“I went out undefeated” – When Chris Webber dropped a sarcastic response after Orlando Magic traded him in 1993
Chris Webber is one of the greatest power forwards to ever grace the NBA. With his all-around game and dominant scoring, he was a cornerstone of the Sacramento Kings for many years. However, before he reached the pinnacle of his career, his time with the Orlando Magic was cut short due to a controversial trade.
Webber entered the NBA as the first overall pick in the 1993 draft by the Orlando Magic. The young phenom joined forces with a talented young Shaquille O’Neal, promising a bright future for the franchise. Their partnership, however, didn’t last very long. Just before the 1994 NBA draft, Webber found himself shipped to the Golden State Warriors, shocking the basketball world and ultimately shaping his career trajectory.
What made the trade even more controversial was how Webber himself found out. With a mixture of irony and subtle humor, he delivered a legendary quote that immortalized the situation. He reportedly stated, “I went out undefeated,” showcasing both disappointment and a sense of disbelief in a classic response to the sudden trade.
Webber’s “Undefeated” Record with the Magic
Webber’s statement might be interpreted as an attempt to make light of a situation he couldn’t control. With limited playing time, his first season in the league was marred by a rookie-like performance, only featuring him for a measly 14 games. He managed a few glimpses of greatness, however, scoring 30 points in his professional debut, proving his talent but ultimately proving nothing else to the Magic front office.
Webber’s time with the Magic may have been cut short but the experience served as a valuable lesson in dealing with adversity. He understood that nothing is certain in basketball, and his early journey wasn’t exactly the “dream” he envisioned.
The Legacy of Webber’s Departure
Although his stint in Orlando didn’t produce a legendary partnership with Shaq, the trade had significant consequences. The Warriors benefited from the talent and leadership of Webber, creating a strong foundation for a team that eventually found success.
While the Magic gained young talents with the pick acquired from Golden State, the trade still casts a shadow. They missed out on having the duo of Webber and O’Neal that was a true force to be reckoned with. Fans continue to speculate about the possibility of these two playing together in the years after their departure.
The infamous “undefeated” quote exemplifies Webber’s sense of humor, adding another layer to his complex persona. The trade, even though it didn’t play out as intended for the Magic, it set Webber on his journey that solidified him as an NBA legend, a journey that he would take, with his unique perspective, one unforgettable moment at a time.
