Even though he’s out of the league right now, former shooting guard Tony Snell still hopes an NBA team would sign him for at least a single season. And while others do it for the glory, he is motivated to do so for a pension plan that will greatly benefit his family.
Snell is an American professional basketball player who has played in the league since 2013. Born in Los Angeles, the shooting guard attended Westwind Preparatory Academy in Phoenix, Arizona, where he played alongside future NBA player Jamaal Franklin.
Snell then attended the University of New Mexico, where he had a successful college career. As a sophomore and junior, he helped lead the Lobos to back-to-back Mountain West Conference regular season and tournament championships, as well as NCAA tournament bids.
After being drafted 20th overall by the Chicago Bulls in the 2013 NBA Draft, he played for several teams, including the Milwaukee Bucks, Detroit Pistons, Atlanta Hawks, Portland Trail Blazers, and New Orleans Pelicans. In 2021, he made history by recording a 50-50-100 season, becoming the first and only player in league history to do so (minimum 100 attempts).
Snell’s versatility as a shooting guard and small forward, coupled with his impressive shooting ability, have made him a valuable role player in the NBA. Despite not being a superstar, he has carved out a solid professional career over the past decade.
Tony Snell Fights For NBA Comeback Amid Pension Chase
It has been over two years since Snell played his last NBA game for the Pelicans. In an article by Geoff Grammer for Albuquerque Journal, the former journey plan hopes to return to the league amid a chase for his pension.
He’s determined to get that 10th year of NBA service as much to feed his competitive juices as to take care of his family.
The NBA pension kicks in for players after three seasons. Healthcare benefits for a spouse and children kick in once a player gets credit for his 10th season of service.
“I didn’t make it this far to make it (just) this far,” he said. “I’m really trying to get that 10th year to take care of my family for life.”
Throughout his nine-year run in the league, Snell averaged 6.1 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.1 assists. Moreover, he and his son have been diagnosed with autism, making his desire for a comeback more stronger.
It remains to be seen whether he ends up with a contract sooner than later. If he does, expect the former journeyman to prove his worth for any team willing to sign him up.
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