Lance Stephenson not only plans to make an NBA comeback — he knows where he’d prefer to play.
“I think it is time for a New York team. I want to play for the Nets or the Knicks, either one would do,” Stephenson told the New York Post’s Tashara Jones.
The 32-year-old Stephenson, who has played 554 regular-season games, would actually be making a second comeback if an NBA team takes a chance on him. He didn’t play in the league during the 2019/20 and 2020/21 seasons, then saw action in six games with the Hawks and 40 with the Pacers in ’21/22.
Stephenson was unable to land an NBA contract last season. He wound up Puerto Rico during the spring with Leones de Ponce and appeared in four games with that club.
“I definitely miss the NBA now that I am playing in Puerto Rico. I did not want to leave. So my goal right now is to get back in there and show them that I am born ready,” he said.
Stephenson began his career with Indiana and had three stints with the organization. In the 40 games he played for the Pacers two seasons ago, he averaged 9.3 points and 3.9 assists in 18.6 minutes. He underwent surgery on his right knee after that season.
Stephenson was born in Brooklyn but he’s never played for either of the New York teams. He’s hoping to change that.
“I feel like I did enough for people to remember me and know me as one of the top players that played in New York,” he said. “I feel like I am just New York.”
Well the Nets have a standard spot open if he’s able to show he can take it.
BKN can have him if they like. I think people in the NY area do remember him, but not necessarily with the fondness he presupposes.
He really was one of best HS ballers ever. Unfortunately he didn’t have the career Alcindor had. Or even Anderson had …..
He should ask Ice Cube for a job ……
Keep that passport handy….
I didn’t know you needed a passport to fly from Puerto Rico
You don’t but I agree he’d probably do much better overseas, if Kemba can play Euroleague why not Lance
K
So, the guy who couldn’t get a contract offer from anyone, has narrowed down those non-existent offers to 2.
I think Bruno is finally ready too
I heard the Barclay Center has some janitorial positions up for grabs. He can go from wing defender to janitor. Thats the closest he will get to playing in Brooklyn
Both teams have at least one spot available, though if I were the Knicks I’d sign Arcidiacono again to have another nova guy lol
thats nice! does he have a salary number in mind also?
I think he’d sign for the minimum.. nobody else is offering him (that we know of) and to play for his hometown team is a big draw for every player.
His air-guitar celebration alone should guarantee him the mid-level exception of any/every team.
Lol
DeLancesional
I want to play for the Knicks or Nets too
I’ve actually decided to take my talents to south beach! Manifesting is great!