Jason Kidd

Kidd became the first Phoenix player ever to lead the NBA in assists during the 1998-1999 season, averaging 10.8 per game. His performance powered another Suns' trip to the finals. He once again topped the NBA in assists per game in the 1999-2000 season, averaging 10.1. Although he suffered an ankle injury late in the season, he returned in time to help his team beat the San Antonio Spurs in the first round of the playoffs. The Suns, however, lost to the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference semifinals.

During the 2000-2001 season, Kidd led the NBA in assists for the third consecutive season, averaging 9.8 per game, and earning for the Suns another berth in the playoffs. But it was Kidd's personal life that earned him the most publicity during this period. In January 2001 he was arrested on charges of striking his wife, Joumana, in the face. Kidd and his wife quickly reconciled, but the after-effects of the case had a major impact on Kidd's career. It was a key factor in the Suns' decision to trade Kidd to the Nets, a move that many believed would sound the death knell for his career.