James Jones returns to Heat, adds 3-point shooting

MIAMI — James Jones couldn't leave now, not with his hometown team poised for something special, not after failing to live up to his own standards these past two seasons in South Florida, not when the commute from Southwest Ranches made the experience all too convenient.

So despite being forced to take a $3 million pay cut by the Miami Heat just three weeks ago, the 3-point specialist and University of Miami product said Sunday he is coming back, this time with the bonus of playing not only alongside Dwyane Wade, but also heralded free-agent additions LeBron James and Chris Bosh.

"I have to come back. This is not something I could pass up," Jones told the Sun Sentinel. "This is too much of an opportunity to bypass."

Jones, 29, will now wind up receiving dual paychecks from the Heat this season. Originally due $4.7 million for 2010-11, Jones received a $1.6 million buyout from the team in June. He now will sign back at the veterans' minimum of $1 million for the coming season.



(sun-sentinel.com)