Landon Buford
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.
