A New Chapter for Scotty Pippen Jr. with the Memphis Grizzlies
Scotty Pippen Jr., following in the illustrious footsteps of his Hall of Fame father Scottie Pippen, is crafting his own legacy in the NBA. Recently, Pippen Jr. has fortified his presence in the league by signing a standard, multiyear contract with the Memphis Grizzlies, marking a significant milestone in his budding career.
Entering professional basketball as an undrafted free agent in 2022, Pippen Jr. has shown resilience and determination in his journey to the NBA. He began his career with a promising three-year tenure at Vanderbilt, which paved the way for his initial entry into the league. Despite the odds, he was picked up by the Los Angeles Lakers, who offered him a two-way contract for the 2022-23 season, allowing him to gain invaluable experience and nurture his talent in a competitive environment.
In January 2024, Pippen Jr. joined the Memphis Grizzlies on a two-way deal amid a season riddled with injuries for the team. This opportunity allowed him to demonstrate his capabilities on a larger stage. He made an immediate impact on the court, averaging an impressive 12.9 points per game. His near 50% shooting efficiency, coupled with a remarkable 42% success rate from beyond the arc, underscored his potential as a formidable offensive threat. On defense, Pippen Jr. was equally impactful, averaging 1.7 steals per game, showcasing his ability to disrupt opponents and transition smoothly between both ends of the court.
The Grizzlies’ decision to advance Pippen Jr. to a standard NBA contract alongside teammates GG Jackson and Vince Williams highlights the franchise’s strategic vision to bolster their roster for playoff contention. With key veterans like Ja Morant poised for a return, the Grizzlies are positioning themselves as serious contenders in the league. Pippen Jr., with his versatile skills and dynamic play style, is integral to this vision and is anticipated to be a pivotal player in the Grizzlies' pursuits of deep playoff runs.
As Pippen Jr. continues to navigate his NBA journey, he honors and extends the legacy of his father. While Scottie Pippen's shadow in the world of basketball is immense, his son's distinct path and tenacity are carving out a notable narrative of its own. The basketball lineage is unmistakable, yet Scotty Pippen Jr. is proving that his success in the league is attributed to his individual talents and dedication.
The Grizzlies’ faith in their young talent signifies more than just a roster move; it’s a strategic direction towards long-term competitiveness and establishing a core group capable of leaving a mark in the playoffs. As the regular season progresses, all eyes will be on Memphis to see how these calculated additions, including that of Pippen Jr., translate into performance on the court.
The coming years are eagerly awaited as Scotty Pippen Jr. steps out of his father's shadow to make his mark, not merely as an extension of a legacy but as a distinguished athlete in his own right. With Memphis as his platform, the basketball world watches with bated breath, anticipating the strides this young player will take as he continues to write his own chapter in the annals of NBA history.