BOSTON — Backup point guard Sam Cassell is back to help the Boston Celtics try to repeat as NBA champions.

Cassell had been in touch with Doc Rivers during the summer, but the Celtics coach didn't know if Cassell had decided to come back for another season with the team. The 38-year-old Cassell, who joined the team in March for the playoff run, showed up for media day today to sign a contract for his 16th NBA season.

Cassell averaged 7.6 points and two assists during the regular season in helping Boston win its NBA-record 17th title.