Stephen Jackson’s return to Charlotte fell right in line with Kemba Walker’s impending free agency. For the Charlotte Hornets, that was not a good thing. After powering his BIG3 team, the Killer 3’s to a win over Tri-State, Jackson held no punches when asked his opinion on Walker.
Jackson played in Charlotte during the Bobcats era and although he ranks first overall in usage percentage for the franchise, Jackson felt unappreciated. It is a problem that he feels still exists today as evidenced by the handling of Kemba Walker’s free agency.
When asked if he feels any type of way coming back to the Queen City to play, Jackson answered, “For me, it’s kind of just another game, another arena. Obviously, I did a lot of work here in Charlotte; got them to the playoffs for the first time. I never felt like I was appreciated for that so I don’t feel special coming here.”
Jackson’s answer prompted another question. We asked Jackson for his opinion on Walker. “If you look at the history of the Bobcats/Hornets, I’ve got the highest usage rate. So they’re known for not appreciating their players. See what I’m saying? So if they don’t pay this kid with the work he’s done, with everything else left in that locker room, you should sign him. And if you don’t want to win, you shouldn’t sign him. That’s just the way I look at it. He deserves his money.”
Initially, Walker expressed that he would be willing to take less than the supermax so that Charlotte could continue to develop the roster. Walker’s tune changed however, when the Hornets failed to extend an offer of at least $170 million. As of Saturday afternoon, it was reported by the Associated Press that Walker had informed the Hornets that he intends to sign with the Boston Celtics. The source spoke on the condition of anonymity as neither the Hornets nor Walker have disclosed any details. Walker was on hand at the Spectrum Center to take in some BIG3 action on Saturday afternoon.
