Rajon Rondo Explains Why He Preferred Lakers Run Over Celtics Run

Rajon Rondo holds a unique place in NBA history. Not only has he won a championship with the Boston Celtics, but he also got one with the Los Angeles Lakers.

In L.A., Rondo claimed a chip during the infamous ‘Bubble Season’ of 2020.

This week, during an interview with Draymond Green, he explained why the Lakers title means more to him.

“You can’t compare it honestly,” Rondo said. “Because 2020, we were in a bubble so we didn’t get a parade. So, I’ve only had one parade and that was the most amazing thing that’s happened to me in basketball. Just that type of love and reaction.

“To see the fans, you seen it this year but to be a part of it, to get on the duck boat, go on a tour, it was amazing,” Rondo added. “That’s the only opportunity I got to have a parade. But at that particular time when I won in 2020, my son was in the Bubble with me… that was more special.”

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Rondo didn’t stop there.

“I enjoyed the Bubble because you get to see the guy every day that you walking past,” Rondo said.

“You get to see the enemy and there’s no distractions. There’s no outside, there’s no hotel flights, everybody’s in one room, there’s no excuses. It’s check ball… There’s no advantages.

“It’s my five against your best five and figure it out,” Rondo stated.

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“You got obviously seven games to figure it out but I love that concept of we go right to the room, then we go to film. We was able to learn a lot more during that time that I would say if we were able to go home, practice, have other distractions, don’t think about the game, but in the Bubble, that’s all you thinking about.”

A Review of Rajon Rondo’s Basketball Career: From Celtic Star to NBA Journeyman

Rajon Rondo, a four-time NBA All-Star and two-time champion, announced his retirement in April 2023 after a remarkable 16-year career in the league.

Known for his exceptional court vision and basketball IQ, Rondo left an indelible mark on the game, particularly during his nine-season tenure with the Boston Celtics.

Rondo’s career spanned multiple teams and included numerous accolades, from leading the league in assists to earning All-Defensive Team honors.

His journey began as the 21st overall pick in the 2006 NBA Draft, selected by the Phoenix Suns before being traded to the Celtics on draft night.

In Boston, Rondo quickly established himself as a key contributor, playing a crucial role in the team’s 2008 championship run alongside stars Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, and Ray Allen.

Beyond his time with the Celtics, Rondo’s career included stints with several other NBA franchises.

He continued to showcase his playmaking abilities and leadership skills, most notably helping the Los Angeles Lakers secure their 17th championship in 2020.

This second title, coming 12 years after his first, demonstrated Rondo’s enduring impact and adaptability in the ever-evolving landscape of professional basketball.

Rise to Prominence

Rajon Rondo’s ascent in the basketball world was marked by impressive achievements and rapid development.

Early Life and High School Achievements

Born on February 22, 1986, in Louisville, Kentucky, Rajon Rondo showed early promise in basketball.

At Eastern High School, he averaged 27.9 points, 10 rebounds, and 7.5 assists per Game as a senior. His outstanding performance earned him a spot in the McDonald’s All-American Game in 2004.

Rondo’s high school career also included three straight state tournament appearances. His leadership and playmaking abilities caught the attention of college recruiters, leading to his commitment to the University of Kentucky.

NBA Draft and Rookie Season

The Phoenix Suns selected Rondo as the 21st overall pick in the 2006 NBA Draft. He was immediately traded to the Boston Celtics, where he began his professional career.

In his rookie season, Rondo played 78 Games, starting 25 of them.

Despite the Celtics’ struggles that year, Rondo showed flashes of his potential.

He averaged 6.4 points and 3.8 assists per game, demonstrating his skills as a pass-first point guard. His defensive prowess was evident from the start, as he recorded 1.6 steals per game.

Formation of the Big Three and First Championship

The 2007-08 season marked a turning point for both Rondo and the Celtics.

The team acquired All-Stars Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen to join Paul Pierce, forming the “Big Three.”

Rondo, now the starting point guard, played a crucial role in orchestrating the offense.

With Rondo at the helm, the Celtics dominated the regular season, finishing with a 66-16 record.

In the playoffs, he elevated his game, averaging 10.2 points, 6.6 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game. The Celtics defeated the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA Finals, securing Rondo’s first championship in just his second NBA season.

Prime and Legacy

Rajon Rondo’s NBA career was marked by exceptional playmaking, defensive prowess, and clutch performances in high-stakes situations. His impact on the game extended beyond individual accolades to team success and mentorship of younger players.

All-Star Appearances and Assists Leader

Rondo made four consecutive All-Star appearances from 2010 to 2013, showcasing his elite status among NBA point guards.

He led the league in assists per game three times (2012, 2013, 2016), demonstrating his exceptional court vision and passing ability.

In the 2011-12 season, Rondo averaged an impressive 11.7 assists per game.

His assist numbers were consistently high throughout his prime years. Rondo’s ability to create scoring opportunities for teammates made him a valuable asset to any team he played for.

Playoff Performances and ‘Playoff Rondo’

Rondo earned the nickname ‘Playoff Rondo’ due to his tendency to elevate his game in the postseason.

His playoff performances were often marked by increased scoring, assists, and rebounds compared to his regular-season averages.

Notable playoff moments include his triple-double in Game 2 of the 2010 NBA Finals against the Lakers and his near triple-double average in the 2012 Eastern Conference Finals against the Heat.

In the 2020 NBA Playoffs with the Lakers, Rondo played a crucial role off the bench, helping the team secure the championship alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

Defensive Skills and All-Defensive Team Honors

Rondo’s defensive skills were a hallmark of his game.

He earned four All-Defensive Team selections (First Team in 2010 and 2011, Second Team in 2009 and 2012). His quick hands and anticipation made him a formidable perimeter defender.

He led the league in steals per game in the 2009-10 season with 2.3. Rondo’s ability to disrupt opposing offenses and generate turnovers was a key factor in his teams’ defensive strategies.

Team Transitions and Veteran Influence

After his tenure with the Celtics, Rondo became something of a journeyman, playing for several teams including the Dallas Mavericks, Chicago Bulls, New Orleans Pelicans, and Los Angeles Lakers.

Despite changing teams frequently, Rondo maintained his reputation as a high-IQ player and floor general.

He often took on mentorship roles with younger players, sharing his basketball knowledge and experience.

His ability to adapt to different team systems and play alongside stars like Jimmy Butler and Anthony Davis showcased his versatility and basketball intelligence.

Prospects of Hall of Fame Induction

Rondo’s Hall of Fame candidacy is a subject of debate among basketball analysts.

His four All-Star selections, multiple All-Defensive Team honors, and two NBA championships strengthen his case.

His career averages of 10.0 points, 8.1 assists, and 4.6 rebounds per game, along with his playoff performances, add to his credentials.

Rondo’s impact on winning teams and his reputation as one of the best passers of his era also bolster his Hall of Fame prospects.

While not a prolific scorer, Rondo’s unique skill set and contributions to championship teams may sway voters in his favor when he becomes eligible for induction.

Carlos Garcia

A longtime sports reporter, Carlos Garcia has written about some of the biggest and most notable athletic events of the last 5 years. He has been credentialed to cover MLS, NBA and MLB games all over the United States. His work has been published on Fox Sports, Bleacher Report, AOL and the Washington Post.