Source says Ratliff, Sixers agree to 1-year deal

The 76ers could have a veteran backup big man in place as early as today.

Theo Ratliff, 35, a veteran of 13 NBA seasons, has sifted through four offers and settled on rejoining the Sixers on a 1-year contract, according to a source familiar with the situation.

The source said the 6-10 Ratliff could visit with the Sixers today and accept a 1-year contract for the veterans' minimum of $1.4 million. By the rules of the collective bargaining agreement, a portion of the salary would be paid out of a leaguewide pool.

When asked yesterday about the search for an additional big man, Sixers president/general manager Ed Stefanski said he hoped to have a resolution "within 48 hours," but would not elaborate.

Ratliff was acquired by the Sixers from Detroit during the 1997-98 season and was traded to Atlanta during 2000-01. He was named an All-Star in '01, but was unable to play because of a wrist injury.

He has played for six teams during his career, including 10 games with Minnesota and 16 games with Detroit last season, his second stint with the Pistons. He appeared in two games with Boston in '06-07.

He led the league in blocks per game in '01 and '03, and holds career averages of 7.9 points, 6.1 rebounds and 2.6 blocks in 705 games.

Stefanski also said he was awaiting a decision from coach Maurice Cheeks on an assistant coach to take the place of Henry Bibby, who did not have his contract renewed. Former Sixers Jeff Ruland and Steve Mix and former Atlanta assistant Alton Lister were interviewed last week. *