Dillon Brooks, a name that has echoed through the arenas of the National Basketball Association (NBA) in recent years, continues to be an active and contributing player in the league. As of the 2024 - 2025 season, Brooks dons the jersey of the Houston Rockets, making his presence felt on the court.
Early Beginnings and College Success
Hailing from Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, Brooks was born on January 22, 1996. His journey in basketball started at a young age, leading him to play college basketball for the Oregon Ducks. During his time at Oregon, he had an outstanding career. In 2017, he was named a consensus second - team All - American. He also earned the prestigious Pac - 12 Player of the Year honors that same year. His skills on both ends of the court were evident, as he showcased scoring ability, defensive tenacity, and leadership qualities during his college tenure. His numbers in college were impressive, averaging 16.7 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game in his sophomore year, which was a testament to his all - around play.
NBA Draft and Start with the Memphis Grizzlies
In the 2017 NBA Draft, Brooks was selected in the second round, 45th overall, b the Houston Rockets. However, he was immediately traded to the Memphis Grizzlies. This move marked the beginning of his professional career in the NBA. His debut for the Grizzlies was a memorable one. On October 18, 2017, during the season opener, he scored 19 points, setting a record for the most points scored by a Canadian - born player in an NBA debut.
Over the years with the Grizzlies, Brooks continued to develop. He became a key part of their rotation, starting games and contributing significantly. In the 2019 - 2020 season, he began as the starting shooting guard. His performance in the first half of that season, averaging 16.1 points per game, earned him a three - year, $35 million extension with the team. He also had some remarkable playoff moments. In his NBA playoff debut on May 23, 2021, he scored a season - high 31 points, helping the Grizzlies to a game 1 victory over the top - seeded Utah Jazz. In 2023, he was named to the NBA All - Defensive Second Team, highlighting his prowess on the defensive end.
Move to the Houston Rockets
In July 2023, Brooks' career took a new turn when he was acquired by the Houston Rockets as part of a sign - and - trade agreement. His Rockets debut on October 26, 2023, saw him score 14 points, along with grabbing four rebounds and dishing out two assists. Since then, he has been an important part of the Rockets' lineup.
In the 2024 - 2025 season, Brooks has had his share of standout performances. On January 27, 2025, he had a career - high and Rockets franchise - record ten three - pointers, scoring 36 points in a 114 - 112 win over the Boston Celtics. His ability to knock down three - pointers and contribute on the defensive end has made him a valuable asset for the Rockets. He has been averaging 12.7 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game in 72 starts as of the end of the regular season, showing his consistency in contributing to the team's efforts.
International Success
Beyond the NBA, Brooks has also had great success on the international stage. He has represented the Canadian national team. In the 2023 FIBA World Cup, he played a crucial role in helping Canada win the bronze medal, their first global tournament medal in basketball since 1936. In their victory over the United States, Brooks recorded a team - best 39 points, setting a single - game scoring record for a Canadian player at the World Cup. His performance in that tournament was so impressive that he was named the FIBA World Cup Best Defensive Player.
In conclusion, Dillon Brooks not only remains in the NBA but is also a player who continues to make an impact. Whether it's with the Houston Rockets in the league or representing Canada on the international stage, Brooks' skills and determination keep him relevant and a force to be reckoned with in the world of basketball. His journey from a young Canadian basketball hopeful to an established NBA player with international success is a story of hard work, talent, and perseverance.y