In reference to making the extra pass, Bridges has a total of 1,517 assists, in addition to putting up 650 steals and 317 blocks. He averages 4.0 rebounds in addition to 2.7 assists per contest. He has 2,207 rebounds in total in his pro basketball career by way of 1,717 on the defensive side of the court and 490 of the offensive variety. With an effective FG rate of 56.1%, he has also had a total of 691 turnovers and committed 1,032 personal fouls. Bridges has a 84.3% percentage from the foul line by knocking down 1,109 of his 1,316 shots. He has earned a 56.5% shooting percentage of by way of converting 2,082 out of 3,687 attempts. With 2,631 three point attempts thus far in his career, he has a shooting percentage of 37.1% by converting 977 of those shots. With a shooting % of 48.4%, Bridges has converted 3,059 baskets out of 6,318 attempts. He dishes out 2.9 dimes, collects 4.3 boards and accrues 16.0 per 36 minutes. Bridges has accrued 8,204 points in his pro basketball career, holds an average of 14.8 points/G and started 489 matchups. Mikal Bridges has accumulated 18,514 mins and has taken part in 556 contests so far in his career.
Mikal Bridges NBA Career
Mikal Bridges has been making waves in the NBA with his remarkable skills and unwavering dedication. Known for his defensive prowess and consistent performance, Bridges has quickly become a key player in the league. Let’s take a closer look at his NBA career, his stats, and the journey that brought him to where he is today.
Early Life and College Career
Born on August 30, 1996, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Mikal Bridges grew up with a passion for basketball. He attended Great Valley High School, where he showcased his talent on the court and caught the attention of college scouts. Bridges eventually chose to play for Villanova University, where he had a stellar college career.
At Villanova, Bridges proved to be an invaluable asset to the team. He played a crucial role in leading the Wildcats to two NCAA championships in 2016 and 2018. His defensive skills, combined with his ability to shoot from beyond the arc, made him a standout player in college basketball.
Entering the NBA
Mikal Bridges declared for the NBA Draft in 2018 after his junior year at Villanova. He was selected by the Philadelphia 76ers with the 10th overall pick but was traded shortly thereafter to the Phoenix Suns. This trade marked the beginning of his professional career with the Suns, where he would continue to develop his game and make a name for himself in the NBA.
Rise to Prominence with the Phoenix Suns
Bridges quickly became an integral part of the Suns’ lineup. His ability to guard multiple positions and contribute offensively made him a valuable player for the team. During his rookie season, he averaged 8.3 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game. His defensive skills were evident, and he was often tasked with guarding some of the league’s top players.
As Bridges progressed in his career, his stats continued to improve. By the 2020-2021 season, he was averaging 13.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.1 steals per game. His shooting accuracy also improved, with a three-point shooting percentage of 42.5%. These stats highlighted his growth as a player and his importance to the Suns’ success.
Key Strengths and Playing Style
Mikal Bridges is known for his defensive capabilities. His long wingspan and quick reflexes make him a formidable opponent on the court. He often guards the opposing team’s best perimeter player, using his agility and anticipation to disrupt their offensive flow. His defensive prowess has earned him recognition as one of the league’s top defenders.
Offensively, Bridges is a reliable shooter, particularly from beyond the arc. His ability to stretch the floor and knock down three-pointers adds a valuable dimension to his team’s offensive strategy. Additionally, his high basketball IQ allows him to make smart decisions and contribute to the team’s overall success.
The Impact of Mikal Bridges on the Suns
Mikal Bridges’ impact on the Phoenix Suns goes beyond his individual performance. His presence on the court elevates the team’s defense and provides a sense of security for his teammates. His versatility allows the Suns to implement various defensive strategies, making them a formidable opponent for any team.
Moreover, Bridges’ work ethic and dedication to improvement set an example for his teammates. His commitment to his craft and willingness to put in the hard work have earned him the respect of coaches and players alike. He is seen as a leader on and off the court, contributing to the Suns’ positive team culture.
Career Highlights and Achievements
Throughout his NBA career, Mikal Bridges has achieved several noteworthy milestones. Some of his career highlights include:
- Winning two NCAA championships with Villanova University.
- Being named to the NBA All-Defensive Team.
- Recording career-high stats in points, rebounds, and steals.
- Playing a key role in the Phoenix Suns’ deep playoff runs.
These achievements reflect Bridges’ dedication to his craft and his ability to perform at a high level consistently.
The Future of Mikal Bridges’ NBA Career
As Mikal Bridges continues to evolve as a player, the future looks bright for his NBA career. His defensive skills, combined with his offensive versatility, make him a valuable asset to any team. Whether with the Phoenix Suns or elsewhere, Bridges’ impact on the court is undeniable.
In the coming years, basketball enthusiasts can expect to see Mikal Bridges continue to make significant contributions to his team and the league. His journey from college standout to NBA star serves as an inspiration to young athletes aspiring to reach the highest levels of the sport.
Conclusion
Mikal Bridges’ NBA career is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and talent. From his early days at Villanova to his current role with the Phoenix Suns, Bridges has consistently demonstrated his ability to excel at the highest level. As he continues to grow and develop as a player, there is no doubt that Mikal Bridges will leave a lasting impact on the NBA and inspire future generations of basketball players.