40 Facts About Jae Crowder

Early Life and High School Career

Jae Crowder's journey to the NBA began in Villa Rica, Georgia. His early years were filled with sports and family.

1. Jae Crowder was born to Helen Thompson and Corey Crowder. He has seven brothers and sisters.
2. During his high school years at Villa Rica High School, Crowder excelled in both basketball and football.
3. He was named the Times-Georgian Co-Player of the Year in 2007-08 after averaging 18.8 points and 7.2 rebounds per game.

College Journey

Crowder's path to the NBA wasn't straightforward. He had to prove himself at multiple colleges before making it to Marquette.

4. Despite not being heavily recruited out of high school, Crowder committed to South Georgia Technical College.
5. He later transferred to Howard College for his sophomore season, where he led the team to its first-ever NJCAA Division I championship.
6. Crowder was named NJCAA Player of the Year and First Team All-America selection during his time at Howard College.

Transfer to Marquette

Marquette University became the stage where Crowder's talents truly shined, catching the eyes of NBA scouts.

7. After his junior college eligibility ended, Crowder transferred to Marquette University.
8. At Marquette, he had a standout senior season, earning Big East Player of the Year honors.
9. This performance caught the attention of NBA scouts, leading to his draft selection.

Draft Status and Professional Debut

Crowder's professional career began with a draft and a trade, setting the stage for his NBA journey.

10. Jae Crowder was drafted 34th overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2012 NBA draft.
11. He was immediately traded to the Dallas Mavericks, marking the beginning of his professional career.
12. Crowder made his NBA debut on October 30, 2012, for the Dallas Mavericks.

Dallas Mavericks (2012-2014)

Crowder's time with the Mavericks was marked by growth and promise, even with limited playing time.

13. During his time with the Mavericks, Crowder averaged 5 points and 2.4 rebounds per game in 17.3 minutes.
14. Despite his limited playing time, he showed promise as a role player and defender.

Trade to Boston Celtics (2014)

A significant trade brought Crowder to the Boston Celtics, where he found a new role and more opportunities.

15. On December 18, 2014, Crowder was traded to the Boston Celtics along with Jameer Nelson, Brandan Wright, a 2015 first-round pick, a 2016 second-round pick, and a $12.9 million trade exception in exchange for Rajon Rondo and Dwight Powell.

Boston Celtics (2014-2017)

In Boston, Crowder became a key player, known for his defense and versatility.

16. In Boston, Crowder found his niche as an important role player.
17. He averaged 9.5 points in 24.2 minutes per game and became known for his defensive prowess and ability to score from various spots on the court.
18. On January 12, 2015, he scored a then-career-high 22 points in a win over the New Orleans Pelicans.
19. He also hit a game-winning shot against the Toronto Raptors on April 14, 2015.

Contract Extension and Challenges

Crowder's time with the Celtics included a significant contract extension and some injury challenges.

20. On July 27, 2015, Crowder re-signed with the Celtics on a reported five-year, $35 million contract.
21. Despite his success, Crowder faced injuries that impacted his playing time.
22. In March 2016, he was ruled out for two weeks with a right ankle sprain but returned to action on March 31.

Trade to Cleveland Cavaliers (2017)

A major trade involving Kyrie Irving brought Crowder to the Cleveland Cavaliers.

23. In July 2017, Crowder was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers as part of a larger deal involving Kyrie Irving and Isaiah Thomas.

Cleveland Cavaliers (2017-2018)

Crowder played a crucial role in the Cavaliers' playoff run during his time with the team.

24. During his time with the Cavaliers, Crowder averaged 8.6 points and 3.3 rebounds per game in 25.4 minutes.
25. He played a crucial role in the team's playoff run but ultimately left in free agency.

Utah Jazz (2018-2020)

Crowder's stint with the Utah Jazz saw him signing a new contract and continuing to showcase his defensive skills.

26. On July 6, 2018, Crowder signed a three-year, $23 million contract with the Utah Jazz.
27. In Utah, he averaged 11.9 points and 4.5 rebounds per game in 27.2 minutes.
28. His defensive skills were particularly valuable to the team.

Phoenix Suns (2020-2022)

Crowder's time with the Phoenix Suns was marked by improved shooting and consistent contributions.

29. In February 2020, Crowder was traded to the Phoenix Suns.
30. During his two seasons with the Suns, he averaged 9.7 points and 5.0 rebounds per game in 27.8 minutes.
31. His shooting percentages improved significantly, and he became a reliable contributor off the bench.

Memphis Grizzlies (2022)

Although brief, Crowder's time with the Memphis Grizzlies showcased his defensive prowess.

32. In February 2022, Crowder was traded to the Memphis Grizzlies.
33. Although his stint was short-lived, he continued to demonstrate his defensive prowess and scoring ability.

Miami Heat (2022-2023)

Crowder played a key role in the Miami Heat's playoff push, averaging solid numbers.

34. On February 9, 2022, Crowder was traded to the Miami Heat.
35. In Miami, he averaged 12.0 points and 5.6 rebounds per game in 31.4 minutes.
36. His shooting percentages remained high, and he played a key role in the team's playoff push.

Milwaukee Bucks (2023-Present)

Crowder's current chapter with the Milwaukee Bucks and Sacramento Kings highlights his ongoing value in the NBA.

37. In July 2023, Crowder signed with the Milwaukee Bucks.
38. Currently, he is a member of the Sacramento Kings after being acquired as a free agent in 2024.
39. His versatility and defensive skills make him a valuable asset to any team.

Career Statistics and Honors

Crowder's career stats and accolades reflect his consistent performance and impact on the court.

40. As of the 2024-25 season, Crowder has played 10 years in the NBA. He has averaged 10.1 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game while shooting 39.2% from the field and 34.8% from three-point range.

Crowder's Impact on the NBA

Jae Crowder's journey from Villa Rica High School to the NBA showcases his dedication and versatility. His early days at South Georgia Technical College and Howard College set the stage for his standout performance at Marquette University, earning him Big East Player of the Year. Drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers and traded to the Dallas Mavericks, Crowder's career has seen him play for multiple teams, including the Boston Celtics, Cleveland Cavaliers, Utah Jazz, Phoenix Suns, Memphis Grizzlies, Miami Heat, Milwaukee Bucks, and now the Sacramento Kings. Known for his defensive skills, rebounding, and three-point shooting, Crowder has been a reliable role player. His physical attributes and consistent performance have made him a valuable asset. As he continues with the Kings, Crowder's legacy in the NBA remains strong, marked by his resilience and impact on every team he joins.