Joelle Leija

Written by Joelle Leija

Published: 11 Jul 2025

25-facts-about-ben-mclemore
Source: Sports.yahoo.com

Who is Ben McLemore? Ben McLemore is a professional basketball player known for his sharpshooting skills and athleticism. Born on February 11, 1993, in St. Louis, Missouri, he made a name for himself at the University of Kansas before entering the NBA. Drafted seventh overall by the Sacramento Kings in the 2013 NBA Draft, McLemore has played for several teams, including the Memphis Grizzlies, Houston Rockets, and Los Angeles Lakers. His journey in the league has been marked by ups and downs, but his ability to score from beyond the arc remains a constant. Curious about more? Here are 25 facts about Ben McLemore that might surprise you!

Table of Contents

Early Life and Background

Ben McLemore's journey to the NBA is filled with interesting details about his early life and background. Here are some fascinating facts about his beginnings.

  1. Born on February 11, 1993, in St. Louis, Missouri, Ben McLemore grew up in a challenging environment but found solace in basketball.

  2. McLemore attended Wellston High School before transferring to Oak Hill Academy, a school known for producing NBA talent.

  3. His family faced financial struggles, which sometimes made it difficult for him to afford basic basketball equipment.

  4. Despite these challenges, McLemore's talent shone through, earning him a scholarship to the University of Kansas.

College Career

Ben McLemore's time at the University of Kansas was pivotal in shaping his basketball career. Here are some highlights from his college days.

  1. McLemore redshirted his first year at Kansas due to academic ineligibility, which gave him extra time to develop his skills.

  2. During his redshirt freshman season, he averaged 15.9 points per game, making him one of the top scorers in the Big 12 Conference.

  3. His performance earned him a spot on the First-Team All-Big 12 and the Big 12 All-Rookie Team.

  4. McLemore set a Kansas freshman record by scoring 36 points in a game against West Virginia.

NBA Draft and Early Career

Ben McLemore's transition to the NBA was marked by several key moments. Let's look at some important facts about his early professional career.

  1. McLemore declared for the NBA Draft after just one season at Kansas, foregoing his remaining college eligibility.

  2. He was selected seventh overall by the Sacramento Kings in the 2013 NBA Draft.

  3. In his rookie season, McLemore played all 82 games, averaging 8.8 points per game.

  4. He participated in the 2014 NBA Slam Dunk Contest, showcasing his athleticism and dunking skills.

Career Highlights and Achievements

Throughout his NBA career, Ben McLemore has had several notable achievements and highlights. Here are some of the most memorable ones.

  1. In the 2014-2015 season, McLemore improved his scoring average to 12.1 points per game.

  2. He scored a career-high 31 points in a game against the Phoenix Suns in 2014.

  3. McLemore signed with the Memphis Grizzlies in 2017, where he continued to be a valuable role player.

  4. He had a brief stint with the Houston Rockets, where he set a personal record by making 10 three-pointers in a single game.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond basketball, Ben McLemore has a rich personal life and various interests. Here are some intriguing facts about his life off the court.

  1. McLemore is a father and often shares pictures of his daughter on social media, showing his dedication to family.

  2. He is actively involved in charity work, particularly focusing on helping underprivileged children in his hometown of St. Louis.

  3. McLemore has a passion for music and has been known to spend time in recording studios during the off-season.

  4. He enjoys fashion and has been seen at various fashion events, showcasing his unique style.

Recent Career Moves

Ben McLemore's career has seen several recent developments worth noting. Here are some facts about his latest moves.

  1. In 2021, McLemore signed with the Los Angeles Lakers, adding veteran experience to their roster.

  2. He played a crucial role in several games, providing scoring off the bench and solid defense.

  3. McLemore later joined the Portland Trail Blazers, where he continued to contribute as a reliable shooter.

  4. His ability to adapt and find roles on different teams highlights his versatility and resilience as a player.

  5. McLemore remains a free agent, with many fans eagerly awaiting his next move in the NBA.

Ben McLemore: A Glimpse into His Journey

Ben McLemore's story is one of perseverance and talent. From his early days in St. Louis to his standout performances at Kansas, he's shown remarkable growth. Drafted by the Sacramento Kings, he quickly made a name for himself with his scoring ability and athleticism. His journey hasn't been without challenges, but his resilience is evident. McLemore's time with teams like the Houston Rockets and Los Angeles Lakers highlights his adaptability and dedication to the game. Off the court, his commitment to community service and family showcases his character. Whether you're a basketball fan or just love a good underdog story, Ben McLemore's journey offers inspiration. Keep an eye on him as he continues to make his mark in the NBA and beyond. His story is far from over, and there's much more to come.

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