Former Arizona State star Josh Christopher is being traded

Josh Christopher was the first “one and done” player in Arizona State basketball history. After being drafted by the Houston Rockets in 2021, the 6’4 wing is being traded to the Memphis Grizzlies.

A former Sun Devil is going to the Grizzlies

The California native was drafted by the Houston Rockets with the 24th pick in the 2021 NBA draft.

In his rookie season as a 20-year-old for the Rockets, Christopher appeared in 74 games. He played 18 minutes per game and scored 7.9 points per game.

Not bad for a rookie.

The former Sun Devil also showed flashes of his elite scoring capability during his rookie season. In an April game against the Timberwolves, the rookie exploded for a 30-point outburst, his current career high.

It wasn’t all smooth sailing for Christopher’s sophomore season, however. Both his scoring and minutes took dips. Now with a change of scenery, he could find his footing again and make a name for himself in the NBA.

Josh Christopher as a Sun Devil

Prior to being an NBA player, Christopher made a name for himself at Arizona State.

The former five-star was the highest-ranked recruit to ever commit to ASU basketball. Christopher was ranked as the 8th best player in his class (247 Sports) and was named a McDonald’s All-American.

The biggest attribute of his game going into college was his elite scoring and his ability to hit difficult shots. As a freshman, Christopher averaged a little over 14 points per game. That put him at 14th overall in the conference and second on his team (behind leading scorer Remy Martin). The only freshman in the Pac-12 that scored more than Christopher was future third-overall draft pick, Evan Mobley.

Only time will tell if Christopher can follow the paths of success Sun Devils in the NBA, like James Harden or Lu Dort. He now has a fresh start in Memphis with the Grizzlies.

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