Ex-Illini Brian Cook signs with Clippers

Tribune News Services LOS ANGELES -- The Clippers have signed free agent forward Brian Cook, bringing him back to the city where he began his NBA career with the Lakers. Cook averaged 1.4 points and 0.6 rebounds in 15 games with Houston last season. The Rockets waived him in February. The seven-year veteran has career averages of 5.8 points, 2.7 rebounds and 0.3 blocks in stints with the Lakers, Orlando and Houston. Cook was drafted out of Illinois by the Lakers in 2003 with the 24th pick. He played four full seasons with them, with his best season 2005-06, when he averaged career-highs of 7.9 points and 3.4 rebounds. Photo: Brian Cook and Kobe Bryant in 2004. (Stephen Dunn / Getty Images)