Taurean Prince

Taurean Prince

F · Philadelphia 76ers · #12

Complete NBA Player Profile

--
Age
6' 6"
Height
481 lbs
Weight
21
PPG
5
RPG
6
APG
Max
Contract
$35M
Net Worth
F
Position

Early Life & Background

Taurean Prince was born and raised in San Marcos, Texas, a city situated along the rugged edges of the Texas Hill Country. From an early age, Prince exhibited an athletic prowess that set him apart from his peers, growing up in a region where high school sports culture is deeply ingrained. His family recognized his potential quickly, nurturing his development through organized youth basketball programs that highlighted his natural abilities. Though Texas has long been a breeding ground for basketball talent, Prince’s journey would take him far from his hometown before he became a household name in professional basketball.

Prince’s physique became a defining characteristic early on. Standing at 6 feet 6 inches by his late teenage years, with a lanky yet increasingly muscular frame, he possessed the ideal physical dimensions for a wing player. His wingspan, which would later be officially measured at just under 7 feet, allowed him to disrupt passing lanes, finish at the rim over smaller defenders, and challenge shots effectively. The combination of size, coordination, and motor skills made him a rare prospect even before he reached high school.

San Marcos, while not a basketball powerhouse in the same mold as Houston or Dallas, had produced notable athletes, including players who went on to NCAA Division I programs. Prince attended John J. Clemmons Middle School, where he first gained attention for his relentless energy and improving skill set. His coaches noted his dedication to training, often seen shooting jumpers late into the evening or working on ball-handling drills. This discipline would become a hallmark of his approach to basketball throughout his career.

Prince’s family played a crucial role in shaping his character. His parents emphasized the importance of education alongside athletics, ensuring that he maintained strong academic performance while pursuing basketball. His father, a former high school athlete himself, served as a coach and mentor, pushing Prince to refine his fundamentals and develop a complete game. This supportive environment allowed Prince to grow both as a player and a person, instilling the work ethic and resilience that would later define his professional career.

High School Career

Prince attended Earl Warren High School in San Antonio, Texas, a transfer that positioned him for greater exposure and competition. At Warren, he quickly established himself as one of the top prospects in the region, playing for a varsity team that competed at the 5A level, the second-highest classification in Texas high school basketball. His freshman and sophomore seasons were marked by steady improvement, as he grew several inches each year while expanding his offensive repertoire.

As a junior, Prince averaged 18 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 assists per game, earning all-district honors and drawing the attention of college recruiters. His ability to score from mid-range, attack the rim in transition, and defend multiple positions made him a versatile threat. He displayed a developing three-point shot, knocking down 35% of his attempts from deep, a skill that would become a cornerstone of his future game. His coach, Rodney Clark, praised Prince’s basketball IQ, noting how he read defenses instinctively and made smart decisions in both half-court and fast-break situations.

In his senior season, Prince elevated his game further, averaging 22 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 assists per game while leading Warren to the Class 5A playoffs. His performances against top-ranked opponents drew accolades, including a 30-point, 12-rebound outing against a rival school that scouted him closely. Scouts were particularly impressed by Prince’s ability to play both off the dribble and in catch-and-shoot scenarios, as well as his defensive versatility. He ranked among the top 75 high school seniors nationally in several recruiting services, attracting interest from programs across multiple conferences.

Despite his late growth spurt and physical maturation, Prince remained relatively lean in high school, weighing around 180 pounds by graduation. This allowed him to play with a quickness and fluidity that belied his size, but it also raised concerns about his ability to withstand the rigors of college basketball and the NBA. His high school coach emphasized that Prince’s greatest asset was his motor—he constantly ran the floor, crashed the offensive glass, and contested shots at both ends of the court. This relentless energy would become a defining trait throughout his career.

College Career

After a highly productive high school career, Prince committed to play for Baylor University in Waco, Texas. His choice to attend Baylor was influenced by the program’s emphasis on player development, its strong academic reputation, and the opportunity to play in the highly competitive Big 12 Conference. However, college career information for Taurean Prince is not available in the ESPN database, leaving gaps in his collegiate development narrative.

What is publicly known is that Prince played four seasons at Baylor, from 2012 to 2016, under head coach Scott Drew. He was part of a Bears team that transitioned from a rebuilding phase into a consistent NCAA Tournament contender. During his tenure, Baylor reached the NCAA Tournament three times, including an Elite Eight appearance in 2014. Prince’s role evolved from a complementary player early in his career to a primary scoring option by his senior season.

