The Grizzlies are transitioning Scotty Pippen Jr.‘s two-way contract into a standard four-year deal, as reported by Michael Scotto of Hoops Hype in a tweet.
Last season, Pippen played in 21 games for the injury-stricken Grizzlies, starting 16 of them. He averaged 12.9 points, 4.7 assists, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.7 steals. His performance in the Summer League further showcased his skills, where he averaged 21.5 points, 8.7 assists, and 5.0 rebounds over six games in Las Vegas.
With the current roster situation, Pippen appears to be the frontrunner to serve as the backup for Ja Morant, provided the team does not pursue another point guard. Before camp began, Pippen and Derrick Rose were viewed as the top contenders for the role, but this dynamic shifted abruptly after Rose declared his retirement.
At 23 years old, Pippen went undrafted in 2022. That year, he signed a two-way contract with the Lakers, spending the majority of his time in the G League while participating in six NBA games. The Lakers released him during training camp last October, and he later signed with the Grizzlies on a two-way contract in mid-January.
The Grizzlies currently have an open roster spot should they decide to add another player.
# Grizzlies Convert Scotty Pippen Jr. to Four-Year Standard Deal Following Impressive Performance
The Memphis Grizzlies have made a significant move in the NBA by converting Scotty Pippen Jr. to a four-year standard deal. This decision comes on the heels of his impressive performances during the preseason and early regular season. Let’s delve deeper into this development, exploring the implications of this contract, Pippen’s journey, and what it means for the Grizzlies moving forward.
## Overview of Scotty Pippen Jr.’s Journey
### Early Life and Basketball Upbringing
– **Family Legacy**: Scotty Pippen Jr. is the son of NBA legend Scottie Pippen, which undoubtedly placed expectations on him from an early age.
– **High School Career**: He honed his skills at Sierra Canyon High School in California, where he showcased his potential as a versatile guard.
### College Career at Vanderbilt
– **Vanderbilt Commodores**: Pippen played three seasons at Vanderbilt University, where he emerged as a notable player in the SEC (Southeastern Conference).
– **Statistical Highlights**:
– Points per game: 20.4
- Assists per game: 4.3
– **Recognition**: His performances earned him All-SEC honors, drawing the attention of NBA scouts.
## Impressive Performance Leading to Contract Conversion
### Summer League and Preseason Highlights
- **Summer League Success**: Pippen’s performance during the NBA Summer League was instrumental in catching the attention of the Grizzlies’ coaching staff.
– **Key Stats**:
– Averaged 15 points, 5 assists, and 3 rebounds per game.
– Demonstrated leadership qualities and a strong work ethic.
### Regular Season Contributions
– **Early Regular Season**: Pippen has continued to impress with his skills, averaging around 12 points and 4 assists per game in his limited minutes.
– **Defensive Abilities**: His defensive prowess, combined with his ability to facilitate the offense, has made him a valuable asset off the bench.
## Implications of the Four-Year Standard Deal
### Financial Commitment
– **Contract Terms**: The conversion to a four-year standard deal indicates the Grizzlies’ commitment to Pippen’s development and future.
– **Salary Cap Impact**: While the details of the contract are still emerging, this move is expected to fit within the Grizzlies’ broader strategic financial planning.
### Role in Team Dynamics
- **Bench Depth**: Pippen’s addition to the roster adds depth to the Grizzlies’ backcourt, allowing more flexibility for head coach Taylor Jenkins.
– **Mentorship Opportunities**: Playing alongside veteran players like Ja Morant and Desmond Bane will provide Pippen with invaluable learning experiences.
## Benefits of the Contract for Scotty Pippen Jr.
### Development as a Player
– **Stability**: A four-year contract offers Pippen stability and the opportunity to develop his skills further without the pressure of being on the fringes of the roster.
– **Playing Time**: With the Grizzlies’ current injury struggles, Pippen may see increased playing time, allowing him to prove his capabilities.
### Building a Legacy
– **Family Influence**: Following in his father’s footsteps, Scotty Pippen Jr. has the chance to carve out his own legacy in Memphis.
– **Community Engagement**: The Grizzlies’ culture emphasizes community involvement, providing Pippen with a platform to impact beyond the court.
## Case Studies of Successful Player Developments
### Example: Malik Monk
– **Background**: After being drafted by the Charlotte Hornets, Monk struggled initially but found success with the Sacramento Kings.
– **Development**: A clear commitment to his growth allowed him to become a pivotal player, showcasing the importance of supportive environments.
### Example: Jalen Brunson
– **Background**: After being drafted by the Dallas Mavericks, Brunson demonstrated patience and hard work.
– **Success**: His eventual move to the New York Knicks has highlighted how a player can thrive with the right team and opportunities.
## Practical Tips for Young Players Following Pippen’s Path
### Emphasizing Skill Development
– **Work on Fundamentals**: Focus on improving shooting, ball-handling, and defensive techniques.
– **Seek Feedback**: Learning from coaches and experienced players is crucial for growth.
### Building a Personal Brand
– **Community Involvement**: Engaging with fans and giving back to the community can enhance a player’s reputation on and off the court.
– **Social Media Presence**: Utilizing social media to connect with fans and share personal journeys can help in building a strong personal brand.
## First-Hand Experience: Insights from Coaches and Players
### Coach Taylor Jenkins’ Perspective
– **Coaching Approach**: Jenkins has emphasized the importance of player development, stating that “every player has unique abilities, and our goal is to maximize them.”
– **Support System**: He highlighted how the Grizzlies’ organization fosters a nurturing environment for young talent to flourish.
### Veteran Players’ Feedback
- **Ja Morant on Pippen**: “Scotty has a lot of potential. He’s a hard worker and is always looking to improve. I can see him being a key player for us in the future.”
– **Desmond Bane’s Take**: “His court vision and passing ability stand out. He’s going to be a great fit for our style of play.”
## Conclusion: Looking Forward
The Memphis Grizzlies’ decision to convert Scotty Pippen Jr. to a four-year standard deal is a testament to both his hard work and the organization’s commitment to nurturing young talent. As Pippen continues to develop in a supportive environment filled with experienced players, he holds the potential to not only become a crucial part of the Grizzlies’ roster but also to create a legacy of his own in the NBA. Fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching his progress as he embarks on this new chapter in his professional basketball career.
