Joshua Evan Christopher Bio
Joshua Evan Christopher is an American professional basketball player for the Sioux Falls Skyforce of the NBA G League. He played college basketball for the Arizona State Sun Devils. Standing at 6 feet 4 inches and weighing 215 pounds, he plays as a shooting guard. Christopher has garnered attention for his scoring ability and athleticism, showcasing his skills at the high school level before moving on to a noteworthy college career at Arizona State. Continuing his professional journey, he was drafted by the Houston Rockets in 2021 and has since been part of various teams in the G League, demonstrating his potential in the sport.
Early Life and Background
Joshua Evan Christopher was born on December 8, 2001, in Carson, California. He grew up playing basketball with his older brother, Caleb, beginning in elementary school and continuing through middle school and high school at Mayfair High School in Lakewood, California. During his early years, he often played against older opponents, which helped him develop his skills. As a sophomore at Mayfair, Christopher averaged 25.9 points, 6.5 rebounds, 4 steals, and 3.6 assists per game, leading his team to a 21–8 record. In his junior season, he maintained an impressive average of 25 points per game and won the Division 2AA championship. As a senior, he averaged 29.2 points, 8 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 3.1 steals per game, leading his team to the CIF Southern Section Division 1 quarterfinals. Christopher was selected to play in the McDonald’s All-American Game, Jordan Brand Classic, and Nike Hoop Summit, although all three games were canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Path to Basketball
Christopher was a consensus five-star recruit and ranked as the number two shooting guard in the 2020 recruiting class. On April 13, 2020, he announced his commitment to Arizona State University, choosing the school over other prominent programs such as Michigan, USC, Missouri, and UCLA. His decision was influenced by his brother Caleb, who had played at Arizona State for one year. This commitment made Christopher Arizona State’s highest-ranked recruit in the modern recruiting era and the program’s first five-star recruit since James Harden in 2007.
Joshua Evan Christopher Career
Early Career (2021–2023)
Christopher was selected with the 24th pick in the first round of the 2021 NBA Draft by the Houston Rockets. He signed with the Rockets on August 7, 2021, and made his official NBA debut on October 20, 2021, coming off the bench to score five points in eight minutes during a loss against the Minnesota Timberwolves. On November 24, 2021, he was assigned to the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, where he averaged 20 points in three games before being recalled by the Rockets. On December 8, 2021, Christopher logged 18 points in a game against the Brooklyn Nets, shooting 7-of-7 from the field. He had notable performances throughout the season, including a 30-point game against the Timberwolves in April 2022. However, during the 2022–2023 season, Christopher fell out of the rotation, resulting in decreased minutes and numbers.
Breakthrough (2023–Present)
On July 8, 2023, the Memphis Grizzlies acquired Christopher from the Houston Rockets as part of a five-team trade but waived him on September 30, 2023. He then signed a two-way contract with the Utah Jazz on October 13, 2023, but was waived on January 9, 2024, without playing for the team. Despite this setback, he made 22 appearances with the Jazz’s G League affiliate, the Salt Lake City Stars. On January 14, 2024, Christopher joined the Sioux Falls Skyforce and signed a two-way contract with the Miami Heat on July 25, 2024.
Notable Works and Milestones
Joshua Christopher’s signature achievements include being an NBA G League champion in 2022, being named to the All-NBA G League Third Team in 2025, and earning the title of McDonald’s All-American in 2020.
Joshua Evan Christopher Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Joshua Christopher has received several notable nominations, particularly in the G League, highlighting his emerging talent in professional basketball.
Joshua Evan Christopher Awards Won
Joshua Christopher has won significant awards during his career, including the NBA G League championship in 2022 and recognition as an All-NBA G League Third Team member in 2025.
Joshua Evan Christopher Family
Joshua Christopher is the youngest of four siblings, all of whom have played basketball. His brother Patrick played professionally, including a brief stint with the Utah Jazz. His sister Paris played college basketball for Saint Mary’s but suffered a career-ending injury. His brother Caleb played for both Arizona State University and Tennessee Tech.
Personal Life
Joshua Christopher’s father, Laron, is a musician, and his parents are devout Christians. He is often known by the nickname “Jaygup,” which he received during his childhood.