In the world of professional basketball, there are countless stories of players who defy the odds to make it to the NBA. One such player is Drew Eubanks, a name that has steadily gained recognition in recent years. Eubanks’ journey to the NBA is a testament to hard work, resilience, and seizing opportunities when they come. Known for his energy, hustle, and versatility, Eubanks has emerged as a reliable presence on the basketball court.
This article will take an in-depth look at Drew Eubanks’ basketball journey, from his early life and college days to his rise as an NBA player, his playing style, and his role with his current team. We’ll also explore how Eubanks has carved out a niche for himself in the NBA and what the future may hold for this dynamic player.
A Brief Overview of Drew Eubanks
Drew Eubanks is an American professional basketball player currently playing for the Portland Trail Blazers in the NBA. Known for his impressive energy, rim protection, and interior scoring, Eubanks has slowly but surely worked his way into the league despite not being drafted.
Standing at 6’9” and playing as a center, Eubanks has been a valuable asset for the Trail Blazers, providing a solid defensive presence and offering rebounding and scoring depth off the bench. His journey to the NBA is one that highlights perseverance and dedication, making him a great story for aspiring players everywhere.
Early Life and High School Career: The Foundation of Drew Eubanks’ Basketball Journey
Drew Eubanks was born on February 1, 1997, in Redmond, Oregon. Raised in a community that was not known for producing top-tier basketball talent, Eubanks had to carve his path toward success. His love for the game began at an early age, and it quickly became clear that basketball was his passion. Standing at 6’2″ by the time he was in high school, Eubanks had already grown into a player who could make an impact on the court.
High School Success at Mountain View High
Eubanks attended Mountain View High School in Bend, Oregon, where he was a standout player on the basketball team. His skills as a forward were evident, and by his senior year, he was one of the top players in the state. Eubanks averaged impressive stats during his high school years, making him a coveted prospect for colleges across the country.
During his senior season, Eubanks earned several accolades for his strong play, including first-team all-state honors. His basketball IQ, physicality, and ability to dominate on both ends of the floor made him an attractive recruit, though he wasn’t quite as widely known as some of his peers at the national level.
College Career: Drew Eubanks at Oregon State
Choosing Oregon State University: After high school, Eubanks committed to Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon, to play college basketball for the Oregon State Beavers. His decision to stay in Oregon was a key moment in his career, as it allowed him to develop under the tutelage of college coaches while also staying close to home.
Freshman Year: Making an Impact Early: In his freshman year at Oregon State, Drew Eubanks immediately made an impact on the team. His athleticism and work ethic caught the attention of both his teammates and coaches. Eubanks played in 31 games during his freshman year, earning significant minutes off the bench. His contributions were mostly seen on the defensive end and as a rebounding presence, as he averaged 5.2 points and 4.7 rebounds per game. This strong showing established him as a promising player for the Beavers.
Sophomore Year: A Star in the Making
Eubanks’ sophomore year saw significant improvement. He became one of the most important players for Oregon State, playing a more prominent role as a starter. In the 2017-18 season, he averaged 13.1 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game, showcasing his well-rounded skills on both ends of the court. His ability to protect the rim and score in the post helped solidify his reputation as one of the top centers in the Pac-12.
Eubanks’ development during his college years caught the attention of NBA scouts, though many still viewed him as a raw talent. His performance in the Pac-12 Conference gave him a solid platform to showcase his abilities, making him a player to watch in future drafts.
NBA Journey: Drew Eubanks’ Road to the NBA
Despite his strong college career, Drew Eubanks went undrafted in the 2018 NBA Draft. This was a setback, but Eubanks refused to let it deter him. Rather than giving up on his dream, he accepted an invitation to participate in the NBA Summer League, where he impressed the San Antonio Spurs’ coaching staff.
In July 2018, Eubanks signed a contract with the Spurs and was assigned to the Austin Spurs, the team’s G League affiliate. Eubanks made the most of his G League opportunity, continuing to develop his skills and gain more playing time. His hard work paid off when he was called up to the NBA team and began to get minutes with the Spurs during the 2018-2019 NBA season.
San Antonio Spurs: Making a Name for Himself
Although Eubanks wasn’t immediately a starter, he worked tirelessly to prove his value to the Spurs. His ability to provide energy, grab rebounds, and protect the rim made him a valuable asset off the bench. Over the course of his tenure with the Spurs, Eubanks became a reliable contributor, known for his toughness and defensive presence.
Throughout his time with the Spurs, Eubanks showed improvement in both his offensive and defensive game, gradually earning more playing time and trust from the coaching staff. His most significant moment with the Spurs came during the 2020-2021 season, where he played in 47 games and averaged 5.3 points and 3.9 rebounds per game.
Moving to the Portland Trail Blazers: In 2022, Eubanks signed with the Portland Trail Blazers after his time with the Spurs ended. Joining the Blazers gave him an opportunity to continue to grow as a player while contributing to a young and dynamic team. Eubanks has since developed a solid role as a center for the Blazers, providing defensive depth and rebounding in key moments.
