Larry Sanders plans to eventually return to NBA
Former Bucks center Larry Sanders is not totally done with basketball.
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1 min read
Former Milwaukee Bucks center Larry Sanders is focused on off-the-court ventures for the time being, but he would eventually like to return to the NBA, he told Yahoo Sports' Shams Charania. Sanders accepted a buyout from the Bucks last year, and explained last February that he walked away from the game in part because he was dealing with anxiety and depression.
From Yahoo Sports:
"Once my art, music and passions off the court feel stable, I will look into coming back," Sanders told The Vertical. "I still love basketball. I want stability around me, and part of my mindset to leave was not to put all my eggs in one basket.
“I feel highly valuable on any team. There aren't a lot of people who can bring my game to a team. I still play basketball all the time, staying in shape. I will need to make sure the situation is right for me.”
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People close to Sanders have discussed his seriousness to return to the NBA sooner rather than later. Nevertheless, Sanders would need to continue cleansing his lifestyle and show teams a renewed focus on the game. For now, Sanders says there is no timetable toward a return. He now resides in Los Angeles where he releases music, including a recent single called “Black Mercedes.”
Sanders said once his management company for artists, designers and photographers becomes more established, “coming back to the game will be easier.”
The end of Sanders' tenure in Milwaukee was complicated, but if he decides he wants to give it another go, he should have opportunities. When Sanders was at the top of his game, he was one of the best rim protectors in the NBA. There are plenty of teams who could use someone with his skills.
Fair or not, when Sanders does start talking to teams, he'll likely have to demonstrate that he's fully committed to restarting his career. This league isn't used to players leaving after a few years and pursuing other interests. He is only 27 years old, though, and perhaps he'll be more equipped to deal with the NBA lifestyle after some time away from it.
