Jonny Flynn, American basketball player

Jonny William Flynn, born on February 6, 1989, is a distinguished American former professional basketball player. Renowned for his explosive speed, exceptional court vision, and playmaking abilities as a point guard, Flynn transitioned from a highly successful collegiate career at Syracuse University to a three-year tenure in the National Basketball Association (NBA) before concluding his professional journey in various international leagues.

Collegiate Excellence with the Syracuse Orange

Jonny Flynn established himself as a prominent collegiate athlete during his two seasons (2007-2009) with the Syracuse Orange men's basketball team. As a dynamic point guard, he quickly became a pivotal player and a fan favorite for the Orange. During his freshman year (2007-08), he showcased immediate impact, earning a spot on the Big East All-Rookie Team. His sophomore season (2008-09) was particularly notable, as he led Syracuse deep into the NCAA Tournament, reaching the Sweet Sixteen. Flynn's remarkable performances included a career-high 28 points against Georgetown and an extraordinary 34-point, 11-assist double-double in a historic six-overtime Big East Tournament game against Connecticut, which solidified his reputation as one of the nation's top collegiate guards. He concluded his final collegiate season averaging 16.6 points and 6.7 assists per game, earning First-Team All-Big East honors before declaring for the NBA draft.

NBA Career: The Minnesota Timberwolves Era and Beyond

Following his impressive collegiate tenure, Jonny Flynn was selected as the 6th overall pick in the 2009 NBA Draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves. This high draft position underscored the significant potential scouts and executives saw in his game. His rookie season (2009-10) with the Timberwolves showed considerable promise, as he played in 81 games, averaging 13.5 points and 4.4 assists per game, and was subsequently named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team. However, his promising NBA career was significantly impacted by persistent hip injuries, which unfortunately limited his effectiveness and playing time in subsequent seasons. After two seasons with the Timberwolves, he was traded to the Houston Rockets in December 2011. He played briefly for the Rockets before being traded again to the Portland Trail Blazers in March 2012, though he did not appear in a game for Portland due to ongoing injury concerns.

International Chapters and Retirement

After his three-year NBA stint, Flynn continued his professional basketball career overseas, seeking opportunities to play and recover from injuries. His international journey included stints with several notable teams:

• Melbourne Tigers (Australia): During the 2012-13 season, Flynn played in Australia's top-tier National Basketball League (NBL).
• Sichuan Blue Whales (China): He later competed in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA), a prominent league in Asia.

His final professional engagement saw him play for Orlandina Basket, a club based in Capo d'Orlando, Sicily, Italy. He competed with Orlandina Basket during the 2014-2015 season in the Lega Basket Serie A, which is Italy's highest-level professional basketball league. Following this period, Jonny Flynn officially concluded his professional playing career.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jonny Flynn

When was Jonny Flynn born?

Jonny William Flynn was born on February 6, 1989.

Which college did Jonny Flynn attend?

He played collegiate basketball for the Syracuse Orange men's basketball team for two seasons, from 2007 to 2009.

What position did Jonny Flynn play professionally?

Jonny Flynn primarily played as a point guard throughout his professional career.

Which NBA team drafted Jonny Flynn and at what pick?

Jonny Flynn was drafted 6th overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the 2009 NBA Draft.

What was Jonny Flynn's last professional basketball team?

His last professional team was Orlandina Basket, where he played during the 2014-2015 season in the Lega Basket Serie A, Italy's top basketball league.