Playing Style: Drew Eubanks’ Strengths and Impact on the Court
Defensive Presence and Rim Protection: One of Eubanks’ standout qualities is his defensive ability, particularly as a rim protector. Standing at 6’9” with a wingspan that allows him to contest shots effectively, he is a force in the paint. His ability to guard the rim has made him a key part of the Blazers’ defensive schemes, especially when facing teams with strong interior players. Eubanks excels in pick-and-roll situations, where his agility allows him to switch on defense or help protect the basket. His rim protection is complemented by his impressive leaping ability, which allows him to block shots and disrupt offensive sets.
Rebounding and Hustle Plays: Eubanks is also known for his hustle, particularly when it comes to rebounding. His tenacity on the glass, both offensively and defensively, makes him a valuable asset. Whether it’s fighting for position or securing tough boards, Eubanks has earned a reputation for his work ethic and determination in the paint.
Offensive Development: While Eubanks has made strides offensively, especially in scoring around the rim, his offensive game remains a work in progress. He primarily scores in the paint through dunks, putbacks, and lob finishes, but his outside shooting is still developing. As a player who can affect the game without requiring the ball in his hands, Eubanks can continue to refine his offensive skill set to add more versatility.
Drew Eubanks’ Impact on His Teams
Contribution to the San Antonio Spurs: During his time with the San Antonio Spurs, Eubanks played an important role in providing depth at the center position. Though his minutes fluctuated, his energy and defensive presence were always felt on the court. The Spurs, a team that values team play and fundamental basketball, benefitted from Eubanks’ hustle and defensive versatility.
Portland Trail Blazers: As part of the Portland Trail Blazers, Eubanks has taken on a more significant role. His rebounding, rim protection, and work ethic have been vital in bolstering the Blazers’ frontcourt. His addition provides depth alongside more established players like Damian Lillard and Jusuf Nurkic, helping the Blazers compete in the tough Western Conference.
Future Outlook: What’s Next for Drew Eubanks?
Continued Development: As Drew Eubanks continues to refine his game, the future looks bright for him. His defense and energy make him a valuable asset, and if he can continue to improve his offensive skills, particularly his shooting range, he could become a more well-rounded player.
Building a Long-Term Role: At just 26 years old, Eubanks has a solid foundation on which to build. His role as a rim protector and rebounder will continue to be key for the Blazers, but with further development, Eubanks could evolve into a more consistent contributor on offense as well.
Drew Eubanks’ NBA Journey is Just Beginning
Drew Eubanks’ journey from an undrafted free agent to an NBA contributor is a story of persistence and hard work. His defensive prowess, rebounding ability, and relentless hustle have earned him a place in the NBA, and he continues to show promise as he develops his game. Whether it’s with the Portland Trail Blazers or another team, Eubanks’ future in the NBA is bright, and his dedication to growth is sure to propel him even further.
FAQs
What is Drew Eubanks’ net worth?
As of 2025, Drew Eubanks’ estimated net worth is around $1-2 million. His earnings come from his NBA contracts and endorsements. While not among the wealthiest players in the league, his net worth reflects his role as a consistent, hard-working player.
Does Drew Eubanks have social media accounts?
Yes, Drew Eubanks is active on social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter. He often shares personal updates, behind-the-scenes glimpses of his life, and interactions with fans. His Instagram handle is drew eubanks, where he posts highlights, workout videos, and personal moments.
How did Drew Eubanks get his start in the NBA?
After going undrafted in 2018, Drew Eubanks joined the San Antonio Spurs’ Summer League team. His strong play there earned him a two-way contract, which allowed him to split time between the NBA team and their G-League affiliate. Over time, he impressed with his defensive prowess and earned a more permanent role in the NBA.
What are Drew Eubanks’ future prospects in the NBA?
Drew Eubanks is expected to continue contributing as a reliable role player in the NBA. His future will likely depend on his ability to maintain his defensive efficiency and add more offensive tools to his game. Given his age and energy, he has the potential to remain a useful rotation player for the Trail Blazers or any other team seeking an experienced backup center.
Has Drew Eubanks ever been involved in charity work or community efforts?
Yes, Drew Eubanks is known for his charitable work. He has been involved in various community outreach programs, especially in the cities he has played in. He is passionate about giving back and supporting youth basketball development, as well as other local causes.
In Summary
Drew Eubanks may not always be in the spotlight, but he’s carved out a respected role in the NBA through grit, hustle, and consistency. From going undrafted to becoming a dependable big man for the Portland Trail Blazers, his journey reflects determination and steady improvement. Whether he’s blocking shots, setting hard screens, or grabbing key rebounds, Eubanks brings valuable energy and toughness to every game. As he continues to grow and adapt, fans and teams alike can expect him to remain a reliable presence in the league for years to come.
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