SAN ANTONIO, Dec. 26 -- The San Antonio Spurs officially announced Monday the signing of veteran guard Doc Rivers. The 33-year-old Rivers was waived by the New York Knicks two weeks ago and had told reporters last Thursday night that he had agreed to join the Spurs.
He was courted by as many as 11 teams before agreeing to a reported one-year deal worth a minimum $150,000. 'I chose San Antonio because they have in my estimation a chance to win the NBA title,' Rivers said last week. 'That's the only thing I'm after at this stage of my career.' San Antonio Executive Vice President, Basketball Operations-General Manager Gregg Popovich made Monday's announcement. 'We are fortunate to have the opportunity to add not only a talented player, but a class act, to our squad,' Popovich said. 'As Doc gets back into playing shape he will help us considerably with the added depth he provides.' Since Rivers cleared waivers, the Knicks are still obligated to pay him $1.4 million this season and half of his $3.2 million salary next year. Rivers suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee last December and underwent reconstructive surgery. The Knicks acquired Derek Harper from Dallas last season to replace Rivers. Rivers played in only three games this season and was the odd-man out in the Knicks' crowded backcourt. The 6-4 Rivers has averaged 12.1 points and 6.4 assists over 11 seasons with three teams. He came to the Knicks from the Los Angeles Clippers in 1992 as part of a three-team deal. Rivers, a Chicago native, was originally a second-round draft pick of the Atlanta Hawks in 1983. He played eight seasons with the Hawks and one with the Los Angeles Clippers before joining the Knicks.