Sean Marks, the center drafted 43 picks after Michael Olowokandi in 1998, has a guaranteed spot with the Suns.

Olowokandi paid his way to Phoenix just to get a look from them Tuesday. The former top pick is a free agent, one of the few NBA regulars still unsigned. But even at 7 feet, he is a long shot to join a team with 13 guaranteed deals.

Olowokandi's past of on-court underachievement, getting stun-gunned by Minneapolis police (he was acquitted) and health problems (he said he feels 21 again) don't help.

"They have a very good team as it stands," he said. "I definitely did show more of an interest in this team than other teams because, at this stage of my career, it's not so much about dollars anymore but being able to compete."

The Suns will add one player on a make-good contract for camp but it will likely be a summer league player or another rookie.

Olowokandi planned to play in the Suns' informal games again today.

"It's very rare for a player of his quality to be willing to come into this environment," Suns Vice President of Basketball Operations David Griffin said. "On the surface, you could say he offers us some length."

Via Arizona Republic

Phoenix Suns

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