During the early stages of Richard Hamilton’s career, the UConn Huskie alum knew a tremendous amount of success. After winning the 1999 national championship, where he was named the NCAA Tournament’s Most Outstanding Player, Hamilton appeared in six consecutive Eastern Conference Finals with the Detroit Pistons, winning an NBA crown in 2004.

Since the Pistons run of dominance came to an end in 2008, Hamilton was on hand for three very lean years in Detroit. Over the last three seasons, the once vaunted Pistons averaged only 33 victories.

Last month, Hamilton received an early Christmas gift when he was let go by Detroit, via the NBA’s new amnesty rule. By an even greater stroke of luck, the 12-year sharpshooter was picked up by the Central Division champion Bulls. The 306-mile journey from Auburn Hills, Michigan to Chicago meant that Hamilton once again has the opportunity to win a championship, an opportunity that had long passed in the Motor City.

Take a look at ifollosports.com original video of a reborn Richard Hamilton leaving the Bulls Beverly Hills hotel last Friday. The career 17.6 points per game scorer looked chipper as he said hello to some fans before making his way to the team bus alongside teammate Kyle Korver.