Kelly Oubre Jr.

BIOGRAPHY

Born on December 9, 1995, Kelly Paul Oubre Jr. is a celebrated name in the world of professional basketball. Currently, he shows his prowess on the court for the Philadelphia 76ers of the National Basketball Association (NBA). This biography chronicles his journey, from his early life in New Orleans, Louisiana, to becoming one of the top names in the NBA.

Kelly Oubre Jr., the second child to Kelly Oubre Sr. and Tonya Coleman (formerly Oubre), was born in New Orleans, Louisiana. He spent the early years of his life living in the Magnolia public housing project, later settling in the Eastover section of New Orleans.

Education was not neglected, with Oubre attending Edward Hynes Elementary School (known as Hynes Charter School now). At the same time, he demonstrated his passion for basketball, playing for three Milne Boys Home (now New Orleans Recreation Development Commission) basketball teams.

In 2005, life took a dramatic turn for Oubre and his family when Hurricane Katrina struck, prompting a move to Richmond, Texas. Here, Oubre attended George Bush High School before transferring to Findlay Prep in Henderson, Nevada for his senior season. Finding success on the court was only a matter of time, and in October 2013, he committed to playing for the Kansas Jayhawks in the 2014-15 season.

Oubre’s time at Kansas was a major stepping stone in his career. During his freshman year, he was named Big 12 Newcomer of the Week twice and earned All-Newcomer Team honors. From this platform sprung his 36-game run (27 starts), where he averaged 9.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.1 steals per game.

In 2015, Oubre decided to take the next big step – he declared for the NBA draft, forgoing his final three years of college eligibility. He was the 15th overall pick, selected by the Atlanta Hawks. However, his draft rights were traded to the Washington Wizards.

In his professional basketball career, he has played for various NBA teams, including the Washington Wizards, Phoenix Suns, Golden State Warriors, and Charlotte Hornets. Oubre’s career has seen great highs, from setting career-high scores to signing a lucrative two-year, $30 million contract extension with the Phoenix Suns in 2019.

Despite facing setbacks like injuries and the subsequent surgeries, his undeterred spirit and love for the sport have always led him back to the court. For instance, after suffering a torn ligament in his left hand in December 2022, he underwent surgery and was ruled out indefinitely. However, by February 2023, Oubre made his return, ready to contribute to his team’s wins once again.

Off the court, Oubre is known for his philanthropic initiatives and community involvement. He created a brand of merchandise called “Valley Boyz” to celebrate the Arizona community and his team. The proceeds from local sales in Phoenix’s Uptown Plaza were given to his teammate Deandre Ayton to support hurricane relief efforts against Hurricane Dorian in the Bahamas through UNICEF.

Overcoming many obstacles, including a startling hit-and-run incident in November 2023, where he suffered a fractured rib and injuries to his hip and right leg, Oubre continues to make his mark in the sport. He returned to the game a month following the accident, showing his resilient spirit and love for basketball.

Overall, Kelly Oubre Jr.’s life is one of inspiring dedication, perseverance, and achievement. He remains an influential figure in professional basketball, admired by aspiring players worldwide.