JJ Barea, changing the game for Puerto Rican basketball
JJ Barea, changing the game for Puerto Rican basketball
By Brad Taningco December 30, 2022 01:31
JJ Barea retired from professional basketball earlier this year, thus closing the curtain on the career of one of, if not the greatest Puerto Rican basketball player in history.
Despite standing just 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighing 180 lbs, JJ Barea was able to forge a 14-year NBA career against all the odds. More than that, he somehow became a key contributor in one of the most famous title runs in recent memory: the Dallas Mavericks' 2011 championship campaign, where they overcame LeBron James and the Miami Heat Big 3 in the NBA Finals.
JJ Barea was a real game-changer as he showed what was possible not only for a player of his stature, but for Puerto Rican players in general.
There have been a number of Puerto Rican players who have plied their trade in the NBA over the years, the most successful of which have been point guards. Carlos Arroyo came into the league a few years earlier than Barea and had a similarly long career. Shabazz Napier also had a lengthy stint in the league, while Jose Alvarado is the latest in the increasingly growing list of Puerto Rican NBA point guards.
JJ Barea has without question become the benchmark of success for his compatriots. He was able to overcome his physical limitations primarily through his toughness and determination amid overwhelming obstacles, and he became a world champion as a result. Truly, his example is one that all Puerto Rican players should strive to emulate.
And even in retirement, JJ Barea is still looking to change the game for Puerto Ricans, this time through coaching. He became a Dallas Mavericks player development coach even before his retirement and was the head coach of an actual team a few years before that as he showed a strong desire to take on coaching as his new challenge.
As he continues to gain experience in coaching, JJ Barea looks set to help produce the next generation of Puerto Rican talents who might be able to follow in his footsteps in the NBA.
In the meantime, JJ Barea - in partnership with Fan Arch - has produced his own line of merch that his fans can purchase on his fan store. From hoodies to T-shirts and sweatshirts, you can pick out your favorite piece from the Puerto Rican hero’s collection.
JJ Barea, along with 1000+ professional athletes and influencers have personalized merchandise on the Fan Arch’s website!
Fan Arch aims to transcend the narrative by making it easier to bridge the gap between athletes, influencers, and their fans. Check out our creative and personalized collection through Fanarch.com.
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