New Orleans, LA -- (Sports Network) - The New Orleans Hornets strengthened their bench on Thursday by signing free-agent forward/center Sean Marks.

Marks was not re-signed by the Suns after averaging 3.1 points in 19 games for them last season.

"We are excited for Sean to join our team," said Hornets general manager Jeff Bower. "He is a veteran leader, who has been on winning teams and will be a great addition to our frontcourt."

The nine -year veteran has career averages of 3.1 points and 1.9 rebounds with Toronto, Miami, San Antonio and the Suns.

When Marks debuted with the Raptors in the 1999 season, he became the first native of New Zealand to play in the NBA.