Memo quickly became a fan favorite when he arrived in Utah and has maintained that popularity to this day. Having spent the majority of his career here, he has always been a Jazzman and has maintained strong ties to the team and community. – Jazz president Randy Rigby
SALT LAKE CITY — Mehmet Okur is back with the Utah Jazz.
Not as a player, though. The lovable, sharpshooting Turkish big man isn't leaving the retirement life anytime soon.
Rather, Okur has agreed to be a team ambassador in an official capacity for the NBA team he played for from 2004-11.
Jazz CEO Greg Miller complimented Okur because, he said in a statement released by the team's PR crew, the center "has always carried himself with class and dignity."
Miller said Okur will work with players, sponsors and fans. The 2007 NBA All-Star will also help with the organization's alumni, community and fan relations efforts; the Jazz's business development; and perhaps even with basketball operations, according to the press release.
"Memo quickly became a fan favorite when he arrived in Utah and has maintained that popularity to this day," Jazz president Randy Rigby said in a statement. "Having spent the majority of his career here, he has always been a Jazzman and has maintained strong ties to the team and community.
"Adding someone of such great character is a tremendous addition for our organization," Rigby added. "Whether it be working in the community, with our corporate partners or with fellow Jazz alumni, Memo is an ideal fit for us."
Okur averaged 15.3 points, 7.6 rebounds and appeared in 32 playoff games during his Jazz tenure, which was highlighted by a 2007 Western Conference finals trip. The Money Man, as some called him, remains ranked fourth in franchise history for 3-pointers made (517).
A nasty Achilles injury in the 2010 playoffs signaled the beginning of the end for the 6-11 Okur’s career. He provided a mentorship role for fellow Turk big Enes Kanter before being traded to the Nets on Dec. 23, 2011, and eventually calling it a career after a solid NBA run.
Last year, Okur said he'd like to continue to mentor Kanter.
"I’d like to take him out and talk to him a little bit, see what happens, try to help him a little bit more," Okur said. "He could improve a lot."
Kanter will be among 19 players to report to the Jazz's training camp Tuesday after participating in media day on Monday.
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