NBA Notes: Tristan Thompson declines Cavs' qualifying offer

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CLEVELAND -- Forward Tristan Thompson declined to sign a one-year, $6.8 million qualifying offer for this season and remains a restricted free agent.

Thompson had until 11:59 p.m. Thursday to accept the offer. The elite rebounder and the defending Eastern Conference champions remain apart on a long-term contract. The Cavs practice Friday, and if he's not there he will be considered a holdout.

Thompson was a key contributor during Cleveland's run to the NBA Finals last season, filling in when starter Kevin Love dislocated his shoulder. Thompson and his representatives believe he deserves a maximum contract.

The Cavs value Thompson, but aren't willing to go beyond what they're comfortable offering.

Twice in the past few days LeBron James said he was confident the sides could reach a long-term deal. James is also represented by Thompson's agent, Rich Paul (see full story).

Bucks: Team locks up Henson for 4 years
John Henson's statistics from his first three seasons in the NBA don't really jump off the page.

The Milwaukee Bucks see so much more from Henson than any stat line, and so much more room for the 24-year-old to grow. And they want to be in position to reap those benefits as Henson continues to develop with the up-and-coming Bucks.

Milwaukee and Henson agreed Friday to a four-year, $44 million contract that could reach $48 million if certain incentives are reached, a person with knowledge of the deal told The Associated Press. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because an official announcement has not been made.

Henson was the 14th overall pick out of North Carolina in 2012. Picking in the middle of the first round can be an incredibly difficult position to be in, but Bucks GM John Hammond has hit on several of his choices, including Giannis Antetokounmpo and Henson, a 6-foot-11 power forward/center with the ability to guard multiple positions (see full story).

NBA: League brings Dempsey in as adviser
NEW YORK -- Gen. Martin Dempsey, the recently retired chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has been appointed a special adviser to NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.

The league said Friday that Dempsey, the highest-ranking U.S. military officer for the past four years, will participate in NBA functions and serve as chairman of the newly formed Jr. NBA Leadership Council. His position begins Jan. 1, 2016.

Dempsey worked closely with the NBA through the league's Hoops for Troops program, which conducted basketball clinics and health seminars on military bases throughout the country. He says basketball has always been a favorite sport in his family and he's "seen firsthand how it can bring people together."

Among Dempsey's roles, he will take part in the NBA's overseas exhibition games and its All-Star weekend, and participate in some league meetings (see full story).

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