Introduction
Andray Blatche, a former NBA player for the Washington Wizards and Brooklyn Nets, had a promising career that took a turn for the worse. However, he found a way to resurrect his career by becoming a sensation in international basketball. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the rise and fall of Andray Blatche, his international success, and what the future holds for this basketball star.
Early NBA Career
Andray Blatche was born in New York City and attended Henninger High School in Syracuse, New York. He declared for the NBA draft in 2005 and was selected by the Washington Wizards as the 49th overall pick. Blatche’s early years in the NBA were filled with promise as he was slowly developing into a solid player. He became a reliable backup forward, averaging 7.9 points and 5.2 rebounds per game in the 2010-2011 season.
Controversy and Demise
In 2012, Blatche signed a three-year, $23 million contract with the Wizards, but his performance declined, and he became known for his off-court issues. His weight gain and a string of issues including arrests and attitude problems placed him on thin ice with the Wizards’ management. In 2014, Andray Blatche was waived by the team.
Moving Abroad
Despite his disappointing end in the NBA, Blatche embraced an opportunity to play in China, initially with the Xinjiang Flying Tigers, where he became the top scorer and rebounder. After a successful run in China, Blatche continued his overseas career in the Philippines, where he played for the Gilas Pilipinas squad. Playing with the national team elevated his status and gave him global recognition.
International Sensation
Blatche’s robust play in the Philippines expanded his fan base, and he became an international sensation. His fans in the Philippines dubbed him “Pinoy Blatche,” and he was widely celebrated for his play on the court, earning a spot on the All-Star team. He also led the Philippines to its first FIBA World Cup appearance in forty years, showcasing his skills on an international level.
Return to China
Andray Blatche’s success in the Philippines bagged him another stint in the Chinese Basketball Association, playing for the Zhejiang Golden Bulls, and later, the Shanxi Loongs. Blatche played well, making the All-Star team and led Shanxi to its best-ever season.
Andray Blatche’s Future
Andray Blatche’s international basketball career has been a success, but he remains without an NBA contract. Blatche hasn’t played in the NBA since he was waived by the Nets in 2014, but his career in China and the Philippines continues to thrive. Currently, Blatche plays for the The Mighty Sports, the Philippines-based basketball club, and serves as an inspiration to young athletes worldwide.
FAQs
Q.What teams did Andray Blatche play for in the NBA?
A. Andray Blatche played for the Washington Wizards and the Brooklyn Nets in the NBA.
Q.Why did Andray Blatche leave the NBA?
A. Blatche had a string of off-court issues, arrests, and attitude problems and loss of form leading to his release from NBA teams.
Q. Which countries did Andray Blatche play for?
A. Andray Blatche played for China, the Philippines, and the USA teams.
Q. What achievement did Andray Blatche reach while playing in the Philippines?
A. Andray Blatche led the Philippines basketball team to its first FIBA World Cup appearance in forty years.
Q. Does Andray Blatche still play basketball?
A. Yes, Andray Blatche continues to play basketball in the Philippine-based basketball club, The Mighty Sport, and teams of China’s CBA.
Q.What is the nickname given to Andray Blatche by his Filipino fans?
A. Andray Blatche is called “Pinoy Blatche” by his Filipino fans.
Q. Why is Andray Blatche an inspiration to young athletes worldwide?
A. Despite the obstacles faced in the NBA, Andray Blatche continued to work hard and succeeded in his international career, thereby inspiring young athletes worldwide.
Conclusion
Despite a tumultuous career in the NBA, Andray Blatche’s move overseas and resurgence as an international basketball superstar is impressive. Although he hasn’t played for the NBA in a few years, Blatche is still playing basketball, and his successful run in the Philippines and China continues. Andray Blatche serves as an inspiration to young athletes worldwide.