<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE </div><div class='quotemain'>Damon Stoudamire is close to reaching a buyout agreement with the Grizzlies that would allow the 34-year-old point guard to sign as a free agent with either the Celtics or the Suns, a source told ESPN.com on Saturday. There remained a possibility, however, that the Grizzlies would decide against a buyout if one of several teams seeking Stoudamire upped its offer in trade talks.</div> Source I wouldn't mind him at all in Boston. We need a second guard that can handle ball pressure, and while I'd prefer a bigger guard, he's likely the best option that's going to become available via buyout.
<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE </div><div class='quotemain'>The Memphis Grizzlies waived veteran point guard Damon Stoudamire on Monday and plan to release him if he clears waivers. The move, announced before Monday night's game against the Dallas Mavericks, had been expected for weeks. Stoudamire, a former first-round pick in his 13th season out of Arizona, had been relegated to third-string status behind rookie Mike Conley, the fourth overall pick in last year's draft, and Kyle Lowry in his second year out of Villanova. The 34-year-old Stoudamire has not played in 14 games, is averaging 7.3 points and 3.9 assists. His last action was against San Antonio on Dec. 30. "We appreciate the consummate professionalism and love for the game which Damon exhibited in Memphis,'' Chris Wallace, Grizzlies vice president of basketball operations and general manager, said in a prepared statement. "The entire organization wishes him the best and hopes that he realizes his wish to join a championship contending team.'' Stoudamire was not in the club's locker room before the game. "I miss him. I really do,'' Memphis coach Marc Iavaroni said before the game. "He's been a positive influence. He and I had a very straightforward relationship from Day One.''</div> It's official
