Kris Murray Biography: Kristopher James Murray, born on August 19, 2000, is an American professional basketball player currently playing for the Portland Trail Blazers in the NBA. Before turning pro, he played college basketball with the Iowa Hawkeyes in the Big Ten Conference from 2020 to 2023. In his final college season, Murray earned First-Team All-Big Ten honors. He is also the twin brother of Keegan Murray, a fellow NBA player who plays for the Sacramento Kings.
Kris Murray Biography
Kris Murray is a professional basketball player from the United States who plays as a forward for the Portland Trail Blazers in the NBA. Born on August 19, 2000, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Murray has made a swift and steady rise from standout college athlete to NBA professional—following a path strikingly similar to that of his twin brother, Keegan Murray, who plays for the Sacramento Kings. Kris Murray’s rise from high school standout in Cedar Rapids to professional forward with the Trail Blazers is a reflection of his work ethic, perseverance, and natural talent. Alongside his twin brother Keegan, Kris has followed a nearly identical path in basketball, with both achieving major success at each stage of their careers.
Kris Murray Biography Details
| Born |
August 19, 2000 (age 24)
Cedar Rapids, Iowa, U.S. |
| Listed height |
6 ft 8 in (2.03 m) |
| Listed weight |
216 lb (98 kg) |
| High school |
· Prairie (Cedar Rapids, Iowa)
· DME Academy
(Daytona Beach, Florida) |
| College |
Iowa (2020–2023) |
| NBA draft |
2023: 1st round, 23rd overall pick |
| Drafted by |
Portland Trail Blazers |
| Playing career |
2023–present |
| Category |
Football Biographies |
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About Kris Murray
Kristopher James Murray is an American professional basketball player for the Portland Trail Blazers of the National Basketball Association. He played college basketball for the Iowa Hawkeyes of the Big Ten Conference from 2020 to 2023. He was first-team All-Big Ten in his final year with the Hawkeyes.
- Born: 19 August 2000 (age 25 years), Cedar Rapids, Iowa, United States
- Height: 03 m
- Current team: Portland Trail Blazers (#24 / Small forward, Power forward)
- Parents: Kenyon Murray
- College: Iowa (2020–2023)
- High school: Prairie (Cedar Rapids, Iowa); DME Academy; (Daytona Beach, Florida)
- NBA draft: 2023 1st round, 23rd overall pick
Early Life and High School Career
Murray was raised in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and attended Prairie High School, where he shared the court with his twin brother, Keegan. During his senior year, he averaged an impressive 19.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 2.5 blocks, and 1.1 steals per game, earning First-Team All-Metro and Second-Team All-State honors. After high school, the Murray brothers took a postgraduate year at DME Academy in Daytona Beach, Florida, and later committed to play college basketball at the University of Iowa.
Key Details
- Full Name: Kris Murray
- Date of Birth: August 19, 2000
- Place of Birth: Cedar Rapids, Iowa
- Nationality: American
- Height: 6 ft 8 in (203 cm)
- Weight: 216 lbs (98 kg)
- Position: Forward (Small Forward / Power Forward)
- College: University of Iowa (2020–2023)
- NBA Draft: 23rd overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft (Portland Trail Blazers)
- NBA Team: Portland Trail Blazers (2023–present)
- Father: Kenyon Murray – Former Iowa Hawkeyes player (1992–1996)
- Twin Brother: Keegan Murray – Sacramento Kings forward
- Net Worth: Estimated $1.7 million (as of 2025)
Family Background
Raised in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Kris attended Prairie High School where he played alongside his twin brother, Keegan. The pair were dominant on the court, and Kris averaged 19.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 2.5 blocks, and 1.1 steals per game—earning second-team All-State honors. After high school, the Murrays completed a postgraduate year at DME Academy in Florida before committing to the University of Iowa, continuing their basketball journey together.
Career Beginnings and Milestones
At Iowa, Kris steadily evolved into a top-tier collegiate player. He had a quiet freshman year but took on a larger role in his sophomore season, posting averages of 9.7 points and 4.3 rebounds. As a junior, he broke out, averaging 20.2 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 2 assists per game. His standout season earned him First-Team All-Big Ten honors and recognition as a Third-Team All-American by multiple media outlets. He declared for the 2023 NBA Draft and was selected 23rd overall by the Portland Trail Blazers.
