Big Ben Was Very Close To Retirement

Via Arizona Republic:

When the Suns traded Shaquille O’Neal, the idea of Ben Wallace going away was a big part of the $18.5 million in savings they would reap.

Wallace seemed to be close to retiring when trade talks began, but he wound up back with the Detroit Pistons, who visited Phoenix on Sunday night.

His family’s prodding prompted a comeback. He accepted a $10 million buyout from Phoenix for a $14 million salary, a move that will save the Suns $8 million when factoring in the luxury tax.

Wallace declined to say if he wanted to play for Phoenix but said he could fit the Suns’ system.

“I wasn’t going to play,” Wallace said. “I was retired. I was about to sign the papers.”

Cleveland traded Wallace to Phoenix in the Shaquille O’Neal deal this past June. The Suns were looking for the $18.5 million in savings Wallace’s deal provided them.

He took a $10 million buyout from the Suns and after prodding from his family, Wallace signed with the Pistons.

“I rededicated myself to getting stronger and healthier to see if I could rekindle my love for the game,” Wallace said.