Chris Andersen is 36 years old, in his 13th NBA season. I’ll be the first to say it: that ish cray. How does a role player (an ECCENTRIC role player, no less) like him stick around for so long?
Is it because of his defense? Not out of the question, though how good could a 36 year old possibly be at defense?
Is it because of his scoring prowess? No. Definitely not. 18 points is his career high, which isn’t very good for a guy who has played 600-plus games.
Is it because of his personality? I’d say that’s the reason right there. He sells tickets with his presence. It’s like what would happen if you imported a WWE wrestler into the NBA, complete with kitschy nickname and hella tats. “The Birdman”. Written on his neck in bright colors. It’s just too rad.
Too god damn rad.