Warriors match offer to Azubuike
The Clippers had offered the free-agent guard $9 million over three seasons.
The Clippers lost a chance to bolster their backcourt when the Golden State Warriors today matched their three-year, $9-million deal for restricted free agent Kelenna Azubuike.
Azubuike, 24, has played two seasons for the Warriors. Last year, the 6-foot-5 guard averaged 8.1 points and four rebounds in 81 games.
The London-born Azubuike, who played for Kentucky, joined the Warriors after playing in the NBA Development League.
"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 three-pointer certainly fit our style of play," said Chris Mullin, the Warriors' executive vice president of basketball operations.
It's been a busy off-season with free agents moving up and down the coast.
The Clippers signed Baron Davis, the Warriors' former All-Star point guard. Then the Warriors signed former Clipper Corey Maggette and free agent Ronny Turiaf, who played three seasons with the Lakers.
barry.stavro@latimes.com
