Washington in November 1994 and he's been loudly booed at Oracle Arena ever since.
When Golden State's brass asked Nelson if he'd have a problem coaching Webber again, Nelson said no.
``I didn't know how he felt about it, but I know now,'' Nelson said. ``He feels good about it as well.''
Webber, a five-time All-Star, had confirmed in an e-mail to The Associated Press on Monday night that he was set to rejoin the Warriors.
``We're glad that Chris has elected to sign with our club and feel fortunate to add a player with his ability,'' Mullin said. ``We think he will be a nice addition to our team and provide additional depth to our front court and an added veteran presence on the floor.''
Webber was NBA Rookie of the Year with the Warriors in 1993-94. He demanded a trade following that season, and has since played for Washington, Sacramento, Philadelphia and Detroit.
``It is with great pride and humility that I announce my return to the Golden State Warriors, the place where it all started,'' the five-time All-Star said in a statement released by the Warriors. ``In playing for Nellie before, I know how much fun his style of ball can be.''
To make room on the roster, the Warriors waived guard Troy Hudson.Copyright © 2005 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. The information contained in the AP News report may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without the prior written authority of The Associated Press.
