<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">Sonics coach Bob Hill attributed it more to the team's forward depth than the production of Noel Felix. The Sonics did not renew the 10-day contract of forward Marcus Fizer, leaving the former lottery pick to sign with another team or head back to the NBA Developmental League. And the primary reason Fizer was allowed to go was shooting baskets at Furtado Center on Sunday well after his teammates departed into the beautiful, cool Seattle sunshine. Felix stayed late at practice yet again, shooting mid-range jumpers and working on his ballhandling. He was working so long after practice that he had to yell to a Sonics' assistant that he wasn't overdoing it. Because Felix is developing so quickly in practice as either a small or power forward, Hill said he realized Fizer wouldn't get much playing time in the final 17 games. "We're probably not going to make the playoffs, we're working hard to develop things," Hill said. "To get (Fizer) minutes with the guys that are already here and still trying to win games is difficult." Hill spent Friday working Fizer out during a voluntary practice and is convinced the former Iowa State standout and first-team All American still has something left to offer an NBA club. "He really did a good job," Hill said. "He had a good attitude. He was in here early every day. I would venture to guess he was in here when he didn't have to be. I think he's an NBA player." Felix has scored two points in two games, but has done most of his improving in practice. The Sonics like Felix's potential as a versatile forward who can play defense. He was chosen as the Continental Basketball Association defensive Player of the Year last week. "He can run, he can really jump and he is developing his jump shot," Hill said. "With Damien (Wilkins) and Rashard (Lewis), again, it's difficult to get him a lot of minutes. And he beat me in bowling. I told him it's not smart to beat the coach because I control the minutes."</div> Source
