Jordan Will Return as Wizards Player

Steve Wyche of the Washington Post reports that it’s official… Michael Jordan will play one more year. Knee surgery and age -- he will turn 40 in February -- had prompted Jordan to contemplate yet another retirement after leading the Wizards in scoring and very nearly to the playoffs before injuries forced him to the bench. But after a summer of working out and weighing his options, Jordan announced yesterday he's going to play again.

"I am excited to return to the basketball court this year," Jordan said in a statement. "My love for the game of basketball continues to drive my decision. Physically, I am feeling very strong, and feel that the steps I took in the off-season have allowed me to return to the game in great condition."

Jordan has planned to honor the 2nd year of the two-year deal he signed last summer, but his health was a concern. His right knee caused him to miss 22 games last season. The Wizards missed the playoffs as a result. He told team officials this summer he might want to be a reserve rather than start, in order to limit his playing time, but in his statement yesterday he seemed to be backing off that idea.

"I met with Michael today and he can't wait to play," Wizards owner Abe Pollin said. "He's in great shape and feels better than he did last year. He's very excited about the team and believes we'll be good. He told me he can't wait to get started and he can't wait to play."

Jordan’s return will help the Wizards financially. They were able to sell out all of their home games and all but three of their road games last season. With this season likely being Jordan’s last, fans will flock to the arenas in droves to see him play for the last time in their city. NBA officials said Jordan's presence also helped the league's finances. Sales of Wizards season tickets were at an all-time high and lately, as word got out that Jordan's return was imminent, the phones in the team's sales office began to ring a little more frequently, a team official said.

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Oakley Works Out With Wiz, Might Sign Contract

Steve Wyche of the Washington Post reports that Charles Oakley may have finally found a home. Oakley worked out for the Wizards on Thursday and met with officials about signing a contract, most likely for one year, a source with knowledge of the situation said.

The Wizards are looking to add experience to their relatively young crop of big men and Oakley, a 17-year veteran known for his rugged play, rebounding prowess and critical tongue, might be their man. Oakley may take a few days to weigh his options before deciding where to sign. He played in just 57 games last season with the Bulls because of injuries and the team's desire to use its younger players. Oakley has averaged 10 points and 9.8 rebounds in his career.

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Bucks add to roster

Tom Enlund of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports that the Bucks have added some veteran depth to their roster. The team announced that they signed free agents Cedric Henderson and Laron Profit on Wednesday. As per club policy, terms of the contracts were not announced.

Henderson is a 5-year NBA vet who has a reputation for playing tough defence and played 12 games for the Warriors last season. Over his career he has averages of 7.2 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.6 assists in 260 games.

Profit played in Italy last season after being cut by the Magic in training camp. He played two seasons for Washington, averaging 3.0 points, 1.3 rebounds and 1.7 assists.

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