They always say that the NBA is incredibly tough to make it to, and even more difficult to stay in. If you are a competitor, you may be the best player in your city or even in your state or region. But you must be the 1% of the 1% to even have a chance of achieving sustained success in the highest-level basketball league in the world. Recently, one former LA Clippers player found himself out of the NBA.
That player is John Wall. After last competing in the association with the Clippers during the 2022-23 season, Wall appeared on ESPN during the 2024 Summer League. In his most recent national TV appearance, the former All-Star discussed his life and informed the world that he is still working on getting back to the NBA however he can.
John Wall is willing to accept "whatever role" to return to NBA
Wall explained that he is no longer seeking to be a franchise cornerstone, and is willing to play any role a team needs him to. "For me, I'm not giving up on my dreams of getting back into the league," said Wall. "My focus is still to work hard, to come here and network to be around teams. Whatever role it is, I'm willing to accept."
Noting how he came into the NBA tasked with the burden of being a franchise player, John now desires to mentor younger players if possible. "I've been had that burden on my back," he said. "Like you said, I had to come in at 18, 19 to try to change a franchise around. And me, if it's going to a team to be a vet and teach the young guys how to be a point guard ... that's a development I'm willing to do."
Wall was only with the Clippers for one season, but many fans remember just how big of a star he was before the injuries. He may not be a fit in Los Angeles, but here's hoping John can find his way back into the league he loves soon.