MILWAUKEE (AP) -- The Milwaukee Bucks have signed free agent Desmond Mason to a multi-year contract.
General manager Larry Harris says Mason was a fan favorite during his first stay in Milwaukee and adding him to the roster boosts the team's athleticism, defense and veteran leadership.
The 29-year-old Mason played the past two seasons with New Orleans.
The Bucks traded him to the Hornets in 2005 along with a 2006 first-round draft pick and cash in exchange for center Jamaal Magloire.
The 6'5" Mason played in 145 games with the Hornets, starting 130.
The team played most of its home games in Oklahoma City.
He averaged nearly 14 points and five rebounds while playing 34 minutes per game last season.
