Eric Bledsoe has stepped onto the hardwood in 756 games during his pro basketball career and accrued 21,021 mins in those contests. Bledsoe has started in 568 matchups, and in those contests he holds a rate of 13.7 PPG and has accumulated 10,348 points overall. He scores 17.7 pts per 36 minutes, as well as snagging 5.0 boards and collecting 6.1 dimes during his career. By knocking down 3,689 shots out of his 8,169 tries, Bledsoe has a 45.2% shooting percentage. By putting in 854 out of his 2,545 shots from distance, he has a three-point shooting percentage of 33.6%. By converting 2,835 of 5,624 two-point tries, he has accumulated an average of 50.4%. Bledsoe has buried 2,116 out of 2,698 shots at the charity stripe, giving him a clip of 78.4%. Having earned an eFG% of 50.4%, he has also earned 1,493 personal fouls as well as 1,888 turnovers. Having collected 2,367 defensive rebounds and 570 on the offensive end of the court, Bledsoe has totaled 2,937 rebounds in total thus far in his career. He has tallied 1,028 steals, in addition to 344 rejections and 3,545 dimes. Concerning stats per game, Bledsoe has an average of 4.7 dimes and 3.9 rebounds.
Eric Bledsoe, a name synonymous with relentless defense and explosive athleticism, has carved out a commendable career in the NBA. From humble beginnings to becoming a vital asset on several teams, Bledsoe’s journey through the league is a testament to hard work and perseverance. This article will delve into the highlights and stats of Eric Bledsoe’s NBA career, explore the teams he has played for, and examine his overall impact on the game.
Early Life and College
Eric Bledsoe was born on December 9, 1989, in Birmingham, Alabama. From an early age, he showcased a natural talent for basketball, which he honed through high school. His outstanding performance at Parker High School caught the attention of college scouts, and Bledsoe eventually committed to the University of Kentucky.
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At Kentucky, Bledsoe played alongside future NBA stars like John Wall and DeMarcus Cousins. Despite being surrounded by talent, Bledsoe managed to stand out with his defensive prowess and scoring ability. After a successful freshman year, he declared for the NBA draft.
Entry into the NBA
In the 2010 NBA Draft, Eric Bledsoe was selected 18th overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder. However, his rights were traded to the Los Angeles Clippers, where he began his professional career. Bledsoe’s rookie season with the Clippers was promising, as he displayed his ability to be a dynamic playmaker and a defensive stalwart.
Los Angeles Clippers (2010-2013)
During his time with the Clippers, Bledsoe primarily played a backup role behind star point guard Chris Paul. Despite limited playing time, he made significant contributions off the bench, earning the nickname “Mini-LeBron” for his powerful drives to the basket and tenacious defense. His efforts helped the Clippers reach the playoffs, and he became known for his high-energy performances during critical moments.
Phoenix Suns (2013-2017)
In 2013, Eric Bledsoe was traded to the Phoenix Suns, where he was given a chance to shine as a starting point guard. Bledsoe quickly made an impact, averaging career-high stats across the board. His time with the Suns was marked by impressive performances, including multiple triple-doubles and highlight-reel plays.
Bledsoe’s ability to both score and facilitate made him a key player for the Suns. However, injuries plagued his time in Phoenix, sidelining him for significant stretches. Despite these setbacks, he consistently proved his worth on the court when healthy.
Milwaukee Bucks (2017-2020)
Bledsoe’s next chapter unfolded with the Milwaukee Bucks, where he joined forces with Giannis Antetokounmpo. With the Bucks, Bledsoe embraced the role of a defensive anchor, often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best perimeter player. His contributions were instrumental in the Bucks’ playoff runs, including their journey to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2019.
In Milwaukee, Bledsoe earned NBA All-Defensive Team honors, solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s premier defenders. His performance on both ends of the floor made him a vital component of the Bucks’ success during his tenure.
New Orleans Pelicans (2020-2021)
In the 2020 offseason, Bledsoe was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans. With the Pelicans, he continued to provide veteran leadership and defensive intensity. Although his time in New Orleans was brief, Bledsoe’s influence on the younger players was evident, as he guided them through a transitional period.
Career Stats and Achievements
Eric Bledsoe’s career stats reflect his versatility and impact on the game. Over his NBA career, he has averaged:
- Points per game: Consistently scoring in double digits, with a career average hovering around 14-15 points per game.
- Assists: Known for his playmaking ability, Bledsoe has averaged approximately 4-5 assists per game.
- Rebounds: Despite his size, Bledsoe’s athleticism allows him to grab around 4 rebounds per game.
- Steals: A defensive menace, often averaging over 1 steal per game.
In addition to his regular-season stats, Bledsoe’s postseason performances have been noteworthy. He has played in numerous playoff games, contributing both offensively and defensively to his teams’ success.
Impact and Legacy
Eric Bledsoe’s impact on the NBA goes beyond the stats. Known for his resilience and competitive spirit, he has been a role model for aspiring players. His ability to adapt to different roles and contribute in various ways has made him a valuable asset to every team he has played for.
Off the court, Bledsoe has been involved in community initiatives and charitable work, using his platform to make a positive difference. His dedication to the game and his community underscores the character that has defined his career.
Conclusion
Eric Bledsoe’s NBA career is a story of perseverance, adaptability, and excellence. From his beginnings in Birmingham to his stints with multiple NBA teams, Bledsoe has consistently demonstrated his prowess as a basketball player and leader. His career stats and achievements reflect his contributions to the game, while his impact on teammates and the community highlight his legacy.
As we reflect on Eric Bledsoe’s journey, it is clear that his influence extends beyond the court. Whether through his defensive tenacity, playmaking skills, or community involvement, Bledsoe’s career serves as an inspiration to many. His legacy in the NBA is one of hard work, determination, and a passion for the game that will be remembered for years to come.