Before Australian players became common in the NBA, Luc Longley paved the way. Standing at an impressive 7-foot-2, he created a subtle yet significant legacy with the Chicago Bulls during one of the sport’s golden eras.
Longley, who wasn’t known for his flamboyance or headline-grabbing plays, played a crucial role during three consecutive championship runs with Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and the Bulls dynasty. He was a key figure in the paint.
A Disheartening Exit
Luc’s last NBA season was a stark contrast to his earlier triumphs in Chicago. After playing for the Phoenix Suns and New York Knicks, his career ended in 2001, marred by a degenerative condition in his left ankle.
“Experiencing a physical decline and not being able to perform as an NBA player was tough for Luc. It was a challenging time since it didn’t conclude as he would have wished,” reflected former Bulls coach Phil Jackson on Longley’s exit.
At just 32, the demanding nature of professional basketball had taken its toll. Years of physical battles and expectations from a championship culture finally caught up with him. This empty feeling was shared among his coaches and teammates who recognized his quiet yet vital contributions.
The Journey to Retirement
Following the Bulls’ breakup after the 1997–98 season, Luc was among the players to leave. He was traded to Phoenix, where his role decreased, and injuries plagued him. Over two seasons there, he played just 139 games, with his performance diminishing each year.
“Leaving something filled with activity, friendship, and competition is always challenging,” Jackson stated. For someone like Longley, whose work ethic went unnoticed, retirement was almost silent—without press conferences or tributes, just a painful ankle and a subdued departure.
Despite his impressive achievements as a three-time champion, Luc’s legacy became understated. He was notably absent from “The Last Dance,” which highlighted the Bulls’ story, until later reflections brought attention to his importance in one of the NBA’s greatest teams.
Throughout his career of 567 games, Longley averaged 7.2 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game. While not Hall-of-Fame statistics, they represented consistency and a team-oriented approach. During the Bulls’ second three-peat, he started in nearly all games, contributing through essential but often overlooked work that leads to championships.
