I’m spending more time on The Players Tribune these days, as I like the perspective only a player’s-eye view can offer. Earlier this summer, DeMarre Carroll wrote a Thank You note to Atlanta after joining the Toronto Raptors. While the syrupy bits are only mildly interesting, I was intrigued to read his ending. DeMarre asks Raptors fans to prepare for the return of the Junk Yard Dog, or Jerome Williams’ successor. I had no idea Carroll considered himself a JYD in Atlanta.
Jerome was traded from the Detroit Pistons, who had drafted him #26 out of Georgetown, to the Raptors mid-way through the 2000-2001 season.