Over the past few seasons, Penny Hardaway turned into an NBA phantom.

Fleeting sightings proved Hardaway's existence, yet the former All-Star suffered so many injuries that he might as well have been retired.

Hardaway withstood the criticism of being as fragile as a newborn baby, and the suggestions to retire so everyone could move on.

Instead, Hardaway maintained a burning desire to return, no matter the pain he might endure or the time it might take.

And now the 30-year-old has risen with Phoenix, often flashing the form that once placed him on the All-NBA team.

"I feel like my old self now," Hardaway said. "I can move side to side. I can jump, and I have no pain."

Hardaway is once again bringing pain to opposing guards by averaging his most points (18) since the 1996-97 season. Hardaway's athleticism has diminished because of the injuries. But he has been healthy enough to lead the Suns in steals while averaging five assists and five rebounds.