The Boston Celtics are taking steps to secure the return of former University of Virginia men’s basketball standout Sam Hauser for the 2024-2025 NBA season. According to a report by Adam Himmelsbach of the Boston Globe, the team will be exercising Hauser’s $2.1 million option for the upcoming season. Furthermore, negotiations for a contract extension between Hauser and the Celtics are anticipated to commence in the coming weeks.
Hauser has demonstrated marked improvement in his performance during his third NBA season, achieving career-high averages of 9.0 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game. He has also showcased his proficiency from beyond the three-point line, achieving an impressive 42.4% shooting percentage from three-point range while attempting nearly six shots from downtown per game. Hauser made history by becoming the first player in NBA history to sink 10 three-pointers in fewer than 24 minutes during a regular-season game against the Wizards in mid-March.
The talented player also made a substantial contribution to the Celtics’ journey to the NBA Championship, earning the distinction of being the sixth former University of Virginia men’s basketball player to win the prestigious title. Hauser demonstrated his value during the playoffs, delivering strong performances in crucial games, including scoring in double figures three times. Notably, he recorded a 17-point game in Boston’s series-clinching victory over Miami in the first round and a 14-point effort in game 4 of the NBA Finals in Dallas. Hauser’s exceptional shooting ability, particularly his 47.8% three-point shooting in the Finals, and his commendable defensive plays further underscore his potential as a key asset for a championship-caliber team.
In terms of compensation, Hauser is set to receive $2,092,344 in the 2024-2025 NBA season, reflecting a salary increase from the $1,927,896 he earned in the past season. As the Celtics prepare for contract extension discussions, they could potentially offer Hauser a deal amounting to a maximum of $78 million over four years, although the final agreement is expected to fall below this threshold.
The decision by the Boston Celtics to secure the services of Sam Hauser reflects their confidence in his abilities and potential for further growth as a player. With his remarkable performances and contributions to the team, Hauser is positioned to continue making significant strides in his NBA career, and fans eagerly anticipate his continued success on the court.
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