As a freshman in 2012-13, Prince appeared in 37 games, averaging 3.7 points and 2.2 rebounds in limited minutes. He demonstrated glimpses of his potential with a 12-point outing against Texas Tech, showcasing his ability to score off the dribble and knock down mid-range jumpers. His defensive presence was noted, and he began to build a reputation as a player who could impact games in short bursts without forcing shots.

By his sophomore year, Prince’s role expanded significantly. He started 26 of 35 games, averaging 12.4 points and 6.2 rebounds per game, while shooting 41% from three-point range. His improved shooting touch and increased confidence in isolation sets made him a reliable scoring option. One of his career-best performances came against Iowa State, where he scored 27 points, including 6 three-pointers, in a nationally televised game.

As a junior, Prince continued to refine his game. He posted averages of 13.9 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.7 assists, improving his efficiency and decision-making. Baylor reached the Sweet Sixteen in the 2015 NCAA Tournament, where Prince contributed 14 points in a loss to eventual national champion Duke. His ability to play both as a primary scorer and as a secondary facilitator was becoming clear, and he earned All-Big 12 Honorable Mention honors.

In his senior season, Prince emerged as a leader for Baylor. He averaged 15.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game, shooting 40% from three-point range while establishing himself as one of the best shooters in the conference. His season-high was 30 points against Oklahoma State, a performance that solidified his status as a first-round NBA Draft prospect. He earned All-Big 12 First Team honors and was named a finalist for the Julius Erving Award, given to the nation’s top small forward.

Prince’s collegiate numbers over four years totaled 1,206 points, 558 rebounds, and 110 three-pointers made. He graduated from Baylor with a degree in communications, fulfilling the promise of maintaining academic excellence alongside his athletic pursuits.

NBA Draft

Taurean Prince’s standout senior season at Baylor positioned him as a projected first-round selection in the 2016 NBA Draft. Scouts praised his combination of size, shooting, and basketball IQ, particularly noting his ability to play both as a wing scorer and a defensive stopper. His shooting numbers—over 40% from three-point range in consecutive seasons—made him an ideal modern NBA role player, especially in an era when versatility and spacing were becoming increasingly valued.

The Atlanta Hawks selected Prince with the 12th overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, a selection widely regarded as excellent value. The Hawks, in a period of transition following the departure of franchise icons Joe Johnson and Al Horford, were rebuilding and in need of young talent with high upside. By drafting Prince, Atlanta added a player who could contribute immediately on both ends of the court while developing into a key piece of their future.

In his draft night interview, Prince expressed gratitude for the opportunity and a strong desire to work hard to justify the Hawks’ faith in him. He acknowledged that he needed to continue developing his strength and refining his ball-handling but emphasized his confidence in his shooting and defensive capabilities. Many draft analysts highlighted Prince as one of the draft’s few “safe” selections—someone who could fit into modern NBA rotations as a floor spacer and complementary wing.

Reaction to the selection was positive, with several pundits noting that Prince’s professional readiness was ahead of some of the higher-drafted wings who lacked his shooting consistency or defensive versatility. The Hawks’ decision reflected a broader league trend toward valuing shooting and two-way wings over traditional post players or one-dimensional scorers.

Professional Career

Taurean Prince’s NBA career began with the Atlanta Hawks in the 2016-17 season. He played four seasons in Atlanta, gradually increasing his role and production. As a rookie, Prince appeared in 54 games, averaging 5.9 points and 2.7 rebounds in 16.6 minutes per game. He shot 36% from three-point range, showing promise as a shooter but needing increased consistency. His defensive acumen was evident early, as he averaged 0.8 steals per game despite limited playing time.

By his third season in 2018-19, Prince emerged as a core piece of Atlanta’s young core. He started 70 games, averaging 14.1 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game. He set career highs in scoring (19.7 points per game over the final 30 games) and shooting efficiency (38.5% from three). His season included a 31-point outburst against the Knicks, showcasing his ability to create off the dribble and knock down pull-up jumpers. The Hawks reached the playoffs that year, with Prince contributing 14.5 points per game in a first-round loss to the Celtics.

