Mavs’ Tim Thomas To Sit Out Next Season For Sick Wife, Does Not Rule Out Retirement
Veteran power forward Tim Thomas has decided to skip the upcoming 2010-2011 NBA season to take care of his ailing wife, a source close to the player reported Wednesday.
Thomas’ agent, Bob Myers, confirmed that his client will not rejoin the Dallas Mavericks, prompting speculation about the possible retirement of the 6-foot-10 NBA veteran.
It was the second time in almost nine months that Thomas took a leave for his ailing wife. Last January, Thomas made a temporary leave after learning that his wife was struck by
an undisclosed illness.
Thomas appeared in 18 games for the Mavs, averaging 7.5 points and 2.3 boards in 15.8 minutes.
Known as one of the league’s best shooting big men, Thomas shot a career .369 percent from the three-point arc over 13 NBA seasons.
He also holds the NBA record for knocking down 8 three-pointers in a single half, a feat also accomplished by former Milwaukee Bucks teammate Michael Redd.
After an outstanding college career at Villanova, many expected Thomas to emerge as a full-fledged superstar. However, injuries and playing inconsistency plagued his pro career,
making him just a serviceable journeyman.
In 13 seasons, Thomas played for seven NBA teams (the 76ers, Bucks, Knicks, Bulls, Suns, Clippers, and Mavs).
Nevertheless, the lanky forward still managed to build a solid career, averaging 11.5 points and 4.1 boards in 824 NBA games.
Myers said Thomas could still make a return next season, although he admitted retirement is also another option for his client. Still, he expressed his appreciation to the Mavericks
organization for their support and understanding on Thomas’ ongoing trials.
The Mavericks signed Thomas to a one-year, $1.35 million deal (veteran’s minimum contract), hoping that former Villanova stud would backup star Dirk Nowitzki at the power forward
position.
With the development, the Mavericks are now working to rescind Thomas’ contract, and at the same time, searching for a free agent who can fill Thomas’ void.
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