James Jones to play next season for Miami Heat

Miami Heat small forward James Jones told the South Florida Sun-Sentinel on Thursday that he is not retiring.

"I guess, more than anything, I was just stating my desire to stay here in Miami," Jones told the Sun-Sentinel of the retirement reports. "If there is a trade or anything like that, we'll cross that bridge if we get there. But, like I said, I have no desire to be anywhere else but by Miami."

Miami has been busy adding 3-point shooters in guard Ray Allen and forward Rashard Lewis this offseason. Jones is embracing the challenge of having to fight for minutes.
"For me, they're two quality guys," Jones told the Sun-Sentinel. "I'll still be there to compete. I'm going to compete and I'm going to do what I do, and put pressure on Coach (Erik Spoelstra) to play me."

Jones, 31, plans to play the final two seasons of his contract with Miami, which includes a 2013-14 player option, according to the Sun-Sentinel. He says he will only reassess his plans if the Heat try to trade him.

"I'm pretty much like if I'm dealt, then that's probably it for me, because I've sacrificed money, time, energy to be a part of this to win," Jones said. "I sacrificed to be in Miami and this is where I'll be."


(sportingnews.com)