Rayan Rupert

Born on the 31st of May 2004, Rayan Rupert is a French professional basketball player, best known for his stints with the New Zealand Breakers and currently the Portland Trail Blazers of the National Basketball Association (NBA). His correct pronunciation of the name is RYE-ən roo-PAIR. Rupert bears a rich heritage laced with roots in Martinique and Morocco. He has successfully incorporated his powerful ancestry and cultural history into a fruitful and fast-growing basketball career that has attracted attention from various quarters of the world.

Rupert had his early training and laid the foundation for his career at the INSEP Academy in France, a prestigious institution known for producing some of the finest talents in French sports. From his student days, Rupert exemplified a high level of dedication and commitment to the game, indicating a bright future in the competitive world of professional basketball.

Between 2019 and 2021, Rupert took a significant step forward in his career by joining Centre Fédéral, a basketball club in the French NM1, the third tier of basketball in France. During his time with Centre Fédéral, Rupert demonstrated exceptional skills and a promising future, catching the eyes of scouts and sparking interest from teams in higher leagues. His stint with the club was a testament to his ever-budding potential and highlighted his readiness for the bigger stage.

In the 2021-2022 NM1 season, Rupert switched to Pôle France, a notable team known for its youth development. His time with Pôle France was characterized by consistent improvements and remarkable performances, further solidifying his prospects for an international career.

The ensuing chapter of Rupert’s career journey took him across the globe as he joined the New Zealand Breakers for the 2022-23 NBL season. The move was part of the league’s Next Stars program which aimed to provide a platform for rising talents to polish their abilities before stepping into major leagues. Before Rupert, the Breakers had already seen fellow Frenchmen, Hugo Besson and Ousmane Dieng, make their way into the NBA draft.

Rayan Rupert’s hard work and distinctive talent paid off when he was selected by the Portland Trail Blazers in the second round of the 2023 NBA draft, securing the 43rd overall pick. This significant milestone was followed by officially signing with the Blazers on the 4th of July, 2023. Rupert now plays on the world stage alongside the most skilled basketball professionals, showcasing his talent in the most competitive basketball league.

Rupert hails from a family deeply tied to basketball. His father, Thierry Rupert, was a remarkable figure in European basketball, having been a EuroLeague player and the captain of the French national team. On the other hand, his sister, Iliana, has carved a niche for herself, being the 12th overall pick in the 2021 WNBA draft. Their achievements have undoubtedly been instrumental in shaping Rayan Rupert into the promising and talented player he is today.

In conclusion, Rayan Rupert has emerged as one of the bright prospects in the world of professional basketball. His journey from the local French NM1 league to the Portland Trail Blazers in the NBA speaks volumes about his exceptional talent, persistent hard work, and burning ambition. Carrying forward the family legacy and representing the rich cultural heritage of his roots, Rupert is a name to watch out for in the coming seasons.