Achievements and Recognition
- First-Team All-Big Ten (2023): Recognized for his dominant junior season at Iowa.
- Third-Team All-American (2023): Honored by the Associated Press, USBWA, and Sporting News.
- NBA Draft (2023): Selected 23rd overall by the Portland Trail Blazers.
Current Relevance and Recent Performance
In his rookie season with the Trail Blazers, Kris Murray has made a strong impression. In March 2024, he posted back-to-back career highs, scoring 17 and then 21 points in consecutive games against the Los Angeles Clippers. As he adapts to the NBA’s pace and style, expectations are high for his continued growth and long-term contribution to the team.
Personal Life and Relationships
Kris comes from a basketball-rich family. His father, Kenyon Murray, was a four-year starter for Iowa and named Mr. Basketball in Michigan in 1992. His twin brother, Keegan, was selected fourth overall in the 2022 NBA Draft. The brothers share a tight-knit bond, both on and off the court, supporting one another throughout their journeys in professional basketball.
Interesting Facts & Trivia
- Twin History: Kris and Keegan are among the rare twin siblings to both be selected in the first round of the NBA Draft.
- Multi-sport Athlete: Kris also played golf during high school.
- Name Tribute: He was named after Chris Street, a beloved Iowa basketball player who passed away in 1993.
Charitable Work and Legacy
While Kris hasn’t widely publicized specific charitable endeavors, his family’s focus on mentorship, community involvement, and sportsmanship suggests he is poised to continue that legacy. As his NBA career progresses, his off-court contributions are expected to grow, both through philanthropic work and youth engagement.
Future Plans and Cultural Impact
With the Trail Blazers in a rebuilding phase, Kris Murray is positioned to play a critical role in shaping the team’s future. His basketball IQ, two-way versatility, and ability to learn from veteran teammates set the stage for a potentially long and impactful NBA career.
Off the court, Kris is beginning to make waves as a cultural influencer. As a young, marketable athlete with style and personality, he’s becoming a voice in the realms of fashion, lifestyle branding, and athlete-led activism. His journey not only paves the way for future athletes but also highlights how sports figures can influence broader cultural trends.
Kris Murray Net Worth 2025 and Lifestyle
As of 2025, Kris Murray’s net worth is estimated at $1.7 million, largely fueled by his NBA salary and endorsement deals. In July 2023, he signed a four-year, $14.28 million contract with the Blazers, with an average annual salary of $3.57 million. He’s also partnered with brands like Casey’s through NIL deals, leveraging his growing presence on social media to promote select products.
FAQs
What is the difference between Kris Murray and his twin brother Keegan Murray?
While Kris and Keegan Murray share a nearly identical basketball journey—from high school to the University of Iowa to being first-round NBA picks—they play for different NBA teams. Keegan was drafted 4th overall by the Sacramento Kings in 2022, while Kris was selected 23rd overall by the Portland Trail Blazers in 2023.
Did Kris Murray play any sports other than basketball?
Yes, Kris Murray also played golf during his high school years, showcasing his athletic versatility beyond basketball.
Why is Kris Murray named after Chris Street?
Kris was named in honor of Chris Street, a beloved Iowa Hawkeyes basketball player who tragically passed away in 1993. The name carries significant meaning, especially considering Kris’s own journey through the University of Iowa basketball program.
What was Kris Murray’s college basketball breakout season?
Kris Murray’s breakout season came in his junior year (2022–2023) at the University of Iowa, when he averaged 20.2 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 2 assists per game. His performance earned him First-Team All-Big Ten honors and Third-Team All-American recognition.
How did Kris Murray perform in his rookie NBA season?
In his rookie season with the Portland Trail Blazers, Kris Murray showed promising signs of development, including back-to-back career highs of 17 and 21 points in games against the Los Angeles Clippers in March 2024.
What kind of endorsement deals does Kris Murray have?
Kris Murray has secured NIL endorsement deals valued at $379,000, including a partnership with Casey’s. His growing social media following has helped him land promotional opportunities with brands looking to reach basketball audiences.
