Mason Plumlee: The Rising Star In The NBA

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Mason Plumlee has firmly established himself as a significant player in the NBA, earning recognition for his skills, versatility, and contributions on the court. His journey from a promising college athlete to a professional basketball player is both inspiring and noteworthy. In this article, we will delve deep into Mason Plumlee's biography, career achievements, and the impact he has made in the basketball world.

This article aims to provide an expert analysis of Mason Plumlee’s career, highlighting his growth, achievements, and future potential. As we navigate through his journey, we will ensure that you have a complete understanding of who Mason Plumlee is and why he continues to be a vital player in the league.

Table of Contents

Biography of Mason Plumlee

NameMason Plumlee
Date of BirthMarch 5, 1990
Height6 ft 10 in (2.08 m)
Weight250 lb (113 kg)
PositionCenter / Power Forward
CollegeDuke University
NBA Draft2013 / Round: 1 / Pick: 22
Current TeamCharlotte Hornets

Early Life and Background

Mason Plumlee was born and raised in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where he developed a passion for basketball at a young age. Growing up in a family of athletes, Mason was influenced by his parents and siblings, all of whom played sports. His mother, Leslie, was a former college athlete, and his father, Marc, played basketball at Purdue University. This athletic background greatly contributed to Mason's determination to excel in basketball.

During his high school years at La Lumiere School, Plumlee showcased his talent on the court, leading his team to a state championship. His impressive performances caught the attention of college scouts, and he ultimately decided to continue his basketball career at Duke University, a decision that would shape his future in the sport.

College Career at Duke University

At Duke, Mason Plumlee played under the legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski. He quickly became a key player for the Blue Devils, known for his athleticism, rebounding ability, and defensive skills. Throughout his college career, Plumlee developed a well-rounded game, contributing significantly to the team's success.

  • Freshman Year (2009-2010): Plumlee averaged 7.1 points and 5.3 rebounds per game, helping Duke secure the NCAA Championship.
  • Sophomore Year (2010-2011): He improved his scoring to 9.0 points and 7.0 rebounds per game, showcasing his growth as a player.
  • Junior Year (2011-2012): Plumlee had a breakout season, averaging 17.1 points, 9.9 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game, earning All-ACC honors.
  • Senior Year (2012-2013): He continued to excel, averaging 11.1 points and 9.2 rebounds, and leading Duke to the NCAA Tournament.

NBA Career Overview

After a successful college career, Mason Plumlee declared for the NBA Draft and was selected 22nd overall by the Brooklyn Nets in 2013. His transition to the professional level was seamless, as he quickly adapted to the pace and physicality of the NBA.

Throughout his career, Plumlee has played for several teams, including:

  • Brooklyn Nets (2013-2015): Plumlee made an immediate impact as a rookie, averaging 7.4 points and 4.4 rebounds per game.
  • Portland Trail Blazers (2015-2017): He had a breakout season in Portland, averaging 9.1 points and 8.4 rebounds, becoming a crucial part of the team's rotation.
  • Denver Nuggets (2017-2021): Plumlee played a vital role in Denver's success, known for his defensive skills and ability to facilitate the offense.
  • Charlotte Hornets (2021-Present): Currently, he continues to showcase his talents, providing experience and leadership to a young roster.

Playing Style and Strengths

Mason Plumlee is known for his versatility as a center and power forward. His playing style is characterized by several key attributes:

  • Rebounding: Plumlee is an excellent rebounder, utilizing his size and positioning to secure boards on both ends of the court.
  • Defensive Skills: He is a strong defender, capable of guarding multiple positions and protecting the rim effectively.
  • Playmaking Ability: Unlike many big men, Plumlee possesses the ability to facilitate the offense, often making smart passes and creating opportunities for teammates.
  • High Basketball IQ: His understanding of the game allows him to make quick decisions and read plays effectively.

Career Statistics

Throughout his NBA career, Mason Plumlee has consistently put up solid numbers. Below is a summary of his career statistics:

SeasonTeamGames PlayedPoints Per GameRebounds Per GameAssists Per Game
2013-2014Brooklyn Nets607.44.41.0
2015-2016Portland Trail Blazers829.18.42.0
2017-2018Denver Nuggets829.15.43.7
2021-2022Charlotte Hornets8210.47.02.8

Contributions Off the Court

Beyond his performance on the basketball court, Mason Plumlee is also known for his contributions off the court. He is actively involved in various charitable initiatives and community service projects, demonstrating his commitment to giving back. Some of his notable off-court efforts include:




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