Wallace, Grizzlies close to agreement on contract extension

[La Bomba]

Wallace's contract with the Grizzlies is set to expire following this season. But barring a dramatic turn of events, he'll remain the team's general manager and vice president of basketball operations for years to come.

 

"He works hard and he's done a fantastic job," Griz owner Michael Heisley said. "He's someone I work with well. We have great chemistry. I'd like for Chris to stay and I think he'll be with us for a good period of time."

 

A franchise best known for losing, and its revolving door with players and coaches over the past three years has now turned its attention to winning games and creating stability.

 

The Griz (19-18) have already begun negotiating with coach Lionel Hollins on a contract extension that will likely be finalized next month. Heisley sounded as if he expected Wallace's new deal to be more of a technicality.

 

The feeling is mutual.

 

"I'd love to stay here," Wallace said. "I want to be here a long time. The team is on an upswing. People are starting to relate to the team, and come back to FedExForum. I really enjoy working with Mike. He's a hard-charging, aggressive guy who has been successful in everything else he's done. We have to find a way to reward him with success with the Grizzlies."

 

http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2010/jan/14/wallace-griz-close-to-extension/