Trevor Ariza signed with Houston Rockets over familiarity

By Bryan Rose | Jul 21, 2014

Feb 12, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; Washington Wizards small forward Trevor Ariza (1) shoots during the third quarter against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center. The Rockets defeated the Wizards 113-112. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

Thanks to a lack of talented small forwards across the NBA, when Trevor Ariza became a free agent he instantly became one of the most in-demand players across the league. Multiple teams showed interest in signing the veteran but it seemed as if a return to the Washington Wizards was the most likely scenario.

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However, once the Houston Rockets whiffed on luring LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony and Chris Bosh to Space City, the team focused their efforts on Trevor Ariza who they eventually signed to replace Chandler Parsons. So why the change of heart for Ariza who seemed interested in returning the Wizards? Familiarity.

Trevor Ariza spent his 2009 season with the Houston Rockets and hinted that was a large reason as to why he returned.

"Looking for familiarity and a chance to win, Trevor Ariza chose the Houston Rockets. “I settled on Houston for one because I’m familiar with my surroundings,” Ariza said during a Friday conference call with the media. “I just felt like the fit here was similar to what I had in Washington.”"

Also available was a hefty sum of money as Ariza signed a very lucrative four-year, $32 million dollar contract. Add in that the Rockets were void of a small forward and he was guaranteed plenty of playing time on a team that is expected to contend in the Western Conference and it’s understandable as to why Ariza settled on joining the Houston Rockets.

That probably won’t make Washington Wizards fans feel any better who are likely a bit salty that Ariza left in free agency.

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