50 Facts About Tim Hardaway Jr

Early Life and High School Career

Tim Hardaway Jr. grew up in Miami, Florida, where he began his journey in basketball. His early years were marked by significant achievements and influences.

1. Hardaway Jr. attended Palmetto Senior High School in Miami, Florida.
2. Initially, he played high school football for a year before focusing solely on basketball.
3. His father, Tim Hardaway, a five-time NBA All-Star, acted as a second coach to him.
4. During his senior year, he averaged 31.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game.
5. He led Palmetto Senior to a 16-11 record and district championship in his final high school season.

College Career and Achievements

Hardaway Jr. played college basketball for the University of Michigan Wolverines, where he made a significant impact.

6. He was unranked in the Rivals.com Top-150 but received offers from Minnesota and Kansas State.
7. Ultimately, he chose to play for Michigan, where he had a standout career.
8. In his junior season, he helped the Wolverines earn the No. 4 seed in the NCAA Tournament South Region.
9. Hardaway Jr. played a key role in Michigan's advance to the national championship game for the first time in 20 years.
10. He averaged 14.2 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game in his junior year.
11. Named the Most Outstanding Player of the NIT Season Tip-Off tournament.
12. Led the team with 108 made free throws, shooting 71.5% from the charity stripe.

NBA Draft and Early Career

After a successful college career, Hardaway Jr. declared for the NBA draft and began his professional journey.

13. He was selected as the 24th overall pick by the New York Knicks in the 2013 NBA draft.
14. Became the first Michigan player to be drafted in the first round since Juwan Howard and Jalen Rose in 1994.
15. Signed a four-year, $6.1 million contract with the Knicks on July 8, 2013.
16. His summer league season was cut short due to a bruised wrist suffered in the second game.
17. Known for his versatility, he often plays both shooting guard and small forward positions.
18. In his first season with the Knicks (2013-14), he averaged 10.2 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 8.5 assists per game.
19. Shot 42.8% from the field and 48.3% from three-point range in his rookie season.

Stints with Atlanta Hawks and Dallas Mavericks

Hardaway Jr. continued to develop his career with the Atlanta Hawks and Dallas Mavericks.

20. Played two seasons with the Atlanta Hawks from 2015 to 2017.
21. Averaged 11.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 9.1 assists per game with the Hawks.
22. Spent six seasons with the Dallas Mavericks from 2017 to 2023.
23. Averaged 15.2 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 12.5 assists per game with the Mavericks.

Current Team and Personal Life

As of the 2023-2024 season, Hardaway Jr. plays for the Detroit Pistons and continues to build on his legacy.

24. Currently under contract with the Detroit Pistons until 2025.
25. Set to become a free agent in 2025.
26. Son of Tim Hardaway, a five-time NBA All-Star and Hall of Famer.
27. His father's influence on his career has been significant, often acting as a mentor.

AAU Basketball and College Recruitment

Before college, Hardaway Jr. played AAU basketball, which helped shape his early career.

28. Played summer AAU basketball for both the South Florida Heat and Chicago's Mac Irvin Fire.
29. Played alongside notable players like Meyers Leonard and Jereme Richmond.
30. First college recruitment contact was by the University of Michigan.
31. Received an offer from Michigan after attending the Elite Camp in Ann Arbor.

Training and Development

Training played a crucial role in Hardaway Jr.'s development as a player.

32. Began training with Ed Downs during his junior year of high school.
33. Continued training with Downs until he became an NBA draftee.
34. Invited to the South Florida High School All-Star Basketball Classic in 2010.

College Awards and Recognition

Hardaway Jr. received several awards and recognitions during his time at Michigan.

35. Named the Most Outstanding Player of the NIT Season Tip-Off tournament.
36. Helped the Wolverines achieve a 31-8 record, their third 30-win season in school history.

NBA Rookie of the Year Contention

Hardaway Jr. made a strong impression in his rookie season with the Knicks.

37. Considered for the NBA Rookie of the Year award in his rookie season.
38. Averaged 10.2 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 8.5 assists per game as a rookie.

Injury History

Throughout his career, Hardaway Jr. has faced several injuries.

39. Suffered a bruised wrist during his rookie summer league season.
40. Missed a game in his junior year at Michigan due to a right ankle injury.

Career Milestones and Father's Influence

Hardaway Jr. has achieved several milestones and continues to be influenced by his father's legacy.

41. First Michigan player to be drafted in the first round since 1994.
42. Joined his father as a first-round selection in the NBA draft.
43. His father's crossover dribble move, known as the "UTEP two-step," has inspired his playing style.

Playing Style Evolution and Team Contributions

Hardaway Jr.'s playing style has evolved, making him a valuable asset to his teams.

44. Developed into a versatile player capable of scoring from both inside and outside the three-point line.
45. Played both shooting guard and small forward positions effectively.
46. Led the Knicks, Hawks, and Mavericks in various statistical categories, including points, rebounds, and assists.

Community Involvement and Social Media Presence

Beyond basketball, Hardaway Jr. is involved in community initiatives and maintains a strong social media presence.

47. Involved in various community initiatives, including youth basketball programs.
48. Active on social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram, connecting with fans and sharing updates.

Agent and Contract Status

Hardaway Jr.'s professional career is managed by his agent, and he has a clear contract status.

49. Represented by agent Zach Kurtin.
50. Under contract with the Detroit Pistons until 2025, when he will become a free agent.

Tim Hardaway Jr.'s Impact on Basketball

Tim Hardaway Jr. has made a name for himself in the NBA, following in his father's legendary footsteps. From his high school days in Miami to his standout college career at Michigan, he's shown dedication and skill. Drafted by the New York Knicks in 2013, Hardaway Jr. quickly proved his worth. His versatility on the court, playing both shooting guard and small forward, has been a key asset for every team he's played for, including the Atlanta Hawks, Dallas Mavericks, and now the Detroit Pistons. Beyond his on-court achievements, Hardaway Jr. is known for his community involvement and leadership. His journey is a testament to hard work, resilience, and the influence of a strong family legacy. As he continues to play, his impact on the game and his contributions off the court remain significant. Tim Hardaway Jr. is a name to remember in basketball.