Hornets sign Mexican Center Gustavo Ayon

**Darth_Pelican** · 12-21-2011

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New Orleans Hornets sign Mexican center Gustavo Ayon

Published: Wednesday, December 21, 2011, 9:09 AM Updated: Wednesday, December 21, 2011, 9:24 AM

The New Orleans Hornets have signed Gustavo Ayon.
After a buyout of reportedly $1.5 million, half of which was reportedly covered by the New Orleans Hornets, the Hornets have signed Mexican center Gustavo Ayon, the player said in a press conference in Spain on Wednesday and sources later confirmed.
Ayon, listed in various places as 6 foot 9 or 6 foot 10, was scouted extensively by the Hornets prior to the beginning of the 149-day lockout this summer.
The Hornets have been in the market for a backup post man and were in talks with Ayon over the weekend. But the major sticking point was the player's buyout from the team for which he played in Spain, Fuenlabrada.
Ayon, 245 pounds, has been a member of the Mexican national basketball team since 2007.
Playing in 33 games last season for Fuenlabrada, Ayon averaged 10.8 points and 6.3 rebounds per game.
The Indiana Pacers and Denver Nuggets were also attempting to get Ayon under contract, according to sources.
Previously, Ayon has also been linked to interest by the Phoenix Suns and San Antonio Spurs.
It is uncertain at this point when Ayon may arrive in New Orleans.