Introduction
James Wiseman entered basketball with sky-high expectations. A generational height, elite recruit ranking, and a second-overall pick in the NBA 2020 Draft set him up for superstardom. Instead, injuries, inconsistency and shifting team situations have derailed what many call a “bust” trajectory. In this article we examine his path — his college stop at Memphis Tigers, his NBA draft and early career (including time with the Golden State Warriors, Detroit Pistons and Indiana Pacers), his height and body profile, his net worth, plus what Reddit and other fans are saying.
(For clarity: despite the title mentioning “Celtics”, Wiseman has not played for the Boston Celtics.)
Early Life & College Career
Born March 31, 2001 in Nashville, Tennessee, Wiseman attended The Ensworth School before transferring to Memphis East High under coach Penny Hardaway.
In his senior high school year he averaged about 25.8 points, 14.8 rebounds, and 5.5 blocks per game.
He committed to Memphis and played only a few games in college: his eligibility was hampered by a suspension related to rules around recruiting/transfer.
Suspension & NBA Decision
Because of the eligibility issue (Hardaway was deemed a booster by the NCAA), Wiseman was suspended for part of his freshman season at Memphis. Recognising the risk, he withdrew from college to prepare for the 2020 NBA Draft.
NBA Draft & Expectations
At the 2020 NBA Draft, Wiseman was selected 2nd overall by the Golden State Warriors.
At 6 ft 11 and 240 lbs (listed), with elite athleticism and shot-blocking potential, the expectations were he’d become a top big man in the league.
NBA Career & Why Some Call Him a “Bust”
Here’s a breakdown of his NBA journey so far:
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Golden State Warriors (2020-2023)
He showed flashes: in his rookie season 11.5 pts and 5.8 rebounds per game before a meniscus tear ended his year. He missed the entire 2021-22 season due to complications.
His role remained limited and the Warriors traded him in early 2023. -
Detroit Pistons (2023-2024)
Acquired in a four-team trade, he saw increased minutes. Nonetheless, his averages hovered around 7.1 points and 5.3 rebounds in 63 games in 2023-24. -
Indiana Pacers / Free Agent (2024– )
He signed with the Pacers but suffered a torn Achilles in the season opener, derailing the year.
Statistical Snapshot
Over 148 regular-season games, Wiseman has averaged about 9.1 points and 5.6 rebounds per game.
While solid, these numbers sit far below what one expects from a No. 2 pick given the time, opportunity, and physical gifts.
Why “Bust”?
The “bust” label comes from the mismatch between expectation and outcome. Redditors have noted:
“The sad part about Wiseman is he had everything from the physical tools … But he really lacked any kind of natural basketball IQ or feel.”
“He doesn’t know how to screen, doesn’t keep his head on defense, is just kinda lost a lot of the time.”
Combined with repeated injuries and changing teams, many feel the “potential” has yet to convert into sustained performance.
Height & Body Profile
Wiseman is listed at 6 ft 11 in (2.11 m) and ~240 lb (109 kg) in his NBA profile.
However, during his college recruiting, he was listed as 7-1 (2.16 m).
On Reddit, there’s debate about his true height:
“Seen some images of Wiseman … but is he really 7’1 with the official measurement?”
For SEO purposes: make sure to include height 6 ft 11 / 7-1, weight 240 lbs, position centre/center.
Net Worth & Contract Details
Net worth figures vary widely:
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One source estimates ≈ US$5 million net worth as of 2023.
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Another lists potential net worth ≈ US$39.6 million, based on rookie contract earnings.
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Contract: He signed a 4-year, approx. US$39.6 million deal with the Warriors.
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Current contract status: In 2025 he signed a two-year minimum contract with the Pacers, team option second year, partially guaranteed.
Given uncertainties (injury risk, variable playtime), the lower net worth estimates seem more credible in terms of liquid assets. For SEO: mention net worth in a range (US$5-40 million) and clarify estimates vary.
College → Celtics? Correction
While the title mentions the “Celtics”, Wiseman did not play for the Boston Celtics. His NBA teams so far: Golden State Warriors → Detroit Pistons → Indiana Pacers.
You should correct this in the article to avoid misleading readers.
Reddit & Fan Reaction
Reddit threads provide a window into fan sentiment:
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On r/NBA_Draft:
“The sad part … he had everything … But he really lacked any kind of natural basketball iq or feel.”
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On r/NBA:
“James Wiseman has all the physical tools … Unfortunately, the way he was developed was terrible.”
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On height debate:
“Is James Wiseman’s height (7’1) official …?”
These posts illustrate that while fans acknowledge the talent, there’s frustration about development, injuries and output.
Key Turning Points & Injuries
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Meniscus tear in rookie season (2020-21) cut his momentum.
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Missed all of 2021-22 season due to knee/rehab issues.
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Torn Achilles early in 2024-25 season with Pacers.
Such injuries not only reduce on-court time but hamper confidence, mobility and readiness. It also impacts contract value and team roles.
Why It Matters
Wiseman’s case is emblematic: a near-once-in-a-generation big man pick, derailed by a mix of injuries, team fit, developmental gaps and maybe under-realised potential. For aspiring athletes, teams, and media, his story offers lessons:
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Physical tools aren’t everything
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Health management is critical
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Fit and development environment matter
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Expectations vs. reality must be managed
Future Outlook
What might come next for Wiseman?
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A healthy return is imperative: the Achilles injury is serious but not career-ending if rehab goes well.
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If he can carve a defined role (rim-protector, roll-man, lob threat) and stay healthy, teams may take a low-cost gamble.
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Branding & endorsements are currently limited, but a comeback would boost value.
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For now, his contract structure (minimum, partial guarantee) reflects his risk as viewed by teams.
FAQs
Q1: What is James Wiseman’s height and weight?
A: He is listed at 6 ft 11 in (2.11 m), 240 lbs (109 kg). Some college listings had him at 7-1 (2.16 m).
Q2: Why is James Wiseman considered a bust?
A: Drafted No.2 overall, with high expectations, but he has struggled with injuries, limited production and multiple team moves. Reddit fans cite poor development and decision-making.
Q3: What is his net worth?
A: Estimates range from around US$5 million to US$39 million. The variation comes from differing sources and contract/endorsement assumptions.
Q4: Did James Wiseman play for the Celtics?
A: No. Despite some confusion, he has never played for the Boston Celtics. His NBA journey has been with the Warriors, Pistons and Pacers.
Q5: What college did he attend and how long did he play?
A: He attended the University of Memphis for the 2019-20 season but played only a few games before declaring for the NBA Draft. He was suspended part-way through the season due to NCAA eligibility issues. James Wiseman.
Conclusion
James Wiseman remains a cautionary tale in the NBA world: immense physical tools, lofty expectations, but the ruthless realities of elite sport — health, opportunity, team fit and execution — have so far prevented his breakout. While the “bust” label may be premature (he is still young), the gap between potential and performance is glaring. For those tracking his journey, the next 12 – 24 months could define whether he rebounds (literally and figuratively) or continues to drift.
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