Batum says he's happy to be staying in Portland
Friday, July 20, 2012
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) -- Don't believe the hype, Nicolas Batum says. He's very happy he's remaining with the Portland Trail Blazers.
Batum met with the media Friday at the Blazers' practice facility and downplayed his free agency dalliances with the Minnesota Timberwolves.
In the end, the choice wasn't his. The Blazers locked up the 23-year-old restricted free agent Wednesday when they matched a four-year offer sheet from the Minnesota Timberwolves worth a reported $45 million.
Batum, a native of France and a four-year NBA veteran, said he worried that Portland would not match the offer.
More like this
Batum to stay in Portland as Blazers match offer
Plot thickens with Blazers, Batum
Nicolas Batum signs contract, and answers some lingering questions
