Bryce McGowens Bio
Bryce Alexander McGowens (born November 8, 2002) is an American professional basketball player for the New Orleans Pelicans of the National Basketball Association (NBA), on a two-way contract with the Birmingham Squadron of the NBA G League. He played college basketball for the Nebraska Cornhuskers.
Early Life and Background
Bryce McGowens was born in Pendleton, South Carolina. He grew up in a family with a strong athletic background; his father, Bobby McGowens, was a two-sport athlete in basketball and football at South Carolina State, and his mother, Pam McGowens, played basketball for Western Carolina. Both of his parents have also coached high school basketball, which likely influenced his passion for the sport.
McGowens attended Wren High School in Piedmont, South Carolina, where he began to make a name for himself in basketball. He later transferred to Legacy Early College in Greenville, South Carolina, for his senior year, further honing his skills and preparing for a collegiate career.
Path to Basketball
During his high school career, Bryce McGowens showcased his talent by averaging impressive statistics. As a sophomore, he averaged 26.3 points per game and was named Region 1-4A Player of the Year. He continued to excel, scoring a school-record 65 points in a playoff game during his junior year. His senior season at Legacy Early College saw him average 21.6 points per game, earning him South Carolina Gatorade Player of the Year honors.
McGowens was highly recruited, being considered a five-star recruit by 247Sports and Rivals. He initially committed to play for Florida State but later switched his commitment to the University of Nebraska, where he became the highest-ranked recruit in the program’s history.
Bryce McGowens Career
Early Career (2021–2022)
Bryce McGowens made his college debut for the Nebraska Cornhuskers on November 9, 2021, scoring 25 points in a close loss to Western Illinois. Throughout his freshman season, he averaged 16.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game. His performance earned him spots on the Third Team All-Big Ten and the Big Ten All-Freshman Team.
After a successful freshman year, McGowens declared for the 2022 NBA Draft, forgoing his remaining college eligibility. He was selected with the 40th overall pick by the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Breakthrough (2022–2024)
After being drafted, McGowens was traded to the Charlotte Hornets, where he signed a two-way contract on July 2, 2022. This contract allowed him to split his time between the Hornets and their G League affiliate, the Greensboro Swarm. On February 26, 2023, McGowens’ contract was converted to a multi-year deal, marking a significant step in his professional career.
However, on July 6, 2024, McGowens was waived by the Hornets. Shortly after, he signed a two-way contract with the Portland Trail Blazers on July 11, 2024. His time with the Blazers was marked by limited playing time, averaging just 1.0 point per game in 13 games during the 2024-25 season.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his early career, Bryce McGowens has achieved several notable accolades, including being named to the All-NBA G League Second Team in 2025, Third-team All-Big Ten in 2022, and earning the title of South Carolina Mr. Basketball in 2021.
Bryce McGowens Award Nominations
Bryce McGowens has received several nominations throughout his career, particularly during his time in college and early professional career, showcasing his talent and potential as a rising star in basketball.
Bryce McGowens Awards Won
McGowens has won several awards, including the All-NBA G League Second Team in 2025, Third-team All-Big Ten in 2022, and the South Carolina Mr. Basketball award in 2021, highlighting his achievements at various levels of competition.
Bryce McGowens Family
Bryce McGowens comes from a family deeply rooted in sports. His father, Bobby, and mother, Pam, both have backgrounds in basketball, which has played a significant role in his development as a player. He has an older brother, Trey, who also played college basketball.
Personal Life
Details about Bryce McGowens’ personal life are limited, but his family’s involvement in sports has been a significant influence on his career. He remains focused on his professional journey as he continues to develop his skills in the NBA.
