‣ Gibson, with a career spanning 15 seasons and having played for multiple teams, brings veteran leadership to the Pistons, positively impacting younger players like James Wiseman through mentorship and confidence-building.
‣ Over the past three seasons, Gibson would become the 54th player to take the court in a Detroit Pistons uniform, highlighting the team’s high turnover and Gibson’s journeyman role in the NBA.
If Taj Gibson plays this season for the #Pistons, he will be their 28th different player to appear in a game, setting a franchise record and tying for the fourth-most in NBA history. Gibson would be the 54th player to take the court as a Piston over the past three seasons.
— Mike Curtis (@MikeACurtis2)
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Taj Gibson might just hit the court for the Detroit Pistons this season. If he does, he’ll be their 28th player this year. That’s a record for the franchise. And it ties for the fourth most in NBA history. Quite the milestone, huh?
Mike Curtis, a beat writer for *The Detroit News*, dropped this nugget. Gibson, at 38, is looking to add to his impressive career. He signed a 10-day contract with Detroit last Wednesday. Imagine that, his experience joining a team hungry for growth.
Here’s what Curtis tweeted: “If Taj Gibson plays this season for the #Pistons, he will be their 28th different player to appear in a game, setting a franchise record and tying for the fourth-most in NBA history.” That tweet was on March 13, 2024. Time flies, doesn’t it?
Pistons coach Monty Williams seems thrilled. “I just like having another veteran guy around our team,” he told Curtis. It’s about the impact, both on and off the court. Evan Fournier’s influence was mentioned too. Veterans matter, as they say.
Yet, Gibson hasn’t made his Pistons debut. The suspense, right? This isn’t his first rodeo, though. The Pistons are his sixth NBA team. Born in New York, he was the 26th overall pick by the Chicago Bulls in 2009. USC must be proud.
His journey’s been quite the ride. After eight seasons with the Bulls, he moved around a bit. Oklahoma City Thunder, Minnesota Timberwolves, and then the New York Knicks. Most recently, he was with the Washington Wizards for the 2022-23 season.
But, there was a hiccup. He was waived last October. Then, a twist. He signed a non-guaranteed deal with the Knicks in December. Why? Mitchell Robinson got injured. But, Gibson’s time was limited. Just 10 appearances, with career lows. Tough break.
James Wiseman had some kind words, though. “He’s given me a lot of confidence,” Wiseman said. It’s about more than just the game. It’s the confidence, the mentorship. Vets matter, indeed.
Gibson’s been around. He’s made 961 career appearances. His stats? Averaging 8.6 points, 5.8 rebounds, and more. Not too shabby for a 15-year career. His leadership is now influencing the Pistons’ younger talents. Like Wiseman said, it’s about playing your game.
So, here’s to Taj Gibson. Whether on the court or off, he’s making an impact. And maybe, just maybe, he’ll help write a new chapter for the Pistons. Who knows what’s next? But it’s sure to be an interesting ride.
