Rondae Hollis-Jefferson won the hearts of basketball fans around the world during last year’s FIBA World Cup, with his playing style and mannerisms all strikingly similar to those of Kobe Bryant.
But more importantly, Hollis-Jefferson proved he could still play, despite not having a job in the NBA since 2021.
Competing for the Jordanian national team, he averaged 23.6 points, 7.8 rebounds and 4.4 assists, while dazzling crowds with incredible heroics such as his 4-point play to force overtime against New Zealand.
Despite his viral World Cup campaign, Hollis-Jefferson still hasn’t been given another shot at the NBA since, which is something he vented about on social media this week.
“I was going to let it slide and play out the way it’s supposed to but there’s no way I can sit back and let people discredit all the work I’ve put in. MENTALLY PHYSICALLY and SKILLFULLY,” Hollis-Jefferson said on his Instagram story.
“My game has evolved in many ways while still having the tools that got me to the NBA… I’m confused as to why I can’t get a opportunity??? Ok I made mistakes at 24 that I wouldn’t make at 30. But that’s life you learn from those mistakes.. I’m not asking for anything other than a chance.. sh*t I’ll sleep in the gym…”
Since falling out of the NBA, Hollis-Jefferson has been playing in various countries around the world, including Turkey, Puerto Rico, South Korea and the Philippines.
At his statistical peak in the NBA, he averaged 13.9 points and 6.8 rebounds for the Brooklyn Nets in 2016-17.
