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Deron Williams’ Mom Says He May Not Play for Mavericks Because People in Texas Would Bother Him Too Much

As NBA free agency approaches, the anticipation grows over whether Deron Williams will re-sign with the Brooklyn Nets for Russian big bucks or return to his native Texas to join the Dallas Mavericks.

(Or, he could go somewhere else, but that would ruin the sterling track record of dozens of analysts and bloggers.)

Many see Dallas as a great fit for Williams, not only because the veteran-stocked, win-ready team needs a solid point guard to help out Jason Kidd, but also because Williams has a lot of ties in Texas, considering that's where he grew up.

But Williams' mom doesn't think it's as easy as that.

She told ESPN this week that the last time Williams hung out in his hometown after reaching NBA stardom, he had trouble keeping the neighbors away.

"He did have a house in Carrollton for the first two offseasons, and that was a big issue," Denise Smith said. "People would just show up, and they felt like they never had any privacy."

If he did return to Texas, she said, he "would definitely have to live where it's gated."

Smith assured ESPN that she isn't urging her son to sign with any team, and she didn't seem to include herself among those who would be pestering Williams if he moved home.