- Thomas Bryant
- HT/WT: 6'10, 112 lbs
- Birthdate: 7/31/1997 (26)
- College: Indiana
- Draft Info: 2017: Rd 2, PK 42 (UTAH)
- Experience: 6 years
Thomas Jermaine Bryant, born on July 31, 1997, is an American professional basketball player who plays for the Miami Heat in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Bryant gained recognition during his college basketball career when he played for the Indiana Hoosiers from 2015 to 2017.
Table of Contents
Thomas Bryant Early life & High school career
Thomas Jermaine Bryant was born in Rochester, New York, on July 31, 1997. He is the only child of Linda and Edward Bryant. Thomas’s introduction to basketball was a pivotal moment in his life. At age three, his father took him to a Harlem Globetrotters game on February 19, 2000. Thomas received a red, white, and blue basketball at the game, which catalyzed his deep passion for the sport. This early exposure to basketball would shape his future in the game.
High School Career
Thomas Bryant’s high school basketball journey was marked by excellence and recognition. He attended two different high schools during his teenage years. His first stop was Bishop Kearney High School in Irondequoit, New York, where he achieved notable success. In his sophomore year, Bryant played a pivotal role in helping Bishop Kearney secure victory in the 2013 New York Class AA Tournament and the New York Federation Tournament of Champions.
However, Bryant’s basketball talents were not confined to Bishop Kearney. He sought further skills development opportunities and transferred to Huntington Prep School in Huntington, West Virginia. Here, he continued to shine as a basketball standout. In his junior year at Huntington Prep, Bryant averaged 13.9 pts, 12.9 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks per game. His senior year was even more remarkable, with averages of 17.3 points, 11.6 rebounds, 4.5 blocks, and 2.5 steals per game. His stellar play also extended to his involvement with Team SCAN, a Nike Elite Youth Basketball League Circuit AAU affiliate, where he showcased his skills on a national level.
Bryant’s exceptional high school career made him one of the country’s most highly sought-after basketball recruits, with colleges nationwide vying for his commitment.
College Career
After graduating from high school as a McDonald’s All-American, Thomas Bryant faced a pivotal decision regarding his college choice. He had the talent and potential to play for nearly any college program. Ultimately, he chose to further his education and basketball career at Indiana University, declaring his commitment on April 4, 2015, in a nationally televised announcement on ESPN.
Notable achievements marked his college career at Indiana. One of his standout moments came during his first year when he performed remarkably with 17 pts, seven rebounds, and four blocks in a crucial win over Creighton. Another highlight was his contribution to Indiana’s victory over the Kentucky Wildcats in the NCAA Tournament, where he delivered a memorable 19-point and five-rebound performance. Over his freshman season, Bryant averaged 11.9 points and 5.8 rebounds per game. His impact on the team earned him recognition as a Big Ten All-Freshman and a Third Team All-Big Ten player.
Despite early NBA draft opportunities, Bryant decided to return for his sophomore year, further honing his skills. During this season, he averaged 12.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game.
NBA Career
marked by impressive performances, earning him a spot on the All-NBA G League First Team.
In July 2018, the Washington Wizards claimed Thomas Bryant off waivers, giving him another chance to prove his worth in the NBA. His breakthrough moment came on December 22, 2018, when he erupted for 31 points against the Phoenix Suns, showcasing his potential as a rising star in the league. As of the 2019-20 season, Bryant has maintained solid averages of 12.1 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 0.9 blocks per game, establishing himself as a valuable asset to the Washington Wizards.
In July 2022, Thomas Bryant made a surprising return to the Los Angeles Lakers. One of the standout moments during this stint was his game-winning dunk on December 18, 2022, against his former team, the Washington Wizards, resulting in a thrilling 119–117 victory.
On February 9, 2023, Bryant was traded to the Nuggets as part of a four-team trade involving the Los Angeles Clippers and Orlando Magic. He achieved his first NBA championship with the Nuggets as they defeated the Heat in the NBA Finals in five games.
On July 2, 2023, Bryant signed a 2-year, $5.4 million contract with the Miami Heat, marking the next phase of his career.
Net Worth and Salary
While Thomas Bryant’s current net worth remains undisclosed, his earnings in the NBA reflect his growing success in the league. Over his first three seasons in the NBA, he earned $10,193,857. He is under a 3-year, $25,000,000 contract with the Washington Wizards, which translates to an average annual salary of $8,333,333. His initial entry into the league saw him sign a 2-year, $2.2 million deal with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2017.
Personal Life
Thomas Bryant’s journey in basketball is deeply rooted in his early experiences with the sport. His father’s decision to take him to a Harlem Globetrotters game at a young age and the gift of a basketball during that outing ignited his passion for basketball. Despite his success on the court, Bryant remains unmarried and has no children. His focus and dedication to his career are evident in his journey from a young basketball enthusiast to an NBA player.
Fun Facts
- On December 22, 2018, Thomas Bryant achieved a historic feat in the NBA when he made 14 out of 14 field goals in a game against the Phoenix Suns.
- In the G League, Bryant showcased his scoring ability and versatility with averages of 19.7 points and 7.4 rebounds per game.
- Bryant originally intended to attend Syracuse University for college. Still, scholarship issues arising from a scandal led him to reconsider and ultimately choose Indiana University as his collegiate destination.