Ben McLemore, American basketball player

Ben Edward McLemore III, born on February 11, 1993, is an accomplished American professional basketball player, primarily known for his role as a shooting guard in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Throughout his career, he has showcased his athletic abilities and perimeter shooting prowess across various teams, distinguishing himself as a valuable contributor.

Early Career and Collegiate Dominance at Kansas

Before embarking on his professional journey, McLemore honed his basketball skills at the collegiate level, representing the prestigious Kansas Jayhawks. His lone season (2012-2013) at the University of Kansas was particularly impactful, establishing him as a top prospect for the upcoming NBA Draft. During his time with the Jayhawks, McLemore demonstrated impressive athleticism and scoring potential, often drawing comparisons to elite NBA guards due to his smooth shooting stroke and explosive athleticism, thereby building significant anticipation for his professional debut.

NBA Journey: From Lottery Pick to Versatile Contributor

Sacramento Kings: The Draft Pick and Initial Stint

Ben McLemore's professional career officially commenced in 2013 when he was selected as the seventh overall pick in the highly competitive NBA draft by the Sacramento Kings. This high lottery selection underscored the league's widespread belief in his potential to become a dynamic two-way guard. He spent his initial four seasons (2013-2017) with the Kings, gaining invaluable experience and developing his game within the demanding environment of the NBA.

Memphis Grizzlies and Return to Sacramento

Following his foundational years in Sacramento, McLemore moved to the Memphis Grizzlies, signing with the team in July 2017. His tenure in Memphis provided a new context for his professional growth and allowed him to adapt his game. However, his journey soon led him back to the California capital, as he was traded to the Kings in July 2018 for a second stint with the franchise. This return engagement was relatively brief, as he was subsequently waived by the team in February 2019.

Houston Rockets: A Defined Role as a Sharpshooter

A particularly significant period in McLemore's career began in July 2019 when he signed with the Houston Rockets. With the Rockets, he embraced a more specialized and defined role, primarily contributing as a crucial sharpshooting perimeter threat. This phase allowed him to effectively highlight his three-point shooting capabilities, making him a valuable "3-and-D" contributor in their fast-paced offensive scheme, often coming off the bench to provide instant offense.

Los Angeles Lakers and Portland Trail Blazers

In April 2021, McLemore joined the storied Los Angeles Lakers, adding his valuable shooting prowess and veteran presence to a championship-contending roster. Later in the same year, in August 2021, he made another move, joining the Portland Trail Blazers. This transition further solidified his path as a reliable veteran perimeter shooter, consistently contributing to various NBA teams seeking his specific skill set.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ben McLemore

What is Ben McLemore's primary position in basketball?

Ben McLemore primarily plays as a shooting guard, a position that capitalizes on his athleticism and ability to score from the perimeter.

Which college basketball program did Ben McLemore play for?

He played college basketball for the highly regarded Kansas Jayhawks, a prominent team in NCAA Division I, for one impactful season.

When was Ben McLemore drafted into the NBA and by which team?

Ben McLemore was selected in the 2013 NBA draft as the seventh overall pick by the Sacramento Kings, marking the beginning of his professional career.

What are some of Ben McLemore's key strengths as an NBA player?

McLemore is often recognized for his exceptional athletic ability, his potential as a strong three-point shooter, and his capacity to contribute as a perimeter scorer, particularly in a catch-and-shoot role off the bench.