Blake Griffin is a name that resonates with basketball fans across the globe. Known for his electrifying dunks, versatile skill set, and leadership on the court, Griffin’s career has been nothing short of a rollercoaster.
From his early days with the Los Angeles Clippers to his time with the Detroit Pistons and Brooklyn Nets, Blake has made a lasting impact on the NBA. His career stats tell a story of both triumph and adversity, showcasing his ability to adapt and evolve as a player.
While many remember Griffin for his highlight-reel dunks and All-Star appearances, his journey goes beyond just the spectacular plays. It’s about his resilience, his transformation from an athletic powerhouse to a more skilled and refined player, and his role in shaping the modern power forward position.
This article will break down Blake Griffin’s career stats, achievements, challenges, and legacy, providing a comprehensive look at the career of one of the NBA’s most dynamic and influential players.
Early Life and College Career
Blake Griffin’s journey to NBA stardom began long before he donned an NBA jersey. His father, Tommy Griffin, was a high school basketball coach, and his older brother, Taylor, also played at the collegiate level. It was in this environment that Blake developed a passion for the game, quickly becoming a standout player at Oklahoma Christian School.
Griffin’s exceptional talent was evident during his high school years, where he dominated on the court with his combination of size, athleticism, and basketball IQ.
At Oklahoma, Griffin’s college career flourished. As a freshman, he averaged 14.7 points and 9.1 rebounds per game, showcasing his potential. But it was his sophomore season (2008-2009) that truly catapulted him into the national spotlight. Blake’s dominance in the paint and ability to score in multiple ways earned him the Naismith College Player of the Year award, along with numerous other accolades. That season, he averaged 22.7 points, 14.4 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game, making him one of the most highly sought-after prospects in recent memory.
His stellar college career laid the foundation for what would become a successful, albeit injury-plagued, NBA journey. Blake’s performances in college didn’t just impress scouts—they set the stage for his future as a game-changing player in the NBA.
NBA Draft and Early Career (2009-2013)
Griffin’s rookie season (2009-2010) was nothing short of sensational, despite a knee injury that kept him sidelined for the entire 2009-2010 season. He made a triumphant debut in 2010, quickly establishing himself as one of the most exciting players in the league. He finished his rookie year with averages of 22.5 points, 12.1 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game. His athleticism, explosiveness, and ability to finish above the rim made him an instant sensation, earning him the 2011 NBA Rookie of the Year award.
The Clippers’ “Lob City” era took off shortly thereafter, with Griffin forming a dynamic partnership with point guard Chris Paul. The two became one of the most dangerous duos in the league, with Griffin’s dunking ability and explosive plays becoming a signature of the team.
During this period, Griffin’s stats continued to rise, as he became known not just for his dunking but also for his developing skills as a playmaker. He averaged a double-double in both points and rebounds, and his growth as a versatile forward helped elevate the Clippers into playoff contention. Blake had firmly established himself as one of the NBA’s brightest young stars, with his energy and leadership setting the tone for the Clippers’ future.
Peak Years with the Clippers (2014-2017)
Blake Griffin’s peak years with the Los Angeles Clippers marked the height of his NBA career. From 2014 to 2017, Griffin became not only the face of the Clippers but also one of the premier power forwards in the league. During this time, he expanded his game beyond just being a high-flying dunker. His basketball IQ, passing ability, and offensive versatility were on full display, cementing his place as a key piece of the Clippers’ “Lob City” era alongside Chris Paul and DeAndre Jordan.
Griffin’s stats during these years were remarkable. His ability to create for others with his court vision, combined with his scoring and rebounding, made him a dominant force on both ends of the floor. Griffin’s versatility allowed him to play both as a traditional power forward and as a more modern, stretch-forward who could stretch the floor with mid-range shooting and even occasional three-pointers.
In addition to his scoring and rebounding, Griffin’s leadership became an integral part of the Clippers’ identity .His best playoff run came in 2015 when he averaged 23.8 points, 12.0 rebounds, and 5.2 assists during a hard-fought series against the Houston Rockets, though the Clippers fell short in a heartbreaking Game 7.
This era marked the peak of Griffin’s athleticism, but it also showcased his growth into a more well-rounded player, proving that his influence extended beyond his spectacular dunks.
Injuries and Transition to Detroit (2018-2020)
After several seasons of playing at a high level with the Clippers, Blake’s health began to deteriorate, affecting his performance on the court. The 2017-2018 season was particularly difficult, as Griffin struggled with various injuries, including a nagging knee issue that limited his effectiveness. As a result, the Clippers decided to trade him to the Detroit Pistons in January 2018, a move that marked the beginning of a new chapter in his career.
