■ Timberwolves: Ricky Rubio was not present when Minnesota introduced its 2009 draft class on Friday.
Sixth overall pick Jonny Flynn and 28th pick Wayne Ellington attended with new president David Kahn. But the Timberwolves said that Rubio decided to stay behind because of his contract situation.
The Wolves took Rubio with the fifth overall pick, but it's not clear when he'll be able to play in Minnesota.
He has a $6.6 million buyout from his Spanish professional team. Both he and Kahn said that Rubio may have to play at least one more year in Spain before coming to the NBA.
■ Cavaliers: Shaquille O'Neal hasn't picked out a house in Cleveland yet but has chosen a jersey number -- he's going back to No. 33.
Traded to Cleveland on Thursday, O'Neal picked the number he wore in high school and at LSU before turning pro.
■ Heat: Alonzo Mourning announced yesterday that he will soon start work as vice president of player development for Miami, a job that has a range of responsibilities, including some off the court and in community relations. He'll also spend time mentoring young players, as he did in the latter stages of his playing career.
Mourning retired earlier this year, but it was clear the Heat would find a place in the organization for him. He was the franchise cornerstone and a favorite of team president Pat Riley and owner Micky Arison.
■ Jazz: Utah has made a qualifying offer to forward Paul Millsap, giving the team the right to match any other offers he receives as a restricted free agent.
The Jazz had until Tuesday to make the offer and there was no doubt he would get it. Millsap averaged 13.5 points and 8.6 rebounds last season, playing mostly as a reserve.
He stepped in when starter Carlos Boozer missed 41 games with a knee injury and had a string of 19 straight double-doubles.
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