Victor Oladipo is turning heads in the current NBA preseason. In two games played so far against the San Antonio Spurs and L.A. Clippers, Oladipo has averaged 22.0 points, 2.5 rebounds, 4.0 assists, 3.5 steals, and 1.0 blocks per game in 28 minutes of playing time for the Guangzhou Loong-Lions.
And after pouring 24 points on 8-12 field goal shooting, including 2-4 from 3-point distance while also going 6-7 from the free throw line, the two-time NBA All-Star talked to Tomer Azarly of Clutchpoints about his desire to play in the NBA again, despite critics saying he is too old to do so at 33 years old.
“I don’t believe in age, bro,”said Oladipo in the exclusive interview. “I know the world might tell me I’m 33, but I don’t feel 33. I know I’ve been through a lot, and you’ve got a decision to make once you go through a lot. It’ll make you or break you, and I choose to be made. So I’m just doing my best. I’m challenging myself every day, taking it one day at a time, and enjoying the marathon.”
Injuries forced ‘Dipo out of the NBA
Oladipo was once one of the future stars in the NBA. The 6’3″ guard was the No.2 overall pick of the 2013 NBA Draft by the Orlando Magic. He played three seasons in Orlando and one in Oklahoma City before finding his home with the Indiana Pacers.
In his first season with the Pacers, ‘Dipo won the “Most Improved Player” award while averaging a career-high 23.1 points per game and leading the NBA in steals at 2.4 per contest. During the 2017-18 season, he was named to the All-Star, All-NBA Third Team, and All-Defensive First Team.
However, just as when he was starting to scratch the surface of superstardom, Vic suffered a ruptured quad tendon in his right knee and would miss the next 371 calendar days recovering from the injury. He came back healthy but would suffer more knee and ankle injuries in the following years that eventually forced him out of the league. With no offers in the NBA, Oladipo signed to play in the Chinese League, but deep inside, he knows where he belongs.
“The NBA is where I’m supposed to be at. And if the opportunity presents itself, I’m going to be ready. I’ve been ready, if I’m being honest, but yes, I’m ready,” Victor added.
Teague doesn’t think Oladipo can make it back to the NBA
However, being ready is not enough to make it back to the NBA. Even health may not be enough, considering the number of young and talented players entering the league every year. Jeff Teague thinks that ‘Dipo’s age, along with his injury history, are going to make it almost impossible for him to make an NBA comeback.
“Not to hate, he played well, but like guys like who are still trying to make the league in their 30s… I’m sure he’s 31, at least 32, it’s probably like let’s try to make it over real quick if I still love hooping. You still a quality player, you still got it,” Teague said. “I ain’t hating, but at 33, somebody gotta love you for you to return into the league.”
If Teague is right, there is no team, coach, or exec that “loves” Oladipo that much to give him another shot at the NBA. However, the Tigers have one more preseason game, against the Minnesota Timberwolves, remaining on October 13th. Hopefully, Victor plays well enough to make the news again. Fingers crossed, one NBA team takes notice and gives Vic one last shot.
Related: “I was just drawn towards that” – Victor Oladipo on why he wanted to be like Dwyane Wade