07/12/2010 - 13:34
Statement From Derek Fisher
by Derek Fisher

My free agency was a time for me to reevaluate my position in the league, reflect on my accomplishments individually and as a teammate, and determine what new goals I want to achieve in the future.  Many reports were completely false. Numbers reported were guesses and true "sources" were few and far between.

I took time to consider all my options, many not reported in the media.  I listened to every coach, every general manager, even potential teammates in order to make the right decision and I thank every one of them. At the end of the day, there's one person I could not turn away from. Kobe Bryant asked me to stay but supported whatever decision I made. He and I have played together for 11 seasons, came into the league together as kids, and has been loyal to me even when others had doubts. We have won five championships together.

I have decided to continue with Kobe, continue with our teammates and the fans of Los Angeles. While this may not be the most lucrative contract I've been offered this off season, it is the most valuable.

I am confident I will continue to lead this team on and off the court. Let the hunt for six begin...

Contact: Jamie Wior
310.867.4788
jamie@derekfisher2.com

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Comments

I am very very very glad you

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 21:22.

I am very very very glad you stayed with the Lakers. For Kobe to say the things he has said about you is amazing!!! When they say best point guards in the league, it doesn't mean how valuable you are to your team. Just a list of the point guards you beat this last year, Russell Westbrook, Deron Williams, 2 time mvp Steve Nash and Rajon Rondo. one word sums its up... AMAZING!!! Thank you for all you do for the fans who really enjoy watching the game....

Thank You D.Fish!

Submitted by Michael L. (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 21:21.

So happy to hear you will return! You mean so much to the team and the fans!

The Right Choice!! :)

Submitted by Luv d.fish (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 21:21.

I knew that you would make the right choice fish! Not once did I doubt that you would let us down!!We all love you and value you as a player and how important you are to our Laker oorganization :) I look forward to this upcoming basketball season and for the second 3peat ring #5 for you and kobe and #11 for phil YAY!!!! GO LAKERS!!!!!

6 RINGS!

Submitted by Garret (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 22:35.

Just a reply that they will be winning their 6th rings, not 5th! GLAD YOU STAYED FISH, LAKERS FOR LIFE!

Your a Class Act

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 21:19.

I am a 40 year LA Laker Fan and I am very proud to say you are a Class Act and part of the Laker Greats. I feel this is going to be one of our greats years ever and we had many to remember! Go Fish!

You're a Class Act

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 21:30.

You're a Class Act

Great News

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 21:17.

You've always been our favorite Laker, so glad to be able to watch you another season!

Remain a Laker

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 21:16.

Hi Fish, great decision, you are a mench!

I am absolutely trilled that

Submitted by Dereck Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 21:15.

I am absolutely trilled that you have been and will continue to be a LAKER!

LAKERS ALL DAY EVERYDAY

Submitted by LAKERS #1 FAN (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 21:14.

THANKS FISH THAT A DECISION THAT MADE ALL THE TRUE LAKERS FAN HAPPY..CANT WAIT TO SEE U BALL THEM UP AGAIN...AHHAHAHAHAHA

Class Act

Submitted by Mbengafide (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 21:12.

D Fish has more class himself then most NBA Rosters combined. Welcome back home again D Fish. We appreciate you. I hope you took some notes when you were going over the Offense with Riles.

King Fisher RULES

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 21:06.

THANK YOU D Fish--- there are not enough words to let you know how much you mean to the Laker Nation. You have been invaluable to us this year and all the previous seasons you have worn the purple and gold. There is no way we would have won any of these championships without your talent and leadership. You give our team so much ON AND OFF THE COURT and give the LA fans soooo much. You are beloved.... and we are thrilled beyond words to hear the GREAT NEWS that you will REMAIN A LAKER FOR LIFE... It is what you deserve and it is the greatest gift to all of us who love you so ....God Bless you King Fisher.... We are so grateful you chose to stay in LA-- We are all breathing sighs of relief and are thrilled to have you back where you belong... ON To # 6!!!!!

relieved

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 21:04.

D-Fish, Me and my wife are glad to hear you are staying you're a big part of the Laker franchise.

SINCERELY HAPPY

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 21:01.

Derek Fisher:

I am one of your true fans. You have exemplified the epitome of humbleness and dedication to your team and I am so happy that you decided to stay with the Lakers. God bless you and your family and may you continue to grow in God's mercy and grace.

A sincere and heartfelt thanks.

D Fisher you the man great move by staying with the World Champs

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 21:01.

Hey when will Dr. Buss understand you are the man at the point and pay you what you deserve.Hey time to take down the Heat and show who the real Champs are three peat baby!!! Thank god you look at more then money. Thanks

thank you derek

Submitted by dave (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 20:55.

