Jason Terry, known by many as "The Jet," became a well-recognized figure in the world of professional basketball. Born on September 15, 1977, in Seattle, Washington, Terry's journey to the NBA began at the University of Arizona, where he played college basketball. During his time with the Arizona Wildcats, he was part of the team that won the NCAA Championship in 1997, and he was named the Pac-10 Player of the Year in 1999.
Terry entered the NBA when he was selected as the 10th overall pick by the Atlanta Hawks in the 1999 NBA Draft. His early years with the Hawks showcased his scoring ability and leadership on the court. Over five seasons with Atlanta, Terry developed into a reliable guard, averaging over 19 points per game in the 2000-2001 season.
In 2004, Terry was traded to the Dallas Mavericks, a move that would define much of his professional career. With the Mavericks, he transitioned into a role that highlighted his skills as both a starter and a sixth man. His ability to hit crucial shots, particularly from beyond the arc, earned him a reputation as a clutch performer. During the 2005-2006 season, Terry played a vital role in helping the Mavericks reach the NBA Finals, although they fell short to the Miami Heat.
The pinnacle of Terry's career came in the 2010-2011 NBA season. As a key member of the Mavericks, he was instrumental in their playoff run, which culminated in an NBA Championship. In the Finals, Dallas faced the Miami Heat once again, and Terry's performance was critical in securing the title. He averaged 18 points per game in the series and was the second-leading scorer for the Mavericks, behind Dirk Nowitzki. His efforts in Game 5 and Game 6 were particularly noteworthy, as he provided the offensive spark needed to overcome the Heat's defense.
After his successful stint with the Mavericks, Terry signed with the Boston Celtics in 2012. His tenure with the Celtics was marked by his veteran presence and ability to contribute off the bench. In 2013, he was traded to the Brooklyn Nets, where he continued to play a supporting role. Terry's career then took him to the Sacramento Kings and the Houston Rockets, where he provided leadership and experience to younger players.
In the latter stages of his career, Terry joined the Milwaukee Bucks. Even as his playing time decreased, he remained a valuable mentor to the team's younger roster. His influence extended beyond the court, as he was known for his work ethic and professionalism.
Throughout his NBA career, Terry was known for his signature "jet" celebration after making three-point shots, a nod to his nickname. He finished his career with over 18,000 points and ranks among the top in NBA history for three-pointers made. Terry's longevity in the league and ability to adapt to different roles and teams underscored his basketball acumen.
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