Richard Hamilton won a champion both at the college and the NBA level. He played in the Association for 14 seasons, earning three All-Star appearances in the process.
Affectionately known as “Rip,” the 38-year-old Hamilton has not set foot on a NBA court in three years.
That could very well change this upcoming season should the former wing prove to himself that he’s capable of making a comeback.
“I’m giving myself 30 days where I am really hitting the gym. I’m working on my game. I’m in the weight room, Hamilton said recently, via CBS Sports. “I’m running my two, three miles a day. And I’m trying to see if my body can hold up. If my body can hold up after these 30 days, I will be making a comeback.”
Hamilton last played in the NBA with the Chicago Bulls back in 2012-13, averaging 9.8 points while shooting 43 percent in 50 games (45 starts).
His best stretch in the Association came with the Detroit Pistons from 2002-2011 when he earned three All-Star trips and hoisted the Larry O’Brien trophy. Hamilton averaged 18.4 points in nine seasons with the Pistons.
Jokes will be made about Hamilton’s intentions here. Maybe he’s prepared to join Stephen Jackson with the Golden State Warriors. After all, it seems everyone is looking in that direction right now.
As it is, expectations should be muted here a bit. Hamilton is 38 years old and three years removed from seeing the hardwood.
Any comeback likely wouldn’t end up in him being much more than a deep bench option, especially if he were to join a good team.