Hi Derek, i'm Dave from the philippines.Just wanna say Thank you so much for your loyalty in your team.i know you are a good example to others.you are a great leader.if u & kobe play together,championship title is not impossible because you both are a great team leader.i'm so proud of you guys.You will be crown for your three-peat next season!i am a die hard fan of your team (LA LAKERS).Go for 6 ring baby...May God Bless u guys!

Thank You Fish!

Submitted by KB (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 20:53.

I completely respect the fact that you looked around. Most people would relish the chance of being courted by other career opportunities. However, I am SO happy you decided to stay with the Lakers. Your leadership and court knowledge is irreplaceable. Whether you score 2 or 20, you always give Laker Nation a sense of comfort. Congrats on the new contract, enjoy your time off and good luck for the 2010-11 season!

D Fish

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 20:53.

Kobe maybe the superstar but you are the superglue that keeps the lakers together

SINCERELY HAPPY

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 20:51.

Derek Fisher:

I am one of your true fans. You have exemplified the epitome of humbleness and dedication to your team and I am so happy that you decided to stay with the Lakers. God bless you and your family and may you continue to grow in God's mercy and grace.

A sincere and heartfelt thanks.

To the last #2 to play for the Lakers!

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 20:49.

I am so glad you stayed. You are a classy person, on and off the court. I waited on you and your family once, and you were just as polite and kind as i had imagined. You have to help keep everyone in check here in LA so we can go for #17 and tie Boston.
Thanks for staying!

You're the Man!

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 20:49.

All I can say is "THANK YOU!" !!!! Race to Six!!!!

Im So Happy Fisher.. U Are A

Submitted by Beee Gee<3 (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 20:48.

Im So Happy Fisher.. U Are A Great Player. LAKERS Need U For That 3 Peat:)

Return

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 20:46.

D, I've been a Laker fan six I was twelve years old. I was first introduced to the Lakers in 1979. Magic J. was a Rookie, the Lakers were beating everyone by @ least twenty points, Chick Hearn was making the calls and the rest is history. I'm really glad that you've decided to TEACH WHAT CHARACTER IS ALL ABOUT. Sometimes it's about MORE THAN JUST THE MONEY. God bless you D. By the way I hope the baby's doing fine and she continues to grow strong and God fearing. Welcome back.

THANK YOU D-FISH

Submitted by Fan O' Fish (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 20:45.

YOU DESERVE A STANDING OVATION IN EVERY ROOM THAT YOU WALK INTO IN THIS TOWN, FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE. THANK YOU SIR, YOU ARE A TRUE HERO TO OUR TOWN !!!

Best News of the Day for L.A.

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 20:45.

What a sigh of relief! You have always shown such class and integrity as an NBA player but most of all as a human being. Your interviews have always revealed you as a thoughtful and articulate professional, coupled with your compassion in your efforts to help others. You are the GLUE for the Lakers - it wouldn't have been the same without you. I wish you much success next season - much love and continued blessings to you and your family. YOU MADE MY DAY!!

just quite simply put d.fish

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 20:42.

just quite simply put d.fish is a class act. an example for all players and people. a family man and you can tell has a heart of gold

THANK YOU DEREK FISHER!

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 20:41.

THANK YOU D-FISH! KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK! GOD BLESS AND GOOD LUCK TO YOU AND THE LAKERS 2011 NBA TEAM 'S QUEST FOR SIX!

re signing with lakers

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 20:36.

You are a class act. Loyalty beat out the all mighty dollar. thank you Derek

Your the greatest Fish! Not

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 20:35.

Your the greatest Fish! Not having you back would have left an empty feeling in our hearts. Your a true professional in all senses, of and on the court. You make me proud to be a Lakeres fan. Let's get this party started and show the rest of the NBA what Lakers basketball is all about.

fisher you may not nkow

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 20:27.

fisher you may not nkow me.but i do nkow you nkow about god.he will blessed you and your family for everyday life,

Derek Fisher Deciding To Stay In LA

Submitted by David Tremblay (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 20:27.

Your deciding to stay in LA made my day. Thanks Derek! Go get that 6th ring!!
Vancouver, BC

Thankful fan!

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 20:26.

D-Fish...thank you, thank you, thank you! You are the heart and soul of the Lakers, and I would've been devastated if you'd left. I love that you specifically stated that you're staying with Kobe in your statement! This is a day for celebration as a Laker fan...you belong with the Lakers for life, and I am so thankful that we have your class, talent, leadership and SOUL on our team!! Thank you for making the right choice!!

Thank you!

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 20:21.

You are truly a blessing in the world of professional sports. I've been a fan since your rookie year. You are without a doubt the hardest worker and most committed teammate. You personify integrity and loyalty. I'm thrilled you'll be back for a three-peat performance. As I've always said, Kobe has never won championship without you!

Thank you

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 20:20.

Hi,Derek,this is a fan from China,i'm very happy to heard your decision. Thanks God and may bless you and all the lakers!

I will make you Fishers of another title

Submitted by Legend1 (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 20:14.

