Lance Stephenson’s last tenure in the NBA was with the 2018/19 Los Angeles Lakers. During LeBron James’ first season in SoCal, the former Indiana Pacer joined the Purple and Gold, trying to create something good with his old nemesis.
Unfortunately, that Lakers team didn’t work and Stephenson left the league to go play overseas. Two years after that moment, the player is ready to make a comeback to the league, playing for the Denver Nuggets’ G League affiliate team this season.
Stephenson has made it clear he won’t quit until he gets a new chance in the association, just like Jamal Crawford, Michael Beasley, and Isaiah Thomas in the past couple of seasons. Even though these three didn’t last long after getting a second chance, Lance is ready to prove he can be helpful for any team.
Talking with The Athletic’s Bob Kravitz, the player vowed he’s ready to fill the role he’s given and help a team in any possible way.
“I want to show everybody I’m a different guy and I’ll do anything I can to contribute to a team,’” he said. “My whole mindset is getting back to the NBA. I feel like I belong there. That’s my destination.”
“And I’ll never quit trying.”
He has the desire to play in the league again. He didn’t hesitate to take the G League challenge and that could open a door for him. Perhaps not now, but Lance could find his way back to the association.
It remains to be seen if a new franchise gives him another opportunity. He’ll be ready for whatever is coming. It’s been two years since his last stint in the league and a lot has changed since that moment. If he can adapt to that, whichever team gets him will have a valuable piece.