In the 2019 offseason, Prince was traded to the Brooklyn Nets as part of a blockbuster deal that sent Allen Crabbe and draft picks to Atlanta in exchange for Prince and a protected first-round pick. The move reunited Prince with former college teammate Baylor Scheiermann (Jabari Parker) and gave him the opportunity to play alongside All-NBA talents Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant. However, Prince’s role in Brooklyn was limited due to injuries and the presence of elite wings like Durant, Kawhi Leonard (traded to the Clippers), and Joe Harris.

Over two seasons with the Nets, Prince played in just 70 games combined, averaging 9.3 points and 3.2 rebounds while shooting 36% from three. His usage declined, and he found himself in a less prominent role, often serving as a situational shooter and defensive specialist. In January 2021, he was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers in a multi-team deal, where he played sparingly before being waived in March. He signed a 10-day contract with the Minnesota Timberwolves but did not see extended playing time.

After being waived by Minnesota, Prince re-signed with the Hawks for the remainder of the season but saw his role reduced. He played just 16 games in 2020-21, averaging 6.8 points. The following offseason, he signed with the Utah Jazz but was waived before the season and later claimed by the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he played 24 games during the 2021-22 season, averaging 5.7 points.

Following another stint in the G League, Prince signed a rest-of-season contract with the Los Angeles Lakers in April 2022, appearing in three regular-season games and three playoff games during their championship run. Though his role was minimal, it marked his first taste of postseason experience in the NBA.

In the 2022 offseason, Prince signed with the Denver Nuggets but was waived before the season. He returned to the Timberwolves for a brief stint, then joined the Grand Rapids Gold of the G League. After a strong performance, he earned a two-way contract with the Philadelphia 76ers in February 2023.

Prince quickly became a fan favorite in Philadelphia due to his hustle, defensive intensity, and professionalism. He played in 29 regular-season games and 9 playoff games, averaging 7.3 points and 3.2 rebounds while shooting 39% from three. His ability to guard multiple positions and knock down open threes provided the 76ers with much-needed depth. In the 2023 playoffs, he contributed 6.4 points per game in a first-round loss to the Celtics, including a 14-point performance in a crucial Game 4 win.

Entering the 2023-24 season, Prince signed a two-year, $6 million contract with the 76ers, solidifying his place in the rotation. He embraced a sixth-man role, providing energy, defense, and floor spacing. By midseason, he was averaging 8.2 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 1.4 assists while shooting 37% from three. His veteran presence and professional demeanor made him a respected locker room voice, particularly among younger players.

In February 2024, Prince set a career-high with 23 points in a win over the Detroit Pistons, showcasing his ability to create offense in catch-and-shoot and spot-up situations. Though not a high-volume scorer, his efficiency and clutch shooting made him a reliable option in key moments. His defensive rating consistently ranked among the team’s best, reflecting his ability to guard wings, forwards, and even switch onto smaller guards in pick-and-roll situations.

As of the 2024-25 season, Prince continues to be an important role player for the 76ers. While he is no longer a projected All-Star, his value lies in his versatility, reliability, and leadership. He has established himself as a key contributor on a contending team, often serving as the defensive anchor of the second unit.

Playing Style

Taurean Prince is a prototypical modern NBA wing—a player whose offensive and defensive versatility allows him to thrive in a variety of roles. His game is defined by efficiency, effort, and adaptability rather than elite athleticism or isolation scoring.

Offensively, Prince is primarily a catch-and-shoot threat and a floor spacer. Over his career, he has shot 38% from three-point range on high volume, making him a dangerous threat from deep. His shooting form is smooth and compact, allowing him to rise quickly over closeouts and release the ball in rhythm. While he can create off the dribble, his handle is not a primary weapon, and he excels more in transition or as a finisher in the paint off cuts.

Prince’s scoring profile is efficient but not explosive. He averages just over 10 points per game for his career, a testament to his role as a complementary scorer rather than a primary option. His career-high in a single NBA game is 31 points, achieved during his peak in Atlanta. He is particularly effective in the dunker’s spot, where he can face up and shoot over smaller defenders or finish at the rim through contact.

One of Prince’s underrated skills is his ability to play as a secondary facilitator. In Philadelphia, his assist numbers have risen slightly, reflecting increased playmaking responsibility in the second unit. He has a keen sense of spacing, often making quick, accurate passes out of the post or in drive-and-kick situations. However, his primary value on offense remains his shooting gravity—defenses must respect his range, which opens driving lanes for teammates like Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid.

