Al Harrington's journey in professional basketball began when he was selected as the 25th overall pick in the 1998 NBA Draft by the Indiana Pacers. Straight out of St. Patrick High School in New Jersey, Harrington entered the league as a promising young talent. His early years with the Pacers were marked by gradual development, as he learned the ropes of the NBA and honed his skills on the court.
During his tenure with the Pacers, Harrington played a supporting role on a team that was consistently competitive in the Eastern Conference. He contributed to the Pacers' deep playoff runs, including their appearance in the 2000 NBA Finals. Over time, Harrington's playing time and responsibilities increased, and he became known for his scoring ability and versatility as a forward.
In 2004, Harrington was traded to the Atlanta Hawks, where he had the opportunity to take on a more prominent role. With the Hawks, he showcased his scoring prowess, averaging over 17 points per game during the 2004-2005 season. His performance in Atlanta solidified his reputation as a reliable scorer and a valuable asset to any team.
Harrington's career continued with a stint at the Golden State Warriors, where he was part of the memorable "We Believe" team that upset the top-seeded Dallas Mavericks in the first round of the 2007 NBA Playoffs. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting and contribute in various facets of the game made him a key component of the Warriors' success during that playoff run.
Following his time with the Warriors, Harrington played for several other NBA teams, including the New York Knicks, Denver Nuggets, Orlando Magic, and Washington Wizards. Throughout these years, he maintained his reputation as a reliable scorer and a veteran presence in the locker room. His ability to adapt to different roles and contribute off the bench or as a starter was a testament to his skill set and understanding of the game.
Harrington's career was also marked by his ability to overcome injuries and continue to perform at a high level. Despite facing various physical setbacks, he remained a valuable contributor to his teams and a respected figure among his peers.
In addition to his on-court achievements, Harrington was known for his leadership and mentorship of younger players. His experience and knowledge of the game made him a valuable resource for teammates and coaches alike.
After retiring from professional basketball, Harrington transitioned into the business world, where he became an advocate for the use of medical cannabis. His post-basketball endeavors have been focused on entrepreneurship and community engagement, reflecting his diverse interests and commitment to making a positive impact off the court.
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