Walter McCarty said he wouldn't sign with the Celtics for the veteran minimum. And he ultimately didn't have to.
The free agent forward and the club have agreed on a three-year deal that will pay him a total of $4.1 million. McCarty came to the decision late Friday night after a meeting with Jim O'Brien.

``We talked about a lot of things - about life and about the game of basketball,'' said McCarty. ``We just kind of came to some conclusions about what's important. It wasn't just a money thing. I have money and I've been smart with my money. It was about being with the team I wanted to be with. I've been well supported by the people here, and it was hard to think about going somewhere else and trying to build up what I already have. I love Boston. I love being here.

``A key factor for me was playing for Obie. I've been able to work for him a long time and we've developed a great relationship. And I wanted to keep playing with (Tony) Delk, Antoine (Walker), (Tony) Battie, Paul (Pierce), Mark Blount and Eric Williams. I think we have something great going here and I didn't want that to end.''

Neither did the Celtics, who at first had hoped to lure McCarty back for the $876,000 minimum for a player with seven years' experience.

``Walter is a really good get for our team,'' said director of basketball operations Danny Ainge, who was informed of McCarty's decision yesterday morning. ``He's such an important part of what the team has done the last few years, and the coach loves him. Jim O'Brien's the happiest guy in Boston today.''