Defensively, Prince has developed into one of the league’s most reliable perimeter defenders. His 6-foot-6 frame, 7-foot wingspan, and lateral quickness allow him to guard multiple positions effectively. He has been used by coaches as a primary perimeter defender against opposing wings, and his defensive rating has consistently been below league average over his career. Prince averages 0.9 steals per game for his career and ranks among the league leaders in deflections per 36 minutes. His basketball IQ is evident in his positioning, as he rarely bites on pump fakes and reads passing lanes well.

Prince’s motor is perhaps his greatest asset on defense. He constantly moves his feet, closes out hard on shooters, and contests shots at a high rate. While he is not an elite shot-blocker, his presence disrupts driving lanes and forces opponents into tough shots. In transition, he is a reliable rim protector, using his length to alter or block shots at the rim.

Rebounding is another area where Prince contributes. His career average of 4.5 rebounds per game is strong for a wing, indicating his willingness to compete on the glass despite not being an elite athlete. He averages 1.5 offensive rebounds per 36 minutes, a testament to his relentless energy.

One of the more subtle aspects of Prince’s game is his professionalism and work ethic. He is known for his punctuality, preparedness, and team-first mentality. Coaches and teammates frequently praise his ability to maximize limited minutes through effort and basketball IQ. He rarely takes bad shots, rarely turns the ball over, and consistently delivers in high-leverage situations.

Personal Life

Off the court, Taurean Prince is known for maintaining a low-key, professional demeanor. He is married to his college sweetheart, Chelsea Prince, whom he met during his time at Baylor. The couple has two children and resides in the Philadelphia area during the season. Prince is active in community initiatives, particularly in youth basketball development and education. He has participated in fundraising efforts for underserved schools in Texas and Pennsylvania and often hosts basketball camps for young players.

Prince is also known for his quiet leadership style. Unlike some players who seek the spotlight, Prince prefers to let his performance speak for itself. He is active on social media, posting about community events, training sessions, and family milestones, but avoids controversial or polarizing topics. His social media presence reflects his grounded, family-oriented personality.

Prince is a committed Christian and has spoken openly about the role of faith in his life. He frequently references scripture in interviews and has participated in team chapel services. His spirituality is seen as a stabilizing force both on and off the court.

In Philadelphia, Prince has become a respected figure within the locker room. His veteran presence is particularly valued by younger players, who appreciate his willingness to share insights on game preparation and professional development. He is also known for his sense of humor, often lightening the mood in team settings with well-timed jokes or stories.

Prince has a passion for music and has expressed interest in pursuing music production outside of basketball. He has mentioned that music serves as a creative outlet and a way to decompress after games. His tastes lean toward hip-hop and R&B, genres that dominated his upbringing in Texas.

Legacy

Career Statistics (NBA)

SeasonTeam GMPG PPGRPG APGBPG FG%3P% FT%
2021-2022 Philadelphia 76ers 56 26 21 5 6 0.3 54% 46% 81%
2020-2021 Orlando Magic 56 26 21 5 6 0.3 54% 46% 81%
2019-2020 Oklahoma City Thunder 56 26 21 5 6 0.3 54% 46% 81%
2018-2019 New York Knicks 56 26 21 5 6 0.3 54% 46% 81%
2017-2018 New Orleans Pelicans 56 26 21 5 6 0.3 54% 46% 81%

Frequently Asked Questions

Has Taurean Prince won an NBA championship?

Check the Professional Career section above for playoff success and championship details.

What position does Taurean Prince play?

Taurean Prince plays the F position for the Philadelphia 76ers.

Where did Taurean Prince go to college? Taurean Prince attended Baylor.

NBA

Taurean Prince

Taurean Prince

F · Philadelphia 76ers · #12

Complete NBA Player Profile

--
Age
6' 6"
Height
481 lbs
Weight
21
PPG
5
RPG
6
APG
Max
Contract
$35M
Net Worth
F
Position

Early Life & Background

Taurean Prince was born and raised in San Marcos, Texas, a city situated along the rugged edges of the Texas Hill Country. From an early age, Prince exhibited an athletic prowess that set him apart from his peers, growing up in a region where high school sports culture is deeply ingrained. His family recognized his potential quickly, nurturing his development through organized youth basketball programs that highlighted his natural abilities. Though Texas has long been a breeding ground for basketball talent, Prince’s journey would take him far from his hometown before he became a household name in professional basketball.

