Kris Murray Bio
Kristopher James Murray is an American professional basketball player for the Portland Trail Blazers of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He played college basketball for the Iowa Hawkeyes of the Big Ten Conference from 2020 to 2023. In his final year with the Hawkeyes, he was named first-team All-Big Ten. He is the twin brother of basketball player Keegan Murray, who plays for the Sacramento Kings.
Early Life and Background
Kris Murray was born on August 19, 2000, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He grew up in a family with a strong basketball background, as his father, Kenyon Murray, was a notable player for the Iowa Hawkeyes. Kris attended Prairie High School, where he played alongside his twin brother, Keegan. During his time at Prairie, he earned first-team All-Metro and second-team All-State honors, averaging impressive statistics that included 19.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game. After graduating, both brothers opted to attend DME Academy in Daytona Beach, Florida, for a postgraduate year before committing to the University of Iowa for their college basketball careers.
Path to Basketball
At the University of Iowa, Kris Murray began his college basketball journey. In his freshman year, he played in 13 games, primarily coming off the bench. His sophomore season saw him average 9.7 points and 4.3 rebounds over 35 games, with one start. After his sophomore year, he briefly entered the 2022 NBA draft but later withdrew his name. Murray’s junior season was a breakout year; he averaged 20.2 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 2 assists per game, earning him first-team All-Big Ten honors and recognition as a third-team All-American by various organizations. Following this successful season, he declared for the 2023 NBA draft.
Kris Murray Career
Early Career (2020–2023)
Kris Murray’s early career at Iowa was marked by steady improvement. He made significant contributions during his sophomore year, which laid the groundwork for his breakout junior season. His performances garnered attention, and he was recognized as a top player in the Big Ten Conference. In 2023, he was selected 23rd overall in the NBA draft by the Portland Trail Blazers, marking the beginning of his professional career.
Breakthrough (2023–Present)
Upon being drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers, Kris Murray signed with the team on July 1, 2023. He quickly made an impact in the NBA, scoring back-to-back career-highs in points during games against the Los Angeles Clippers, where he posted 17 and then 21 points in consecutive outings. His early performances have shown promise for his future in the league.
Notable Works and Milestones
Kris Murray’s signature achievements include being named first-team All-Big Ten and third-team All-American in 2023. His transition from college to professional basketball has been marked by impressive performances, and he is expected to continue developing as a player in the NBA.
Kris Murray Award Nominations
Kris Murray has received notable nominations during his college career, including recognition as a third-team All-American and first-team All-Big Ten in 2023.
Kris Murray Awards Won
Throughout his career, Kris Murray has achieved significant milestones, including being named third-team All-American and first-team All-Big Ten in 2023, showcasing his talent and hard work on the court.
Kris Murray Family
Kris Murray comes from a basketball family. His father, Kenyon Murray, was a four-year starter for the Iowa Hawkeyes and was recognized as Mr. Basketball in Michigan in 1992. His twin brother, Keegan Murray, was a top five pick in the 2022 NBA draft and currently plays for the Sacramento Kings.
Personal Life
Kris Murray’s personal life reflects his commitment to basketball. He shares a close bond with his twin brother, Keegan, and has followed in their father’s footsteps in pursuing a career in the sport. Kris was named after the late Chris Street, a beloved figure in Iowa basketball history.
