From the Associated Press :

PG Damon Jones decided not to exercise the option year of his contract with the Miami Heat on Thursday and will become a free agent.

Jones, the Heat™s starting point guard this past season, had until midnight Thursday to invoke a $2.75 million option for 2005-06. He can negotiate with teams starting Friday, but cannot sign with the Heat or any other club until July 22.

Knicks GM Isiah Thomas did little to clarify Herb Williams’ situation this evening during the former’s brief appearance on ESPN’s “Sportscenter”. Zeke described Williams as “our coach right now”, and refusing to take the bait when asked about Larry Brown.

New York has exercised its option on F Michael Sweetny for the 2005-2006 season.