Yesterday, one of the most prolific outside shooters in NBA history called it quits as Dallas Mavericks guard Peja Stojakovic retired at the age of 34.
Peja’s 13-year NBA career posted some very solid numbers with 17 PPG; a FG percentage of 45.0; three All-Star appearances; ranking fourth all time in 3PT FG at 1,760; and most importantly earning a nice piece of jewelry for the ring finger.
–
Plagued by neck and back injuries over the past few years, Stojaovic was a shadow of his former self, but still showed flashes of his regular play after being acquired by the Mavs last November from Toronto, earning him a spot on the playoff roster.
He offered his thanks to Sacramento, Indiana, New Orleans, and Dallas last night for all of the support through the years, but took a special side-note to the Mavs for believing in him and giving him a chance to end on a high note.
For this long time Mavs fan it was strange cheering on a player who I despised for so many years. As member of the hated Sacramento Kings, I remember him being the lone dagger in many contests and how frustrating it was to see him floating out to the corner with his quick release shot.
If uncontested, it was unstoppable, but even with a defender draped on him his quick-release was a thing of beauty and almost always found the bottom of the net.
It was almost surreal seeing him do the very same thing to a stacked Lakers team in the second round of last year’s playoffs.
No Mavericks fan out there could have predicted that legendary run last Spring, if you said you did…..you’re living through revisionist history.
2010′s championship was a win-by-committee and Peja carried more than his load for the Mavericks when the time was right.
Thanks Peja and enjoy life!
Technorati Tags: dallas mavericks, NBA, peja stojakovic, pro basketball
Original Story:
http://www.fanattic.net/basketball/pr...
|
December 19, 2011
