Sixers Sign Rookie John Salmons to a Contract

Philadelphia 76ers General Manager Billy King announced on Friday, July 12, that the Sixers have signed 2002 NBA Draft selection John Salmons to a contract. Per team policy, terms are not released. Salmons, the 26th pick of the 2002 NBA Draft, was originally selected by the San Antonio Spurs before his rights were traded to the Sixers on draft day, June 26, 2002, with Mark Bryant and the rights to forward Randy Holcomb for guard Speedy Claxton.

Salmons, a local product who attended Plymouth Whitemarsh High School, played four seasons with the University of Miami (1998-99 to 2001-02). The 6-foot-7, 210-pound guard/forward, averaged 10.4 points, 5.5 rebounds and 3.5 assists in 124 contests. He was an All-Big East second team selection in his senior year when he averaged 13.1 points and 6.0 rebounds. In addition, he was honored with Big East Sportsmanship Award. As a senior, he led Miami in assists (6.1 apg, 18th in nation), steals (1.8 spg) and free throw percentage (.845).

Salmons helped lead the Hurricanes to the NCAA tournament in three of his four years. He finished his Miami career ranked third in career assists (433) and steals (192), and 13th in scoring (1,287). He is the only player in school history to record 50 or more steals in three consecutive seasons and is the only player to surpass 1,000 points, 600 rebounds, 400 assists and 150 steals.