Author: Monojit Mandal
The efforts of bench players in professional basketball are sometimes overlooked. Among these unknown superstars, two names stand out: Lou Williams and Jamal Crawford, both considered some of the most extraordinary sixth men in basketball. Their obvious talent makes many question whether they deserve their places in the prestigious Hall of Fame. A notion that Williams firmly supports.
In an exclusive interview with TMZ Sports, Lou Williams passionately defended his admission to the Hall of Fame, talking about his exceptional career and even proposing that the Sixth Man of the Year award be named after him. The veteran player also said that Jamal Crawford and Manu Ginóbili are equally deserving of the honor. “If not me, Jamal [Crawford],” he said. Manu [Ginóbili] if Jamal is not available. “I think there are three of us who stand for that,” said Williams emphatically.
“We’ve made it a lifestyle”. I believe we have transformed people’s perception of sport. Most importantly, we changed the players’ perception. I think the Hall of Fame is about what you bring to the table and being the best at what you do in basketball. “I think we’ve all done that.
Lou Williams’ basketball career has been a model of perseverance and talent. Williams, despite not having the official title, became known for leading the Clippers in an impressive 31-point comeback against the Golden State Warriors during the 2019 playoffs and for delivering a resounding 50-point performance against the formidable Warriors led by Kevin Durant. Without a doubt, the three who stand out as the main candidates for the NBA Hall of Fame.
During his 17-year career in the NBA, Lou Williams has played for nine different teams, including the Philadelphia 76ers, Atlanta Hawks, Los Angeles Clippers and others. He was an important player during the Clippers’ “Lob City” period, helping them reach the Western Conference finals in 2015 and 2016. Williams was known for his scoring ability, creative shooting, skillful passing and important rebounding skills. He finished his career with averages of 15.2 points, 2.6 rebounds and 4.9 assists per game.
Lou Williams, who will leave the NBA in 2023, easily took over as basketball commentator for ESPN. His illustrious career includes being named NBA Sixth Man of the Year three times (2015, 2018, 2019).