Okafor will be free agent in July after no new NBA deal

CHARLOTTE, United States (AFP) — Emeka Okafor will become a National Basketball Association free agent in July after refusing to sign a contract extension with the Charlotte Bobcats.

The son of Nigerian parents let pass a Wednesday deadline for signing a new deal, meaning the number two pick selection of the 2004 NBA Draft and most notable player in the history of the three-year-old expansion squad is likely to leave.

"Player contracts are very difficult to get done when there's no posturing," said Bernie Bickerstaff the Bobcats executive vice president of basketball operations.

"Our offer was commensurate with our respect for ...