In a league where legacy often precedes players, Scotty Pippen Jr. is carving out an impressive story of his own. At 23, he has quickly transitioned from the G League with the South Bay Lakers to a promising role with the Memphis Grizzlies, showcasing both tenacity and skill that defy his youthful years.
A Promising Start
Pippen Jr., standing at 6-foot-1, plays as a guard for the Grizzlies. Despite a rocky initial season with the Los Angeles Lakers, who decided not to issue a qualifying offer and waived him following a training camp, his journey has been marked by perseverance. Reflecting on his decision to stay in the U.S. rather than pursue opportunities overseas, Pippen Jr. candidly shared, "I was ready to leave the G League, maybe go overseas."
This period of uncertainty did not deter him. Instead, it added fuel to his drive. A two-way contract with the Memphis Grizzlies in January provided him with new opportunities. He was quick to make an impact, particularly during star guard Ja Morant's absence due to injuries. Pippen Jr. didn't just fill in for Morant; he thrived alongside him. Lineups featuring both players outscored opponents by an impressive 19 points per 100 possessions.
Rising Through the Ranks
Head Coach Taylor Jenkins was one of the many who noticed Pippen’s potential. "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," Jenkins explained. It wasn’t long before Pippen secured a four-year contract with the Grizzlies during the preseason, solidifying his place on the team.
His statistical contributions speak volumes of his capability. Averaging 17.1 points per 36 minutes with an astounding 62.8% true shooting percentage, Pippen Jr. is proving to be a valuable offensive weapon. On the defensive end, he adds an average of 1.4 steals and 0.6 blocks per 36 minutes, reflecting a comprehensive approach to his game.
A Playmaker in His Element
Scotty Pippen Jr.’s court presence goes beyond the numbers. His ability to perform under pressure was evident earlier this season when he achieved a triple-double, further establishing his role as a playmaker. His catch-and-shoot three-pointer success rate is at an impressive 48%, adding a critical dimension to the Grizzlies' offense.
Teammate Dennis Schroder praises his grit and defensive prowess, emphasizing, "Gotta bring some toughness. Defensively, picking up full court, changing the game, speeding the game up. And that's what he do." Such attributes have endeared him to both fans and teammates alike, as he consistently executes plays that lift the energy of the team.
Pippen’s personal dedication is evident as he states, "I was more so just trying to prove to myself that I belonged here." It's this drive that has allowed him to stand out despite the pressures of his last name. Fellow Grizzly Jaren Jackson Jr. noted, "As a point guard, it's hard, but he's making it look easy," underscoring Pippen's natural ease and adaptability on the floor.
Creating His Legacy
The Grizzlies currently boast a 7-4 record this season, a testament to the collective effort of the team with Pippen Jr. playing a pivotal role. His standout performance against his former team, the Lakers, in April—where he logged a 28-point and four-steal game—demonstrated his capacity to rise to the challenge.
Yet, for Scotty Pippen Jr., the journey is about more than triumphs over former affiliations or statistical achievements. As Dennis Schroder succinctly put it, "It’s his own legacy. He is his own man." While the shadow of his father, NBA Hall of Famer Scottie Pippen, might loom large in the background, Scotty Jr. is steadfastly establishing an identity uniquely his own.
In the emerging chapters of his career, many eyes will be watching Scotty Pippen Jr. to see just how his story unfolds. For now, the young guard remains focused, determined to craft a legacy not defined by lineage but through his own hard work and dedication on the court.