DeAndre Jordan (#6) dunks the ball during a Team USA practice in Las Vegas. (Photo : Getty Images / Andrew D. Bernstein)
DeAndre Jordan has been left of the NBA All-Star team for quite a few years now, despite being a league-leading rebounder, elite defender and a vital part of the Los Angeles Clippers. However, he can be called something else - US Olympian and possible gold medalist.
The former second round-pick was named to the US Olympic team that is headed to Rio 2016 in its quest for a gold in basketball. Jordan shared his thoughts in NBA.com, calling his selection "huge" and a "humbling experience" to be with some of the best players in the world. After a third consecutive year of posting a double-double average, Jordan is now the only Clipper to make Team USA after All-Star teammates Chris Paul and Blake Griffin withdrew from consideration.
Jordan's hard work and dedication earned him praises from the Team USA coaching staff. Head coach Mike Krzyzewski called the center a "world-class athlete "and an "amazing defender, rebounder, great teammate," according to the Los Angeles Times. Assistant coach Jim Boeheim said there's hope of improvement regarding Jordan's poor free-throw shooting due to his unparalleled work ethic. Jordan downplayed the comments by saying that he just wants to be the best for his team.
All-Star Kevin Durant also had praises for Jordan by comparing him to a point guard. Durant said that point guards create plays for teammates and that Jordan does something similar by rebounding, setting screens, rolling and generally commanding attention around the rim, where he is a dangerous finisher.
Jordan earned All-NBA First Team honors the past season after averaging 12.7 points on 70 percent shooting and 13.8 rebounds, while being the anchor the Clippers defense. The former 35th pick of the 2008 Draft describes his journey as "up and down" and says that earning the "respect of (his) peers and coaches" is all that matters to him now.
Jordan signed for $88 million, four years last summer with the Clippers after famously verbally committing to the Dallas Mavericks and reneging after pressure from Clippers teammates and coach Doc Rivers.
Here are the top 10 plays of Jordan from last season.
