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What Happened to Steve Novak?
What Happened to Steve Novak?
By Edcel Panganiban July 05, 2024 12:04
Steve Novak, a renowned sharpshooter whose journey from Marquette University to the NBA carved out a unique niche in professional basketball, exemplifies a story of persistence, adaptability, and noteworthy accomplishments. This post offers an extensive take on Steve Novak, covering everything from his high school days in Wisconsin all the way to his meteoric rise in the NBA.
Early Life and College Career
Steve Novak was born on the 13th of June, 1983, in Libertyville, Illinois, and went to Brown Deer High School based in Wisconsin. Before transferring to LSU, he played college basketball for Marquette University during the 2002–03 season.. As a freshman, he played in the Final Four with future NBA players Dwyane Wade and Travis Diener.
Novak flourished throughout college, averaging double-figures in scoring and being one of the top three-point threats in NCAA basketball. His strong play and on-court voice paved the way for a future in the professional league.
Professional Career
Houston Rockets (2006–2008)
The Rockets selected Novak with No. 32 overall in the first round of the loaded '06 class, signaling a clear link between what would become his pro profession and identity: a shooter. A rookie year with the Rockets was an introduction to life in professional basketball, a season of minimal playing time that lent valuable experience.
Los Angeles Clippers (2008–2010)
From there, Novak was signed by the Los Angeles Clippers in 2008, where he developed further as a player on the court. During his time with the Clippers, Novak had plenty of memorable moments and game-winners that illustrated he knew how to elevate in high-pressure situations.
New York Knicks (2011–2013)
Things really came together for Novak when he became a Knick in 2011. In New York, one of his most notable accomplishments was leading the NBA in three-point percentage and getting selected for All-Star Weekend's Foot Locker Three-Point Contest. He had several on-court heroics and helped lead the team to relevance, developing into one of the team's all-time best 3-point shooters as he earned his own cult-like following among fans. Novak impacted New York even more off the court and became a fan favorite with Knicks fans. Walt Frazier dubbed him "Novakaine."
Toronto Raptors: Utah Jazz and More
Novak's time in the NBA saw him move around to several teams, including stops with the Toronto Raptors, Utah Jazz, and Oklahoma City Thunder, among others. Whether he was traded or switched from team to team, Novak never lost his passion for the game.
Recent Years and Retirement
Although his career as a professional basketball player ended, it left an undeniable and lasting mark on the sport and every community he was part of. The basketball world would be very different if not for Novak, and the fact that he is still held in high regard shows just how special of a player he was.
The story of Steve Novak and his journey through the basketball world is an incredible testament to all these things. His journey from Marquette University to the NBA illustrates persistence, resiliency, and rising above adversity.
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