Payton Pritchard: Where Did He Come From?

Published: Monday, December 16, 2024

by Darren Worrell

When considering young players in the NBA, it often takes years for them to develop into stars. However, Boston Celtics guard Payton Pritchard is setting a new precedent. Pritchard is having an impressive season and is a player worth watching. To truly appreciate his current success, it's important to understand his basketball journey and how he became the player he is today.

High School Phenom

Pritchard’s basketball journey began in his hometown of West Linn, Oregon, where he is considered a local legend. During his four years at West Linn High School, he led his team to four consecutive state championships, cementing his reputation as one of the best high school players in Oregon’s history since Damon Stoudamire.

At 14, Pritchard played a key role in helping West Linn secure its first state title in 16 years. Despite being smaller than most opponents at just 5-foot-9 at the time, his remarkable work ethic and tenacity set him apart. A Forbes article noted, “He was known to wake up at 5:30 a.m. every morning, dribbling a weighted basketball in his garage until his hands were raw.” 

Pritchard’s coach, Eric Viuhkola, praised his selflessness during that freshman season, noting how Pritchard sacrificed parts of his game to benefit the team’s more experienced players. Over the next three years, Pritchard became the team’s leader, dominating on the court and earning multiple Gatorade Oregon Player of the Year awards and 6A Player of the Year honors.

Pritchard’s high school career wasn’t just about local dominance but also his impact on the national stage. Competing in prestigious tournaments such as the Les Schwab Invitational, Pritchard faced future NBA stars, including Jahlil Okafor and Jaylen Brown. His ability to perform under pressure stood out in games like the dramatic buzzer-beater win against Whitney Young High School and his gritty performance against Wheeler High School, where he led his team to victory despite relentless double-teams and traps.

He faced numerous setbacks, such as being cut from the USA Basketball U-17 team, but Pritchard used those moments as motivation. His relentless drive to improve fueled his development into a high-IQ floor general capable of outsmarting any defense.

College Sensation

Payton Pritchard chose to stay close to home when he committed to the University of Oregon in August 2015, and he quickly made an impact. As a four-year starter and cornerstone of the program, Pritchard’s relentless work ethic and composure under pressure solidified his place among the greatest players in Oregon basketball history.

Pritchard became the first player in Pac-12 history to record 1,900 career points, 500 rebounds, and 600 assists. He set Oregon’s all-time assists record with 659, which ranks ninth in Pac-12 history. He also left an indelible mark on the program as its all-time leader in wins (105), games played (144), and starts (140). Additionally, he ranks second in career steals (211) and three-pointers made (288, ninth in Pac-12 history) and is fourth in scoring with 1,938 points (23rd in Pac-12 history).

Throughout his career, Pritchard consistently played a pivotal role, culminating in an exceptional senior season. He led the Pac-12 in scoring, averaging 20.5 points per game, and assists, with 5.5 per game, becoming just the fourth player in conference history to lead in both categories in the same season. His standout performances earned him several accolades, including the Bob Cousy Point Guard of the Year Award, Pac-12 Player of the Year honors, and consensus first-team All-America recognition.

Renowned for his clutch performances, Pritchard scored more "crunch-time" points (91) than any other player in the NCAA during the 2019-20 season. His leadership and talent helped guide the Ducks to multiple Pac-12 Tournament titles and deep NCAA Tournament runs, cementing his legacy as a leader and one of the most accomplished players in Oregon history.

NBA Hoop Dreams

After three successful years at Oregon, Payton Pritchard declared for the 2019 NBA Draft. However, after weighing his options, he chose to return for his senior season. The decision paid off as he dominated in his final year at Oregon, solidifying his status as a top prospect. In 2020, Pritchard entered the draft again and was selected 26th overall in the first round by the Boston Celtics.

Pritchard’s first couple of seasons in the NBA were steady but unremarkable. Despite limited playing time, he made the most of his opportunities, stepping in when needed and executing his role effectively. Known for his excellent three-point shooting, his ability to hit clutch long-distance shots, especially at the end of quarters, has made him a key name on opponents’ scouting reports.

Now in his fifth season in the NBA, Pritchard is having a breakout year. He is currently averaging 16.5 points per game and shooting 42% from three-point range, both career highs. His recent performances have been even more impressive, averaging 24.5 points per game over the last four contests. This surge has positioned him as a front-runner for the Sixth Man of the Year award, a testament to his growth and impact on the court.

Pritchard’s success is no surprise to those who have followed his journey. As his high school coach once said, “While he might not be the most physically gifted guy, he knows how to get it done.” This season, he has proven that at the highest level, competing against elite talent and making his mark.

Keep an eye on Payton Pritchard; this is just the beginning of what promises to be an incredible career.

Darren Worrell can be reached at darren.worrell@student.shu.edu. 

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