NBA | Clippers set to sign Davis as bid begin

SAN FRANCISCO — Baron Davis is on his way home.

A day after Davis shocked the Golden State Warriors by opting out of the final season of his $17.8 million contract for 2008-09 to become a free agent, the big-game point guard is on the verge of signing a long-term deal with the Los Angeles Clippers.

Though Davis refused to directly confirm his agent's declaration to the Los Angeles Times that they have agreed to sign a five-year, $65 million deal with Golden State's Pacific Division rivals, he left no doubt about his upcoming move back to his native Southern California.

Davis can't sign with the Clippers until July 9, but he already was speaking about the Warriors in the past tense Tuesday night.

The Washington Wizards stepped up with the maximum they could offer Gilbert Arenas — a six-year deal worth about $126 million — and sent word through owner Abe Pollin that the team won't let him get away.

The Wizards agreed with forward Antawn Jamison on a four-year, $50 million extension.

Notes

• New Orleans and Chris Paul agreed in principle on a multiyear extension that would add 3 to 5 years to the one year Paul has remaining. The deal would be for the maximum of $60 million to $80 million.

• Ron Artest decided not to opt out of his contract with Sacramento. Beno Udrih agreed to a five-year deal with the Kings. Two sources close to the team said Udrih was given the Kings' entire midlevel exception and will earn approximately $32 million over the five seasons.

• The NBA hired Army Maj. Gen. Ronald L. Johnson as senior vice president of referee operations, a newly created position to help strengthen the league's officiating programs following the Tim Donaghy scandal.

• Portland agreed to terms with Spanish guard Rudy Fernandez.

• The Spurs' Brent Barry opted out of his contract and became an unrestricted free agent.