Javonte Green

Javonte Green's Biography

Javonte Green, born on July 23, 1993, has emerged as an internationally recognized professional basketball player, currently plying his trade for the acclaimed New Orleans Pelicans in the National Basketball Association (NBA). His formidable skills on the court were honed with dedication and tenacity as he transitioned from his college team, the Radford Highlanders, to his current, high-profile professional career.

Green’s life journey began in Petersburg, Virginia, where he spent the first twelve years of his existence. Amid plans to move to Alberta, Virginia and live with his aunt, Green fostered his burgeoning athletic talents, particularly his passion for basketball. His early years also witnessed a burgeoning affinity for football, a dual athletic propensity that contributed to his rounded development as a sportsman.

During his formative years at Brunswick High School in Lawrenceville, Green had the distinct privilege of being tutored by former Virginia and NBA shooting guard Bryant Stith. He honed his skills to the point of consummate refinement and delivered with unimpeachable consistency. His senior year was particularly productive, recording an average of 18.6 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 3.1 steals per match. His independent efforts coalesced with that of his team to guide the Bulldogs to clinch the VSHL Group AA Division 3 state title.

Post high school, Green dedicated himself fully to basketball, committing to play for Radford University. Despite receiving a scholarship offer to play football at James Madison University, his love for basketball prevailed. What followed was a laudable journey that marked Green’s name in Radford’s history.

Over four seasons with the Radford Highlanders, Green progressed from a freshman starter to a seasoned player. Green’s performance at Radford was both influential and impactful. He set the school single-season record for steals and emerged as Radford’s career leader in rebounds, steals and games played. His performance did not go unrecognized, earning him multiple nominations to the All-Big South teams and even clinching the conference Defensive Player of the Year.

Green took an unconventional path to the NBA. undrafted in the 2015 NBA selections, his first professional assignment took him overseas to Spain’s Marin Peixegalego. His Spanish sojourn was impressive, leading him to be honored as the LEB Plata’s Most Valuable Player. The following year took Green to Italian club Pallacanestro Trieste. Returning for a second season confirmed his potential, leading in steals and impressing in other statistical categories.

His skill and dedication earned Green an opportunity with German club ratiopharm Ulm and later a position in Boston Celtics’ NBA Summer League roster. His performances struck the right chords, securing a two-year contract with the Celtics in 2019. His debut NBA match marked him as the first former Radford player to grace an NBA game. His ensuing years saw him delivering key performances, but also grappling with a knee injury that saw him miss the 2020 postseason.

Over the years, Green has had his share of transitions, moving to the Chicago Bulls in a complex three-way trade and later to the Golden State Warriors. Despite his brief stint at Golden State, Green managed to make an impact with the team’s G-League affiliate, the Santa Cruz Warriors.

In 2024, Green’s career took another turn foretelling his current stint with the New Orleans Pelicans. Outside the NBA, Green has represented Montenegro (his dual citizenship granting him eligibility) at the European 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup qualifiers.

Despite his achievements on the court, Green’s off-court life is not eclipsed, he is a father to two beautiful daughters and a son. His story continues to evolve, as his career in the NBA continues to stride towards greater heights.