PORTLAND, Ore., Aug. 12 (UPI) -- This time, Arvydas Sabonis likely is done for good.
The Oregonian reported on its Web site Tuesday that Herb Rudoy, the agent for the 7-3 center, said Sabonis canceled a scheduled physical and intends to turn down a $7 million contract for next season, choosing instead to spend more time with his family in Lithuania.
"He told us he is pretty sure he is not coming back," Rudoy told the newspaper. "I would say it is quite unlikely."
The team and Sabonis had until Friday to sign a deal that would guarantee his salary for next season. The Blazers could trade Sabonis before Friday to a team that would gain relief from his salary.
Sabonis, 38, has been one of the Blazers' most popular players with fans since he joined the team in 1995. He is seventh in franchise history in rebounding and blocks.
"What a bummer," Coach Maurice Cheeks told the paper. "He brought so much to the table. We are going to lose something there."
Sabonis, who has retired before, played in 78 games last season, averaging 6.1 points and 4.3 rebounds in 15.5 minutes. He helped the Soviet team win the Olympic gold medal in 1988.
