Ovinton J'Anthony Mayo, popularly known as O.J. Mayo, is an American professional basketball player who has had an eventful career in the NBA. He was a standout for the USC Trojans and was highly regarded as a promising talent. Mayo entered the 2008 NBA draft and was selected by the Minnesota Timberwolves with the third overall pick. 

O.J. Mayo's NBA Career

O.J. Mayo's career in the NBA spanned from 2008 to 2016, a respectable number of seasons for any player's career in the league. During this period, he played for several teams, showcasing his skills and contributing significantly to the league's product.

Seasons in the NBA

During his 8 seasons in the NBA, Mayo  demonstrated his prowess as a shooting guard. His career statistics reflect his impact on the court, showcasing his scoring ability, defensive contributions, and overall influence on the game. Over the course of his NBA career, Mayo participated in 547 games, averaging 13.8 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game.

Teams and Performance

Mayo's journey in the NBA took him through different teams, each presenting unique challenges and opportunities. He started with the Memphis Grizzlies where he was an integral cog to the Grit and Grind era of the Grizzlies. He made significant contributions in Memphis, including a career-high 40 points in a game against the Denver Nuggets.

His tenure with the Dallas Mavericks also showcased his skills, as he continued to excel in scoring and playmaking roles. Mayo's transfer to the Milwaukee Bucks further solidified his status as a valuable player, with notable performances, including a 17-point, 5-assist game against the New York Knicks. However, his time with the Bucks was marred by injuries, including a fractured right ankle that cut short his 2015-2016 season.

Impact and Achievements

Throughout his NBA career, O.J. Mayo left a lasting impact, earning accolades and recognition for his skills on the court. He received the NBA All-Rookie First Team honors in 2009, showcasing his promising start in the league. Additionally, Mayo's contributions extended beyond the NBA, as he ventured into international leagues, including the Super Basketball League in Taiwan, where he excelled and earned accolades such as the SBL Three Point Contest champion and SBL scoring champion in 2019.

Challenges and Setbacks

Despite his talent and achievements, O.J. Mayo faced challenges and setbacks during his NBA career. In 2016, he was dismissed from the NBA for violating the league's anti-drug program, leading to a hiatus from the professional basketball scene. This period marked a significant setback in Mayo's career, impacting his trajectory in the NBA.

His journey in the NBA reflects the highs and lows of a professional athlete's career, characterized by achievements, challenges, and a lasting legacy in the world of basketball. Mayo's contributions both in the NBA and international leagues solidify his status as a prominent figure in the basketball arena, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.

O.J. Mayo's career in the NBA is a testament to his skill, dedication, and perseverance as a professional basketball player, showcasing his impact on the league and beyond.