Mavs’ Tim Hardaway Speaks On Hall of Fame Hopeful Jamal Crawford’s Impact On Sixth Man Role
Tim Hardaway Jr. has emerged as one of the most potent sixth men in the NBA, redefining a role that has often been underappreciated in the past. His seamless transition into this position is a testament to his skill, mindset, and dedication to the game.
In a recent interview, Hardaway spoke about the influence of Jamal Crawford, a three-time Sixth Man of the Year winner, on his approach to the role. Hardaway is an admirer of Crawford’s career, and understands the significance of taking the sixth-man part seriously and its impact on a team. Hardaway has embraced the challenges and opportunities of being a sixth man.
“J-Cross, being a guy that went to Michigan, I’ve definitely watched and seen his career unfold,” said Hardaway. “It’s magical. He [took] that role very serious.
“I said before, first and foremost, in order for you to know that you’re going in that role, you have to embrace it and accept it. That’s what he did. That’s what Lou-Will [Williams] did. That’s what J.R. Smith did. And that’s what I’m trying to do is have that same mentality.”
He recognizes that his primary responsibility is to provide a spark for his team when they need it most. Whether it’s scoring points, taking crucial shots, or creating highlights, he approaches the game with confidence and enthusiasm. However, Hardaway’s contribution goes beyond scoring. He understands that being a sixth man also means being a leader, mentor, and versatile role player. He has gracefully taken on these additional responsibilities, becoming an invaluable asset to the Dallas Mavericks.
In a league that often celebrates individual achievements, Hardaway serves as a reminder that there is no shame in being a sixth man. On the contrary, it requires a unique skill set and mindset. Thanks to players like Crawford and Hardaway, the sixth man role is now recognized as an integral part of every successful team. Hardaway’s admiration for Crawford highlights the legacy that the three-time Sixth Man of the Year winner has left on the game.
Crawford’s electrifying scoring ability and infectious energy redefined the role of the sixth man, elevating it from a position of necessity to one of prestige. As Hardaway continues to develop his own game, he carries on this legacy, inspiring a new generation of players to embrace the sixth man role and make it their own. In doing so, he not only helps his own teams succeed but also changes the perception of a role that has long been undervalued.
So, the next time you witness a sixth man come off the bench and make a game-changing play, take a moment to appreciate the impact that players like Jamal Crawford and Tim Hardaway Jr. have had on the game. They are not just role players; they are pioneers who have made the sixth man role cool again.
Landon Buford is an accomplished sports and entertainment journalist based in Richardson, Texas, with over a decade of experience covering the NBA, WNBA, NFL, WWE, MLB, and the entertainment industry. Known for delivering high-impact stories and headline-making interviews, Buford has earned a global audience through content that blends insider access with compelling storytelling.
He previously served as director of editorial and brand communications at PlayersTV, where he helped shape the platform’s editorial voice and brand identity. He is also the founder and editor-in-chief of LandonBuford.com—an independent outlet with more than 1.6 million views and syndication from major platforms including Bleacher Report, Sports Illustrated and Yahoo Sports. Buford’s interviews with stars like Gary Payton, Kevin Durant, Mark Cuban and Chris Paul showcase his talent for meaningful, in-depth conversations.
His bylines have appeared in Sports Illustrated, Forbes, Heavy.com, Meta’s Bulletin and One37pm, where he has contributed exclusive interviews, breaking news and cultural insights. At Heavy.com, his work drew more than a million views in just eight months, and at One37pm, it contributed to record-breaking traffic numbers.
His work highlights the intersection of sports, fashion, music, and entrepreneurship—showcasing how athletes and entertainers use their platforms to inspire change, influence trends, and shape culture beyond the game. Landon has interviewed a wide range of figures from the NBA, NFL, and entertainment industries, consistently bringing authentic voices and untold stories to the forefront.
In addition to his journalism, Buford is an entrepreneur and content creator, dedicated to amplifying diverse narratives and driving meaningful conversations across media platforms. His passion for storytelling, culture, and innovation continues to make him a respected voice in the evolving landscape of sports and entertainment media.
