In the illustrious span of his 13-year career, seasoned veteran Tim Hardaway Sr. became a 5x All-Star and won an Olympic Gold. Despite that, the Hall of Famer found himself overshadowed in his son’s eyes. Setting aside the Golden State Warriors great’s legacy, Hardaway Jr. opted to draw inspiration from a prominent figure from the Dallas Mavericks, forging a unique path of admiration.

This season, he has averaged 16.8 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 1.6 assists across eighteen games, making him a strong contender for the NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year award. Following the Mavericks’ power showdown, the 31-year-old detailed his inspiration.

Speaking of his idol, Hardaway Jr. said, “With past Mavericks teams, that sixth man guy, he’s a big deal. Jason Terry for example. Just trying to do my best impression of that in the modern-day era.” He also attributed his consistent performances to an injury-free season for him so far.

While he managed to play 71 games last season, he only suited up 42 times the season prior to that. He has played less than 60 games 4 other times in his career as well. Now, the guard is only focused on providing the guard-heavy Mavs a force in the West.

The Dallas Mavericks shooting guard hasn’t secured a starting position in the 2023-24 NBA season. However, influenced by the former Mavericks star, Terry, he is giving his best as the team’s sixth man. Following Dallas’ stunning 147-97 win against the Jazz, Hardaway Jr. is determined to create more wonders in the future. 

Jason Terry played a pivotal role in the franchise’s only-ever championship back in 2011. On the other hand, Hardaway Jr.’s father was a bona fide superstar in the 90s. Along with Mitch Richmond and Chris Mullin, Tim Hardaway formed the iconic trio of Run TMC in San Francisco. After his successful time with the Warriors, he moved to Miami, where he further established himself as a star.

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The Heat have retired his No.10 jersey as well, showing the impact Tim Sr. had. Nevertheless, his son understands the role he is playing for the Mavs and has chosen an apt player to look up to.

Jason Terry clinched the NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award in 2009

The Jet created history with the Mavericks. Terry won the Sixth Man of the Year award in 2009. He averaged 19.6 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 3.4 assists and established himself as one of the best Sixth Men to ever grace the league. Just 1 SOTY award doesn’t do justice to his great performances. Hardaway Jr. is looking to recreate exactly that.

While Terry won the championship in 2011 on the back of a legendary Dirk Nowitzki run, he also proved that the Mavs had the best bench in the league.

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Do you think Hardaway Jr. can recreate that impact and push the Mavs to the top of the hill? Let us know in the comments below.

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