Although he hasn’t played in the NBA since the 2021-22 season, a former Los Angeles Lakers guard has recently hinted at the possibility of returning to the court at the age of 38.
In a recent episode of FanDuel’s Run It Back, Lou Williams, a 17-year NBA veteran, shared his thoughts on making a comeback. When asked if he missed playing, Williams candidly said, “I’m not going to lie, I’ve been flirting with the idea. I’ve been hitting the gym, playing basketball, and I’m still in pretty good shape. I’m moving around well for an old guy.”
However, Williams emphasized that he would only consider a return if he found the right team and was in the right mental state. While he didn’t name specific teams, many speculate that the Lakers, where he played for two seasons, or the Clippers, where he spent seven seasons, could be potential destinations.
Lou Williams’ Impressive Career
Selected 45th overall in the 2005 NBA Draft out of South Gwinnett High School in Georgia, Lou Williams built a remarkable career as one of the league’s premier sixth men. Throughout his career, he averaged 14.2 points, 3.5 assists, and 2.2 rebounds per game, playing an average of 22.6 minutes.
Williams won the Sixth Man of the Year award three times (2015, 2018, 2019), tying the record held by former Lakers guard Jamal Crawford. Known for his scoring prowess, he ranks 14th all-time in points scored off the bench with 10,947 and fourth in bench points per game (16.2) among players with at least 500 games as a reserve.
Can Williams Make a Comeback?
If he returns to the NBA, Lou Williams would be among the league’s oldest active players. Currently, LeBron James (40 years old) is the oldest player, followed by Taj Gibson (39 years old). Having turned 38 in October, Williams would be the third-oldest player if he makes a comeback.
Whether or not this possibility comes to fruition, Lou Williams’ legacy as one of the NBA’s greatest sixth men is undeniable. Fans can only wait and speculate about which team he might choose to continue his illustrious career.