The Celtics, who reportedly had made an offer to Houston free agent Dikembe Mutombo, appear to have backed out of their pursuit of the ageless 7-footer. A league source said, short of retirement, Mutombo has indicated he is reluctant to move from his home in Houston, which also serves as the base for his many international interests, including his mission work in Africa.

But even without Mutombo?s defensive presence, the Celtics brass believe they have tightened themselves up defensively with the acquisition of Pollard. House will provide the same upgrade offensively.