The Phoenix Suns confirmed Thursday that free-agent center Tyson Chandler signed a multiyear contract with the team.
According to reports last week, the Suns lured Chandler away from the Dallas Mavericks with a four-year, $42 million deal.
“Tyson Chandler will be a leader on and off the court,” Suns president of basketball operations Lon Babby said. “His physical stature is matched by his immense presence as an individual of high character who is highly respected by the NBA community. It is an honor to welcome this NBA Champion and All-Star to Phoenix.”
In 75 games with the Mavericks last season, Chandler averaged 10.3 points, 11.5 rebounds and 1.2 blocks and also shot 66.6 percent from the field.
The 7-foot-1 Chandler, considered one of the NBA’s top defensive players, has spent 14 years in the league with the Chicago Bulls (2001-06), New Orleans Hornets (2006-09), Charlotte Bobcats (2009-10), Mavericks (2010-11, 2014-15) and New York Knicks (2011-14). He was named the NBA Defensive Player of the Year in 2011-2012 and to the All-NBA Defensive team three times.
Chandler’s career field goal percentage of .591 is the second highest in NBA history behind Artis Gilmore. His career averages are 8.8 points, 9.3 rebounds and 1.3 blocks in 920 games.