Despite the challenges, Blake showed flashes of his former brilliance. In his first full season with the Pistons (2018-2019), Griffin had one of the best years of his career, earning his sixth All-Star selection. He averaged 24.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game, while also improving his three-point shooting to a career-high 36.2%. This performance was a testament to his ability to adapt his game despite battling through injuries.
The Pistons’ struggles to contend in the Eastern Conference, combined with Blake’s injury problems, led to a decline in his playing time and impact.
Blake’s move to Detroit may not have resulted in championship contention, but it proved his resilience. Even as his body began to betray him, he remained a valuable player capable of contributing at a high level when healthy.
Return to Contention: Brooklyn Nets and Final Years (2021-Present)
Blake Griffin’s journey took another turn in 2021 when he signed with the Brooklyn Nets after reaching a buyout agreement with the Detroit Pistons. The move was a significant one, as it placed Griffin on a championship-contending team for the first time in his career.Griffin, while no longer the athletic force he once was, brought valuable experience and leadership to a team looking for a final piece to complete their championship puzzle.
Initially, Griffin’s role with the Nets was a far cry from his days as an All-Star. However, even in a reduced role, Griffin still managed to show glimpses of his former self. He provided a veteran presence on the floor, hit timely three-pointers, and continued to be an effective rebounder.
In the 2021-2022 season, Griffin averaged just 6.4 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game, but his leadership and playoff experience became crucial in Brooklyn’s push for a title. Although the Nets ultimately fell short of their championship goals in 2022, Griffin’s contribution as a seasoned veteran was important in the locker room and on the court.
As of the 2023 season, Griffin remains with the Nets, continuing to adapt to his evolving role in the NBA. While his days as a high-flying dunker are behind him, he remains a respected figure in the league, known for his basketball IQ, professionalism, and willingness to do whatever it takes to help his team win. His post-Clippers career is a testament to his ability to evolve and contribute in different capacities, marking a new phase in his storied NBA journey.
Blake Griffin’s Impact Beyond the Court
Blake Griffin’s influence on the NBA extends well beyond his play on the court. Known for his charismatic personality, sense of humor, and media presence, Griffin has become a beloved figure in the basketball world. While his spectacular dunks and all-around game defined much of his career, it is his off-court activities that have helped shape his legacy in unique ways.
One of the most notable aspects of Blake Griffin’s off-court career is his ventures in entertainment. His comedic timing and outgoing personality have made him a natural fit for television and film. He has made several guest appearances on popular shows like Saturday Night Live, The Daily Show, and Conan, often showing off his wit and charm. Griffin’s ability to laugh at himself and engage with fans in an entertaining way has made him a fan favorite, adding another layer to his appeal.
Griffin’s entrepreneurial spirit also extends to his work behind the scenes. His ability to leverage his NBA fame into other areas of success demonstrates his forward-thinking approach to life after basketball.
His work with organizations like The Blake Griffin Foundation focuses on helping underserved communities and providing opportunities for young people. Blake’s off-court influence is a testament to his well-rounded character, making him a role model both as an athlete and as a human being.
Blake Griffin’s Legacy: A Modern Power Forward
One of the key elements of Griffin’s legacy is his ability to adapt and evolve as the game shifted toward a more perimeter-oriented style of play. He became a capable passer, often acting as a point-forward in the Clippers’ offense, distributing the ball with ease and creating plays for his teammates.
Griffin’s three-point shooting, which he developed later in his career, was another significant evolution. His willingness to stretch the floor and evolve his game made him a more complete player and helped shape the modern power forward position, one that requires players to be versatile and skilled in multiple areas of the game.
Young power forwards now emulate his combination of athleticism, playmaking, and scoring versatility, and his career is a perfect example of how an athlete can evolve to stay relevant in a constantly changing league. As Griffin’s career winds down, his legacy as a modern power forward who adapted to the times will be his lasting contribution to the NBA.
Blake Griffin Career Stats Breakdown
Blake Griffin’s career statistics reflect the evolution of his game and his impact on the NBA. Over his 12-season career, Griffin has posted impressive numbers that showcase his versatility, athleticism, and growth as a player. Below is a breakdown of his career stats, highlighting key aspects of his game.
Points per Game:
Griffin has consistently been a high scorer throughout his career, averaging 21.6 points per game as of the 2023 season. His scoring peak came during the 2018-2019 season with the Detroit Pistons, where he averaged a career-high 24.5 points per game. Known for his explosive dunking ability, Griffin also developed a reliable mid-range jumper and a three-point shot as his career progressed, making him a more well-rounded offensive threat.
