At 23, Scotty Pippen Jr. finds himself on a promising trajectory in the world of professional basketball. Standing at 6-foot-1 and playing as a guard, Pippen's journey has seen him traverse multiple leagues and teams, eventually landing a spot with the Memphis Grizzlies, a franchise where he has begun to carve out his own legacy.
Rising Through Challenges
Pippen's path has been anything but linear. After a stint with the South Bay Lakers in the G League, Pippen faced uncertainty when the Los Angeles Lakers waived him following a training camp. The Lakers opted not to extend a qualifying offer after his rookie season, a decision that could have disheartened many young athletes. However, Pippen remained undeterred. "I was ready to leave the G League, maybe go overseas," Pippen candidly shared, underscoring his readiness to explore opportunities beyond domestic basketball confines.
His persistence paid off in January when he clinched a two-way contract with the Memphis Grizzlies. This opportunity provided Pippen with the platform to showcase his skills at the NBA level, a task he approached with diligence and fervor. While Ja Morant battled injuries, Pippen seized the chance to step up as a starter, proving his worth on the court. His on-the-ball tenacity and impactful performances were instrumental, with lineups featuring both Pippen and Morant outscoring opponents by 19 points per 100 possessions.
Establishing His Own Identity
Basketball aficionados were naturally curious about Pippen's playing style, particularly in light of his father's storied NBA career. Yet, those who observe him closely witness a player determined to make his mark. "It's his own legacy. He is his own man," remarked Dennis Schroder, appreciating Pippen’s unique attributes and work ethic. Jaren Jackson Jr., a teammate, highlighted Pippen's growth: "As a point guard, it's hard, but he's making it look easy."
Pippen's skill set includes averaging 17.1 points per 36 minutes with an impressive 62.8% true shooting percentage. Although most recognize him for his offensive prowess, Pippen excels defensively, averaging 1.4 steals and 0.6 blocks per 36 minutes—a testament to his all-rounded game. "Gotta bring some toughness. Defensively, picking up full court, changing the game, speeding the game up. And that's what he do," Schroder added, highlighting Pippen’s crucial role in transforming game dynamics.
A New Chapter with the Grizzlies
The Memphis Grizzlies recognized Pippen’s potential and ensured his future at the franchise by signing him to a four-year contract in the preseason. His adeptness in fitting seamlessly into the Grizzlies’ system has not gone unnoticed. “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," explained Head Coach Taylor Jenkins, affirming Pippen’s valued presence in the team.
Pippen's prowess was on full display earlier this season when he recorded a triple-double, an achievement adding to his growing list of accolades. Additionally, his proficiency with catch-and-shoot three-pointers is impressive, boasting a 48% success rate—a vital component of the Grizzlies’ offensive arsenal. His standout performance came with a 28-point and four-steal game against the Lakers last April, a memorable faceoff against his former team.
The Road Ahead
With the Grizzlies holding a 7-4 record this season, Pippen’s contribution is an integral part of the franchise’s promising campaign. As he continues to develop his game alongside seasoned players like Ja Morant, Pippen is well on his way to solidifying his role as a vital piece in the Grizzlies' jigsaw. While he reflects on his progress, Pippen humbly admits, "I was more so just trying to prove to myself that I belonged here."
Indeed, Scotty Pippen Jr.’s journey is a beacon of determination and resilience, and it’s clear that his basketball story is far from over. As he continues to forge his path, the young guard is shaping a promising future, both for himself and for the Memphis Grizzlies.