Scotty Pippen Jr.: Carving His Own Path in the NBA
At just 23 years old, Scotty Pippen Jr. is making his mark as a promising young guard in the NBA. Standing at 6-foot-1, Pippen Jr.'s journey from the G League to signing a four-year contract with the Memphis Grizzlies is a testament to his perseverance and skill.
Initially, Pippen Jr. found himself considering a move overseas after his stint with the South Bay Lakers in the G League. The Los Angeles Lakers had waived him after a training camp, choosing not to extend a qualifying offer following his rookie season. Reflecting on those uncertain times, Pippen admits, "I was ready to leave the G League, maybe go overseas."
However, his fortunes changed in January when Pippen secured a two-way contract with the Memphis Grizzlies. It was a pivotal moment in his career, giving him the opportunity to play alongside one of the league's electrifying talents, Ja Morant.
During Morant's injuries, Pippen stepped up, starting games for the Grizzlies and effectively showcasing his abilities. His dynamic play impressed the team's hierarchy and was reinforced by endorsements from teammates and coaches alike. Jaren Jackson Jr., a fellow player, noted, "As a point guard, it's hard, but he's making it look easy."
What sets Pippen apart is his defensive tenacity and willingness to disrupt opponents. Head Coach Taylor Jenkins praised Pippen's game-changing abilities, saying, "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."
The on-court chemistry between Pippen and Morant has been evident. Lineups featuring both players have outscored opponents by 19 points per 100 possessions, a testament to their efficient synergy. Pippen's agility on defense, averaging 1.4 steals and 0.6 blocks per 36 minutes, has only underscored his value to the Grizzlies.
Offensively, Pippen brings his own brand of firepower. Averaging 17.1 points per 36 minutes with an impressive 62.8% true shooting percentage, he is a constant threat to score. His skill from beyond the arc is particularly noteworthy, with a 48% success rate on catch-and-shoot three-pointers.
Pippen's standout performance came last April, when he delivered a remarkable 28-point and four-steal game against none other than his former team, the Lakers. His impressive triple-double earlier this season has further cemented his status as a rising star in the league.
The Grizzlies, currently holding a 7-4 record this season, have benefitted from Pippen's impactful contributions on both ends of the court. Veteran guard Dennis Schroder emphasized the unique qualities Pippen brings to the squad, remarking, "Gotta bring some toughness. Defensively, picking up full court, changing the game, speeding the game up. And that's what he do."
As Pippen continues to build his career, he remains focused on making a name for himself. Despite being the son of an NBA legend, he is determined to establish his own legacy. "I was more so just trying to prove to myself that I belonged here," Pippen explained. Schroder echoed this sentiment, stating, "It’s his own legacy. He is his own man."
In an NBA landscape filled with emerging talents, Scotty Pippen Jr. stands out not just for his familial ties but for his undeniable prowess and dedication. His journey, overflowing with potential and promise, is a thrilling narrative of a young player carving a distinctive path in professional basketball.