When talking about stats per game, Aldridge is averaging 1.9 assists as well as 8.1 rebounds. He is sitting with 758 steals, as well as 1,187 blocks and 2,076 dimes. With 5,960 defensive boards and 2,776 offensive, Aldridge has earned 8,736 total boards in his NBA career. With an eFG% of 49.9%, he has also tallied 2,598 fouls and 1,643 giveaways. Aldridge has made 3,709 of his 4,563 shot attempts from the foul line, which gave him a rate of 81.3%. By making 8,084 of 16,162 two-point shot attempts, he has accumulated an average of 50.0%. By converting 227 out of his 710 shots from distance, he has a three-point shooting percentage of 32.0%. By putting in 8,311 baskets out of 16,872 tries, Aldridge has recorded a 49.3% shooting percentage. He accrues 20.4 pts per 36 mins, as well as pulling in 8.7 boards and adding 2.1 dimes so far in his NBA career. Aldridge was named a starter in 997 games, and in those games he sports an average of 19.1 points per game and has recorded 20,558 points overall. LaMarcus Aldridge has played in 1,076 contests during his pro basketball career and accounted for 36,242 minutes in those matchups.
LaMarcus Aldridge is a name that echoes through the halls of the NBA. Known for his silky-smooth jumper and exceptional skills in the post, Aldridge has made a significant impact in the league. His presence on the court is not just about his physical prowess but also his strategic understanding of the game, making him a formidable opponent and a valued teammate. This article will take you through the journey of this remarkable basketball player, highlighting his career stats, the teams he has played for, and what makes him stand out on the court.
Aldridge’s career has been marked by his ability to adapt and thrive in different environments. From his early days as a promising high school player to his status as a seasoned NBA veteran, Aldridge’s journey is one of perseverance and dedication. His impact is felt not just in the teams he has played for, but across the league, as he has consistently been a player that others look up to and learn from.
Early Years and Entry into the NBA
LaMarcus Aldridge was born on July 19, 1985, in Dallas, Texas. He attended Seagoville High School, where he quickly became a standout player, earning All-American honors. His high school career was marked by numerous accolades, including being named the Dallas Morning News Player of the Year. With his height, agility, and impressive skills, Aldridge was already showing signs of the player he would become, turning heads with his performances on the court.
With a promising high school career, Aldridge decided to attend the University of Texas, where he played two seasons for the Texas Longhorns. During his time at Texas, Aldridge continued to develop his game, becoming one of the top prospects in college basketball. He was known for his ability to dominate in the paint, as well as his smooth mid-range jump shot, which would become a signature aspect of his game. In 2006, Aldridge declared for the NBA Draft and was selected as the second overall pick by the Chicago Bulls. However, his rights were traded to the Portland Trail Blazers on draft night, marking the beginning of his illustrious NBA career.
Portland Trail Blazers: The Rise
During his time with the Portland Trail Blazers, Aldridge developed into one of the top power forwards in the NBA. His ability to score both inside and outside made him a versatile threat on the court. In Portland, Aldridge became the centerpiece of a team that was consistently competitive in the Western Conference. His scoring ability was complemented by his defensive prowess, as he often took on the challenge of guarding the opposing team’s best post player.
Aldridge’s career stats with the Blazers are impressive, averaging 19.4 points and 8.4 rebounds per game over nine seasons. His consistency was a key factor in the Blazers’ success, and he quickly became a fan favorite for his clutch performances and ability to lead the team in critical moments. Aldridge’s time in Portland is remembered for his numerous game-winning shots and his role in returning the Blazers to playoff contention.
Key Highlights with the Blazers
- Rookie Season: Aldridge made an immediate impact, earning a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team. His rookie season set the stage for what would be a remarkable career, as he showed a maturity and skill level beyond his years.
- 2010-2011 Season: He had a breakout season, averaging 21.8 points and 8.8 rebounds per game, which earned him his first All-Star selection. This season was a turning point for Aldridge, as he established himself as one of the premier forwards in the league, capable of taking over games with his scoring and leadership.
- Playoff Performances: Aldridge played a crucial role in leading the Blazers to multiple playoff appearances, becoming a reliable scorer and leader for the team. His ability to elevate his game in the postseason was crucial for the Blazers, and he often put the team on his back during critical stretches.
San Antonio Spurs: A New Chapter
In 2015, Aldridge made a pivotal decision to sign with the San Antonio Spurs. Joining forces with legendary coach Gregg Popovich, Aldridge aimed to bring his talents to a team known for its winning culture. The move was seen as a perfect fit, as the Spurs’ system emphasized ball movement, team play, and high basketball IQ, all areas where Aldridge excelled.
