The Matrix, an NBA champion with a quirky shooting form. Shawn Marion!

Shawn Marion earned the moniker “The Matrix” during the early 2000s due to his captivating and acrobatic in-game dunks, reminiscent of one of the greatest science fiction films of all time.

A key member of the mid-2000s Suns, Marion contributed to a team that consistently led the Western Conference but regrettably never reached the finals.

His versatility provided the Suns with a wing capable of both shutting down opponents and scoring against the premier perimeter defenders of the 2000s.

Flourishing in the 7-second-or-less system popularized by Phoenix Suns Coach Mike D’Antoni, Marion excelled in an era when shooting early in the shot clock was still unconventional.

Earning three consecutive All-Star nods from 2005 to 2007, Marion boasted impressive averages during that period: 19.6 points, 11.0 rebounds, 2.0 steals, and 1.6 blocks.

Remarkably, standing at just 6’7″, he occasionally played as a power forward but predominantly as a small forward, a playing style that aligns seamlessly with the modern league.

In the latter part of his career, Marion secured a championship with Dallas in 2011, where he played a pivotal role, averaging 12.5 points and serving as the primary defender against LeBron James.

The Dallas team, considered an underdog, defied expectations by sweeping the defending champions Los Angeles Lakers, defeating a Durant-led Thunder team, and overcoming the heavily favored Miami Heat with their star trio of James, Bosh, and Wade.

Facing offensive juggernauts like Kobe Bryant, Kevin Durant, and LeBron James, Marion consistently served as their primary defender throughout the championship run.

While his athleticism may have diminished with time, Marion’s defensive versatility continued to refine, earning him significant playing time.

Not a superstar, and despite possessing a distinctive jump shot, Marion emerged as a champion whose on-court contributions cannot be overlooked.

Shawn Marion’s notable awards:

NBA champion (2011)

4× NBA All-Star (2003, 2005–2007)

2× All-NBA Third Team (2005, 2006)

NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2000)

No. 31 retired by Phoenix Suns

First-team All-WAC (1999)