Norman Powell is finally having a successful breakout season! He’s emerging as an independent difference-maker for the Los Angeles Clippers in the 2023 NBA season. The one-time four star player out of Lincoln High School in San Diego has shown what he can do at the highest level. He’s following it up with a career-high 21.8 points, 2.1 assists, 3.0 threes, and 2.1 steals per game. His outstanding performance this season has ensured his spot as an All-Star candidate. He has continued to prove doubters wrong during his tenth season in the league.
Powell’s path to this moment has certainly not come without grit and fortitude. To get into an unfinished business,” Seibel said. He was listed as the 52nd overall player in the country in the 2011 ESPN 100. Opting to stay all four years at UCLA, he led the Bruins through a historic run. As a senior during the 2014-15 season, he averaged a team-best 16.4 points, showcasing his potential to make it to the professional level.
Powell was picked in the 2015 NBA Draft at #46 overall in the second round by the Milwaukee Bucks. His draft rights were then flipped to the Toronto Raptors. During his time there, he was integral in guiding the franchise — with superstar Kawhi Leonard — to the first championship in a 25-year-old franchise’s history in 2019. Looking back on that championship experience, Powell said he wanted to bring that same success to the Clippers.
“It would be amazing to be a part of the first NBA title team for the Clippers.” – Norman Powell
This season has provided an opportunity for Powell to take his game to the next level. Before the All-Star break, he was averaging 24.2 points and making 3.4 three-pointers a night. His career-best numbers definitely earned him a look as an All-Star. His contributions on the court have certainly made waves. He was a key contributor to the Clippers’ recent playoff surge.
In a thrilling Game 6 against the Denver Nuggets, Powell sealed the game for the Clippers with a pivotal three-pointer with just 1:47 left on the clock, cementing a 111-105 victory that kept their playoff hopes alive. His focus when the chips were down is just an extension of all the work and preparation he’s put in.
“I was just focused on winning the game.” – Norman Powell
He credits his success to his heritage and the moral code taught to him by his mother and father. While he’s naturally gifted, he often talks about how his idol, Kobe Bryant, was a huge influence on his mentality and work ethic.
“I pride myself in the work that I put in. I pride myself in being ready for these big moments and coming through for my teammates when they need me most.” – Norman Powell
Despite facing challenges related to knee issues that have affected his ability to dunk in recent years, Powell has continued to push through adversity, demonstrating remarkable resilience.
In doing so, he has, throughout his career, dutifully and eagerly accepted the inferior role whenever asked. He makes the team’s success more important than his own accomplishments. This mentality has taken him far and continues to take him as he happily settles into his new life with the Clippers.
“I took a lesser role coming here fitting in and trying to win a championship with my team every single year. You got to sacrifice for the greater good because you want to win.” – Norman Powell
Powell’s passions lie in continuous improvement and helping others realize their success. This year, it’s been his steady play that has dramatically increased his team’s odds.
Looking back on his path and accomplishments, the lighthearted confidant becomes appreciative of where he is in the league.
“Honestly, it’s from my family. My mom. My uncle. My upbringing. Just being humble, being thankful for everything.” – Norman Powell
Powell is driving home the need to be consistent with having a winning attitude.
“Our mentality needs to be the same mentality that we had here [in Game 6], no setbacks, no drawbacks, no taking our foot off the gas.” – Norman Powell
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