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Rockets Sign Jim Jackson; Trade Rice To Jazz

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    Jackson
    HOUSTON (September 30, 2003) - The Houston Rockets have agreed to terms with free agent guard/forward Jim Jackson, general manager Carroll Dawson announced today. In an additional move, the Rockets traded forward Glen Rice, future draft considerations and an undisclosed amount of cash to the Utah Jazz in exchange for forward/center John Amaechi and a future second-round draft pick.

    "We are very excited to have the opportunity to add players of Jimmy's and John's caliber," Dawson said. "It is never easy saying goodbye to a true veteran such as Glen; however, we are adding two good players that will provide even more veteran leadership and experience to our team."

    Jackson has averaged 15.5 points and 4.7 rebounds in 701 career games with Dallas, New Jersey, Philadelphia, Golden State, Portland, Atlanta, Cleveland, Miami and Sacramento. The 6-6, 220-pound swingman has averaged double figures in scoring in nine of 11 seasons, including a career-high 25.7 points per game with the Mavericks during the 1994-95 season. Last season, the 11-year veteran averaged 7.7 points and 4.2 rebounds in 63 games with the Kings. In the 2003 NBA Playoffs, he averaged postseason career highs of 11.3 points (on .500 shooting) and 3.9 rebounds in 12 games with Sacramento.


    Amaechi
    Amaechi has averaged 6.2 points and 2.6 rebounds in 294 career games with Cleveland, Orlando and Utah. The 6-10, 270-pound forward/center averaged a career-high 10.5 points with the Magic during the 1999-2000 season. Last season, the five-year veteran averaged 2.0 points and 1.5 rebounds in 50 games with the Jazz. In the 2003 NBA Playoffs, he averaged 2.0 points and 0.5 rebounds in two games with Utah.

    "It is tough saying goodbye to Glen, as he worked very diligently this offseason and is in great physical condition," Rockets Head Coach Jeff Van Gundy said. "However, Jimmy offers great versatility, and this is a great opportunity for both him and the team. He brings a lot of professionalism to the team. John gives us a big body that can help in the paint. You can never have too much size in this league."


    Rice
    Rice has averaged 18.6 points and 4.4 rebounds in 982 career games with Miami, Charlotte, the LA Lakers, New York and Houston. In two seasons with the Rockets, Rice averaged 8.9 points with three-point percentage of .374. He played in 82 games with Houston, starting 46 times. Last season, the 14-year veteran averaged 9.0 points in 62 games, ranking second on the Rockets with 101 3-pointers made.