Clippers Sign Point Guard Marko Jaric



Jaric will help bolster the Clippers' backcourt in 2002-03
The Los Angeles Clippers have announced the signing of point guard
Marko Jaric to a multi-year contract.

Jaric, the Clippers second round selection (30th overall) in the 2000
NBA Draft, averaged 15.2 points, 4.9 rebounds and 2.6 assists in 33
games played for the Italian team Kinder Bologna during the 2001-02
season. The 6'7" Yugoslavian connected on 171-374 FG (.457), 107-142
FT (.754) and 55-139 3FG (.388) in 33 games played on the year.

"This really strengthens our point guard position," stated Clippers
Vice President of Basketball Operations Elgin Baylor. "We like
Marko's size, competitiveness and unselfish style of play. His
ability to push the ball up the court will fit in very well with our
running game. He also does a very good job in finding the open man."

During the 2000 season, Jaric led Kinder Bologna to the
European "Triple Crown" - the Italian League Championship, Euroleague
Championship and the Italian Cup Championship.

"I'm very excited to be coming to the Clippers and the NBA," said
Jaric. "I have met Elgin Baylor and the coaching staff and I look
forward to working with everyone. I believe that I can help the team
right away, and look forward to getting started."

Prior to his two seasons with Kinder Bologna, Jaric tallied 9.9
points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.4 assists while with Fortitudo Bologna
during the 1999-2000 season. He averaged 7.8 points, 2.9 rebounds and
1.0 assists for Fortitudo Bologna during the 1998-99 campaign.

"I'm very happy for Marko and for the Clippers," stated Bill Duffy,
President of BDA Sports Management. "The contract is indicative of
Marko's tremendous talent and experience. I'm pleased that the
Clippers stepped up to the plate. We think everyone in LA will be
thrilled with what Marko brings to the Clippers organization and to
the city."

Jaric is currently training with the Yugoslavian National Team for
the FIBA World Championships at their training facility in
Rottenburg, Germany. The 2002 FIBA World Championships will take
place from August 29-September 8 in Indianapolis. The Clippers will
have two players in the tournament, with forward Elton Brand
competing on the USA Basketball Men's World Championship Team.


- Clippers.com (http://www.nba.com/clippers/news/Clippers_Sign_Jaric-
49503-57.html)

My comments: WOOHOO!!! FINALLY!!!!