So good to hear you're back D. Fish. You had me worried with all the talk about Miami. Let's take it to 'em.

Thank You

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 20:11.

Thank you D. Fish! Thank you for ultimately deciding to return here to the greatest franchise in NBA history. You sir, are by far one of the most respected and classiest player to ever wear the purple and gold. Even though all Laker fans were on pins and needles awaiting your decision on where you will continue your NBA career, it just never seemed right for you to leave the city that loves and adores you. I was so upset when the Lakers let you leave in 2004 and jumped for joy when you returned in 2008 and now happier that you will finish your career here in L.A. Thank you and god bless...

True unsurpassed professional

Submitted by 79lakerfan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 20:11.

Thank you D-fish. You have made my day! When I received the lakers text stating you were staying with the purple people eaters. NO lie, I shed a tear at 24 hr fitness, just like in game 3! You are truly the heart and soul of this new dynasty, that you and Kobe have built with sweat and tears. Thank you and Great things come to those who wait. You will be rewarded even further for the choice you have made today and made all the laker fans day and possible year. Let's get the sixth and make history of your own. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Parades are made for champs not for glorifying players who have not done anything

Derek Fisher for President

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 20:10.

I'm incredibly happy that you have chosen to remain with the team that you helped become the absolute best in the NBA. I can't imagine anyone else (except for maybe Magic..lol) running the point and helping to keep the Lakers grounded. I don't care about the noise being made elsewhere...the Lakers are the best team in the league and with you, Kobe, Pau, Lamar, Ron Artest, Bynum, and everyone else, we will continue to be...welcome back DFish!!

Thanks!

Submitted by Nikhil (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 20:09.

I am glad you decided to stay with the Lakers...I've been a huge fan, and always will be. Youre and amazing player, and an even better person. I wish you and your family well, and congrats on number 5! Now comes 6!

im glad you stay i admire

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 20:07.

im glad you stay i admire your heart on court so much bringing passion on the game nice to watch you again next seasons hunting the 6th championships.. we love so much the lakers here in the philippines so god bless you and the lakers ..

YEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY FISHER!!!

Submitted by 9 (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 19:56.

glad to know you're back to lakers! yeay kobe! yeay pau! you're my inspiration for playing basketball. im a PG to and im learn from you how to play that! i really want to be like you although that im a girl! i lovee you derek! keep the good work goodluck in next season!!!!! GOOO DEREK FISHERRR!!

I had a pit in the bottom of

Submitted by Vicky Reed (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 19:54.

I had a pit in the bottom of my stomach when I saw on ESPN that you were meeting with the Heat. I am SOOOO glad you're back with the Lakers!!! Thank You!

You are a gentleman and a true professional!

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (Ray T) (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 19:54.

Thank you for returning to the LAKERS!... It would not be the same without you. I admire your courage, honor, and professionalism. Sometimes there are more things important than money. We're glad you're back! You are the heart and soul of the LA Lakers.

We love you, man! Welcome back!

The Big Fish remains in LA!!

Submitted by Sylvia (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 19:54.

I am very Happy to read that you will continue to be with The Lakers, I sure hope when the times comes for to retire, That it's with the Lakers. I want to see your Jersey hanging with the rest of them:)

Dear Fish, I was glad to hear

Submitted by Deann (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 19:52.

Dear Fish,
I was glad to hear that you were staying with the Lakers.
I was hoping you weren't going to pull a Lebron
but i should've known you have to much class for that.
Now all we need to do is keep Shannon Brown and I know we will have a 3peat next season.
BEST WISHES TO YOU AND ALL YOUR FAMILY. Glad to hear your daugther is doing great. I will say a prayer for her & your family.

#1 Laker Fan,
Deann Jimenez <3

awesome news, glad you are

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 19:50.

awesome news, glad you are returning to continue this dynasty that we have here in LA. We would have not been the same without you here in LA. As a student of the game I realize your worth on and off the court but unless you've played the game and love it its difficult to explain.

Thanks-

Laker Fan Til the Death :)

So Happy!!!!

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 19:49.

I am so happy you are staying. Having to hear my clipper fan nephew (whom I work with) all day gleefully tormenting me with stupid "Lakers are done" comments was driving me nuts. But now I can have the last laugh because you are back,the Lakers are whole again and are still the favorites to win the championship and his clippers are still.. well, the clippers. Thanks for coming back. We laker fans love you man..

Thanks Derek!!!

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 19:47.

Thank you so much!! You are one of the great Lakers that by just looking at stats will not reflect!!!

You are one of the most valuable members of the Laker dynasty ever!!!!

Thanks for staying!!!

Rob Sneed

Thank you

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 19:46.

Thank you D-Fish!!! We appreciate all that you do for us. You define proffesionalism. THreepeat!!!!!

Thank goodness!

Submitted by Derek Fisher Fan (not verified) on Mon, 07/12/2010 - 19:38.

You, sir, have made my day. Thanks for staying!