July 11, 2002

WASHINGTON, D.C. - First-round draft choice Juan Dixon, who led Maryland to the NCAA championship, signed a contract Thursday with the Washington Wizards.

Dixon, a guard who was the 17th overall selection in last month's NBA draft, approved a deal that will pay him $3.15 million over three years under the collective bargaining agreement. He also has an option for a fourth year at $1.73 million.

"I'm excited. I've been ready to get things started,'' Dixon said. ''I'm just trying to learn as much as possible, and I have a lot of great people to learn from.''

Dixon grew up and played high school basketball in Baltimore, then went to nearby College Park to play for the Terrapins.

"Juan brings tremendous ability and heart to the Wizards,'' general manager Wes Unseld said in a statement. "He is a proven leader who wants to showcase his talents in the NBA.''

Dixon did not participate in the first workout of Washington's mini-camp Thursday morning, but was in uniform for Thursday evening's workout.

He was selected as Most Outstanding Player of the Final Four, and was Maryland's leading career scorer with 2,269 points. He also was a first team All-American after averaging 20.4 points as a senior.

Dixon is the second of the Wizards' first-round draft picks to sign in two days. Forward Jared Jeffries, the 11th pick in the draft, signed Wednesday and was at practice Thursday.