National Basketball Association

Utah Jazz Sign Henry Sims to Contract

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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Free agent big man Henry Sims will join the Utah Jazz for training camp after inking a deal with the team.

If you weren’t familiar with Henry Sims before, chances are you’ve become acquainted with him in the last week or so. The nearly seven-foot center was one of a handful of veteran free agents to audition for the Utah Jazz earlier this month. In the days that followed, the team’s D-League affiliate — the Salt Lake City Stars — completed a trade to acquire his returning player rights.

Now, the big man is set to do battle with Jeff Withey for a spot on the Jazz as the team’s third center.

The Jazz announced on Thursday that Sims has inked a deal with the club. Per team policy, terms of the contract were not released, however it’s likely a partially guaranteed deal that will allow Sims to participate in training camp.

Sims, 26, previously played for the Jazz in the Orlando Summer League after going undrafted out of Georgetown in 2012. He went on to play 135 NBA games with the Brooklyn Nets, Philadelphia 76ers, Cleveland Cavaliers and New Orleans Pelicans.

He also played in the Philippines and in the D-League with the Grand Rapids Drive, Canton Charge and Erie Bayhawks, with whom he received a D-League All-Star selection in 2013.

His most productive run in the NBA came in Philadelphia, where he found his niche (and playing time) thanks to 76ers coach Brett Brown and former Jazzman turned development coach Greg Foster. Sims averaged nine points and 5.5 rebounds over the course of 99 games (57 starts) with Philly.

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Ultimately, Sims will have a difficult time securing a roster spot and will likely find himself in the D-League with the Stars. Withey’s year of experience in the Jazz system and defensive ability undoubtedly give him an advantage for the spot heading to camp.

Nevertheless, Sims is a good rebounder, a willing defender and could be a factor down the line.

Sims will wear jersey No. 30 for the Jazz.

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