New Rockets guard Marcus Thornton: 'I wish we could play tomorrow'

Guard Marcus Thornton, who agreed to a one-year contract with the Rockets, arrived at Bush Intercontinental Airport Sunday night thrilled with the opportunity to win a ring.

"Anytime you can play for something bigger than just wins-championships-it's great," Thornton said in an interview with FOX 26 Sports.

"It's a great opportunity."

His Houston-based agent, Tony Dutt, called Thornton joining the Rockets "a perfect fit."

Thornton agreed.

"I think I'll fit right in to how they play, up-tempo team, shoot a lot of threes, score a lot of points," Thornton said.

"Energy, anything the coach needs me to do. Just go out there and produce the time that I'm on the floor."

Thornton looks forward to playing with guys like James Harden, Dwight Howard and Pat Beverley.

"I've been knowing those guys for a long time," Thornton said. "I'm looking forward to it.

"I wish we could play tomorrow."

Thornton, a six-year veteran, has played with the New Orleans Hornets, Sacramento Kings, Brooklyn Nets, Boston Celtics and Phoenix Suns.

During his career Thornton has averaged 12.7 points, 2.9 rebounds and 1.4 assists.

He averaged a career-high 18.7 points with the Kings during the 2011-12 season.

Thornton played college baskeball at LSU and is from Baton Rouge.

"I'm right up the road from home," Thornton said. "All my family will be here.

"I think it's a good deal. I'm going to go in there and play as hard as I can."