The 7’0’’ big man is an American native and plays as a center for Utah Jazz in the NBA. The 2022-23 season was his first year in professional basketball. He was one of the most hyped centers in the 2022 NBA draft and was picked by the Memphis Grizzlies in the first-round, and the same day was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves, the same team his grandfather had played for.
After some time, the Timberwolves also traded him to the Utah Jazz in exchange for Rudy Gobert. The rookie season went well for Walker, as he finished third in the NBA Rookie of the Year voting poll. Orlando Magic’s forward Paolo Banchero, and Oklahoma City’s guard Jalen Williams were voted first and second in the voting list.
His defensive stats, 8.4 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game attracted the USA‘s management staff, especially coach Steve Kerr, to pick him for the upcoming FIBA Basketball World Cup in the Philippines, Indonesia, and Japan.
His excellent shot-blocking ability earned him the nickname of ‘Blocker Kessler’. The center has excelled a level high in the defensive end but has to improve his offensive skills as he gets to experience with the NBA. Kessler had only five games of 20+ points last season.
Kessler has tied up his rookie contract with the Utah Jazz worth $13.9 million. He will be a free agent after the 2026 offseason.
Walker Kessler's Height
The Jazz Center is listed at 7 feet 0 inches or 2.13m tall and weighs about 260 lb or 118 kg. He has a huge wingspan of 7’4’’ which helps him to defend the rim effectively. Very few players have this much jumbo wingspan in the NBA.
During his college ball with Auburn, he was also chosen as the Defensive Player of the Year for the 2021-22 campaign. He led the league in defensive statistics (8.1 rebounds, and 4.6 blocks per game)
FAQs
A. Yes, the American Center made it into the NBA last season. The upcoming 2023-24 season will be his second year for the Utah Jazz in the NBA.
A. The big man has been superb at the defensive end of the floor and earned a spot in the NBA All-Rookie First Team in his first year of the NBA.
A. The Jazz Center is on a four year rookie deal with the Utah Jazz. He will be earning $2.9 million in the upcoming 2023-24 season.
A. With a 72% shooting percentage, the Center averaged 9.2 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 2,3 assists in his rookie season of 2023.
A. Walker Kessler plays the position of Center for the Utah Jazz.
