Jesse Lackey

Written by Jesse Lackey

Published: 14 Sep 2025

20-facts-about-kylor-kelley
Source: Si.com

Who is Kylor Kelley? Kylor Kelley is a name basketball fans should know. Standing at 7 feet tall, this American professional basketball player has made waves with his shot-blocking skills and defensive prowess. Born on August 26, 1997, in Logan, Utah, Kelley played college basketball for the Oregon State Beavers, where he set records for blocked shots. His journey from college star to professional athlete is inspiring. Kelley went undrafted in the 2020 NBA Draft but didn't let that stop him. He signed with the San Antonio Spurs for the Summer League and later played for the Austin Spurs in the NBA G League. Kylor Kelley is a testament to perseverance and hard work in the world of basketball.

Table of Contents

Early Life and Background

Kylor Kelley, an American professional basketball player, has an interesting journey from his early days to the professional courts. Here are some fascinating facts about his life and career.

  1. Born in Utah
    Kylor Kelley was born on August 26, 1997, in Logan, Utah. This small town is known for its beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities.

  2. Family of Athletes
    Kelley comes from a family with a strong athletic background. His father, Rich Kelley, played in the NBA during the 1970s and 1980s.

  3. High School Star
    He attended Gervais High School in Oregon, where he quickly made a name for himself as a standout basketball player.

  4. Late Growth Spurt
    Kelley experienced a significant growth spurt during his high school years, shooting up to 7 feet tall, which greatly impacted his basketball career.

College Career

Kelley’s college career was marked by impressive performances and notable achievements. Here are some key facts about his time in college.

  1. Started at Lane Community College
    Kelley began his college basketball career at Lane Community College in Eugene, Oregon, where he played for two seasons.

  2. Transferred to Oregon State University
    After two years at Lane, Kelley transferred to Oregon State University, joining the Beavers for the 2018-2019 season.

  3. Record-Breaking Blocks
    During his time at Oregon State, Kelley set a school record for the most blocks in a single season, with 104 blocks in the 2018-2019 season.

  4. Pac-12 All-Defensive Team
    Kelley’s defensive prowess earned him a spot on the Pac-12 All-Defensive Team in both 2019 and 2020.

Professional Career

Kelley’s transition to professional basketball has been an exciting journey. Here are some highlights from his professional career.

  1. Undrafted in the NBA
    Despite his impressive college career, Kelley went undrafted in the 2020 NBA Draft.

  2. Signed with the San Antonio Spurs
    Shortly after the draft, Kelley signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the San Antonio Spurs, giving him a chance to prove himself in the NBA.

  3. Played for Austin Spurs
    Kelley spent time playing for the Austin Spurs, the G League affiliate of the San Antonio Spurs, where he continued to develop his skills.

  4. International Experience
    Kelley has also gained international experience, playing for teams in countries like Turkey and France.

Personal Life

Beyond the basketball court, Kelley has an interesting personal life that adds depth to his story.

  1. Passion for Music
    Kelley has a passion for music and enjoys playing the guitar in his free time.

  2. Community Involvement
    He is actively involved in community service, often participating in events and programs that support underprivileged youth.

  3. Role Model
    Kelley looks up to NBA legends like Hakeem Olajuwon and Tim Duncan, modeling his game after their playing styles.

Achievements and Recognition

Kelley’s hard work and dedication have earned him several accolades and recognition throughout his career.

  1. Defensive Player of the Year
    In 2020, Kelley was named the Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year, a testament to his impact on the court.

  2. All-Pac-12 Honorable Mention
    He also received an All-Pac-12 Honorable Mention in 2020, highlighting his overall contributions to his team.

  3. NBA Summer League
    Kelley participated in the NBA Summer League, showcasing his talents to scouts and coaches from various teams.

  4. G League Standout
    During his time in the G League, Kelley became known for his shot-blocking ability and defensive presence.

  5. Future Aspirations
    Kelley continues to work hard, aiming to secure a permanent spot on an NBA roster and make a significant impact in the league.

Kylor Kelley: A Rising Star

Kylor Kelley’s journey from college basketball to the professional stage is nothing short of inspiring. Standing tall at 7 feet, his defensive prowess and shot-blocking ability have made him a standout player. Kelley’s time at Oregon State University showcased his talent, earning him accolades and setting records. Transitioning to the NBA G League, he continued to impress, proving his skills against tougher competition.

Beyond the court, Kelley’s dedication to his craft and his community shines through. He’s not just a player; he’s a role model for aspiring athletes. His story is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and the importance of seizing opportunities. As Kelley’s career progresses, fans and analysts alike are eager to see what heights he’ll reach next. Keep an eye on this rising star; his journey is far from over.

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