Wallace goes forward with 2-year deal

LAS VEGAS -- The Celtics yesterday signed undrafted free agent Brandon Wallace to a partially-guaranteed two-year contract.

Coming out of the University of South Carolina, the 6-foot-9-inch, 203-pounder has been impressive at small forward during two NBA Summer League games, especially since he had to adjust to a new position after playing center in college.

"Brandon Wallace is a very talented young man," said Danny Ainge, executive director of basketball operations/general manager. "He's got a great basketball IQ and he's very aware defensively.

"I like his passing, defense, rebounding, and shot-blocking ability. I don't know how good he can be at [small forward], but he's a guy we're excited to see develop."

In the Celtics' Summer League opener Friday against the Portland Trail Blazers, Wallace finished with 8 points, 5 rebounds, 1 blocked shot, and 1 steal in 26 minutes. He followed that with 4 points, 5 rebounds, and 1 steal yesterday against the Spurs.

"Everything happened so fast," said Wallace. "If you asked me if I expected it to happen this soon, I would have said, 'No.' I just thank Boston for giving me the opportunity, believing that a guy who played [center] in college can play [small forward] in the NBA. It's rare that someone that goes undrafted signs this early."

Wallace also thanked the Celtics for making him switch to small forward.

"It was actually a big favor," said Wallace. "In the SEC, it was rough playing against guys that size [centers] and it would have been tougher [in the NBA]. Whoever made that call, I appreciate it."

His agent, Eric Fleisher, acknowledged that the Celtics have long held a strong interest in Wallace.

According to Fleisher, the Celtics called him two minutes after the draft, looking to add Wallace to their Summer League roster.

"Boston showed a real interest in Brandon early," said Fleisher. "I think they did a very good job of evaluating him as a player and as a person. He had a very good workout and it reconfirmed things that they'd seen. I had a very good feeling it would be a nice fit."

After the Summer League, Wallace will head to Boston to work out with team personnel.