The True Meaning of the D-League

Squeaky Johnson

I received a text message on Christmas Eve morning with some amazing news. It simply said, "They made it!" The text message was referring to two individuals who are world-class athletes and have been community champions for the Austin Toros for the last seven years combined.

 Lance Thomas and Squeaky Johnson have realized their dream of making it to the NBA by earning a spot on the New Orleans Hornets' opening night roster.

This is the true meaning of the NBA Development League. Watching two basketball players work their tails off day in and day out, most times twice a day and every day in the offseason and then seeing them achieve what they set out to achieve is a special thing to be a part of.

For Squeaky, it was five years in the making, leading him to joke that he was the oldest rookie in the NBA. 

Our players don't make a lot of money in the D-League but they'd play for zero if they knew they could have a chance to play in the NBA. And when hard work and determination pay off, it makes our job that much more enjoyable. But the best part of Lance and Squeaky's accomplishment is the fact that they are fantastic individuals with contagious personalities. They're leaders both on the court and in the community, believing that giving back is a responsibility of every professional athlete.

We'll miss their contributions with the Toros but know that they will continue to work for their dream and become stars at the next level. Congratulations Lance and Squeaky! You both deserve this call-up to the NBA!