USA - Hinrich signs Bulls extension

CHICAGO (NBA) - Team USA international Kirk Hinrich has signed a multi-year contract extension with the Chicago Bulls, the team announced hours before their NBA opener against reigning champions the Miami Heat.

Hinrich, 25, announced himself on the world stage earlier this summer when he went from emergency call-up to key man in Team USA's FIBA World Championship campaign, which ended with a bronze medal in Japan.

The terms of his new deal with the Bulls were not disclosed, as per team policy. However, the Chicago Tribune reported the deal is worth $47.5 million over five years.

Tuesday was the deadline for the Bulls to sign Hinrich to an extension. Had they not, he could have become a restricted free agent next summer.

"Kirk Hinrich is imperative to the foundation of our organisation and we are extremely pleased to have him with us long term," said Bulls executive vice president of basketball operations John Paxson.

"We are attempting to build a team based on character and commitment and these are both traits that Kirk possesses at a very high level. This is a very good day for the Chicago Bulls organisation."

Hinrich is entering his fourth NBA season since being drafted seventh overall in 2003.

He has averaged 14.6 points, 6.5 assists and 3.6 rebounds in 234 games, 224 of which have been starts.

Last season, he averaged a career-high 15.9 points, a team-high 6.3 assists, and 3.6 rebounds.

A late addition to an injury-ridden Team USA this summer, Hinrich averaged 6.0 points and 3.3 rebounds at the FIBA World Championship.

Hinrich is a Bulls captain, leading the team to the NBA play-offs in each of the last two years.
PA Sport