In the world of professional basketball, few stories are as captivating as the meteoric rise of Walker Ross Kessler. Kessler born on July 26, 2001, a promising high school athlete to a key player for the Utah Jazz is a tale of determination, skill, and a relentless pursuit of greatness.
High School Glory
Kessler’s basketball journey began at Woodward Academy in College Park, Georgia. During his senior season, he showcased his prodigious talent, averaging 17.8 points, 9.3 rebounds, and a staggering 5.2 blocks per game. His exceptional performance played a pivotal role in leading his team to their first-ever Class 4A state title. Kessler’s extraordinary contributions on the court didn’t go unnoticed; he was named The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Player of the Year, Mr. Georgia Basketball, and Georgia Gatorade Player of the Year. His status as a McDonald’s All-American selection solidified his reputation as one of the nation’s most promising young talents.
Kessler also made his mark on the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) circuit, competing for Game Elite. These formative years in high school set the stage for his spectacular journey through college basketball and into the professional ranks.
North Carolina
Kessler’s initial foray into collegiate basketball was with the North Carolina Tar Heels. In a standout moment during his freshman year, he recorded a jaw-dropping performance on March 10, 2021. In a game against Notre Dame, Kessler registered 16 points, 12 rebounds, and an astonishing eight blocks, setting a North Carolina freshman record and an ACC Tournament record for blocks in a single game. Despite this incredible achievement, he maintained an average of 4.4 points and 3.2 rebounds per game during his freshman year.
Auburn Tigers
Following his freshman season, Kessler embarked on a new chapter in his collegiate journey transferring to the Auburn Tigers. This move proved to be a game-changer for both Kessler and the Tigers. On December 29, 2021, he etched his name in the record books by achieving a triple-double with 16 points, a career-high 11 blocks, and 10 rebounds in a game against LSU. This remarkable performance was a testament to his growth and versatility as a player.
Kessler’s impact at Auburn was undeniable. He was renowned as one of the nation’s premier shot-blockers setting the Auburn single-season block record, leading the nation in blocks, and surpassing the total blocks of all but 13 teams. At the end of the regular season, he received multiple accolades including being named the SEC Defensive Player of the Year a member of the All-SEC First Team, and a 3rd Team All-American. On April 3, 2022, Kessler made a pivotal decision by declaring for the 2022 NBA draft thus forgoing his remaining college eligibility.
NBA debut and Utah Jazz stardom
Walker Kessler’s entry into the NBA was marked by high expectations and a future brimming with potential. He was selected by the Memphis Grizzlies as the 22nd overall pick in the 2022 NBA draft but was subsequently traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves in a significant deal. Just two weeks later, his journey took another twist when he was traded to the Utah Jazz as part of a trade package that involved players like Patrick Beverley, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Jake LaRavia, along with several future first-round draft picks and a pick swap in exchange for the legendary Rudy Gobert. The trade to the Jazz marked the beginning of Kessler’s professional career.
On July 9, 2022, Kessler inked his rookie scale contract with the Utah Jazz sealing his destiny as a rising star in the NBA. His inaugural season with the Jazz was marked by remarkable performances and memorable moments that solidified his place as a player to watch.
Who is Walker Kessler dating?
There is no information available about his dating life. All we can say is that ‘he is single’ as of now.
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