NBA Rumors: Shawn Marion wants to sign with contender

Apr 26, 2014; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Shawn Marion (0) reacts after scoring during the game against the San Antonio Spurs in game three of the first round of the 2014 NBA Playoffs at American Airlines Center. Dallas won 109-108. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 26, 2014; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Shawn Marion (0) reacts after scoring during the game against the San Antonio Spurs in game three of the first round of the 2014 NBA Playoffs at American Airlines Center. Dallas won 109-108. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit

Understandably, Shawn Marion, like all professional athletes wants to go out on top.

More from Dallas Mavericks

The free agent to be has heard reports suggesting that he stated he wanted to retire with the Mavericks, but Marion told ArizonaSports.com that those reports are false and he’s looking to join a team who will be in contention to win a ring – which could include Dallas.

“That’s not what I said, I didn’t say that,” Marion stated. “I said that I didn’t know where I was going to retire (in the league), because I can’t dictate what’s going to happen this summer, I can’t control anything.

“If it happens, it happens, but what I said was I was going to retire (after the playing days are over) in the Dallas community.”

“I want to play a couple more years,” he said, suggesting that while he would prefer to re-sign with the Mavericks, he’s open to signing elsewhere as well. “My ultimate goal is to win another championship, so it’s wherever I feel is the best chance to win another championship.”

The 36-year-old is a shell of his former self, though shouldn’t have much trouble latching on to a playoff caliber team in a bench role. Of course, that’s always easier said than done, especially if your minutes are heavily reduced, something Marion may experience depending on where he chooses to sign.

Starting 76 games for Dallas last season, the Matrix, as he’s also known, posted 10.5 points per game along with 6.5 rebounds.

The Chicago Bulls and Houston Rockets have been said to have interest in the veteran forward.