Scotty Pippen Jr.: From College Standout to NBA Player

Scotty Maurice Pippen Jr., born on November 10, 2000, is an American professional basketball player currently playing for the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA. He is the son of Hall of Fame basketball player Scottie Pippen, who won six NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls during his 17-year career in the league, and media personality Larsa Pippen. This article delves into Scotty Pippen Jr.'s journey from his high school years to his college career at Vanderbilt, and ultimately, to his professional career in the NBA.

Early Life and High School Career

Scotty Pippen Jr. was born in Portland, Oregon, while his father was playing for the Portland Trail Blazers. From kindergarten to tenth grade, Scotty attended Pine Crest School in Florida. Before his junior year, his family moved to the L.A. area, and he transferred to Sierra Canyon School in Chatsworth, California, which had a more competitive basketball team. At Sierra Canyon, Pippen Jr. played alongside future NBA players.

College Career at Vanderbilt

Pippen Jr. committed to Vanderbilt, where he played college basketball. The impending departures of future NBA players Aaron Nesmith and Saben Lee led to a future expectation of a leading role on the team, which came to fruition in his sophomore season.

Freshman Season

During his freshman year, Pippen Jr. began to make a name for himself, showing promise and potential as a key player for the Vanderbilt Commodores.

Sophomore Season

Pippen's role significantly increased during his sophomore season. On December 27, 2020, Pippen scored 30 points in an 87-50 win over Alcorn State. On January 9, 2021, he recorded his first double-double, with 18 points and 12 assists in an 84-81 loss to Mississippi State. On January 27, 2021, Pippen scored 32 points in a 78-71 loss to Florida. As a sophomore, he averaged 20.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game. On April 10, 2021, Pippen declared for the 2021 NBA draft while maintaining his future college eligibility. He later withdrew from the draft returning to Vanderbilt for his junior season.

Junior Season

As a junior, Pippen continued to be a dominant force for Vanderbilt. On December 7, 2021, Pippen made a last second three-pointer to tie the game against Temple. As a junior, he averaged 20.4 points, 4.5 assists, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.9 steals per game.

NBA Career

After a successful college career, Pippen Jr. declared for the NBA Draft and began his professional journey.

Los Angeles Lakers

After going undrafted in the 2022 NBA draft, Pippen signed a two-way contract with the Los Angeles Lakers. He also played for the Lakers' Summer League team. In July 2022, Pippen joined the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2022 NBA Summer League. He was later signed and then waived by the Lakers, before being added to the South Bay Lakers training camp roster.

Memphis Grizzlies

On October 15, 2024, Pippen Jr. signed a multi-year contract with the Memphis Grizzlies. On November 2, 2024, Pippen recorded 12 points and a career-high 13 assists in a 124-107 win over the Philadelphia 76ers. On November 8, Pippen recorded his first career triple-double with 11 points, 10 rebounds, and 11 assists in a 128-104 win over the Washington Wizards.

Career Highlights and Achievements

First Career Triple-Double: On November 8, Pippen recorded his first career triple-double with 11 points, 10 rebounds, and 11 assists in a 128-104 win over the Washington Wizards.
Contract with Memphis Grizzlies: On October 15, 2024, Pippen Jr. signed a multi-year contract with the Memphis Grizzlies.
Sophomore Season at Vanderbilt: Averaged 20.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game.
Junior Season at Vanderbilt: Averaged 20.4 points, 4.5 assists, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.9 steals per game.

Personal Life

Pippen is the son of Hall of Fame basketball player Scottie Pippen, who won six NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls during his 17-year career in the league, and media personality Larsa Pippen, a cast member on The Real Housewives of Miami and OnlyFans creator.

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