Shaun Livington’s career as an NBA player has reached its end, but it might not be the last we see of him. The Golden State Warriors would be wise to hire him as a consultant.
As Shaun Livingston announces his retirement from the NBA, it serves as another reminder of the end of an era of this Golden State Warriors dynasty. Aside from his years spent in the Bay, Livington’s career and the path he took, enduring the obstacles that came his way, is inspiring.
After suffering a gruesome injury that questioned whether he’d be able to ever play again, Livingston recovered and bounced from team to team, all the while remaining a great teammate along the way.
Over time, he rebuilt his career, serving as a vital role player that eventually landed him with the Warriors.
We know how that partnership turned out: five NBA Finals appearances and becoming a three-time NBA champion for Shaun Livingston.
Not seeing Livingston on the court is a tough blow, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it has to be the last we’ve seen of him in the Warriors organization.
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As Golden State ushers in a new youth movement, player development will be as vital as ever in recent memory. Having individuals in and around the players who understand the culture and the system of Steve Kerr is significant.
It’s no surprise that Golden State signed on Zaza Pachulia as a consultant. And if the Warriors are wise, and there is mutual interest, it should be of no question for the Warriors to do the same with Shaun Livingston.
Whether that be as a consultant, a development coach, or being in the front office, Shaun Livingston has earned the opportunity to work within the Warriors organization. He is widely regarded as one of the wisest individuals with a true knack for the game of basketball.
Marc Stein of the New York Times, having seen the news of Livingston’s retirement, quickly confirmed that as a fact, noting that so many journalists and reporters were eager to listen and take notice whenever Livingston spoke:
Just seeing this news in China and I miss The Master Of The Mid-Range already. The line at Shaun’s locker was always long because all the writers wanted to hear his wisdom. Congrats on an amazing career, 34! https://t.co/yUAUhDMBgw
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) September 13, 2019
After 15 years in the league, it should come as no surprise that Livingston has a wealth of knowledge of the game of basketball. He’s personally seen the highs and lows that the NBA has to offer.
Any team would be foolish not to reach out to leverage the knowledge that he has to offer. But it’s up to the Warriors to make sure they’re the first ones calling.
Whether it be coaching up Jacob Evans (whom the organization has faith in by stepping into the backup point guard role) or just being a presence around the team as it ushers in a new era in San Francisco, Golden State would be wise to bring Livingston back in the fold some way, somehow.
We may have seen the last of him in a Warriors jersey, but chances are he won’t be saying goodbye to the Warriors organization for long.