Jason Kidd

Determined to make the best of his trade to the Nets, Kidd boldly vowed to take the down-on-their-luck Nets to the playoffs in 2001-2002. Most of his teammates on the Nets, as well as the team's fans, were doubtful, but Kidd delivered, leading his new team to the NBA finals. Even though they were roundly defeated by the Lakers in the finals, it was a stellar achievement for a team that had only once made it past the first round of the playoffs.

With Kidd firmly established as the Nets' leader, the team seemed almost certain to make it into the playoffs again in 2002-2003. However, whatever the outcome for the season may be, Kidd has made it clear that he's far from washed up in basketball. Barring injury, he's likely to remain a major force in pro ball for years to come.