Cavaliers re-sign veteran forward Richard Jefferson

CLEVELAND - Veteran forward Richard Jefferson has re-signed with the NBA champion Cavaliers for two seasons after saying he would retire.

Jefferson announced his return earlier this month on his Snapchat account, and the team made it official Thursday. The 36-year-old played a vital role in the team's title run. He made two starts in the postseason and provided leadership on and off the court as the Cavs ended the city's 52-year championship drought.

General manager David Griffin said Griffin's versatility and leadership ''were core parts of our identity and success.''

Shortly after the Cavs stunned the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Finals, Jefferson said he was ending his career on a high note. However, after fans chanted ''One more year'' during the team's victory rally, Jefferson had a change of heart and will be back for a 16th NBA season.

Jefferson averaging 5.4 points, 3.5 rebounds and 18.1 minutes during the postseason.