He was one of the most exciting point guards to take to the court. Known for his no-look passes and globetrotters-ish ball handling skills and stunts on the court, 33-year old Jason Williams will be finally able to make his comeback to the basketball court after spending a year with his family. 
Looking to stay close to his family, Williams decided to sign with the Orlando Magic on a 1-year veteran’s minimum deal for $1.3 million. He will be playing as a back-up to Jameer Nelson in a team that is widely regarded as a contender for the NBA Championships as compared to his previous team, the Memphis Grizzlies.
Williams talked to reporters over the phone and said, “You couldn’t paint a better picture.”
in August, 2008, Williams was forced to walk away from a 1-year contract with the Los Angeles Clippers after his wife developed complications during her third pregnancy. Without playing a game, Williams was by his wife’s side until things stabilized in February, 2009. However, he was not allowed to return to the NBA at the time and was forced to sit out the mandatory 1-year waiting period that ensures that players do not walk out of contracts simply to change their team.
Till the 24th of July, the Clippers had exclusive rights to sign Williams however, they decided against signing him on to hand over the rights to the New York Knicks. After the Knicks decided to pass him on, there was marked interest from the Memphis Grizzlies as well as the Orlando Magic.
Williams’ residence near Isleworth has been the family home for over a decade now and it is this aspect, of staying close to his family, that kept him away from signing with the Grizzlies, who’s owner Michael Heisley has been known to have a deep liking for Williams.
“We’re moving forward,” Grizzlies general manager, Chris Wallace, told the Memphis Commercial Appeal. “I think Jason was serious about us. I just don’t think he wanted to move his family. He gets to stay at home and contend for a championship.”
Magic general manager, Otis Smith, said, “Jason provides depth and leadership to our backcourt. He is a veteran point guard that knows what it takes to help us reach our ultimate goal.”
A flashy floor game got Williams into the limelight, 10 years ago, following which maturity set in for some steady ball handling over the years, including a wonderful 2005-06 season with the Miami Heat where he was a fan favourite just like his days at the Sacramento Kings.
Always courting controversy as well as several suspensions, Williams said, “Let me tell you this: If I could go all the way back (to the beginning), I wouldn’t do a damn thing different. I know I messed up here and there along the way, but those things I didn’t do right helped me become the person I am now.”
Time will tell whether the “White Chocolate” touch will help Magic compete for the title again, or whether he will simply melt away towards the end of an eventful career.