Scotty Pippen Jr.: A Rising Star in the Memphis Grizzlies Roster
At just 23 years old, Scotty Pippen Jr. has rapidly established himself as a formidable guard for the Memphis Grizzlies, following a journey that took him from the G League to a significant role in the NBA. Standing at 6-foot-1, Pippen's path to the top was paved with determination and a relentless drive to prove his worth. The son of an NBA legend, Pippen is carving out his own legacy with performances that defy expectations.
Pippen’s journey started with the South Bay Lakers in the G League, where his impressive skills on the court as a disruptor quickly caught the eye. His potential was noted by many, including Lakers Head Coach Taylor Jenkins who commented, "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."
From G League to Grizzlies
Despite his potential, Pippen’s early professional career wasn't without its challenges. Following a training camp, the Los Angeles Lakers waived him, and he concluded his rookie season without a qualifying offer. Faced with uncertain prospects, Pippen considered his options. "I was ready to leave the G League, maybe go overseas," he admitted, reflecting on that turbulent period.
However, the Memphis Grizzlies saw promise in Pippen, signing him to a two-way contract in January. His impact was quickly felt when he was called upon to fill the void during Ja Morant’s absences due to injuries. Lineups featuring both Pippen and Morant outperformed opponents by a significant margin, outscoring them by 19 points per 100 possessions. These performances emphasized his invaluable contribution to the team's dynamics.
Proving His Worth
Pippen’s transition was far from just filling gaps; it was about proving he belonged. "I was more so just trying to prove to myself that I belonged here," he shared. His efforts culminated in a standout game against the Los Angeles Lakers last April, where he posted 28 points and secured four steals. Such performances underline his ability to rise to the occasion and make significant contributions when needed.
This season, Pippen has averaged an impressive 17.1 points per 36 minutes, complemented by a 62.8% true shooting percentage. His defensive prowess is evident with averages of 1.4 steals and 0.6 blocks per 36 minutes. He further demonstrated his all-around capability by achieving a triple-double earlier in the season. Pippen's sharp shooting is another asset, boasting a 48% success rate on catch-and-shoot three-pointers, indicating his reliability from beyond the arc.
Building His Own Legacy
Despite the inevitable comparisons to his father, Scotty Pippen Sr., the young guard is determined to build his own legacy. Dennis Schroder, one of his mentors, attested to this, saying, "It’s his own legacy. He is his own man." This sentiment captures the essence of Pippen’s journey—one driven by individual aspiration and resilience.
Pippen's influence extends beyond individual statistics; his style of play impacts the team’s momentum. According to Dennis Schroder, "Gotta bring some toughness. Defensively, picking up full court, changing the game, speeding the game up. And that's what he do." Such praise reflects on his ability to change the dynamics of any given game with his energy and defensive acumen.
Currently, the Grizzlies hold a 7-4 record this season, thanks partly to Pippen's efforts. His ability to seamlessly integrate into the team and take initiatives when the stakes are high has made him an essential component of the Grizzlies’ strategy. "As a point guard, it's hard, but he's making it look easy," praised teammate Jaren Jackson Jr., encapsulating the respect and admiration Pippen has garnered among his peers.
With a four-year contract set in the preseason, Scotty Pippen Jr.'s future with the Memphis Grizzlies looks promising. As he continues to mature on and off the court, fans and analysts alike will be keenly following his progress and celebrating his unique impact on the game. Pippen is much more than a name; he is a young athlete with a developing story, enhanced by grit, talent, and an aspiration to make his own mark in the NBA.