His transition to the Spurs was seamless, as he quickly became a key component of their offense and defense. Aldridge’s ability to play both the power forward and center positions gave the Spurs flexibility in their lineups, allowing them to adapt to various opponents and situations. His presence in San Antonio was not just about his on-court contributions; his professionalism and work ethic set a standard for the team, reflecting the Spurs’ culture of excellence.
Contributions to the Spurs
During his time with the Spurs, Aldridge continued to showcase his scoring ability and veteran leadership. His career stats with the Spurs are equally impressive, averaging 19.5 points and 8.0 rebounds per game. His ability to consistently put up strong numbers ensured that the Spurs remained competitive in the ever-challenging Western Conference.
- 2017-2018 Season: Aldridge had one of his best seasons with the Spurs, averaging 23.1 points and 8.5 rebounds, earning him another All-Star selection. This season highlighted Aldridge’s ability to lead the team, especially during stretches when other key players were injured.
- Veteran Presence: Aldridge’s experience and basketball IQ were invaluable to the Spurs, especially in mentoring younger players and contributing to the team’s success. His guidance was instrumental in the development of the Spurs’ younger roster, and his influence was felt both on and off the court.
Brooklyn Nets and Brief Retirement
In 2021, Aldridge signed with the Brooklyn Nets, joining a star-studded roster that included Kevin Durant, James Harden, and Kyrie Irving. The move was seen as a strategic one, as Aldridge brought both experience and depth to a team with championship aspirations. However, his time with the Nets was cut short when he announced his retirement due to a health scare related to an irregular heartbeat, a decision that shocked the basketball world.
Aldridge’s decision to prioritize his health was met with widespread support, as fans and players alike recognized the importance of personal well-being over professional achievements. His brief retirement highlighted the unpredictable nature of an athlete’s career and served as a reminder of the human aspect of professional sports.
Return to the Nets
Aldridge made a surprising comeback later in 2021, re-signing with the Nets and continuing to contribute as a valuable role player. His return was met with enthusiasm, as the Nets valued his experience and leadership. Aldridge’s ability to stretch the floor with his shooting and provide solid defense made him an asset to the team.
His role with the Nets was different from his previous teams, as he embraced the opportunity to mentor younger players and provide depth off the bench. Despite the challenges of returning after a health scare, Aldridge’s dedication to the game and his team was evident, as he continued to play a crucial role in the Nets’ pursuit of a championship.
Career Stats and Achievements
LaMarcus Aldridge’s career stats and achievements speak volumes about his impact in the NBA. Over his career, he has averaged 19.1 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game. These numbers reflect not only his consistency but also his ability to adapt and thrive in various roles throughout his career. Aldridge’s scoring ability, combined with his defensive contributions, have made him one of the most respected players in the league.
His accolades include being selected to the NBA All-Star team seven times and being named to the All-NBA Team five times. These achievements underscore his status as one of the elite players of his generation, and his impact on the game is undeniable. Aldridge’s ability to perform at a high level over an extended period of time is a testament to his talent and work ethic.
Notable Achievements
- Seven-time NBA All-Star: Recognized for his exceptional play and contributions to the game. His All-Star selections are a reflection of his sustained excellence and ability to compete with the best players in the league.
- Five-time All-NBA Selection: Honored for his consistent performance and impact on the court. Aldridge’s All-NBA selections highlight his ability to maintain a high standard of play throughout his career, earning respect from coaches, players, and fans alike.
Legacy and Influence
LaMarcus Aldridge’s NBA career is a testament to his talent, work ethic, and resilience. His ability to adapt and excel with different teams highlights his versatility and basketball IQ. Whether as a dominant scorer in Portland, a veteran leader in San Antonio, or a valuable role player in Brooklyn, Aldridge’s influence on the game is undeniable.
He has inspired many young players with his dedication and commitment to excellence, leaving a lasting legacy in the NBA. Aldridge’s journey is a story of overcoming challenges, embracing change, and striving for greatness. His impact extends beyond the court, as he has been a role model for aspiring basketball players around the world.
As fans, we celebrate his contributions and look forward to seeing how his influence continues to shape the future of basketball. LaMarcus Aldridge’s journey through the NBA has been nothing short of remarkable. From his early days in Portland to his leadership roles in San Antonio and Brooklyn, his career is a story of growth, perseverance, and success. His career stats and achievements reflect his impact on the game, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of basketball players.