The NBA is full of success stories, and Portland Trail Blazers big man Duop Reath is the latest example. The 27-year-old rookie center had been on a two-way contract, but just played his way to a multi-year deal, continuing an inspiring journey from South Sudan to the Association.
NBA News: Trail Blazers Promote Rookie Center to Multi-Year Deal
Background
Reath’s story is one of resilience. He was born in South Sudan but moved with his family to Australia at nine years old to chase his hoop dreams. Reath transferred to LSU from Lee College in Texas, and he averaged 12.3 points on 52% shooting in his two years as a Tiger. He went undrafted in 2018, played for the Mavericks’ Summer League team and eventually began his career overseas. After successful stints in Serbia, China and Lebanon—as well as a return to Australia—the Blazers took a chance on Reath with one of their two-way contract spots.
But instead of spending time with the Rip City Remix, Reath gained experience through Chauncey Billups’s rotation. He made his NBA debut on Nov. 12 against the Lakers, logging 11 points, three rebounds, three assists and a block in 14 minutes. His career night came against the Kings on Dec. 27. Reath put up 25 points (9/15 FG, 3/6 3PT, 4/4 FT), nine rebounds, a steal and a block—all contributing to a 130-113 Portland victory. In 40 games (11 starts), Reath has averaged 8.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 0.5 blocks per game.
How Duop Reath Impacts the Trail Blazers
Despite being the fourth oldest rookie in the league, Duop Reath has helped the Blazers immensely and adjusted to the league’s playing style immediately. At 6-foot-11 and 245 pounds, Reath is a unique, agile big man who can work both inside and outside of the paint. He’s shooting 47% from the field and 38% from three—both on respectable volume—which are impressive numbers from a bruising center. He’s also able to hold his own on the perimeter defensively, altering three-point attempts with ease. Reath has carved out a nice role behind DeAndre Ayton, and is one of the reasons why Portland’s bench is fifth in offensive rebounds per game (4.9). Performances like the one below are why Reath has earned his stripes and a new payday.
Reath has been able to develop very well during the Blazers’ rebuild. His new deal is part of several changes that could come for the team after the All-Star break. Portland’s current trajectory (15-39) suggests that their starters could be shut down sooner than later. If that’s the case, then Reath will have more opportunities to showcase his skills on the big stage. That, coinciding with the trust he’s earned from the Portland brass, is all any rookie could ask for.
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