Scotty Pippen Jr., son of the legendary Chicago Bulls icon Scottie Pippen, has embarked on his own journey in the National Basketball Association (NBA). While the weight of his father’s illustrious legacy is undeniable, Pippen Jr. has strived to forge his own identity as a professional basketball player, showcasing his skills and determination in the pursuit of his NBA dream. This article delves into the informative details surrounding Scotty Pippen Jr., drawing from the latest available information and addressing the key questions that resonate with fans online.
Early Life and Basketball Beginnings
Born on November 10, 2000, in Portland, Oregon, Scotty Maurice Pippen Jr. grew up immersed in the world of basketball. His father’s unparalleled success with the Chicago Bulls during the 1990s provided him with a unique perspective on the game and access to high-level basketball environments from a young age. However, Pippen Jr.’s path to professional basketball was not solely paved by his father’s name; he had to cultivate his own skills and work diligently to earn his opportunities.
Pippen Jr. attended Sierra Canyon School in Chatsworth, California, a high school renowned for its basketball program and attracting top-tier talent, including LeBron James’ sons, Bronny and Bryce James. Playing alongside and against such caliber of players provided Pippen Jr. with invaluable experience and exposure to high-stakes competition. During his time at Sierra Canyon, he showcased his abilities as a dynamic point guard with a knack for scoring and playmaking.
Collegiate Career at Vanderbilt University (2019-2022)
Following his high school career, Scotty Pippen Jr. committed to play college basketball for the Vanderbilt Commodores. This decision marked a significant step in his development, allowing him to hone his skills and establish himself as a prominent player at the NCAA level.
Pippen Jr.’s tenure at Vanderbilt was marked by consistent growth and increasing responsibility. Over three seasons, he emerged as a high-scoring guard and a primary playmaker for the Commodores.
Freshman Season (2019-2020): In his freshman year, Pippen Jr. immediately made an impact, averaging 12.0 points, 3.6 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. He demonstrated his scoring potential and ability to handle the ball at the college level.
Sophomore Season (2020-2021): His role expanded in his sophomore season, where he took on more offensive responsibility. He averaged 20.8 points, 4.0 assists, and 1.6 steals per game, showcasing his improved scoring prowess and playmaking abilities.
Junior Season (2021-2022): In his junior year, Pippen Jr. solidified his status as one of the top players in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). He averaged 20.4 points, 4.5 assists, and 1.9 steals per game, earning First-Team All-SEC honors. His consistent high-level performance and leadership made him a standout player in a competitive conference.
Across his three seasons at Vanderbilt, Scotty Pippen Jr. displayed a well-rounded offensive game, characterized by his ability to drive to the basket, create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates, and a developing jump shot. His tenacity on defense, evidenced by his consistent steal numbers, also became a hallmark of his game. After a successful junior season, Pippen Jr. declared for the 2022 NBA Draft, forgoing his senior year of eligibility.
Professional Career in the NBA
Despite his impressive college career, Scotty Pippen Jr. went undrafted in the 2022 NBA Draft. However, this setback did not deter his pursuit of an NBA career.
Los Angeles Lakers (2022-2023)
Following the draft, Pippen Jr. signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Los Angeles Lakers in July 2022. This type of contract allowed him to participate in training camp and potentially earn a spot on the Lakers’ G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers.
After a strong showing in the Summer League, where he averaged 11.8 points and 4.8 assists, Pippen Jr. was signed to a two-way contract by the Lakers in August 2022. This contract allowed him to spend time with both the NBA team and the South Bay Lakers. Throughout the 2022-2023 season, Pippen Jr. primarily played in the G League, where he showcased his skills and continued his development. In 32 games with the South Bay Lakers, he averaged 21.4 points, 5.6 assists, and 1.7 steals per game, demonstrating his scoring ability and playmaking at that level. He also made six appearances for the Los Angeles Lakers during the regular season.
Washington Wizards (2023-Present)
In July 2023, Scotty Pippen Jr. was traded to the Washington Wizards as part of a larger deal. This move provided him with a new opportunity to potentially earn more playing time at the NBA level. He signed another two-way contract with the Wizards.
During the 2023-2024 season, Pippen Jr. split his time between the Washington Wizards and their G League affiliate, the Capital City Go-Go. In the G League, he continued to be a productive player, averaging 17.4 points and 5.3 assists in 23 games. He also saw more NBA action with the Wizards, appearing in 15 games during the regular season.
As of May 6, 2025, Scotty Pippen Jr. remains under contract with the Washington Wizards, holding a two-way contract. This arrangement allows him to continue developing his skills and potentially earn a permanent spot on the NBA roster. The upcoming offseason and training camp will be crucial for him to demonstrate his progress and make a case for increased playing time in the 2025-2026 season.
