Ray-Ray, Sugar Ray, Jesus Shuttlesworth. These were just a few of the monikers given to Ray Allen during his playing days. According to Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra, who had Allen at his disposal for two seasons between 2012 and 2014, “Everyday Ray” was another nickname they had for the sharpshooter.
The 47-year-old coach explained how this moniker came about. Spoelstra credits it to Allen's innate ability to consistently make the 3-ball night in and night out.
“Our nickname for him is ‘Everyday Ray,’” Spoelstra told Steve Aschburner of NBA.com. “It’s every day. It’s not every other day. It’s not some days. It’s every single day Ray.”
According to his former coach, Allen had the mental aspect of the game locked down. He had an unrivaled mentality, and this was a major contributor to the success he achieved throughout his career.
“His work ethic and his discipline are in the top percentage in this league,” added Spoelstra. “Ninety-nine percent of the players do not have that type of consistent work ethic.”
Allen spent the final two seasons of his 18-year career in Miami under Spoelstra. The 10-time All-Star won the second championship of his career in his debut season with the Heat, in which he averaged 1.8 3-pointers off the bench.
The following season, in the team's fourth straight Finals appearance, Allen, Spoelstra, and the rest of the LeBron James-led Miami Heat conceded the title to Kawhi Leonard and the San Antonio Spurs. This turned out to be Allen's swan song, as he decided to call it a career at the age of 38.
Follow Us
Subscribe