Kris Dunn: From Providence Standout to NBA Journeyman
Kristofer Michael Dunn, born on March 18, 1994, is an American professional basketball player currently with the Los Angeles Clippers of the National Basketball Association (NBA). Dunn's journey to the NBA was paved with high expectations, fueled by a dominant high school career and a stellar college run at Providence College. While his NBA career has been marked by flashes of brilliance, injuries and inconsistent roles have prevented him from fully realizing his potential.
High School Dominance
Dunn attended New London High School in New London, Connecticut, where he quickly established himself as one of the most dominant point guards in high school basketball. During his junior year in 2010-11, Dunn averaged an impressive 26.5 points, 10 rebounds, 5 steals, and 5 assists per game. He led the Whalers to a remarkable 27-0 record and a victory in the Connecticut Class L State Championship against Northwest Catholic High School. In his senior year (2011-12), he continued his stellar performance, scoring his 2,000th career point and guiding New London High School to the semifinal round of the 2012 Connecticut Class LL State Championships, where they were defeated by St. Josephs High School. Dunn was ranked #24 out of all high school players nationwide.
College Career at Providence Friars
Dunn committed to playing college basketball for the Providence Friars. However, his college career was initially plagued by injuries. In June 2012, Dunn tore his labrum and underwent immediate shoulder surgery. Further setbacks occurred, and he was sidelined for an extended period.
Return and Big East Dominance
In the 2014-15 season, Dunn made a triumphant return from injury, showcasing his exceptional talent and earning significant accolades. He was named the Big East Player of the Year and the Defensive Player of the Year. He averaged 15.6 points per game and led the Big East in assists per game and steals per game. His outstanding performance earned him the Big East Player of the Week award on January 4, 2016, after scoring 26 points in a win against St. John's.
Dunn's stellar play at Providence garnered national attention, with nominations for prestigious awards such as the Cousy Award and the Naismith Trophy. He averaged 16.4 points, 6.2 assists, 5.3 rebounds and 2.5 steals per game as a senior at Providence.
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NBA Career
Minnesota Timberwolves (2016-2017)
Dunn's impressive college career led to him being drafted with the fifth overall pick in the 2016 NBA draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves. However, his rookie season didn't quite live up to the hype. He averaged just 17.1 minutes per game, translating to 3.8 points, 2.1 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.0 steal. Dunn struggled with his shooting, hitting only 37.7 percent from the field and a dismal 28.8 percent from three-point range.
Chicago Bulls (2017-2020)
On June 22, 2017, Dunn was traded to the Chicago Bulls along with Zach LaVine and the rights to Lauri Markkanen in exchange for Jimmy Butler and the rights to Justin Patton. His debut with the Bulls was delayed due to a left index finger dislocation suffered during a preseason game. He finally debuted on October 28, scoring eight points in a loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Dunn's time with the Bulls saw flashes of brilliance. On November 17, 2017, he scored a career-high 22 points in a win over the Charlotte Hornets. On December 26, 2017, he recorded 20 points and 12 assists in a win against the Milwaukee Bucks, becoming the only Bulls player other than Michael Jordan to record at least 20 points, 12 assists, four steals, and two blocks in a game. He scored a career-high 32 points on January 5.
Despite these moments, Dunn's role with the Bulls remained somewhat inconsistent. In the 2019-20 season, he finished eleventh in All-Defensive team voting, showcasing his defensive prowess. He recorded 7.3 points, 3.6 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 2.0 steals while shooting 25.9 percent from downtown.
Atlanta Hawks (2020-2021)
In the 2020 offseason, Dunn signed a two-year, $10 million contract with the Atlanta Hawks. However, his time with the Hawks was marred by injuries. A nagging ankle injury limited him to just four regular-season games and four playoff contests.
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Boston Celtics and Memphis Grizzlies (2021)
After triggering his contract player option, Dunn was traded to the Boston Celtics and subsequently dealt to the Memphis Grizzlies.
Portland Trail Blazers (2022)
In March 2022, Dunn signed multiple 10-day contracts with the Portland Trail Blazers before signing for the remainder of the season.
Utah Jazz (2023-2024)
Dunn played 66 games for the Jazz during the 2023-24 season, averaging 5.4 points, 2.9 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 1.0 steals in 18.9 minutes per game.
Los Angeles Clippers (2024-Present)
The Clippers signed Dunn this offseason.
Career Overview and Style of Play
Kris Dunn is known for his defensive abilities and playmaking skills. He has consistently ranked high in steal percentage throughout his career. Offensively, he is a capable passer. However, his shooting has been inconsistent, particularly from three-point range.
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Despite his intriguing skillset, Dunn has not been able to carve out a consistent role throughout his career. Injuries have also hampered his progress at times.
Personal Life
Dunn's full name is Kristofer Michael Dunn. He is the son of John and Audra Seldon. He has two brothers, John Dunn and Rashad Pauley, and two sisters, Ashley and Ariana Seldon. His favorite athlete is Rajon Rondo, his favorite movie is All About the Benjamins, and his favorite food is chicken wings.
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