Steve Blake (born February 26, 1980) is an American former professional basketball point guard who played in the NBA for the Washington Wizards, Portland Trail Blazers, Los Angeles Lakers, and Golden State Warriors. He played college basketball at the University of Maryland, where he helped the Terrapins win the 2002 NCAA Championship.
College Glory: Maryland and 2002 Championship
Steve Blake joined Maryland with a reputation as a steady guard and became part of the 2002 Maryland Terrapins squad that captured the NCAA title. The championship run is a cornerstone of Steve Blake’s early career and set the stage for his professional journey.
Undrafted, Unfazed: Entering the NBA
Steve Blake went undrafted in 2003 but signed with the Washington Wizards, proving that shooting ability and floor awareness can open doors for players outside the lottery. This phase showcases Steve Blake’s persistence and development.
NBA Career Overview: Wizards, Trail Blazers, Lakers, Warriors
Steve Blake built a durable career as a reliable backup guard, with significant stretches for the Portland Trail Blazers and Los Angeles Lakers, and later a stint with the Golden State Warriors. He cemented a reputation as a dependable ball handler and 3-point shooter, adaptable to multiple systems.
Championship Moments: Lakers 2010 Title
Steve Blake earned an NBA Championship ring with the Lakers in 2010, contributing as a floor general and shooter in support of Kobe Bryant and the team’s championship run. This moment anchors his pro legacy and demonstrates the value of role players on title teams.
Style of Play: Shooting, Distribution, Defense
Steve Blake is known for his reliable outside shooting, especially from three, his ability to run the offense as a secondary ball handler, and his defensive positioning. His gameplay emphasizes smart decision making and floor balance.
Notable Stats and Roles: Bench Leader, Consistent Contributor
Across his NBA career, Steve Blake served as a steady bench guard who could space the floor and distribute. He was valued for his high basketball IQ and reliability in pressure minutes, with career numbers around 5 points and 2 assists per game as a reference point for his production.
Legacy and Impact: Mentorship and Career Path
Steve Blake’s journey from undrafted rookie to multi-team veteran illustrates the path other players can follow through seasoning, shooting, and leadership. His Maryland roots and pro experiences inform discussions about player development and veteran presence in modern basketball, especially as we approach 2025.
Career Milestones and Numbers: Years, Teams, Achievements
Key milestones include the 2002 NCAA Championship with Maryland and the 2010 NBA Championship with the Lakers. He played for four NBA teams, with a career spanning over a decade and a reputation as a dependable guard who could fit multiple systems.
###Debate: How Should Steve Blake Be Remembered?
Does Steve Blake’s career highlight the essential role of steady guards in building championship runs, or should we emphasize star power more when evaluating impact? Share your view on Steve Blake’s place in NBA history.
Discussion Questions
- What was Steve Blake’s most impactful stretch during his time with the Trail Blazers or Lakers?
- How did Steve Blake’s success at Maryland influence his pro career and opportunities in the NBA?
- Was Steve Blake’s undrafted status a hindrance or a driving force for his longevity in the league?
- How does Steve Blake’s playing style reflect the evolution of the point guard role in the 2010s?
- In 2025, how is Steve Blake’s legacy perceived by fans and analysts, and what lessons does his career offer young players?
CTA: Join the discussion and share your take on Steve Blake’s impact and legacy.