Player Profile and Playing Style
Scotty Pippen Jr. is a dynamic point guard known for his offensive versatility and defensive tenacity. Standing at approximately 6 feet 1 inch tall, he possesses a quick first step and excellent ball-handling skills, allowing him to penetrate the defense and create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates.
Scoring Ability: Pippen Jr. has shown the ability to score in various ways, including driving to the basket, utilizing floaters and layups, and developing his jump shot. His scoring averages in college and the G League highlight his offensive potential.
Playmaking: As a point guard, Pippen Jr. possesses solid court vision and passing skills. He can distribute the ball effectively in the half-court and in transition, finding open teammates for scoring opportunities.
Defense: Pippen Jr. is a tenacious defender who utilizes his quickness and anticipation to disrupt opponents. His steal numbers in college and the G League demonstrate his ability to create turnovers.
Athleticism: He possesses good athleticism, which aids him in driving to the basket and competing defensively against NBA-level talent.
Family Legacy
The name “Pippen” carries immense weight in the basketball world due to his father’s legendary career. Scotty Pippen Jr. has had to navigate the expectations and comparisons that come with having such an accomplished father. While he acknowledges and respects his father’s legacy, he has consistently emphasized his desire to carve his own path and establish his own identity as an NBA player.
His father, Scottie Pippen, has been supportive of his son’s basketball aspirations, offering guidance and mentorship. The unique perspective of having a Hall of Fame father provides Pippen Jr. with invaluable insights into the game and the demands of the professional level.
FAQs
Who is Scotty Pippen Jr.?
Scotty Maurice Pippen Jr. is an American professional basketball player born on November 10, 2000, in Portland, Oregon. He is the son of NBA legend Scottie Pippen and media personality Larsa Pippen. Currently, he plays as a point guard for the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA.
What is his current NBA team and jersey number?
As of the 2024–25 NBA season, Pippen Jr. wears jersey number 1 for the Memphis Grizzlies.
What are his 2024–25 season stats?
In the 2024–25 regular season, Pippen Jr. is averaging:
9.9 points
3.3 rebounds
4.4 assists per game
48.0% field goal percentage
In the 2025 playoffs, he has elevated his performance, averaging 18.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists over four games.
What was his college basketball career like?
Pippen Jr. played college basketball at Vanderbilt University from 2019 to 2022. He earned First-Team All-SEC honors twice and averaged 17.5 points, 4.3 assists, and 3.1 rebounds over his collegiate career.
Was he drafted into the NBA?
No, Pippen Jr. went undrafted in the 2022 NBA Draft. He later signed with the Los Angeles Lakers and played for their G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers, before joining the Memphis Grizzlies.
What is his current contract status?
In October 2024, Pippen Jr. signed a multi-year contract with the Memphis Grizzlies, securing his place on the team’s roster through the 2026–27 season.
Does he have any notable family members in sports?
Yes, his younger brother, Justin Pippen, played college basketball for the Michigan Wolverines. Additionally, his cousin, Kavion Pippen, is a professional basketball player.
What are some highlights of his early life and high school career?
Pippen Jr. attended Sierra Canyon School in Chatsworth, California, where he played alongside future NBA players like Marvin Bagley III. As a senior, he averaged 16.3 points, 4.6 assists, and 3.6 rebounds, leading his team to a state title.
Has he received any accolades in his professional career?
In 2023, Pippen Jr. was selected for the NBA G League Next Up Game, highlighting his potential and performance in the league.
What is his playing style?
Pippen Jr. is known for his court vision, ball-handling skills, and ability to drive to the basket. His playmaking abilities and defensive instincts make him a valuable asset to his team.
To conclude
Scotty Pippen Jr.’s journey from a promising high school player to a professional in the NBA is a testament to his dedication and skill. Despite the pressures of being the son of a basketball legend, he has carved out his own identity on the court. His progression from undrafted rookie to a key contributor for the Memphis Grizzlies showcases his resilience and determination.
In the 2024–25 season, Pippen Jr. has demonstrated significant growth, both statistically and in his overall impact on the game. His increased scoring and playmaking in the playoffs indicate his readiness to take on more significant roles and responsibilities.
Off the court, Pippen Jr. maintains a relatively low profile, focusing on his development and performance. His commitment to the game and continuous improvement suggest a bright future ahead.
As he continues to develop and gain experience, Scotty Pippen Jr. is poised to make a lasting impact in the NBA, building upon his family’s legacy while forging his own path in professional basketball.
To read more , click here
