The Washington Wizards announced yesterday that they have signed University of Maryland standout Steve Blake to a contract.

Blake, a point guard selected by the Wizards in the second round (38th overall) of the NBA Draft, signed a two-year deal. He'll earn $367,000 this season. The second year is not guaranteed.

"Steve is a proven winner from a terrific college program, and he played well for us during summer league," Wizards president of basketball operations Ernie Grunfeld said. "He showed the ability to lead a team, make plays for his teammates and defend at the pro level."

Blake, who played with Wizards guard Juan Dixon on the 2002 NCAA national championship team, becomes the second true point guard on the roster. Recently signed Gilbert Arenas, who became the starter the second he signed a $64 million contract earlier this month, is the other.