Ten years ago, O.J. Mayo had the world at his feet. After a very impressive year at the University of Southern California, he was drafted third overall in the 2008 NBA Draft and eventually ended up with the Memphis Grizzlies in a draft day deal that involved Kevin Love and the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Mayo had an outstanding stint with the Grizzlies in which he posted averages of 15.2 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.7 assists in his four years. After a season with the Dallas Mavericks, he signed an $8 million-per-year contract with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2013.
It all came crashing down for Mayo three years later after being dismissed and disqualified by the NBA for violating the league's Anti-Drug program. He was effectively slapped with a two-year suspension.
This easily could have been yet another tale of a wasted talent, but it appears that Mayo is not one to give up that easily.
Showing his resilience and determination, the 30-year-old shooting guard, who is currently playing as a pro in Puerto Rico, seems to be on the brink of an NBA comeback. According to Keith Smith of Real GM, NBA scouts have been eyeing Mayo and consider him to be a potential signing once his suspension expires this summer.
“Body looks good. Not heavy. Pretty in shape. Shot's rusty, but was never great anyway. Ball handling & driving is solid. Defense is ok, but no challenge. Worth a look for someone later this summer.”
Head seems screwed on straight. Wants to get back to the league. He'll make it back. Then he's gotta stick by avoiding the stuff that got him in trouble in the first place. He's a good guy. He should be ok.”
Everybody loves a comeback story and given Mayo's undeniable on-court brilliance, it would be hard to root against a return for the Huntington, West Virginia native. Let's just all hope that he has his mind right this time around.
Follow Us
Subscribe