Young athletes often dream of becoming a professional athlete, but very few actually live that dream. After a long journey of stress and hard work, former Creighton Bluejay Anthony Tolliver is back in the NBA.
After competing for seven NBA franchises since 2007, Anthony Tolliver signed a two-year deal with the Minnesota Timberwolves for $4 million in August.
The 6’9,” 245-pound power forward out of Springfield, Mo., graduated from Creighton in 2007 with a degree in
business finance.
Tolliver has always been dedicated to basketball, but he refuses to take any credit for his achievements.
“I’m very proud of my accomplishments, but I know that I couldn’t have done any of this without the help of God,” Tolliver said. “I am really blessed to be in this position.”
Prior to signing with the Timberwolves in August, Tolliver had other experiences at the NBA level. He played for the Cleveland Cavaliers alongside LeBron James, the San Antonio Spurs, the Portland Trailblazers, the Miami Heat, the Golden State Warriors and the New Orleans Hornets. Tolliver also spent time in the NBA development league with the Idaho Stampede and the
Iowa Energy.
Tolliver began his career in 2007 with the Cavaliers before being released shortly before opening night. After he was released, he spent three months in the development league prior to finishing out his season in Germany with Bremerhaven. Tolliver struggled to find stability as he went in and out of the development league and Europe. He eventually worked his way back into the NBA.
In 2010, Tolliver reached a deal with the Golden State Warriors, where he finished the 2009-2010 season. Tolliver’s time with the Warriors earned him recognition around the NBA. After the 2009-10 season ended, Tolliver became a free agent and signed the biggest deal of his career with the Timberwolves.
“Getting back to the NBA was hard but worth it,” Tolliver said. “It wouldn’t feel as sweet if I didn’t have to go through all that
I did.”
Tolliver, who is now considered a popular NBA veteran, has dedicated his life not only basketball, but also to his faith.
“No matter what I do for the rest of my career, on or off the court, I know Jesus is the reason I’m put in the position I am,” Tolliver said. “My faith has always been vital to my basketball career and life.”
When Tolliver was a Jay, he attended Salem Baptist Church and wouldn’t hesitate to bring teammates and friends with him.
“I’m successful and happy because I have Christ in my life, and anytime I can share this gift with anyone else, I try to do so.”
Tolliver played under former Creighton coach Dana Altman, who is now in his first year at the University of Oregon.
“Anthony is by far one of the most improved players I have coached,” Altman said. “He deserves to be in the position he is in right now because of how hard he has worked.”
After weeks of training camp and preseason games, the official start of the 2010-11 NBA season began Tuesday. With a long season ahead, Tolliver is ready for
the challenges.
“We have a good team this year, and I’m very excited about the future,”
Tolliver said.
Tolliver and the Minnesota Timberwolves traveled to Sacramento to face the Kings Wednesday night, losing by a devastating one point. They play at home Friday against the Milwaukee Bucks.