“The underground GOAT” – 3x NBA sixth man Lou Williams announces retirement from 17-year long career
Legendary sixth man Lou Williams hangs up his jersey, a look back at an iconic NBA career
Lou Williams
After a remarkable 17-season career in the NBA, Lou Williams, the iconic sixth man, has decided to retire from professional basketball. The guard, known for his inspiring performances off the bench, made the emotional announcement through a touching video shared on social media. Williams expressed gratitude for his time in the league and revealed that he had his last dance, signaling the end of an era.
Throughout his career, Williams left an unfading mark on the game, becoming a beloved figure on every team he played for. Although he never captured an NBA championship, there is no doubt that he is one of the most iconic players of his generation. His ability to energize his teams and deliver crucial scoring off the bench earned him three Sixth Man of the Year awards, further cementing his legacy.
Williams spent his final NBA season with the Atlanta Hawks, where he showcased his skills in 56 games, averaging 6.3 points, 1.9 assists, and 1.6 rebounds during the 2021-22 season. While his statistics may not reflect his true impact, his veteran leadership and invaluable experience undoubtedly played a significant role in guiding the Hawks throughout the season.
Reflecting on a storied career and memorable moments of Lou Williams
Lou Williams’ career spanned across six NBA franchises, leaving a lasting impression wherever he played. He began his journey with the Philadelphia 76ers, followed by stints with the Toronto Raptors, Los Angeles Lakers, Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Clippers, and finally, the Atlanta Hawks.
In 1,123 regular-season games, Williams averaged 13.9 points, 3.4 assists, and 2.2 rebounds. His most outstanding scoring season came in 2017-18 with the Los Angeles Clippers, where he averaged a career-high 22.6 points per game, leading to his well-deserved Sixth Man of the Year accolade. His offensive prowess and ability to come through in clutch moments made him a fan favorite and a valuable asset to any team.
While Williams’ on-court performances were remarkable, he also found himself in the headlines for some controversial moments. In a display of bravery, he once intervened and stopped a gunman from robbing him on Christmas day. Additionally, his unconventional personal life garnered attention, as he faced both criticism and praise for maintaining relationships with two girlfriends, an aspect of his life that he admitted bothered him.
One of the most memorable and interesting events involving Williams occurred during the 2020 NBA bubble. He garnered attention for breaking the league’s strict rules when he made an unplanned visit to a strip club, claiming he went there solely to pick up some wings. This incident sparked discussions and debates, adding to the colorful narrative surrounding Williams’ career.
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Vivek Yadav
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