Scotty Pippen Jr.: Carving His Own Path in the NBA
Emerging from the shadow cast by his father's illustrious basketball career, Scotty Pippen Jr. is crafting a legacy of his own in the NBA. At just 23 years old, the 6-foot-1 guard has become a key component of the Memphis Grizzlies. His journey to this point, however, has been anything but straightforward.
Pippen Jr., who signed with the Grizzlies on a two-way contract in January, has made the most of his opportunities, significantly during the absence of star teammate Ja Morant. "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," said Taylor Jenkins, the Grizzlies' head coach.
Among Pippen Jr.’s notable performances is a standout game in which he scored 28 points and made four steals against the Los Angeles Lakers last April. His impressive contributions have not gone unnoticed in the league, as evidenced by his spectacular 48% success rate with catch-and-shoot three-pointers. Averaging 17.1 points per 36 minutes with a 62.8% true shooting percentage, Pippen also contributes defensively with 1.4 steals and 0.6 blocks per 36 minutes.
Though he began his career with the South Bay Lakers in the G League, Pippen was candid about his journey. "I was ready to leave the G League, maybe go overseas," he remarked, reflecting on the uncertainty he faced before landing with the Grizzlies. His determination to prove his capability in the NBA was a driving force in his path to success. "I was more so just trying to prove to myself that I belonged here," he added.
With the trust placed in him by the Grizzlies’ management, Pippen was offered a four-year contract during the preseason, solidifying his place within the team. Lineups featuring both him and Morant have outscored opponents by a staggering 19 points per 100 possessions, indicating the impactful synergy they create on the court.
Teammates and mentors have observed Pippen Jr.'s evolution positively. Jaren Jackson Jr., a fellow Grizzlies player, has praised the young guard's ability to handle the role with ease. "As a point guard, it's hard, but he's making it look easy," Jackson observed, noting Pippen’s ability to adapt quickly to the challenges of the NBA.
Dennis Schroder, a seasoned player with extensive experience, is equally impressed with Pippen Jr.’s contributions, especially on the defensive end. "Gotta bring some toughness. Defensively, picking up full court, changing the game, speeding the game up. And that's what he do," Schroder noted. He also acknowledged Pippen's quest to establish an identity separate from his father’s, emphasizing that "It's his own legacy. He is his own man."
In the current season, the Grizzlies boast a 7-4 record, a testament to the team's cohesion and to Pippen Jr.’s role in enhancing their gameplay. Earlier this season, Pippen achieved another career milestone by recording a triple-double, showcasing his versatility and potential in the league.
Pippen Jr.'s ascent in the NBA confirms his ability to transcend expectations and highlights the dedication that fuels his ambition. As he continues to rise, he exemplifies the spirit of a player willing to carve his niche through perseverance and skill. Still early in his career, he serves as a dynamic example of how talent, hard work, and strategic opportunities can align to yield greatness on the basketball court. Through every dribble and defensive stop, Pippen Jr. isn't just living up to his name; he's redefining it, one game at a time.