Pistons Dive Into Free Agent Pool

July 1, 2009 - 11:22 PM

DETROIT (AP) - A person with the knowledge of the negotiations

says the Detroit Pistons have agreed in principle to contracts with

free agents Ben Gordon and Charlie Villanueva.

The person spoke to The Associated Press on Wednesday night on

the condition of anonymity because NBA rules prohibit teams from

announcing free agent signings until next week.

Gordon, the third pick in the 2004 draft by the Chicago Bulls,

agreed to a 5-year deal for at least $50 million.

Villanueva, the seventh overall pick by Toronto in 2006 who has

played all three of his NBA season with the Milwaukee Bucks, also

agreed to a five-year deal. His contract is worth at least $35

million.