With Tuesday representing the final day of the 2010s decade, Houston Rockets veteran forward P.J. Tucker took to Instagram to reflect on his remarkable journey over the past 10 years.
When the decade began, Tucker played for Ukrainian basketball club Donetsk — which no longer exists. Now 34 years old, Tucker is ending the 2010s as a starter and essential piece for one of the NBA’s best teams.
In the note, which includes a photo collage of his games with various international teams, Tucker writes:
As we close out the last few hours of the decade, it’s only natural that I think about how I came into it. If you would have told me that in 2019 this is where I’d be, I would have probably laughed in your face. I had attempted to retire [twice] and was super fed up with it all. But my love for the game just wouldn’t let me quit.
Tucker went on to explain that he hoped his story could help inspire others facing their own struggles.
This doesn’t humble me, because I live and play with the chip of my story on my shoulder every single day. It’s a part of me! No, this is just motivation for anybody out there that’s struggling with who they are, or who they want to be. Keep fighting and never give up, because you never know what blessings are in store for you.
Entering Tuesday, Tucker was averaging 9.1 points and 7.3 rebounds in 36.1 minutes per game this season. With the Rockets (22-11), he continues to reliably bring his usual brand of toughness, strong defense, and excellent three-point shooting (38.9%) — especially in the corners.
In the 2019-20 season to date, Tucker’s shooting percentage (48.0%), rebounds, and minutes per game are all at career and decade highs.
