If you haven’t been paying attention to the New Orleans Pelicans’ breakout star “Trigga” Trey Murphy III, now is the time to start.
The fourth-year forward is having a head-turning season, averaging 21.7 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game. Murphy has emerged as a bright spot during the Pelicans’ nightmarish season as the team has struggled with injuries, inconsistency, and the long-rumored trade of former all-star Brandon Ingram.
Murphy, drafted as a silky smooth sharpshooter, has stepped up in an expanded role and become a more complete player.
High School Stardom at Cary Academy
Trey Murphy III’s basketball journey began at Cary Academy in Cary, North Carolina. Throughout his high-school career, Murphy scored 1,326 points, surpassing the coveted milestone of 1,000 points. He also set several school records, including field goals (400), three-pointers (225), and free throws (301).
In his senior year, Murphy averaged 24.7 points and 7.4 rebounds per game. He posted shooting percentages of 49.4% from the field, 43.6% from three-point range, and 85.8% from the free-throw line. Despite his impressive numbers, Murphy flew under the radar of major college programs, receiving little to no national attention. Determined to prove himself, he brought his abilities to the under-the-radar basketball program at Rice University, where he stood out enough to open some eyes.
A Hidden Gem at Rice University
As a freshman, Trey Murphy played in all 32 games, averaging 8.4 points and 2.6 rebounds per game. He ranked fourth in Conference USA for three-point field goal percentage, shooting 42.1%.
In his sophomore year, Murphy led the team in scoring with an average of 13.7 points and corralled 5.5 rebounds per game. Additionally, he topped the team in field goals made (131), dunks (21), and blocks (16). After two strong seasons at the under-the-radar basketball program at Rice, Murphy sought to challenge himself at a higher level of competition.
Breakout at Virginia and NBA Draft
Murphy then transferred to the University of Virginia, where he quickly adapted to the ACC’s physicality and elevated his draft stock.
He averaged 11.3 points and 3.4 rebounds per game, with a field goal percentage of 50.3% and three-point percentage of 43.3%. His 50-40-90 shooting splits elevated him into first-round draft prospect status.
After an impressive junior season, Trey Murphy declared for the 2021 NBA Draft. The Memphis Grizzlies selected him 17th overall, but he was promptly traded to the Pelicans.
Scouts were particularly intrigued by his elite shooting ability. His smooth shooting stroke, combined with deep range and a quick release, made him a tantalizing prospect for teams looking for floor spacers.
His shooting ability wasn’t the only thing that attracted attention. Standing 6-foot-9 with a seven-foot wingspan, he had the size and athleticism to be a versatile player on both ends of the court. Additionally, his skill in moving without the ball and finishing plays above the rim greatly enhanced his offensive potential.
Although he had notable strengths, scouts expressed concerns about his defensive toughness and rebounding ability. Additionally, some felt he needed to be more aggressive when attacking the rim instead of relying so heavily on outside shooting.
Murphy, however, used these doubts as motivation. Determined to expand his game, he committed to improving his ball-handling and defensive skills, setting the stage for his rapid growth in the NBA.
Rookie Season: Adjusting to the NBA
Trey Murphy entered the NBA with high expectations due to his high-level shooting skills and height.
However, like many rookies, he faced challenges during his transition to professional basketball. He gained valuable experience by playing in the G League, which helped him build confidence. Murphy seized his opportunities by showcasing his exceptional shooting ability and his defensive versatility.
As a rookie in the NBA, he averaged 5.4 points and 2.4 rebounds per game and shot 39.4% from three-point range. His breakout moment came during the 2022 Play-In Tournament, when he scored 14 crucial points against the Los Angeles Clippers, helping the Pelicans secure a playoff spot.
Year Two: Becoming a Key Contributor
In his sophomore season, Murphy made significant strides, establishing himself as a vital contributor to an ascending Pels team. He averaged 14.5 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game with increased playing time. He also shot 48.4% from the field and 40.6% from three-point range, living up to his sharpshooter status.
One of the highlight moments of his second year occurred on March 12, 2023. He scored a career-high 41 points against the Trail Blazers, including nine three-pointers. By the end of the season, he had firmly established himself as one of the league’s rising young stars.
After a standout sophomore season, Murphy entered his third year eager to take another leap. With more responsibility on his shoulders, he worked to expand his offensive skill set and his defensive chops to become a true two-way player.
Year Three: Expanding His Game
Murphy entered the 2023-24 season with high expectations, and he did not disappoint. With the Pelicans dealing with injuries to key players, he took on a larger offensive role. He showcased improved ball handling and finishing around the rim.
He also became more involved in playmaking by setting up his teammates and making smarter decisions with the ball. His length and quickness made him a valuable asset in the Pelicans’ switch-heavy defensive schemes, allowing him to effectively guard multiple positions.
A Career Year: 2024-25 Season
This brings us to the current NBA season.
Murphy has made the biggest leap in his career despite playing for an underperforming Pelicans team. While being near the bottom of the standings in the Western Conference was not the franchise’s gameplan, it has given him more opportunities to develop. In the offseason, he signed a four-year, $112 million extension to stay in New Orleans, which seemed to add to his confidence.
During the offseason, he focused on improving his ball-handling skills and off-the-dribble moves. That effort has paid off tremendously. He is more comfortable with the ball in his hands and is more determined to drive to the paint when he sees a lane. His 6-foot-9 frame allows him to score efficiently in traffic and finish strong at the rim.
What’s Next For Trey Murphy III?
The Pelicans have a promising young core featuring Zion Williamson and Trey Murphy III, and it is now the front office’s responsibility to build a team that complements their playing styles. Murphy is an ideal fit alongside Zion; the physical lane-buster’s ability to drive to the paint often draws double teams, which creates open three-point opportunities on the wing or at the top of the key.
Murphy’s ongoing development in creating his own shots and scoring off the dribble will help reduce some pressure on Zion, which is crucial for the injury-prone star’s long-term health.
It is also important to highlight how he has emerged as a leader in the locker room, mentoring younger players and serving as a unifying presence for the young Pelicans squad.
With his scoring ability reaching new heights, the question now is: How far can Trey Murphy take his game? Can he become an All-Star or even a franchise cornerstone? He has already proven himself as a high-level scorer and shooter, but his continued development as a playmaker and defender will determine how high he can fly.
Leave a comment