Lou Amundson's journey through the NBA is a testament to perseverance and adaptability. Born on December 7, 1982, in Ventura, California, Amundson attended the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), where he played college basketball for the Runnin' Rebels. Despite going undrafted in the 2006 NBA Draft, Amundson's determination to play at the highest level never wavered.
Amundson began his professional career with a brief stint in the NBA Development League (now known as the G League), playing for the Colorado 14ers. His performance there caught the attention of NBA scouts, and he soon found himself signing a 10-day contract with the Utah Jazz in 2007. Although his time with the Jazz was short-lived, it marked the beginning of his NBA career.
The forward's hustle and energy on the court became his trademarks, earning him opportunities with several NBA teams. In 2008, Amundson joined the Phoenix Suns, where he played a crucial role off the bench. His defensive prowess and rebounding ability made him a valuable asset for the Suns, particularly during their playoff runs. Amundson's time in Phoenix was arguably the most stable period of his career, as he spent two seasons with the team.
Following his tenure with the Suns, Amundson's career took him to various teams across the league. He signed with the Golden State Warriors in 2010, where he continued to provide energy and defense. His journey then led him to the Indiana Pacers, where he played during the 2011-2012 season. Amundson's role with the Pacers was similar to his previous teams, focusing on defense and rebounding.
Amundson's career was characterized by short stints with multiple teams, including the Minnesota Timberwolves, Chicago Bulls, New Orleans Pelicans, and Cleveland Cavaliers. Despite the frequent moves, he remained a reliable option for teams seeking a hardworking and experienced player to bolster their bench.
In 2014, Amundson signed with the New York Knicks, where he played under head coach Derek Fisher. His time with the Knicks provided him with more consistent playing time, allowing him to showcase his skills on a larger stage. Amundson's veteran presence was appreciated in the locker room, and he became a mentor to younger players on the team.
Throughout his NBA career, Amundson was known for his work ethic and team-first mentality. His ability to adapt to different roles and systems made him a valuable asset for any team he joined. While he may not have been a star player, his contributions on the court were always appreciated by coaches and teammates alike.
Lou Amundson's professional basketball career is a story of perseverance and adaptability.
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