Philadelphia 76ers Add Depth With Center Tony Battie (With Video)

(Philadelphia, PA) - The Philadelphia 76ers acquired free agent center Tony Battie to an undisclosed contract. Battie is a 12 year pro and has played most recently with the Orlando Magic and New Jersey Nets.

This move will add more depth for the Sixers in the front court and could trigger another offseason trade as the Sixers have 14 players under contract (including free agent Willie Green).

There have been rumors throughout the league speculating the team is in discussion again with the Sacramento Kings for forward Jason Kapono. Kapono is in the final year of his contact and is schedule to make a little over $6 million this year.

Sixers GM announced the acquisition via teleconference with select members of the Philadelphia media and stated:

“We see Tony Battie as a player who can come in and give us additional depth in the front court while also providing a valuable veteran presence for our younger players both on and off the court.”

The 6'11" Battie has averaged 6.4 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 0.90 blocks, and has playoff experience as a member of the 2008 Eastern Conference Champion Orlando Magic.

Battie was the fifth overall selection in the 1997 NBA draft and has spent time with the Boston Celtics and Cleveland Cavaliers before heading to the Orlando Magic in 2004.