Scotty Pippen Jr. Joins Memphis Grizzlies: Continuing a Legacy
Scotty Pippen Jr., a name that already carries weight due to his Hall of Fame father Scottie Pippen, is carving out his path in the NBA with a noteworthy move to the Memphis Grizzlies. Pippen Jr. has recently signed a standard, multiyear contract with the Grizzlies, signaling a significant step in his budding career.
This journey to the Grizzlies comes after Pippen Jr. entered the professional basketball scene as an undrafted free agent in 2022. His initial foray into the NBA was with the Los Angeles Lakers, where he secured a two-way contract for the 2022-23 season. Despite the challenges that accompany being undrafted, Pippen Jr. showed promise and resilience, qualities that have evidently captured the interest of the Grizzlies as they look to strengthen their roster.
Pippen Jr. embarked on his collegiate career at Vanderbilt, where he honed his skills over three years. His impressive performance there paved the way for his entry into the NBA. In January 2024, the Memphis Grizzlies signed him to a two-way deal, a move that has since evolved into a full-fledged contract.
During his tenure with the Grizzlies, Pippen Jr. took full advantage of the opportunity, averaging 12.9 points per game. His near 50% shooting efficiency, along with a remarkable 42% success rate from beyond the arc, has turned heads and cemented his reputation as a valuable asset to the team. Additionally, his defensive prowess cannot be overlooked, with Pippen Jr. averaging 1.7 steals per game during his time on the court with the Grizzlies.
His stellar performance is part of a broader strategy by the Grizzlies to build a formidable lineup capable of deep playoff runs. The team, aiming for playoff contention, dealt with injuries through the past season, providing players like Pippen Jr. with the opportunity to step up and make a mark. Besides Pippen Jr., the Grizzlies have also signed GG Jackson and Vince Williams to standard NBA contracts, moves that speak volumes of their intent to solidify their competitive edge.
The return of key veterans such as Ja Morant further bolsters the Grizzlies' ambitions. The blend of seasoned experience and fresh talent like Scotty Pippen Jr. lays a promising foundation for their playoff pursuit. This calculated approach by the Grizzlies illustrates their commitment to assembling a dynamic team, with Pippen Jr. expected to play a crucial role in their strategy.
For Scotty Pippen Jr., joining the Memphis Grizzlies does more than just advance his career—it continues a legacy. He steps onto the court not only to establish his identity as a proficient NBA player but also to honor and build upon the legendary career of his father, Scottie Pippen. As the Grizzlies forge ahead with their plans for the upcoming seasons, Pippen Jr.'s presence in their roster is both a continuation of familial legacy and a promise of new beginnings.
As the Grizzlies prepare for the next stages of basketball, all eyes will be on their emerging lineup, with Scotty Pippen Jr. at a critical juncture, ready to make significant contributions. His progression from an undrafted player to signing a multiyear contract has captured the attention of fans and analysts alike, marking him as one to watch in the ever-competitive NBA landscape.