AUBURN HILLS, Mich. - Detroit Pistons President of Basketball Operations Joe Dumars announced today that the club has signed center Theo Ratliff.
“We are pleased to add Theo Ratliff to our roster,” said Dumars. “Theo will give us a solid veteran presence in the locker room and add depth to our front line. Having started his career here in Detroit, he understands the culture of our organization and what is expected.”
Ratliff was waived by the Minnesota Timberwolves on February 29. In his first year with the Wolves, he appeared in 10 games (six starts) this season and posted averages of 6.3 points (.511 FG%), 3.9 rebounds and 1.9 blocks in 21.4 minutes per game. He missed 45 games due to soreness in his right knee, and underwent arthroscopic surgery on Dec. 18.
The 13-year NBA veteran began his career in Detroit, playing two-plus seasons (1995-97), averaging 5.4 points and 3.9 rebounds in 175 games. In 689 NBA contests with Detroit, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Portland, Boston and Minnesota, he has career averages of 8.0 points (.497 FG%), 6.2 rebounds and 2.6 blocks per game.
