Former Lakers Forward Lamar Odom Thanks Stephon Marbury, Announces Plans To Play Professionally In China
Lamar Odom
Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Lamar Odom has seen his career take several turns since being selected by the Los Angeles Clippers with the fourth overall pick in the 1999 NBA Draft.

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He was part of a promising yet inconsistent and unfocused Clippers core, had a successful season with the Miami Heat, then established himself with the Lakers. While Odom was on Lakers teams that endured down seasons, he was also a member of the franchise’s two championship runs.

Not only was Odom a member of the rosters that reached and twice won the NBA Finals, he was an integral piece to the Lakers’ success. However, his career began to spiral downward after the vetoed Chris Paul trade that would’ve sent Odom to the New Orleans Hornets.

Odom was hurt by the Lakers’ initial attempt to trade him, and eventually asked that he be moved. From there he struggled with the Dallas Mavericks and in a reunion with the Clippers.

Now, Odom announced he will resume his professional career in China, and thanked Stephon Marbury for inspiring him:

I have some good news to share with you on this beautiful day from The Netherlands. My heart literally warms up now I can finally share with you all that I'm returning to play Basketball. I will be playing in China ! God is good ! Thanks lord for giving me another chance in life and thank you fans for your the love and support during all those hard years. Never give up on yourself and keep believing that only god can create the miracles you're hoping for. Basketball and my children have always been the light in my life and this is where my focus is right now. Thank you @mr2rchiang and @iamzoul for believing in me and the opportunity to start over again! Thank you @starburymarbury for being my inspiration ????????????❤️ LETS GOO ! #china #basketball #yes

A post shared by Lamar Odom (@lamarodom) on

Odom previously attempted to play overseas in February 2014 when he signed with a team in Spain, but that lasted just two games because of a back injury. While working through various personal matters, Odom at times has publicly stated his commitment resurrecting his physique and career.

He last was in the NBA while playing for the Clippers during the 2012-13 season. He appeared in all 82 games, making two starts, and averaging 4.0 points, 5.9 rebounds and 1.7 assists in 19.7 minutes.

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