Yesterday, Jason Williams AKA “White Chocolate” announced his retirement from the NBA. J-Will’s bad back wasn’t getting any better and the 35-year old Williams, who had missed the last 17 games, decided to call it quits. Oddly enough, J-Will announced his retirement (his 2nd) in the midst of the playoffs. As Greg Gaston tweeted yesterday, one must wonder now if Williams will receive a championship ring next year after the Grizz win it all.
J-Will will retire a Grizzly, which is appropriate. My lasting memories of J-Will consist of transition 3′s, no look passes, and images of him on the bench watching Earl Watson play out 4th quarters for the Grizz. Many will look back at the “pen interview” with Geoff Calkins and the famous line: “You ain’t gettin’ no quote, homeboy!”
Jason Williams was unique. As a supporter and card-carrying member of the White American Athlete Foundation, it hurts to me to see J-Will go. He was not your typical WAAFlete. His game was effective due to his quickness, flair, and athleticism, rather uncommon traits for today’s White American NBA player. But it’s not about race. I loved J-Will because he made the Grizz exciting to watch. Moreover, he matured as a grizzly and became fun to coach, just ask Hubie Brown. J-Will loved Memphis and Memphis loved him.
Will there ever be another J-Will? I hope so. J-Will lived the grizzlife and I love him for it.
Long live J-Will and long live the Grizz,
Paul
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