Anderson Returns From Father’s Funeral Jazz Reserve Says Memories Will Inspire Him In Rest Of Finals Series

Shandon Anderson has returned to Utah with a bittersweet determination to help the Jazz take a 3-2 lead in the NBA Finals tonight.

The 6-foot-6 rookie reserve is dedicating his performance the rest of the series to his father, Willie, who died last week of throat cancer.

“If we win (the title), it will definitely be attributed to my father, because his death came at this time and I’ll remember it that way,” Anderson said before Tuesday’s practice.

“He always stressed for us to play hard. He worked extremely hard,” Anderson said. “He said he would love to see me get a ring. If I win, it won’t be just me winning it, but him, too.

“He always thought we’d make it to the championship. Now, to actually be here and not have him be able to see it is hard.”

Anderson played 26 minutes and scored five points in last Wednesday’s 97-85 loss at Chicago. Before introductions, he had learned his father had died, but he delayed telling the team.

“No one knew the situation until after the game,” Anderson said. “I wanted the coaches to treat me the way they always treated me.”

He flew back to Georgia after the game, missing Utah’s victories in Games 3 and 4 here Friday and Sunday.

Anderson, younger brother of Willie Anderson of the Miami Heat, quickly impressed Utah coach Jerry Sloan with his defense and quickness this year. He averaged 16 minutes and 5.9 points in the regular season.

In Games 1 and 2, Anderson averaged 22.5 minutes.

“It’s a tragedy anytime you lose anyone in your family,” Karl Malone said, adding that Jazz players joked around with Anderson Tuesday to make him feel welcome - and at home.

“We’re glad to have him back,” Malone said.