In regard to per game stats, Morris averages 1.5 dimes in addition to 4.9 boards. He has compiled 594 steals, as well as 380 blocks and 1,221 assists. Sitting with 2,957 defensive rebounds and 890 on the offensive end, Morris has tallied 3,847 total rebounds so far in his career. With an effective FG percentage of 49.0%, he has additionally amassed 2,041 personal fouls and 1,121 turnovers. Morris has knocked down 1,199 out of 1,540 shot attempts at the charity stripe, giving him a percentage of 77.9%. By making 2,450 out of 5,084 2pt attempts, he has accumulated an average of 48.2%. By converting 659 out of his 1,931 shots from behind the 3PT line, he has accounted for a 3pt percentage of 34.1%. By putting in 3,109 baskets of 7,015 tries, Morris has accumulated a 44.3% shooting percentage. He accrues 15.7 points per 36 mins, as well as grabbing 7.5 rebounds and tallying 2.4 assists in his NBA career. Morris has started in 381 matchups, and in those games he averages 10.2 points per game and has 8,076 points in all. Markieff Morris has participated in 791 contests thus far in his career and accrued 18,460 minutes in those contests. Markieff Morris is a name well-known in the basketball community. An NBA player with a strong presence on the court, Morris has made significant contributions to every team he’s played for. In this article, we’ll explore his journey through the NBA, his career statistics, and the contracts that have shaped his professional life.
Early Life and College Basketball
Markieff Morris was born on September 2, 1989, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He grew up playing basketball with his twin brother, Marcus Morris, who is also an NBA player. Their passion for the sport was evident from a young age, and both went on to play college basketball for the University of Kansas.
At Kansas, Markieff played under coach Bill Self and was known for his defensive abilities and versatility on the court. In his junior year, he averaged 13.6 points and 8.3 rebounds per game, showcasing his potential to NBA scouts. His performance in college set the stage for his professional career.
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Entering the NBA
Markieff Morris declared for the NBA draft in 2011, leaving college after his junior year. He was selected as the 13th overall pick by the Phoenix Suns. This marked the beginning of his NBA journey, where he was expected to bring his defensive skills and rebounding prowess to the professional level.
Early Years with the Phoenix Suns
Markieff’s initial years with the Suns were marked by steady growth. He quickly became known for his work ethic and ability to play both forward positions. His versatility allowed him to fit into various lineups, providing the Suns with much-needed flexibility.
In the 2013-2014 season, Morris had a breakout year, averaging 13.8 points and 6.0 rebounds per game. His performance earned him a spot in the Sixth Man of the Year conversation, highlighting his impact coming off the bench.
Contract Developments
Markieff Morris’s talent did not go unnoticed, and in 2014, he signed a four-year, $32 million contract extension with the Phoenix Suns. This deal was a testament to his value to the team and his potential to grow even further.
However, the journey wasn’t always smooth. In 2015, Morris expressed dissatisfaction with the Suns’ management and requested a trade. This led to a move to the Washington Wizards in 2016, where he continued to develop his game and contribute significantly.
Washington Wizards and Beyond
With the Wizards, Morris found a new opportunity to showcase his skills. He played an integral role in the team’s playoff runs, particularly in the 2016-2017 season. Known for his toughness and ability to stretch the floor, Morris became a key player in the Wizards’ rotation.
After his stint with the Wizards, Morris had brief stops with the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Detroit Pistons. In 2020, he signed with the Los Angeles Lakers, adding depth to a team that went on to win the NBA Championship that year.
Career Stats and Impact
Markieff Morris’s career statistics reflect his consistent contribution to his teams. Over the years, he has averaged around 11 points and 5 rebounds per game. While these numbers might not jump off the page, his real impact comes from his defensive plays, hustle, and ability to space the floor with his shooting.
Defensive Prowess and Versatility
Morris is known for his defensive capabilities, often tasked with guarding multiple positions. His strength and footwork allow him to be a formidable defender in the post as well as on the perimeter. This versatility has been a significant asset to every team he has played for.
Shooting and Floor Spacing
One of Morris’s key contributions is his ability to stretch the floor. With a career three-point shooting percentage of around 34%, he provides spacing that allows teammates to operate more freely. His shooting ability makes him a threat from beyond the arc, forcing defenses to account for him at all times.
Personal Life and Off-Court Contributions
Off the court, Markieff Morris is known for his community involvement and philanthropy. Together with his brother Marcus, he has been active in various charitable endeavors, particularly those aimed at helping underprivileged youth.
The Morris twins have organized basketball camps and donated to several causes, using their platform to make a positive impact in their hometown of Philadelphia and beyond.
Future Prospects
As Markieff Morris continues his NBA career, his future remains promising. His experience and skill set make him a valuable asset to any team looking for a seasoned veteran who can contribute in various ways. Whether it’s through his defensive tenacity, shooting, or leadership, Morris’s presence on the court is always felt.
What Lies Ahead
Looking ahead, Morris aims to continue making an impact both on and off the court. His journey through the NBA serves as an inspiration to young athletes, showing that hard work and versatility can pave the way for a successful professional career.
In conclusion, Markieff Morris’s journey in the NBA is a testament to his dedication and skill. From his early days in Philadelphia to becoming an NBA champion, Morris has consistently proven his worth. As he continues to play, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how his story unfolds.