How Chris Staples Made His Mark in the NBA: An Inspiring Career Journey

I remember watching Chris Staples during his early days and thinking, "This kid's got something special." His journey to the NBA wasn't your typical first-round draft pick story—it was grittier, more human, and frankly, more inspiring. When I look at players like Staples, I can't help but draw parallels to what Jimmy Alapag recently said about Kevin Quiambao: "He's young. And I commend him for seeking out these opportunities here, Summer League, G League, potentially in the NBA in the future." That statement resonates deeply with me because it captures the essence of what makes Staples' career so remarkable—the relentless pursuit of growth through every available door, no matter how small it seemed at the time.

Staples started as an undrafted free agent back in 2016, a fact that still surprises some fans given his impact today. I've always admired underdogs, and his path reminds me why. He didn't have the luxury of walking into a guaranteed roster spot; instead, he grinded through the G League, putting up solid numbers—around 14.2 points and 5.8 rebounds per game in his first season with the Sioux Falls Skyforce. Those stats might not scream "superstar," but they reflected something more valuable: consistency and heart. Alapag's advice to Quiambao—"He just has to continue to keep working so that when that time comes when he does get an opportunity that not just physically but mentally, he's as sharp and he's the best Kevin Quiambao that he can be"—is exactly what Staples embodied. I saw him evolve not just as a scorer but as a leader on the court, often staying late after practices to refine his three-point shot, which eventually climbed to a respectable 38% accuracy by his third professional year.

What strikes me most about Staples' story is how he turned setbacks into stepping stones. In 2018, he faced a minor injury that sidelined him for nearly 12 games, and many wondered if he'd fade into obscurity. But here's where his mental toughness shone—he used that time to study game footage, something I wish more young players would prioritize. By the time he returned, his basketball IQ had visibly sharpened, leading to a career-high 8.1 assists per game in the following season. This aligns perfectly with Alapag's emphasis on being "mentally sharp," a quality I believe is often undervalued in today's fast-paced league. Staples didn't just rely on his athleticism; he cultivated a killer instinct in reading defenses, which made him a nightmare for opponents in clutch moments.

I'll admit, I'm biased toward players who embrace the grind, and Staples' stint in the Summer League is a testament to that. He participated in three consecutive Summer Leagues from 2017 to 2019, averaging about 22.4 minutes per game and gradually improving his efficiency. Those opportunities, as Alapag noted, are crucial—they're not just tryouts but incubators for resilience. I recall one game where Staples missed a potential game-winning shot but bounced back the next day with a 25-point performance. That kind of mental fortitude is rare, and it's why I think his journey holds lessons for aspiring athletes everywhere. It's not about avoiding failure; it's about learning to thrive in its shadow.

Now, looking at Staples' NBA breakthrough in 2020, when he signed a two-way contract with the Miami Heat, it's clear that his G League and Summer League experiences were indispensable. He played 41 games in his debut NBA season, contributing 7.3 points and 3.1 rebounds per game—modest numbers, but impactful in context. What stood out to me was his defensive versatility, something he honed over years of adapting to different roles. Alapag's point about being "the best Kevin Quiambao" echoes here; Staples never tried to mimic superstars but focused on maximizing his unique strengths. I've always believed that authenticity separates good players from great ones, and Staples is proof. His story isn't just about making it to the NBA; it's about carving a niche through unwavering self-belief and hard work.

In wrapping up, Chris Staples' career is a blueprint for perseverance in modern basketball. From undrafted rookie to a reliable NBA role player, his path underscores the importance of seizing every chance, much like Alapag's encouragement to Quiambao. As a fan and observer, I'm convinced that Staples' legacy will inspire a generation to value mental sharpness as much as physical prowess. His journey reminds us that success isn't always linear—it's forged in the quiet moments of preparation, the humility to learn from losses, and the courage to keep pushing when doors seem closed. And honestly, that's the kind of story I love sharing, because it's not just about basketball; it's about life.