Monta Ellis Wasn’t Sad to Leave the Golden State Warriors


Last night’s blockbuster trade didn’t come as a shock to Monta Ellis, who didn’t sound too heartbroken about no longer being a member of the Golden State Warriors (though the same cannot be said for his now former teammates.) From the San Fran Chronicle: “Shooting guard Monta Ellis was as happy as he’s been in years, showcasing an ear-to-ear smile as he addressed media before leaving the Warriors for Milwaukee. The Warriors on Tuesday night traded the dynamic scorer, along with Ekpe Udoh and Kwame Brown’s expiring contract, to the Bucks for center Andrew Bogut and swingman Stephen Jackson. […] How are you feeling?: ‘It is what it is, man. I had some great years here, and I had some bad ones. Thankfully, I had the opportunity to do what I did for seven years here. I started my career here, but they’re going in another direction. They were good to me here.’ What was the reaction of your teammates?: ‘Everybody is upset, but this is what happens. This is part of the league. I wish them the best. Now, I’m going to go help the Bucks win.’ How did you find out?: ‘I read it on the TV. I don’t have a problem with that. It is what it is.’ Did you tell them that you wanted out?: ‘They didn’t hear that out of my mouth. I kind of figured that something bad was going to happen today. I was prepared for it. I’m good.’ Did you know you were going to Milwaukee?: ‘I knew they weren’t going to send me to a playoff team. But the Bucks are still in the running. I think we can go for the eighth spot.’ […] You seem very calm: ‘I told you, I was prepared for this. I’m not going to say anything negative.’ You said you wanted to be a Warrior for life?: ‘Everybody says that, but it doesn’t happen that way.'”