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Trevor Anthony ArizaAmerican professional basketball player
Date of Birth: 30.06.1985
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Born into Basketball
- High School Phenom
- College Career
- NBA Draft and New York Knicks
- Orlando Magic and Los Angeles Lakers
- Houston Rockets
- Later Career
Born into Basketball
Trevor Ariza was born in Miami, Florida, to Kenny McClary, a former professional basketball player, and a mother of Dominican descent. Ariza's younger brother, Taj, passed away in a tragic accident in 1996.
High School Phenom
Ariza attended Westchester High School in Los Angeles, California, where he was a two-time state champion with the basketball team. Playing various positions, including point guard and center, Ariza was named to the Parade All-American Second Team in his senior year.
College Career
Ariza spent one season at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he showcased his skills by averaging 11.6 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game. He earned a spot on the Pacific-10 Conference All-Freshman Team.
NBA Draft and New York Knicks
In 2004, at the age of 19, Ariza was selected 43rd overall in the NBA Draft by the New York Knicks. He made a solid impact in his rookie season, appearing in 80 games and averaging 5.9 points and 3.0 rebounds.
Orlando Magic and Los Angeles Lakers
In 2006, Ariza was traded to the Orlando Magic, where he spent two seasons. He later joined the Los Angeles Lakers in 2007, where coach Phil Jackson praised his defensive skills, comparing them to a "cobra." Ariza missed most of the 2007-08 season due to injury but returned to help the Lakers reach the NBA Finals.
Houston Rockets
After winning the championship with the Lakers in 2009, Ariza became a free agent and signed a five-year, $33.5 million contract with the Houston Rockets. He had a breakout season with the Rockets, averaging nearly 15 points per game and setting a career-high 33 points against the Portland Trail Blazers.
Later Career
Ariza was traded to the New Orleans Hornets in 2010, and later played for the Washington Wizards before returning to the Rockets. He has established himself as a reliable defender and three-point threat, contributing to the success of his teams throughout his career.
