John Wall thankful for his warm welcome to Washington DC - "This is something I’ve been waiting for for 4 years… I feel like I got my flowers"
LA Clippers guard John Wall made his long-awaited return to Washington on Saturday. Playing against the Washington Wizards, Wall expressed the feelings and experience of returning to where he became a star.
John Wall may be a vital member of the LA Clippers this season. Although not always a starter, Wall plays a key role as the leader of the Clippers' bench mob. However, the guard isn't known to be a bench player.
Drafted by the Washington Wizards in 2010, Wall emerged as a franchise cornerstone upon arrival. Within three years, he established himself as an All-Star. Wall earned his first selection in the 2014 All-Star game and became a familiar face over the next five years.
Unfortunately, tragedy struck the following season as the guard sustained several injuries. Spending more time off the court than on it, he was eventually traded to the Houston Rockets and parted ways with the team where he made his name.
Things didn't get much better for Wall as he continued his struggle with injuries. After a short but unfruitful stint with the Rockets, Houston and Wall agreed upon a buyout. This paved the way for the 5x All-Star to join the LA Clippers.
Having spent three years away from Washington, John Wall was particularly excited about his return to the city. In this regard, Saturday's game was special for the guard as head coach Ty Lue placed him in the starting lineup.
Following the game, the guard was asked about his feelings regarding his homecoming in Washington. Given his impact as a star with the Wizards, Wall offered a touching response to the question. He said:
"This is something I've been waiting for for four years. The first time I got trade, I came back with Houston, it was COVID, so we couldn't be here. Last year, I wasn't playing and I was back home with my kids and just anticipating.
"I was like, 'Don't have no injury coming to this game. If anybody got COVID, don't come around me.' I just wanted to be at peace. I don't want nobody to mess this moment up and I'm glad I got the opportunity to appreciate it and be here, get the love that I think I deserve and I feel like I got my flowers."
“This is something I’ve been waiting for for 4 years. … I feel like I got my flowers." 💐
John Wall is thankful for his homecoming in D.C. ❤️
(via @NBA) https://t.co/dF2CwPmPW9
Wall's comments reflect the gratitude he feels towards Washington. After a stellar career as a Wizards star, the 5x All-Star certainly earned "his flowers."
With a win to sweeten the situation, Wall and the Clippers walked away from a great night in DC. Improving to 15-13 on the season, the Clippers put an end to their two-game losing streak.
Read: “Basketball is my sanctuary…I’m just trying to come over here and help them win” – 5X NBA All-Star shows his commitment to winning a championship with the Clippers and hopes to bring out the 'big dog' in him
John Wall has assimilated into the Clippers' system
John Wall's arrival did wonders for the LA Clippers' already impressive depth. However, the fascinating part is the manner in which Wall has managed to blend into the team's system.
John Wall is known to push the pace as an explosive point guard. This, paired with his playmaking ability, has made him a threat in transition. This aspect of his game has been a great fit for the LA Clippers.
As the backup point guard in most cases, Wall pushes the tempo with the bench mob, which often leads to some rather potent offensive possessions.
Considering the headspace Wall was during his time off the court, seeing him back in action is a treat for basketball fans. As one of the most exciting guards in the modern era, Wall continues his steady improvement as he contributes to the Clippers' efforts.
Read: Kawhi Leonard's status stopping LA Clippers from peaking, says Stephen A. Smith: "I'm just a person that has NO faith in the health of Kawhi Leonard"