The Grant Hill Story: What Could’ve Been

  

In 1994, a star was born in the NBA, and that man was Grant Hill from Duke University. He was drafted with the third overall pick by the Detroit Pistons in 1994, with the likes of Jason Kidd and Glenn Robinson. The bar and expectations was set very high for this young clean-cut college star. Just coming off of a NCAA All-American selection and championship, the NBA was very aware they had a star approaching its league.

In the mid 90's, you could see Grant Hill everywhere, from Sprite and Fila commercials. Hill had it all, from the riches, fame, respect and popularity. He was the golden boy of that era, and whatever he touched turned to gold. Grant Hill was paid very handsomely for his services. Hill made over $140 million throughout his 19 year career. In that time, $100 million contracts weren't given so loosely as it is now.
 
Back then, there was a lot of jealousy from players towards Grant Hill because of his fame and fortune. But when you're that rich, who cares what they think of you, because you're laughing straight to the bank. Hill didn't worry about that. He was the type of player that wanted to get along with everyone.

He was a modern day role model for kids across the country. Hill let you know that it was cool to go to college and graduate. Everyone wanted to be like him in every way possible. Grant Hill never got into any trouble off the court throughout his NBA career.
 
In the first six seasons with the Detroit Pistons, Grant Hill was a triple-double threat waiting to happen. He was healthy and by far considered one of the best in the game. Then it happened, Grant Hill's career would never be the same. In the 2000 playoff game against the Miami Heat, Hill had to be sidelined because of a sprained ankle. That's when all his injury problems began.
 
Grant Hill was a free of that summer and chose to sign with the young up-and-coming Orlando Magic starring Tracy McGrady. The goal was to have both Hill and McGrady lead this young Magic team to the finals.  Grant Hill was already a proven star in Detroit but T-Mac was right on his way to stardom. The pairing of the two stars didn't work out as planned, due to Hill's ongoing injuries that plagued him throughout his Magic career.

Hill made a comeback in 2007 by signing with the Phoenix Suns on a one year deal. He wasn't the same player as he use to be when he was slashing to the basket or picking pockets. This was a new Grant Hill, much mature and knew what he was. Hill played a few more seasons then decided to retire in 2013.

I would say that Grant Hill did have a Hall of Fame career by status and numbers. He could have been one of the greatest to ever play the game. What he did for the game will be remembered by many. But what stands out in all of our minds is, "what if he didn't have all those injuries"? People were comparing Grant Hill to Michael Jordan back then. That's quiet an accomplishment in itself.