Maurice "Mo" Williams, known for his scoring ability and playmaking skills, embarked on his professional basketball journey when he was selected by the Utah Jazz in the second round of the 2003 NBA Draft. Despite being a second-round pick, Williams quickly demonstrated his potential as a valuable asset on the court. His rookie season with the Jazz laid the foundation for what would become a solid NBA career.
After his initial season in Utah, Williams signed with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2004. It was with the Bucks that he began to establish himself as a reliable point guard. Over four seasons in Milwaukee, Williams developed into a consistent scorer and playmaker, averaging double figures in points and becoming a regular starter. His ability to both score and distribute the ball made him a crucial part of the Bucks' lineup, and he gained recognition for his performances during this period.
In 2008, Williams was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he would experience some of the most memorable moments of his career. Playing alongside LeBron James, Williams became an integral part of the Cavaliers' success. During the 2008-2009 season, he averaged 17.8 points and 4.1 assists per game, earning his first and only NBA All-Star selection. His shooting prowess and ability to handle the ball complemented James' playstyle, helping the Cavaliers secure the best record in the NBA that season.
Williams' tenure with the Cavaliers saw the team reach the Eastern Conference Finals in 2009, although they fell short of an NBA Finals appearance. Despite the disappointment, Williams' performance during his time in Cleveland solidified his reputation as a skilled guard capable of contributing significantly to a contending team.
In 2011, Williams was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers, where he continued to be a productive player. His stint with the Clippers was followed by a return to the Utah Jazz in 2012, where he played for one season before moving to the Portland Trail Blazers in 2013. With the Trail Blazers, Williams provided veteran leadership and scoring off the bench, helping the team reach the playoffs.
Williams' career came full circle when he returned to the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2015. Although his role was more limited compared to his first stint with the team, he was part of the roster that won the NBA Championship in 2016. This achievement marked a fitting conclusion to his NBA journey, as he retired from professional basketball shortly after.
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