Le Basketbawl

When my guy Don from With Malice asks for me to participate in one of his projects, I always answer the call. Don has declared April 5, 2009 as NBA Unsung Hero Day.  The idea behind this global event is to give thanks to the guys who are not house hold names in casual NBA fans lives. The day is to commemorate the guys in the trenches, who do the little things that helps a team become a contender.

After giving careful consideration we have decided that Chicago Bulls forward John Salmons will represent Le Basketbawl as the recipient of this honor. Given the season he is having this just may be the last season that Salmons could accurately described as an unsung hero.

Salmons started getting attention last season playing for the Sacramento Kings. The forward now playing in his seventh NBA campaign started getting extra minutes when teammate Kevin Martin was injured. Salmons opened a lot of eyes with his fill in duty and impressed a lot of folks. One of those he impressed was Chicago Bulls General Manager John Paxson who brought him to the Bulls before the trading deadline. The move has helped Chicago big time as they fight for a Playoff slot in the Eastern Conference.

Salmons has averaged 18.7 points, 4.3 rebounds and 3.2 assists this season. His scoring average is more than double his career average of 8.7 points per game. Salmons has become a starter for Chicago and along with rookie Derrick Rose and guard Ben Gordon has helped the Bulls become a legitimate force in their division and their conference.

Many have opportunities handed to them, however only some can take advantage of them. John Salmons has been given a chance and performed. Soon Salmons will start to enjoy the fruits of his labors. April 5, 2009 Salmons has earned the honor of representing our site as an NBA Unsung Hero.