Grant Hill.

Two time national champion at Duke University.

Third overall pick in the 1994 draft to the Detroit Pistons where he averaged 19.9 ppg, 6.4 rpg, and 5 apg. (Co-rookie of the year)

Triple Double Machine.

1996 Olympic Gold medalist.

Destined for greatness.

The next Michael Jordan? Could be.

Six years into the league: 9,393 points, 3,417 rebounds and 2,720 assists. (Only Larry Bird and Oscar Robertson top these marks for a player’s first six seasons).

Traded to Orlando to team with rising star Tracy McGrady.

(INSERT INJURIES HERE)

In the 2000-2007 seasons, Hill was consistently battling injuries, mostly to an ankle, that led to consistent time spent on the sidelines. Once his contract expired, many figured Hill would retire and that would be that. Instead, Hill signed a deal with the Phoenix Suns. Looks like Penny Hardaway all over again. In the 2007-2008 season, Hill played in over 70 games for the first time in seven seasons. In the 2008-2009 season, he played in all 82 games! What!?

Sure, his averages are down from the prolific start to his career (12.5 ppg, 5 rpg, and 2 apg in 2 seasons with the Suns), but he is playing consistent, healthy basketball. Grant Hill is a player that I have and always will look up to because he never gave up on his career. As JB pointed out to me, he’s come into his third season as a Sun on a tear, averaging 17.5 ppg and 10.3 rbg through 4 games. I wouldn’t think these stats would hold up, but then again I never would have thought he’d be playing this far into his career with what he’s faced.

At 37, Grant Hill is among the oldest in the league, but looks like he’s feeling the best he has in years. I have no suspicions of performance enhancers with Hill….because he’s Grant Hill. In a league filled with superficial superstars, Hill has always been a stand up guy. Further research, such as looking at his website (www.granthill.com) will also show he is into a healthy lifestyle. Mix a healthy lifestyle with a lot of hard work, and a little bit of luck, and I present to you: The Fountain of Youth.

I might have to call Grant Hill “The Ponce de Leon” from now on.

-G

Wait. What good is a post about Grant Hill without some bonuses?

The Sneaks!

The Commercial!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vNyJLxtN6Kk