In a heartfelt announcement, Jeremy Lamb declared his retirement from professional basketball, closing the chapter on a distinguished 10-year NBA career. "Basketball has been good to me throughout my entire life, so this decision didn't come easy," wrote Lamb in an emotional Instagram post. "But I have decided to retire from the game that has given me everything."
Lamb's journey in the NBA began when he was selected as the 12th overall pick by the Houston Rockets in the 2012 NBA Draft. Shortly after the draft, he became part of a significant trade, moving to the Oklahoma City Thunder in a multi-player deal that sent James Harden to Houston. This trade was a pivotal moment in Lamb's early career, as it thrust him into the spotlight on a team with championship aspirations.
During his tenure with the Thunder, Lamb spent three seasons sharpening his skills and contributing to a competitive squad. His time in Oklahoma City was a crucial developmental period that laid the foundation for his subsequent contributions in the league.
A New Chapter with the Hornets
The 2015-16 season marked a new chapter for Lamb, as he joined the Charlotte Hornets. Over four seasons, Lamb averaged 11.9 points and 23 minutes per game, emerging as a reliable and consistent contributor. One of his most memorable moments in a Hornets uniform came on March 24, 2019, when he made a game-winning, buzzer-beating half-court shot to defeat the Toronto Raptors. This dramatic play not only exemplified his clutch abilities but also etched his name into Hornets' lore.
Later Years and Contributions
Lamb's NBA journey didn't end in Charlotte. He went on to play for the Indiana Pacers and the Sacramento Kings, displaying his versatility and skillset during the 2021-22 season. Throughout his career, he maintained an average of 10.1 points and 3.6 rebounds per game, showcasing his ability to contribute effectively on both ends of the court.
Collegiate Success
Prior to his professional career, Lamb had a successful collegiate run at the University of Connecticut. He was instrumental in the Huskies' remarkable 2011 NCAA championship victory, averaging 14.1 points over 75 games. His standout performances in college undoubtedly paved the way for his entry into the NBA.
Reflecting on his career, Lamb can take pride in his journey from a promising college star to a seasoned NBA veteran. As he steps away from the game, he leaves behind a legacy of memorable performances and significant contributions to every team he played for. Jeremy Lamb's retirement marks the end of an era, but his impact on the court will be remembered by fans and teammates alike.