Lance Stephenson, known for his dynamic playing style and on-court antics, made a name for himself in the NBA with his unique blend of skills and personality. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Stephenson attended Lincoln High School, where he became the all-time leading scorer in New York State high school basketball history. His talent was evident early on, and he went on to play one season of college basketball at the University of Cincinnati before declaring for the NBA Draft.
In 2010, Stephenson was selected by the Indiana Pacers in the second round as the 40th overall pick. His early years in the league were marked by gradual development as he worked to find his place on the team. By the 2012-2013 season, Stephenson began to show his potential, contributing significantly to the Pacers' strong playoff run. His ability to handle the ball, coupled with his defensive tenacity, made him a valuable asset to the team.
The 2013-2014 season was a breakout year for Stephenson. He became a regular starter for the Pacers and led the NBA in triple-doubles that season, showcasing his ability to contribute across various facets of the game. His performances helped the Pacers reach the Eastern Conference Finals, where they faced off against the Miami Heat. During this series, Stephenson gained widespread attention for his antics, including the infamous moment when he blew into LeBron James' ear, which became a viral sensation.
Following his success with the Pacers, Stephenson entered free agency and signed with the Charlotte Hornets in 2014. However, his time in Charlotte was less fruitful, as he struggled to fit into the team's system and faced challenges with his shooting consistency. After just one season, he was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers, where he played a limited role before being traded again to the Memphis Grizzlies.
Stephenson's career continued with several short stints on different teams, including the New Orleans Pelicans and the Minnesota Timberwolves. Despite the frequent moves, he remained a player capable of providing energy and playmaking off the bench. In 2017, he returned to the Indiana Pacers, where he once again became a fan favorite for his spirited play and connection with the crowd.
In 2018, Stephenson signed with the Los Angeles Lakers, joining a roster that included LeBron James. His time with the Lakers was marked by his role as a veteran presence and his ability to contribute in various ways, although the team did not achieve significant playoff success during his tenure.
After his stint with the Lakers, Stephenson took his talents overseas, signing with the Liaoning Flying Leopards of the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) for the 2019-2020 season. His time in China allowed him to continue playing at a high level and maintain his competitive edge.
Stephenson made a return to the NBA in 2021, signing a 10-day contract with the Atlanta Hawks and later rejoining the Indiana Pacers on a similar short-term deal. His return to Indiana was met with enthusiasm from fans who remembered his earlier contributions to the team.
Throughout his career, Lance Stephenson was known for his flair and unpredictability on the court.
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