At 23 years old, Scotty Pippen Jr. is carving out his own path in the NBA, away from the shadows cast by his father's illustrious career. Standing at 6-foot-1 and playing as a guard, Pippen Jr. has fast become a key player in the Memphis Grizzlies setup.
Rising Through the Ranks
Pippen Jr.'s journey to the Grizzlies wasn't smooth sailing. After a stint with the South Bay Lakers in the G League, he was waived by the Los Angeles Lakers following a training camp. They chose not to extend a qualifying offer after his rookie season, leading Pippen Jr. to explore other avenues. As he candidly admitted, "I was ready to leave the G League, maybe go overseas."
However, destiny had other plans. The Memphis Grizzlies saw potential where others did not, securing Pippen Jr. on a two-way contract in January. His performances, especially during Ja Morant's injury absences, were nothing short of stellar. Head Coach Taylor Jenkins remarked, "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."
Proving His Worth
Pippen's defensive tenacity has set him apart from his peers. Known for "picking up full court, changing the game, speeding the game up," as Dennis Schroder described, Pippen Jr.'s defensive skills have been a crucial part of the Grizzlies' arsenal. His impact was so significant that lineups featuring both him and Morant outscored opponents by 19 points per 100 possessions.
Pippen's offense is also making waves. Averaging 17.1 points per 36 minutes with an impressive 62.8% true shooting percentage, he combines scoring efficiency with defensive prowess. His catch-and-shoot three-pointers have a 48% success rate, adding another dimension to his game. Earlier this season, he achieved a rare triple-double, further cementing his status as a multifaceted guard who is difficult to contain.
Creating His Legacy
Despite the challenges and initial setbacks, Pippen Jr. remains focused on proving his place in the league. "I was more so just trying to prove to myself that I belonged here," he explained, speaking to his drive and determination. His teammates recognize this. Jaren Jackson Jr. commented, "As a point guard, it's hard, but he's making it look easy."
Pippen Jr. also understands that, although his surname bears a legendary legacy, he is defining his own path. Schroder encapsulated this sentiment well: "It’s his own legacy. He is his own man."
A Promising Future with the Grizzlies
Having signed a four-year contract in the preseason, Pippen Jr.'s immediate future is bright. The Grizzlies have started the season on a strong note, holding a 7-4 record. Highlighting his ability to rise to the occasion, Pippen Jr. delivered an impressive 28-point game with four steals against the Lakers, his former organization, last April.
As Scotty Pippen Jr. continues to develop his game, he embodies the resilience and tenacity that make the NBA such a compelling league. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely, eager to see how he continues to leave his mark on the court. In a league where legacy and the next generation intersect, Pippen Jr. is determined to ensure his story is distinctly his own. His journey with the Memphis Grizzlies is just the beginning of what promises to be an influential career.