Two-time NBA champion Kawhi Leonard made his highly anticipated return to the court on Saturday after persistent knee issues sidelined the superstar over the last eight months. Leonard featured in the Los Angeles Clippers' 131-105 win over the Atlanta Hawks at the Intuit Dome, finishing with 12 points, three rebounds, an assist and a steal.
The return of one of the NBA's star players was big news, but Leonard had another major announcement on Saturday. Following the Clippers' victory, Leonard was asked about the two videos he released on social media prior to his return. The 33-year-old revealed that he has been working with members of the film industry to put together a project that shares his story.
"Just getting creative. I've been talking to a few producers and directors and just wanted to tell my story, and that's a little teaser for my movie. Hopefully, you'll will see it down the road," said Leonard.
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The short promotional videos are available on Kawhi Leonard's X account. In the first clip, which was released last week, Leonard is seen stepping out of his car and going fishing in a peaceful lake setting. He goes on to say:
"There's been good days, there's been bad days. But I keep coming back. It's the nature of the game."
In the second video, which is shorter (30 seconds), the Los Angeles native is seen walking out to the lake and provides some words of wisdom as he looks out on a flock of birds.
"You hear them? They like to come and watch the fun and chirp. But when I show up, they always quiet," says Leonard.
Both the clips are high quality productions and well put together. It is unclear whether Kawhi Leonard's project will be a movie or a docuseries, but fans will be excited to get a closer look into the NBA superstar's journey.
Kawhi Leonard discuss challenges of being sidelined during the early stage of season
It has been a difficult few years for Kawhi Leonard who has struggled with injuries. The Los Angeles Clippers forward has had several procedures on his knee and even missed out on the opportunity to represent his nation at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games this summer.
Prior to Saturday's appearance, Leonard has not played in the NBA since facing the Dallas Mavericks on Apr. 26. Following the game, the six-time All-Star spoke about the challenges that came with being sidelined.
"Nothin hard about playing tonight. We did the right steps to get me to this point, and playing basketball was the easy part of it. This is what I love to do," said Leonard. "The hard part is not playing and having to rehab and not competing with my teammates."
Since joining the Clippers in 2019, Leonard has not managed more than 68 games in a season and missed the entire 2021-22 campaign due to injury. The Clippers will hope that the talented star can get back to his best after a difficult few months.
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