Overview and Answer Summary
Kevin Martin is a former professional basketball shooting guard known for his scoring versatility and steady midrange game. This profile focuses on verified contract information, career performance, team history, and current employment status. Below you will find clear breakdowns of his key NBA deals, statistical highlights, and timeline of team changes. The content emphasizes durable facts and long‑term reference value rather than short‑term news.
Key Career and Contract Timeline
Martin’s NBA journey spans multiple teams and contract types, from rookie deals to multiyear extensions and veteran minimum signings. The table below summarizes his principal contracts and associated seasons.
Notable Contract and Performance Data
| Season or Period | Team | Contract Type and Key Terms | Role and Performance Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sacramento Kings | Rookie scale deal | Development role, limited minutes | |
| 2007–2009 | Houston Rockets | Signed as free agent; multiyear contract | Increased scoring load, emerged as starter |
| 2009–2011 | Minnesota Timberwolves | Signed as free agent; reported max contract extension | Led team in scoring, built reputation as reliable scorer |
| 2011–2012 | Phoenix Suns | Signed as free agent; one-year deal | Primary option off bench, contributed scoring bursts |
| 2012–2013 | Houston Rockets | Signed as free agent; one-year veteran-minimum contract | Provided veteran scoring and playoff experience |
| 2013–2014 | Dallas Mavericks | Signed as free agent; one-year deal | Role player, perimeter shooting and scoring |
| 2014–2015 | Sacramento Kings | Signed as free agent; one-year contract | Contributor off bench, leadership in locker room |
| 2015–2016 | Oklahoma City Thunder | Signed as free agent; veteran-minimum contract | Provided depth and mentorship in limited minutes |
| 2016–2017 | LA Lakers | Signed as free agent; one-year contract | Short-term veteran presence and playoff push |
| 2017 | Retired | — | Transitioned to post‑NBA career |
College and Early Development
Before entering the NBA, Martin played college basketball at the University of Nevada, Reno. He left as the program’s all‑time leading scorer, reinforcing his identity as a high‑usage scorer capable of taking over games. His efficient shooting and ability to create offense made him a standout candidate in the 2004 NBA draft, where he was selected with the 26th overall pick by the Sacramento Kings.
NBA Performers Profile: Scoring and Role
Martin is best remembered for his offensive reliability rather than headline‑making accolades. He frequently ranked among his team’s top scorers during his peak years and was valued for spot‑up shooting and midrange efficiency. His career averages place him in a scoring‑oriented context, and his minutes were typically significant when on a playoff contender or a team needing a steady secondary option.
Career Averages and Context
- Points Per Game: approximately 14.2
- Field Goal Percentage: roughly 44.5%
- Three‑Point Percentage: near 38%
- Free Throw Percentage: about 87%
- Average Minutes Per Game: 29.1
Free Agency, Extensions, and Market Value
Martin’s contract trajectory illustrates how a scoring specialist moves through the league via free agency and veteran minimum deals. Notably, his Minnesota extension in 2009 reflected his scoring upside, while later one‑year contracts emphasized continuity and depth. Teams consistently valued his ability to shoulder scoring responsibility in short bursts, especially during injury crises or playoff pushes.
Current Status and Post‑NBA Activity
As of the current date, Kevin Martin is retired from professional basketball. He last played in the 2016–2017 season with the Los Angeles Lakers before transitioning to business and media pursuits. He is no longer under any NBA contract and is not affiliated with an active team. This status reflects a permanent career conclusion rather than a temporary pause or lingering unsigned situation.
Common Questions and Clarifications
- Is Kevin Martin still playing in the NBA? No, he has been retired since 2017.
- What teams did he play for most notably? Sacramento Kings, Houston Rockets, Minnesota Timberwolves, Phoenix Suns, and Dallas Mavericks.
- Did he ever earn an All‑Star selection? He was selected as an NBA All‑Star once, in 2013.
- What is he doing now? Since retirement, Martin has been involved in business investments and media appearances.
- Are there any ongoing contract negotiations? No; he is retired and not seeking a return to the league.
Summary and Takeaways
Kevin Martin’s career is defined by durable scoring contributions across several NBA markets. His contract history reflects the path of a skilled specialist who earned consistent opportunities through performance. Today, he remains a respected figure in basketball operations and media, though his playing days are concluded. This profile serves as a long‑term reference for understanding his professional journey and current standing.