Chet Holmgren’s Rise to NBA Stardom
There’s an undeniable charisma to Chet Holmgren’s game. From his early days as a high school standout, he quickly earned the “unicorn” label, showcasing a blend of size and skill that’s rare in the basketball world. Standing at over seven feet tall, Holmgren displayed exceptional ball-handling, playmaking abilities, and a knack for scoring from multiple levels—traits that were amplified by his sharpshooting from beyond the arc. Now, in his third year, Holmgren’s journey has come full circle as he begins to realize his potential at the professional level.
A Resilient Comeback
After a challenging start to his NBA career, marked by a fracture in his hip last November, Holmgren has made a remarkable return. The 2023-24 season saw him play all 82 games, and he rejoined the Oklahoma City Thunder just in time to contribute to their championship run. Following a healthy offseason, the 22-year-old has emerged as a significantly improved player, ready to take the next step in his career.
Through the first 21 games of the current season, Holmgren is averaging a career-high 18.3 points per game, while also tying his best with 8.0 rebounds. His contributions extend beyond scoring, as he’s also posting 1.7 assists, 1.5 blocks, and 0.7 steals per game. With a shooting percentage of 55% from the floor, 35% from three-point range, and 80% from the free-throw line, Holmgren is not just effective; he’s efficient.
Consistency and Growth
Holmgren’s consistency this season is noteworthy. He has scored 15 points or more in 11 of his 17 games, with only one contest where he fell below the 10-point mark. His performance against the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday illustrated his potential and the areas where he continues to grow. In a tightly contested game, Holmgren experienced a dry spell offensively, appearing to overthink his role between scoring and facilitating. However, the second half saw him shift gears, as he took nine shots and converted six, finishing with 12 points, five rebounds, an assist, a steal, and two blocks in just 17 minutes.
Evolving as a Player
Holmgren’s evolution is evident. He has transformed into a formidable mid-range shooter and has increased his efficiency cutting and rolling to the rim. This versatility allows him to remain impactful on offense, even when his three-point shot isn’t falling. As he embraces a more aggressive scoring mindset—his shot attempts climbing to a career-best 12.3 per game—his contributions are set to become even more significant.
As Holmgren continues to refine his game and assert himself on the court, the anticipation surrounding his potential All-Star selection grows. With his unique skill set and an upward trajectory, Holmgren is poised to elevate his status in the league, showcasing that the best is yet to come.
