Stephon Marbury had his fair share of highlights during his NBA prime before things turned dark. He left the league in 2009, opting to play in China. He flourished playing in the Chinese Basketball Association and was treated like a god.
Now at 40-years-old, the two-time all-star has voiced out his rekindled interest in returning to the NBA fold. The last time hoop fans saw him was with the Boston Celtics where he played only 23 games. He hardly made his mark, averaging 3.8 points, 3.3 assists in 18 minutes per game.
Proper send-off
The Celtics do have a roster spot though there is no word of team president Danny Ainge is even pondering on signing the former player.
With a roster full of young guys, Marbury brings in added experience and scoring.
Aside from that, it could be a fitting farewell for Starbury. This is assuming that he intends to return with the intention of retiring from the big league. In a way, it could be similar to what the Celtics did when they signed Paul Pierce to a one-day contract for him to retire as a Celtic, CBS reported.
Where should Marbury really retire?
As pointed out earlier, the Celtics were hardly the team where Starbury made a difference. For those who followed his career, Marbury played for the Minnesota Timberwolves, Brooklyn/ New Jersey Nets, Phoenix Suns and New York Knicks as well.
Of those teams, Marbury has his best years with the T-Wolves and the Nets.
Hence, if Starbury were to retire, it may be best be done either in Minnesota or Brooklyn. The only problem though is if either team would be willing to add him to their respective rosters.
Is Starbury even planning to retire?
At 40, critics feel that Marbury wants to return to retire in style. However, the 40-year-old seems bent on keeping in step with the younger players the NBA has right now.
While he has proven that in China, the level of competition in the NBA is far different. He could give it a try but going up against the likes of Chris Paul, Kyrie Irving or Steph Curry could be a tall order even with the competitive spirit burning within.
The word out is that several teams are interested in giving Marbury an opportunity to play.
Returning after being out of the league for more than eight years may seem like a long shot though the Brooklyn, New York native has been known to defy the odds.
He is on the verge of retiring from basketball, and nothing would be sweeter than finishing it in the NBA. Marbury may have had his share of controversies but nevertheless deserves a chance to get a respectable send-off.
