Chris Webber is ready to go home.

"Joining the Pistons will allow me the opportunity to play the game I love in my hometown of Detroit surrounded by my family," Webber said Monday.

The five-time All-Star will sign with Detroit, returning to the area where he grew up and starred in college at Michigan.

After committing to playing for the Pistons, Webber watched them play Minnesota in front-row seats Monday at The Palace. He was greeted by a rousing, standing ovation.

It was a much warmer welcome than Webber had received previously because of his involvement with deceased Michigan booster Ed Martin that led to NCAA sanctions.

The 76ers cut ties Thursday with Webber by buying out the final 1 1/2 years of his contract, which called for him to make nearly $21 million this season and $22 million next season.

A person involved in the negotiations said Webber will sign a prorated contract for the veterans' minimum to play the rest of this season. The person, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because details of the deals have not been released, said Webber got out of his contract with Philadelphia by agreeing to give $2 million to the Sixers this season and $2 million next season.

Webber, the Pistons and their fans just want to win and that's probably why cheers were heard and smiles were everywhere until Minnesota won 94-90 in overtime.

"We think Chris is going to be a great fit for the way we play," Detroit coach Flip Saunders said. "The guys are excited, I'm excited and the town's going to be excited."

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