The NBA rookie who achieved a historic feat of precision
In short: In 2004, Ben Gordon did something no other rookie in NBA history has ever done: he won the Sixth Man of the Year Award. But behind the scoring records and championship trophies lies a complex story of sudden stardom, professional highs, and a deeply personal struggle with mental health.
Ben Gordon’s ascent to professional basketball was marked by immediate impact. After leading the University of Connecticut to an NCAA championship in 2004, Gordon was selected third overall in the 2004 NBA draft by the Chicago Bulls. He arrived in Chicago during a period of significant struggle; the franchise had failed to win more than 30 games in any season between Michael Jordan's 1998 departure and Gordon's arrival. Gordon's rookie season provided a vital turnaround, helping the Bulls reach a 47–35 record and the playoffs.
On the court, Gordon was a specialist in efficiency and volume. He holds a shared NBA record for the most three-point field goals in a single game without a miss, a feat he achieved twice: once in 2006 against the Washington Wizards and again in 201s against the Denver Nuggets. During his tenure with the Bulls, he also surpassed Scottie Pippen to become the franchise leader in career three-pointers made.
However, Gordon's career and life outside the arena have been defined by significant turbulence. Following an 11-season NBA career that included stints with the Detroit Pistons, Charlotte Bobcats, and Orlando Magic, Gordon faced a series of legal issues and public struggles. In 2020, he revealed his diagnosis of bipolar disorder, detailing his battles with mental illness and a suicide attempt. His later years have been marked by several arrests involving physical altercations and weapons, highlighting the profound difficulties of transitioning from the heights of professional athletics to life after the game.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Ben Gordon
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