The NBA has long celebrated its starters, but let’s talk about those sixth men who truly elevate their teams. When we think about stellar performances off the bench, Lou Williams immediately comes to mind. This guy has won the NBA Sixth Man of the Year award three times. Imagine maintaining an average of over 18 points per game across multiple seasons without starting. Lou’s efficiency as a sixth man is nearly unparalleled. He’s like a microwavable instant scorer for his teams, providing that much-needed boost exactly when it’s needed.
Jamal Crawford, another iconic sixth man, has also secured the Sixth Man of the Year award three times. How often do you see a player come off the bench and change the entire momentum of a game within minutes? Not to mention, scoring 50 points in a game while coming off the bench? Numbers like these are straight-up staggering. Crawford's handles and 3-point shooting instantly make any team he’s on a more formidable opponent.
Manu Ginobili redefined the sixth man role. He spent his entire 16-season career with the San Antonio Spurs and became a crucial part of their four NBA championships. Even though he could easily have been a starter, his willingness to come off the bench established a sense of selflessness that’s rare in today’s game. In the 2007-2008 season, Ginobili averaged nearly 20 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists per game—all while coming off the bench. Think about it, he's been so good that he’s often discussed in the same breath as Hall of Famers.
Turning our focus to the present, Jordan Clarkson has been phenomenal for the Utah Jazz. He won the 2021 Sixth Man Award for his explosive scoring ability, averaging 18.4 points per game that season. His effectiveness from beyond the arc is impressive, having knocked down over 200 three-pointers that season alone. You know a sixth man is extraordinary when he not only scores but also becomes a core piece of a playoff-bound team.
Eric Gordon's stint with the Houston Rockets also deserves mention. During the 2016-2017 season, he was awarded Sixth Man of the Year, averaging 16.2 points per game. His ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting makes him an invaluable asset. It’s fascinating how a strong bench player like Gordon can alter the dynamics of spacing and scoring for an entire team.
Let’s not forget Montrezl Harrell. In the 2019-2020 season, Harrell took home the Sixth Man of the Year award, having averaged 18.6 points and 7.1 rebounds per game. For a player coming off the bench, these stats are astronomical. His hustle, energy, and scoring ability in the paint made him a valuable piece for the Los Angeles Clippers.
One can’t leave out Jason Terry, who won the Sixth Man award in 2009 and played a crucial role in the Dallas Mavericks’ 2011 championship run. Terry averaged 15.8 points per game during the Mavericks’ title-winning season and hit some clutch shots in crucial moments of the playoffs. He epitomized the term "clutch," and his three-point shooting was a major weapon for Dallas.
Each of these players brings something unique to their teams. Whether it’s instant scoring, defensive prowess, or simply changing the pace and energy of a game, they break the mold of what many people traditionally think of as starters. Their impact isn’t just confined to regular-season games; they deliver when it counts the most—in the playoffs and often, in championships.
These sixth men aren't just substitutes; they are essential parts of their teams. They define what depth in a team truly means. Just think about it: these guys come into the game and make a noticeable impact within minutes, completely changing the flow and dynamics. It’s no wonder that they are cherished and celebrated.
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