Keon Ellis Bio
Keon Tyrese Ellis is an American professional basketball player for the Sacramento Kings of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He played college basketball for the Florida SouthWestern Buccaneers and the Alabama Crimson Tide. Ellis achieved notable success in his college career, earning accolades such as the SEC All-Defensive Team and setting records for points and steals at Florida SouthWestern. After going undrafted in the 2022 NBA draft, he signed with the Kings, marking the beginning of his professional journey.
Early Life and Background
Keon Tyrese Ellis was born on January 8, 2000, in Eustis, Florida. He attended Eustis High School, where he began to develop his basketball skills. After his sophomore year, he transferred to Leesburg High School, where he continued to excel on the court, leading the team to back-to-back Class 6A state titles. As a senior, Ellis averaged 12.7 points, 11 rebounds, and two assists per game, contributing to a remarkable 29–1 record for his team.
Following his high school career, Ellis initially signed to play college basketball for Gardner-Webb. However, he opted to join Florida SouthWestern, a junior college program, for academic reasons. This decision would prove pivotal in his development as a player.
Path to Basketball
At Florida SouthWestern, Ellis made an immediate impact as a freshman, averaging 8.3 points and three rebounds per game. His performance earned him Second Team All-Suncoast Conference honors. On January 4, 2020, he scored a school-record 41 points in a game against St. Petersburg College, showcasing his scoring ability. In his sophomore season, Ellis significantly improved his stats, averaging 18.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 2.1 steals per game, while setting program records for points and steals.
After two successful years at Florida SouthWestern, Ellis transferred to the University of Alabama. He chose Alabama over other schools, including Iowa State and Kansas State. During his junior year, he averaged 5.5 points and four rebounds per game. In his senior season, he was named to the SEC All-Defensive Team, averaging 12.1 points, 6.1 rebounds, and two steals per game, further solidifying his reputation as a talented player.
Keon Ellis Career
Early Career (2022)
Keon Ellis began his professional career after going undrafted in the 2022 NBA draft. He signed a two-way contract with the Sacramento Kings on July 2, 2022. During the 2022 NBA Summer League, Ellis played in seven games, averaging 11.4 points on 44.1% shooting from the field and an impressive 46.9% from three-point range, along with 3.6 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 2.0 steals per game.
His strong performance in the Summer League helped him secure a spot on the Kings’ roster, where he continued to develop his skills and contribute to the team.
Breakthrough (2023-2024)
In the 2023 season, Ellis signed another two-way contract with the Sacramento Kings on July 2. His breakthrough moment came on April 9, 2024, when he scored a career-high 26 points in a game against the Oklahoma City Thunder. This performance highlighted his potential as a key player for the Kings.
On April 17, 2024, Ellis played a crucial role in the Kings’ victory over the Golden State Warriors in the play-in tournament, contributing 15 points, five assists, four rebounds, three steals, and three blocks. His ability to perform under pressure showcased his growth as a professional athlete.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Keon Ellis has achieved several notable milestones, including being named to the SEC All-Defensive Team and setting records for points and steals at Florida SouthWestern. His transition from college basketball to the NBA has been marked by significant achievements, including a career-high 33 points in a game against the Atlanta Hawks on November 18, 2024.
Keon Ellis Award Nominations
Keon Ellis has received several nominations and accolades throughout his basketball career, particularly during his time in college. His recognition as a member of the SEC All-Defensive Team and other honors reflect his defensive prowess and overall contributions to his teams.
Keon Ellis Awards Won
Throughout his career, Keon Ellis has won several awards, including the SEC All-Defensive Team and the Suncoast Player of the Year. His achievements in college basketball have set a strong foundation for his professional career in the NBA.
Keon Ellis Family
Keon Ellis has an older brother, Antwon Clayton, who played college basketball for Jacksonville before turning professional. This familial connection to basketball has likely influenced Ellis’s own career path and dedication to the sport.
Personal Life
Details about Keon Ellis’s personal life remain relatively private. However, his commitment to basketball and his family background in the sport have shaped his journey as a professional athlete.
