-
Andrew LopezESPN
Jared Dudley’s NBA career ends when he joins the Dallas Mavericks coaching staff, the 14-year veteran said on Tuesday afternoon on Twitter.
In a couple of tweets, Dudley thanked the Los Angeles Lakers organization, which specifically named LeBron James, Anthony Davis and Jeanie Buss, for helping him win a title at the end of his career before announce that he would take a position with the Mavericks. He also thanked several current and former NBA players.
I have been preparing this moment for a long time! From deep conversations with Nash, Hill, Shaq, Bron, Booker, Beal, AD, Giannis, the list goes on … Very excited to be part of the MAVS and JKidd staff. Perfect fit and opportunity … It’s time to start working
– Jared Dudley (@ JaredDudley619) August 24, 2021
Man what a ride! The 14 – year career in the NBA ended with winning an NBA championship with the NBA @Lakers! I just want to thank GOD for blessing me, I also want to thank you personally @KingJames @ AntDavis23 @JeanieBuss and the Lakers organization, Without Bron and AD, I don’t join LAL or the wing at 💍
– Jared Dudley (@ JaredDudley619) August 24, 2021
“I’ve been preparing this moment for a long time! From deep conversations with Nash, Hill, Shaq, Bron, Booker, Beal, AD, Giannis, the list goes on … Very excited to be part of the MAVS and JKidd staff! … It’s time to start working, “tweeted Dudley.
Dudley joins a Dallas team led by Jason Kidd, who has been the Lakers’ assistant coach for the past two seasons.
Dudley was the first-round draft pick for the then Charlotte Bobcats in 2007, playing there the first 1 1/2 seasons of his career. He also played with Phoenix (twice), the LA Clippers, Milwaukee, Washington and Brooklyn before finishing his career with the Lakers.
In 904 games, Dudley averaged 7.3 points and 3.2 rebounds playing as a reserve for most of his career, embracing that veteran presence role in his final seasons.