25 Facts About Zach Collins

Early Life and Background

Zach Collins, a professional basketball player, has an intriguing journey that began long before he stepped onto an NBA court. Here are some fascinating facts about his early years.

1. Born on November 19, 1997, in Las Vegas, Nevada, Zach grew up in a city known more for its casinos than its basketball courts.

2. His father, Mike Collins, played basketball at New Mexico State, sparking Zach's interest in the sport from a young age.

3. Zach attended Bishop Gorman High School, a powerhouse in high school basketball, where he won four consecutive state championships.

4. During his senior year, he averaged 17.3 points, 14 rebounds, and 3.1 blocks per game, showcasing his dominance on both ends of the floor.

5. Despite his impressive high school career, he was often overshadowed by higher-ranked recruits, making his rise to prominence even more remarkable.

College Career

Zach's college career at Gonzaga University was short but impactful. His performance there set the stage for his entry into the NBA.

6. Zach chose Gonzaga over several other top programs, valuing the school's strong basketball tradition and coaching staff.

7. As a freshman, he played a crucial role in Gonzaga's run to the 2017 NCAA Championship game, where they narrowly lost to North Carolina.

8. He averaged 10 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game during his lone college season, earning him a spot on the West Coast Conference All-Freshman Team.

9. Zach was the first one-and-done player in Gonzaga's history, declaring for the NBA Draft after just one season.

10. His standout performance in the NCAA Tournament, including a double-double in the Final Four, significantly boosted his draft stock.

NBA Journey

Zach's transition to the NBA has been filled with both challenges and triumphs. Here are some key moments from his professional career.

11. The Sacramento Kings selected Zach with the 10th overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, but he was immediately traded to the Portland Trail Blazers.

12. In his rookie season, he played in 66 games, averaging 4.4 points and 3.3 rebounds per game.

13. Zach's defensive prowess quickly became evident, earning him a reputation as a versatile and tenacious defender.

14. Injuries have been a significant part of his NBA story, including a dislocated shoulder in 2019 that required surgery.

15. Despite setbacks, he has shown resilience, returning stronger each time and continuing to develop his game.

Personal Life

Beyond the basketball court, Zach has a life filled with interests and activities that shape who he is as a person.

16. Zach is known for his love of video games, often streaming on platforms like Twitch to connect with fans.

17. He has a close-knit family, frequently sharing moments with them on social media.

18. Zach is an advocate for mental health awareness, using his platform to encourage others to seek help and support.

19. He enjoys outdoor activities like hiking and fishing, finding peace and relaxation away from the hustle of professional sports.

20. Zach has a passion for fashion, often seen sporting stylish outfits and collaborating with brands.

Fun Facts

Here are some lighter, fun facts about Zach that add to his unique personality and charm.

21. Zach stands at 7 feet tall, making him one of the tallest players in the NBA.

22. He has a tattoo of a lion on his left arm, symbolizing strength and courage.

23. Zach's favorite NBA player growing up was Tim Duncan, admiring his fundamental skills and calm demeanor.

24. He once scored 37 points in a high school game, showcasing his scoring ability early on.

25. Zach is a dog lover, often sharing photos of his pets on social media, bringing joy to his followers.

The Final Whistle

Zach Collins' journey in basketball is nothing short of inspiring. From his early days in Las Vegas to making waves in the NBA, he's shown grit and determination. His time at Gonzaga University was pivotal, showcasing his skills on a national stage. Drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers, Collins quickly became a fan favorite with his defensive prowess and versatility. Despite facing injuries, his resilience never wavered, proving he's a force to be reckoned with.

Off the court, Zach's commitment to community service and his love for family highlight his character. Whether you're a die-hard basketball fan or just love a good underdog story, Collins' career offers plenty to admire. Keep an eye on this rising star; his best days are still ahead.