The question on the minds of so many fans this week is, “Is Billups a Hall of Famer?” which really is amazing when you put it in perspective.
Seven years into his NBA career, Billips was far from “Mr. Big Shot” and was essentially considered a draft bust.
He struggled to score with consistency, to run the fast break, and seemed to be a half second slow when it came to setting up teammates.
Billups’ career started with less than memorable stints in Boston, Toronto and Denver. He then signed with the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2000 to be the backup to incumbent starter Terrell Brandon.
In 2001-02, Brandon suffered a serious injury and Billups moved into the starting line up. He helped lead that team into the playoffs and seemingly re-discovered his confidence.
That off season, Billups was vocal about wanting to stay with the Wolves (since they were the first team to really hand him the keys to the car and believe in him) but the Wolves were so mired in cap constraints, they had to let him walk.
Billups signed with the Detroit Pistons, and became an overnight success in eight years. Yes, Chauncey is the NBA’s answer to Gwen Stefani.
Ya hear that Anthony Bennett haters?
It’s my opinion that we will see Billups back in the game as
a coach sooner rather than later. He has
a high IQ for the sport, and is an outstanding motivator.
