Al Jefferson is a distinguished American professional basketball player whose career has spanned over a decade in the NBA and beyond. He began his professional journey straight out of high school, being drafted 15th overall by the Boston Celtics in the 2004 NBA Draft. During his time with the Celtics from 2004 to 2007, Jefferson showcased his potential as a formidable power forward, contributing significantly to the team’s frontcourt and earning a spot on the NBA All-Rookie Second Team in 2005.
Following his tenure in Boston, Jefferson was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he truly began to shine. From 2007 to 2010, he emerged as a leading scorer and rebounder, averaging over 20 points and 10 rebounds per game in his final season with the team. His impressive performance solidified his reputation as one of the league’s top big men, leading to his selection for the All-NBA Third Team in 2014 while playing for the Charlotte Hornets.
Jefferson’s career continued with stints at the Utah Jazz and the Charlotte Bobcats/Hornets, where he consistently demonstrated his scoring ability and rebounding prowess. He played a pivotal role in the Bobcats’ playoff run in 2014, further establishing himself as a key player in the league.
In 2016, Jefferson joined the Indiana Pacers, rounding out his NBA career before transitioning to international play with the Xinjiang Flying Tigers in the Chinese Basketball Association. Throughout his career, Jefferson has left an indelible mark on the game, known for his skillful post moves and tenacity on the court, making him a respected figure in basketball history.