Paul Millsap's career in the NBA serves as a testament to longevity, versatility, and skill. Over 16 seasons, he carved out a distinctive niche for himself with a potent combination of scoring, defense, and leadership. Millsap, a 6-foot-7 power forward known for his well-rounded game, began making waves the moment he entered the league.
Early Years with the Utah Jazz
Selected 47th overall in the 2006 NBA Draft by the Utah Jazz, Millsap didn’t take long to prove himself. The Louisiana Tech standout, who averaged an impressive 18.6 points and 12.7 rebounds over his three collegiate years, transitioned smoothly to professional play. During his rookie season, Millsap appeared in all 82 games, showcasing his durability and reliability, which became hallmarks throughout his career. He finished sixth in the Rookie of the Year voting, a nod to his immediate impact on the court.
In his tenure with the Jazz, Millsap's upward trajectory continued. Notably, during his last three years in Utah, he averaged 16.1 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game. His shooting accuracy of 50.7% from the field underscored his efficiency as a scorer. The Jazz, with Millsap as a key contributor, made five playoff appearances, solidifying his role as a crucial element of the team's core.
All-Star Achievements with the Atlanta Hawks
In 2013, Millsap took his talents to the Atlanta Hawks, and it was there that he reached the pinnacle of his NBA career. During his time with the Hawks, Millsap earned four All-Star selections, a reflection of his stature among the league's elite. His presence was pivotal during the team's remarkable 60-win campaign in the 2014-15 season, which culminated in a trip to the Eastern Conference finals. That season saw Millsap averaging 16.7 points and 7.8 rebounds per game, cementing his role as a leader on and off the court.
His defensive prowess also shone through, most notably during the 2015-16 season when he finished fifth in Defensive Player of the Year voting. Millsap's ability to switch seamlessly between roles—scorer, defender, and facilitator—made him an invaluable asset.
Later Years and Legacy
In 2017, Millsap signed with the Denver Nuggets, where he continued to make significant contributions. Notably, during the 2019 playoffs, he emerged as the Nuggets' third-leading scorer, demonstrating his enduring ability to perform under pressure. Millsap's versatility was a vital element for Denver as they navigated the playoff landscape.
His final NBA season saw him splitting time between the Brooklyn Nets and the Philadelphia 76ers. Although his minutes decreased, Millsap's impact as a veteran presence in the locker room was undeniable. His comprehensive understanding of the game and leadership qualities were assets to both teams.
A Unique Place in NBA History
Beyond his individual accolades and contributions to various teams, Millsap holds a special place in NBA history. He is one of only eight players to achieve a remarkable combination of at least 500 three-pointers, 1,000 blocks, and 1,000 steals—a testament to his adaptable skill set that spanned both offensive and defensive domains.
Paul Millsap’s career reflects a player who never relied solely on natural talent but consistently honed his skills, adapted to the ever-evolving game, and provided leadership and stability to every franchise he joined. As he steps away from the court, he leaves behind a legacy that aspiring young players can look to—not just as a template for success, but as an exemplar of perseverance, skill, and professionalism.