BOSTON -- Eddie House could have opted for more money in the free agent market.

But the fan-favorite has decided to remain with the Boston Celtics, according to the Boston Globe.

House, who has one year remaining on his contract worth $2.86 million, could have exercised a player option and declared for free agency, but his agent Mark Bartlestein told the Globe that House wants to stay in Boston for a chance to win another championship with the Celtics.

"Eddie is staying in the contract,'' Bartelstein said. ''It was a tough decision. We went back and forth the last couple of weeks. But, when it was all said and done, Eddie loved his time in Boston. He feels like he is on a championship contender. He really enjoys playing with his teammates and playing for Doc [Rivers], and the fans have been great to him.

''There is no question there would have been a tremendous amount of interest in Eddie. Who wouldn't want him? But there is the unknown, not knowing where you are going to end up, and he really enjoys going to work every day with the Celtics.

''He'll stay at least one more year and he can go into free agency next year, if he wants. But he has a comfort zone there; he's enjoyed the experience, and he didn't want to walk away from it."

The 31-year-old House averaged 8.5 points in 81 games for the Celtics last season.

''He can play a lot more years," Bartelstein said. "He takes good care of himself and he's an absolute pro. There are not a lot of times in life where you find a place that feels like home and you have a chance to win the championship, and he's got that.''