Scotty Pippen Jr., at just 23 years old, has quickly emerged as a dynamic force in professional basketball. Standing at 6-foot-1, this guard's journey from the trials of the G League to the prominence of the NBA illustrates both his resilience and talent.
Rising from the G League
Before signing with the Memphis Grizzlies, Pippen Jr. made his mark with the South Bay Lakers in the G League. However, after a season that ended with the Los Angeles Lakers waiving him, the young guard was at a crossroads. "I was ready to leave the G League, maybe go overseas," he reflected, contemplating his next steps after the Lakers declined to extend a qualifying offer post his rookie season.
The decision to continue his NBA journey with the Grizzlies proved fortuitous. Pippen secured a two-way contract with the team in January, immediately showcasing his potential by stepping up during Ja Morant's absences. His ability to start games and collaboratively boost the team's performance led to lineups with both players outscoring opponents by an impressive 19 points per 100 possessions.
Making an Impact in Memphis
Pippen's performance has not gone unnoticed within the Grizzlies organization. "He was a guy that we immediately fell in love with because he was picking up guys 94 feet, he was being a disruptor, he was executing game plans, he was creating turnovers," remarked Head Coach Taylor Jenkins, highlighting the guard's defensive prowess and commitment to the game.
Known for bringing toughness and intensity, Pippen echoes his coach's sentiments with his on-court actions. Dennis Schroder emphasized the guard's contributions: "Gotta bring some toughness. Defensively, picking up full court, changing the game, speeding the game up. And that's what he do." Such attributes undoubtedly solidified his role in the team, leading to a four-year contract with Memphis in the preseason.
Statistical Prowess
Pippen Jr.'s numbers further underline his impact. With averages of 17.1 points per 36 minutes and a 62.8% true shooting percentage, he has already achieved substantial feats, including an earlier triple-double this season. His defensive metrics contribute significantly to the Grizzlies' strategies, averaging 1.4 steals and 0.6 blocks per 36 minutes.
His shooting skills deserve special mention; Pippen showcases a 48% success rate with catch-and-shoot three-pointers. This capability adds another dimension to his gameplay, as evidenced during his standout performance against the Lakers last April, where he registered 28 points and four steals.
Carving His Path
Despite drawing comparisons to his iconic father, Pippen Jr. is focused on building his own legacy. "It's his own legacy. He is his own man," Schroder attested, highlighting the young guard's commitment to forging a unique identity in the world of professional basketball.
Pippen himself acknowledged the challenges and his resolve: "I was more so just trying to prove to myself that I belonged here." His ability to rise to these challenges, combined with his talent and dedication, has shown that he not only belongs in the league but also possesses the potential to become a pivotal player for the Grizzlies.
With the Grizzlies holding a 7-4 record this season, Pippen's contributions on both ends of the court have been integral. As Jaren Jackson Jr. noted, "As a point guard, it's hard, but he's making it look easy." Such endorsements speak volumes of Pippen's burgeoning influence and the bright future ahead for this promising guard.