The controversy surrounding Leon Smith during his short time in (and out) of the NBA closed yet another chapter yesterday when the 6-10 center failed to show at workouts in Seattle yesterday, leading to his waiver by the Sonics.

"Really it was his call," coach Nate McMillan said. "I think after the first two practices he just felt like he wasn't ready for this level and decided that he wanted to take off."

Smith, who turns 24 next month, has been a frequent traveler since skipping college. He was selected 29th overall by San Antonio in the 1999 NBA draft, then was immediately traded to Dallas.

After a suicide attempt, the Mavericks released him early in his rookie season. Smith returned in 2002 and played 14 games in Atlanta. He spent time in the Continental Basketball Association before joining the Sonics last April and playing with their summer-league team.

"It was a surprise, but I can understand that," McMillan said. "Maybe he can get with another team. Another club to have a better shot."