David Lee, an American professional basketball player, enjoyed a career that spanned over a decade in the NBA. Born on April 29, 1983, in St. Louis, Missouri, Lee's journey to the professional league began with his college basketball career at the University of Florida. As a Gator, he developed his skills and showcased his potential, which eventually led to his selection in the 2005 NBA Draft.
The New York Knicks picked Lee as the 30th overall selection in the first round. During his rookie season, he quickly became known for his rebounding ability and efficient scoring. Lee's hustle and work ethic on the court earned him a spot in the NBA All-Rookie First Team. Over the next few seasons with the Knicks, he continued to improve, becoming a double-double machine and a fan favorite at Madison Square Garden.
In the 2009-2010 season, Lee's performance peaked with the Knicks, as he averaged 20.2 points and 11.7 rebounds per game. This outstanding season earned him his first NBA All-Star selection. Despite his individual success, the Knicks struggled as a team, and Lee sought new opportunities to compete at a higher level.
In 2010, Lee was traded to the Golden State Warriors in a sign-and-trade deal. His arrival in Golden State marked a new chapter in his career. With the Warriors, Lee continued to be a reliable presence on the court, contributing significantly to the team's offense and defense. In the 2012-2013 season, he was selected for his second NBA All-Star Game, becoming the first Warriors player to earn an All-Star nod since Latrell Sprewell in 1997.
Lee's tenure with the Warriors coincided with the team's rise to prominence in the NBA. Although injuries began to affect his playing time, he remained an integral part of the team. During the 2014-2015 season, the Warriors, led by Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, advanced to the NBA Finals. Lee played a crucial role off the bench, providing veteran leadership and experience. The Warriors defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers to win the NBA Championship, giving Lee his first and only championship ring.
Following the championship season, Lee was traded to the Boston Celtics. His time in Boston was short-lived, as he struggled to find a consistent role within the team. In February 2016, the Celtics waived him, and he subsequently signed with the Dallas Mavericks. Lee finished the 2015-2016 season with the Mavericks, where he provided valuable minutes and veteran presence.
In the 2016-2017 season, Lee signed with the San Antonio Spurs. With the Spurs, he continued to contribute as a role player, helping the team reach the Western Conference Finals. However, injuries once again hampered his performance, and after the season concluded, Lee decided to retire from professional basketball.
🏀