Al Harrington, American basketball player

Albert "Al" Harrington, born on February 17, 1980, stands as a distinguished figure in American basketball, recognized for his extensive playing career and impactful post-retirement endeavors. He spent 16 seasons competing at the highest level in the National Basketball Association (NBA) and is currently contributing his vast experience as an assistant coach for the Cape Town Tigers.

A Storied NBA Career Spanning 16 Seasons

Harrington's journey into professional basketball began when he was selected by the Indiana Pacers with the 25th overall pick in the highly competitive 1998 NBA draft. This draft class, which also featured future Hall of Famers like Dirk Nowitzki, Vince Carter, and Paul Pierce, saw Harrington emerge as a versatile power forward and small forward known for his scoring ability, particularly from beyond the arc, making him an early prototype of the modern "stretch four."

Throughout his impressive 16-year tenure, Harrington showcased his skills across seven different NBA franchises, becoming a reliable contributor and fan favorite. His NBA career saw him play for:

• Indiana Pacers (twice)
• Atlanta Hawks
• Golden State Warriors
• New York Knicks
• Denver Nuggets
• Orlando Magic
• Washington Wizards

Across these teams, Harrington played in over 900 regular-season games, accumulating over 13,000 points and 5,000 rebounds. His ability to adapt to different offensive systems and provide instant offense off the bench or as a starter was a hallmark of his long and successful career.

International Experience in the CBA

Towards the end of his playing career, Harrington also took his talents overseas, gaining valuable international experience. He notably spent a short but impactful stint with the Fujian Sturgeons in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA), one of Asia's premier basketball leagues, further showcasing his global appeal and continued passion for the game.

Pioneering Entrepreneurship in the Cannabis Industry

Since officially retiring from the demanding schedule of the NBA, Al Harrington has transitioned into a new, groundbreaking role as a prominent entrepreneur in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry. His foray into this sector was deeply personal and purpose-driven.

Harrington founded Viola Brands, a multi-state cannabis operator named after his grandmother, Viola, who found significant relief from glaucoma and diabetes symptoms through cannabis use after traditional medicines proved ineffective. This personal experience motivated Harrington to create a brand focused on quality, accessibility, and education.

Beyond commerce, Harrington is a vocal advocate for cannabis legalization, particularly within the athletic community, emphasizing its potential as a natural alternative for pain management and recovery. He also champions social equity within the industry, striving to create opportunities for minority communities and those disproportionately affected by past cannabis prohibition laws.

Current Role as an Assistant Coach with the Cape Town Tigers

Remaining connected to the sport he loves, Al Harrington has embraced a coaching role. He currently serves as an assistant coach for the Cape Town Tigers, a professional basketball team competing in the Basketball Africa League (BAL). This role allows him to mentor the next generation of players and contribute to the growth of basketball on the African continent.

Family Connections

Adding another layer to his rich basketball narrative, Al Harrington is also a cousin of former NBA player Dahntay Jones, highlighting a shared family legacy within professional basketball.

Frequently Asked Questions About Al Harrington

Who is Al Harrington?

Al Harrington is a former American professional basketball player who enjoyed a 16-season career in the NBA and is now a successful entrepreneur in the cannabis industry and an assistant coach for the Cape Town Tigers.

Which NBA teams did Al Harrington play for?

Al Harrington played for seven different NBA teams: the Indiana Pacers, Atlanta Hawks, Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks, Denver Nuggets, Orlando Magic, and Washington Wizards.

What is Al Harrington's main business venture after his NBA career?

After his NBA career, Al Harrington founded Viola Brands, a successful multi-state cannabis company. He is also a leading advocate for cannabis legalization and social equity within the industry.

What is Viola Brands?

Viola Brands is a cannabis company founded by Al Harrington, named in honor of his grandmother. The company is known for its high-quality cannabis products and its commitment to social equity and advocacy within the cannabis industry.

Is Al Harrington still involved in basketball?

Yes, Al Harrington remains actively involved in basketball as an assistant coach for the Cape Town Tigers, a team competing in the Basketball Africa League (BAL).