REITERATING what he first announced a year ago, Michael Jordan is expected to issue a statement later this week confirming he will play a 15th NBA season.

　　Jordan signed a two-year contract with the Washington Wizards when he ended his second retirement. Despite missing 22 games with knee problems last season, he said he planned to fulfill the contract if he felt physically able.

　　Jordan has said he would make a “last-minute” announcement about his playing status. The Wizards open training camp next Tuesday in Wilmington, N.C., where Jordan grew up.

　　Coach Doug Collins has said the Wizards plan to use Jordan off the bench for the first time in his career. He would play in the backcourt behind Jerry Stackhouse, who was acquired in a trade with the Detroit Pistons, and Larry Hughes, a free agent from Golden State. (SD-Agencies)