When the Boston Celtics acquired Luigi Datome from the Detroit Pistons last season, few had any idea just how popular he'd eventually become.
The 6'8" three-point shooter came to Boston with career NBA averages of 2.5 points and 6.9 minutes, making under 20 percent of his outside shots. But with the Celtics he thrived, sort of. Here's CelticsBlog's Wes Howard with more:
"His season culminated with a dominant performance in the final game of the regular season. Gigi started against the Milwaukee Bucks, and put up 22 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, and a block, shooting 60% from the field and 42.9% from deep. The 27 minutes that the Italian played during that game were a Boston sports fan's dream; the fan-favorite received the canvas with which he would paint a masterpiece. Every bucket was met with ever-increasing applause, until his final baskets aroused a ceaseless standing ovation."
Datome may have already played his last game in Boston (he's a free agent this summer), but in his short stint he proved he can at least knock down shots.
The 27-year-old was given a green light by Brad Stevens and he responded by making 47.2 percent of his threes. Wherever his career continues, people will love him.
(h/t: CelticsBlog)
Photo Credit: David Butler II/USA TODAY Sports