Rebounds per Game:
Griffin’s rebounding numbers have been another key aspect of his game. Averaging 9.2 rebounds per game for his career, he was a dominant presence on the boards, especially during his early years with the Clippers. His best rebounding season came in 2010-2011, when he averaged 12.1 rebounds per game, showcasing his tenacity and athleticism in the paint.
Assists per Game:
One of the standout statistics in Griffin’s career is his playmaking ability. Averaging 4.2 assists per game, Blake became known for his ability to facilitate offense as a power forward. He often operated as a point-forward, using his vision and passing skills to create opportunities for teammates.
His accolades, combined with his on-court stats, paint a picture of a player who not only dominated in scoring and rebounding but also evolved into a multifaceted contributor to his teams.
Blake Griffin’s career stats are a testament to his growth as a player and his ability to adapt to the changing demands of the NBA. His numbers are impressive, but it’s his impact on the court—both offensively and defensively—that truly defines his legacy.
Blake Griffin’s Best Moments and Highlights
From his electrifying dunks to clutch plays in critical moments, Blake’s career is a testament to his athleticism, work ethic, and ability to captivate fans. Below are some of the most memorable highlights of his career.
1. The Dunk on Kendrick Perkins (2012):
One of the defining moments of Blake Griffin’s career came during a 2012 game against the Oklahoma City Thunder. In a fast-break play, Griffin launched himself over the 6’9” Kendrick Perkins for an earth-shattering dunk that left fans and commentators in awe.
2. Rookie Season Dominance:
Griffin’s rookie season was one for the ages. After missing his first season due to a knee injury, he made an immediate impact in his debut, finishing with 20 points and 14 rebounds. His rebounding, scoring, and energy on the court left fans in awe and signaled the arrival of a future superstar.
3. All-Star Game Appearances:
Blake’s six All-Star selections (2011-2015, 2019) showcased his ability to perform at the highest level. His first appearance in 2011 was particularly special, as it was a recognition of his rapid ascent to elite status. His participation in the Slam Dunk Contest that year, where he jumped over a car for a dunk, only added to his growing popularity.
4. Playoff Heroics:
One of Blake’s most memorable playoff moments came in the 2015 Western Conference Semifinals against the Houston Rockets. Despite the Clippers eventually losing in heartbreaking fashion, Blake gave a heroic performance, averaging 23.8 points, 12 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game in the series, showing his all-around ability and clutch gene in a high-stakes setting.
Blake Griffin’s highlights are a blend of athleticism, creativity, and flair. From his dunking dominance to his evolving all-around game, he created some of the most thrilling moments in recent NBA history, making a lasting impression on fans and the league alike.
FAQ:
Q1: How many NBA All-Star selections did Blake Griffin earn in his career?
Explosive scoring and playmaking abilities making him a regular fixture among the league’s elite players.
Q2: What is Blake Griffin’s career-high in points in a single game?
A2: Blake Griffin’s career-high in points is 50, which he scored during a game against the Philadelphia 76ers on March 12, 2019, while playing for the Detroit Pistons. This performance marked a career milestone, highlighting his scoring prowess even in the later stages of his career.
Q3: What was Blake Griffin’s impact on the Clippers’ “Lob City” era?
A3: Griffin was a central figure in the Clippers’ “Lob City” era alongside Chris Paul and DeAndre Jordan. His high-flying dunks, rebounding, and ability to finish off alley-oops helped transform the Clippers into one of the most exciting and competitive teams in the NBA during the early 2010s. Though they never won a title, the “Lob City” Clippers were one of the league’s most entertaining teams.
Q4: What made Blake Griffin such a unique power forward?
A4: Griffin’s combination of elite athleticism, versatility, and playmaking ability set him apart as a modern power forward. He was capable of running an offense, facilitating for teammates, and knocking down shots from the mid-range and beyond the arc. His evolution into a multi-faceted player helped redefine what a power forward could do in the modern NBA.
Conclusion
Blake Griffin’s career is a story of remarkable transformation, from his early days as a high-flying dunk machine to his evolution into a well-rounded and skilled power forward.
His time with the Los Angeles Clippers, especially during the “Lob City” era, established him as one of the most exciting players of his generation.
Despite facing significant injuries later in his career, Griffin adapted his game, providing valuable leadership and contributions to the Detroit Pistons and Brooklyn Nets.
From dominating on the boards to facilitating the offense, Blake Griffin redefined what a modern power forward could be.
His contributions to the NBA, both on and off the court, will leave an indelible mark on the league for years to come. Whether through his dunking prowess, his role as a team leader, or his off-court ventures, Griffin’s impact on basketball is undeniable.
