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Rajon Rondo's gameday routine may seem unconventional to some, but for the veteran NBA player, it's all about finding the right balance and preparation to perform at his best on the court. In a recent conversation on 'All The Smoke' with Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson, Rondo shed light on his gameday superstition, revealing a meticulous routine that involves multiple showers. 

"I always shower with 45 minutes on the clock right before meetings… I'll put my uniform on as the coach is talking. Some coaches liked it, some coaches didn't, but for the most part, I was able to pull my vet move and get it done." 

"I showered on game days about five times. It kinda refreshes me: shower when you get up, come back home, shoot around, shower, take a nap, get up, shower again, and go to the arena, shower after the game, shower." (28:29)

For Rondo, the ritual begins with a shower approximately 45 minutes before team meetings. This initial shower serves as a precursor to his game-day preparations, setting the stage for his mental and physical readiness. As the coach addresses the team, Rondo discreetly dons his uniform, ensuring that he's fully dressed and prepared by the time the meeting concludes.

However, it's the repeated showers throughout the day that truly define Rondo's routine. He admits to showering up to five times on game days, utilizing each session as a means to refresh and reset. From the morning shower to the post-game cleanse, Rondo finds solace and clarity in the act of washing away the day's distractions and focusing on the task at hand.

While some may view such rituals as superstitions, Rondo approaches them with a sense of pragmatism and routine. Each shower serves a specific purpose within his schedule, whether it's to kickstart the day, rejuvenate after a shootaround, or unwind following a game. It's a process that Rondo has fine-tuned over the years, allowing him to maintain a sense of control and preparedness amidst the chaos of game day.

Interestingly, Rondo acknowledges that since retiring from professional basketball, he has shed many of these superstitions. With his focus now shifted towards daily workouts and personal growth, Rondo has found new avenues for channeling his dedication and discipline. Yet, his gameday routine remains a testament to the meticulous attention to detail that has defined his illustrious career on the hardwood.

Rajon Rondo Officially Retires From The NBA 

After a remarkable 16-season career in the NBA, Rajon Rondo has officially announced his retirement from professional basketball. The news came during an appearance on the "All The Smoke" podcast, where Rondo shared his decision, citing his desire to prioritize spending time with his children.

Drafted in the first round by the Phoenix Suns in 2006 before being traded to the Boston Celtics on the same night, Rondo quickly made a name for himself as one of the league's premier point guards. During his nine-year tenure with the Celtics, he achieved significant milestones, including winning his first NBA championship in 2008.

Despite his storied tenure in Boston, Rondo's career saw him don the jerseys of several other NBA franchises, including the Dallas Mavericks, Sacramento Kings, Chicago Bulls, New Orleans Pelicans, Los Angeles Lakers, Atlanta Hawks, Los Angeles Clippers, and Cleveland Cavaliers. Notably, he played a pivotal role in securing a championship for the Lakers during the 2019-2020 season, contributing significantly during the playoffs with his trademark playmaking and defensive prowess.

Throughout his career, Rondo's impact transcended statistics, with his court vision, defensive tenacity, and basketball IQ making him a force to be reckoned with on both ends of the floor. His ability to elevate his game during crucial moments and lead his teams to success cemented his legacy as one of the game's most formidable point guards.

During his illustrious 16-season career in the NBA, Rajon Rondo amassed impressive statistics and accolades. He appeared in 957 games, averaging 9.8 points, 7.9 assists,  4.5 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game.  He maintained solid shooting percentages, with a field goal percentage of 45.2%, a three-point percentage of 32.7%, and a free throw percentage of 60.2%. 

His excellence on the court earned him four All-Star selections consecutively from 2010 to 2013. Additionally, Rondo was honored with four NBA All-Defensive Team selections, earning First Team distinctions in 2010 and 2011 and Second Team honors in 2009 and 2012. 

He led the league in assists three times (2012, 2013, 2016) and was once the NBA steals leader in 2010. Rondo's contributions were recognized early in his career when he was named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team in 2007, laying the foundation for a remarkable journey in professional basketball.

As Rondo transitions into retirement, he leaves behind an enduring legacy that includes two NBA championships, four All-Star appearances, and a reputation as one of the league's most respected floor generals. While his playing days may have come to an end, Rondo's contributions to the game of basketball will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.

This article first appeared on Fadeaway World and was syndicated with permission.

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