Bruce Bowen Released by the Bucks
July 31, 2009 by Stephen Kersey
Filed under Basketball
Bruce Bowen was acquired by the Milwaukee Bucks earlier in the offseason in a trade that sent Richard Jefferson to the San Antonio Spurs. As expected, Bowen was released by the team on Friday.
The Bucks had until August 1st to either release or trade Bowen to save money. By releasing Bowen, Milwuakee saves at least $2 million.
After bouncing around the NBA early in his professional career, Bowen eventually made a name for himself with the Spurs. In his eight years in San Antonio, the Spurs won three NBA championships — in 2003, 2005 and 2007. Known as a fantastic perimeter defender, Bowen also developed into a very good three-point shooter.
Even though he’s 38 years old, a number of teams have been said to be interested including the Boston Celtics and the Portland Trail Blazers. The Spurs may attempt to bring him back to San Antonio or Bowen may opt to retire.
Bruce Bowen waived by the Bucks (Image: Zuma Press)
I know Bowen was released by the Bucks but this guy’s toughness is valuable to any team. Just his presence in the locker room and his defensive insight is going to help any young or struggling team. On a personal note, as a New York Knicks fan there’s no doubt the last few years have been an embarrassment but with recent rumors of Allen Iverson going to N.Y., adding someone like Bowen along with a Tyson Chandler type of player might at least get them into the last spot of the playoffs.