T.J. Ford is close to a deal with the Spurs to become Tony Parker's backup point guard.

“I can’t wait to get there,” he said from his home in Houston.

“This is a great opportunity for me to continue to play,” said Ford. “I understand my role in the NBA now. I accept it and look forward to getting started on Friday. I want to help these guys pick up where they left off in the regular season and I believe I can be a positive factor for them off the bench.

“I’m healthy,” he said. “Condition-wise, I’m in great shape. I’ve been playing in Europe, so I think I’m ready for an NBA camp.”