Jalen Green is a player with a unique story. After growing up in the tough environment of Flint, Jalen was determined to make it in the NBA.
Jalen Green’s Background
Jalen Green was born in Fort Myers, FL and raised in Miami. He is the son of former NBA player Melvin Green. Jalen is the first player in his family to ever play college basketball.
Green has a unique story and background that sets him apart from other players in the NBA Draft. After one season there, he decided to attend Florida State and play against future pros such as Markelle Fultz, Lonzo Ball, Jayson Tatum, De’Aaron Fox, and Malik Monk.
He averaged 17 points per game while playing for FSU last year and was named ACC Freshman of the Year. The Lakers believe that he can be a valuable asset on their team due to his speed, shooting ability (he shot 41% from three-point range last year), rebounding ability (9.7 rebounds per game), and defensive prowess.
How Did Jalen Green End Up In The NBA?
Jalen Green is a highly touted prospect who, for many reasons, has been flying under the radar. He starred at Westlake High School in Austin, Texas, before playing at the University of Florida. After spending time away from basketball and working on his personal life, Green was able to get his eligibility reinstated and join the Michigan State Spartans for the 2017-2018 season.
Green had an impressive freshman campaign with Michigan State, averaging 16.8 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game while shooting 47% from the field and 36% from 3-point range.
Despite not being able to help MSU reach their ultimate goal, Green’s stock continued to rise throughout the process due to his performance during workouts with various NBA teams. On July 6th, 2018, he signed a three-year contract with the Portland Trail Blazers worth $18 million dollars. In his first season with Portland (2018-2019), Green put up averages of 16.5 points (on 42% shooting from 3-point range),
What Are His Strengths As A Player?
Jalen Green is a NBA prospect with a unique story. He was born in Flint, Michigan and played high school basketball for Aquinas High School before joining the NCAA Division I ranks with the Cincinnati Bearcats.
Green averaged 15.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, 2 assists and 1 steal per game in his sophomore season at Cincinnati and declared for the 2014 NBA Draft. Despite being undrafted, he signed with the Golden State Warriors and made his debut in the 2016-17 season.
Looking to improve on those numbers this upcoming season, Green has transferred to UCLA and will have an opportunity to play alongside All-Star point guard Lonzo Ball under head coach Steve Alford.
What Are His Weaknesses As A Player?
Jalen Green is a 6’7″ small forward who played college basketball at Kentucky. He was drafted by the Boston Celtics in the second round of the 2016 NBA draft.
Green’s weaknesses as a player are his low shot percentage (.362) and his lack of athleticism. He also struggles defensively, allowing opponents to score on him easily.
What Needs To Happen For Jalen Green To Succeed In The NBA?
Jalen Green is a unique prospect in the NBA. He was not highly touted coming out of high school, but he has worked hard to improve his skills and become one of the best players in the country.
To succeed in the NBA, Green needs to improve his shooting accuracy and play more consistent defense. However, his biggest asset is his ability to get to the basket. He has a very strong inside game and can score in multiple ways.
Conclusion
Jalen Green is an NBA prospect with a unique story. After being born without a left hand, Jalen had to learn how to play basketball using his right hand. Despite this obstacle, Green has excelled in the sport and is now considered one of the top prospects in the 2020 draft. With his athleticism, scoring ability and grit, Jalen is sure to make an impact on the court soon.