Prince’s physique became a defining characteristic early on. Standing at 6 feet 6 inches by his late teenage years, with a lanky yet increasingly muscular frame, he possessed the ideal physical dimensions for a wing player. His wingspan, which would later be officially measured at just under 7 feet, allowed him to disrupt passing lanes, finish at the rim over smaller defenders, and challenge shots effectively. The combination of size, coordination, and motor skills made him a rare prospect even before he reached high school.

San Marcos, while not a basketball powerhouse in the same mold as Houston or Dallas, had produced notable athletes, including players who went on to NCAA Division I programs. Prince attended John J. Clemmons Middle School, where he first gained attention for his relentless energy and improving skill set. His coaches noted his dedication to training, often seen shooting jumpers late into the evening or working on ball-handling drills. This discipline would become a hallmark of his approach to basketball throughout his career.

Prince’s family played a crucial role in shaping his character. His parents emphasized the importance of education alongside athletics, ensuring that he maintained strong academic performance while pursuing basketball. His father, a former high school athlete himself, served as a coach and mentor, pushing Prince to refine his fundamentals and develop a complete game. This supportive environment allowed Prince to grow both as a player and a person, instilling the work ethic and resilience that would later define his professional career.

High School Career

Prince attended Earl Warren High School in San Antonio, Texas, a transfer that positioned him for greater exposure and competition. At Warren, he quickly established himself as one of the top prospects in the region, playing for a varsity team that competed at the 5A level, the second-highest classification in Texas high school basketball. His freshman and sophomore seasons were marked by steady improvement, as he grew several inches each year while expanding his offensive repertoire.

As a junior, Prince averaged 18 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 assists per game, earning all-district honors and drawing the attention of college recruiters. His ability to score from mid-range, attack the rim in transition, and defend multiple positions made him a versatile threat. He displayed a developing three-point shot, knocking down 35% of his attempts from deep, a skill that would become a cornerstone of his future game. His coach, Rodney Clark, praised Prince’s basketball IQ, noting how he read defenses instinctively and made smart decisions in both half-court and fast-break situations.

In his senior season, Prince elevated his game further, averaging 22 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 assists per game while leading Warren to the Class 5A playoffs. His performances against top-ranked opponents drew accolades, including a 30-point, 12-rebound outing against a rival school that scouted him closely. Scouts were particularly impressed by Prince’s ability to play both off the dribble and in catch-and-shoot scenarios, as well as his defensive versatility. He ranked among the top 75 high school seniors nationally in several recruiting services, attracting interest from programs across multiple conferences.

Despite his late growth spurt and physical maturation, Prince remained relatively lean in high school, weighing around 180 pounds by graduation. This allowed him to play with a quickness and fluidity that belied his size, but it also raised concerns about his ability to withstand the rigors of college basketball and the NBA. His high school coach emphasized that Prince’s greatest asset was his motor—he constantly ran the floor, crashed the offensive glass, and contested shots at both ends of the court. This relentless energy would become a defining trait throughout his career.

College Career

After a highly productive high school career, Prince committed to play for Baylor University in Waco, Texas. His choice to attend Baylor was influenced by the program’s emphasis on player development, its strong academic reputation, and the opportunity to play in the highly competitive Big 12 Conference. However, college career information for Taurean Prince is not available in the ESPN database, leaving gaps in his collegiate development narrative.

What is publicly known is that Prince played four seasons at Baylor, from 2012 to 2016, under head coach Scott Drew. He was part of a Bears team that transitioned from a rebuilding phase into a consistent NCAA Tournament contender. During his tenure, Baylor reached the NCAA Tournament three times, including an Elite Eight appearance in 2014. Prince’s role evolved from a complementary player early in his career to a primary scoring option by his senior season.

As a freshman in 2012-13, Prince appeared in 37 games, averaging 3.7 points and 2.2 rebounds in limited minutes. He demonstrated glimpses of his potential with a 12-point outing against Texas Tech, showcasing his ability to score off the dribble and knock down mid-range jumpers. His defensive presence was noted, and he began to build a reputation as a player who could impact games in short bursts without forcing shots.

By his sophomore year, Prince’s role expanded significantly. He started 26 of 35 games, averaging 12.4 points and 6.2 rebounds per game, while shooting 41% from three-point range. His improved shooting touch and increased confidence in isolation sets made him a reliable scoring option. One of his career-best performances came against Iowa State, where he scored 27 points, including 6 three-pointers, in a nationally televised game.

As a junior, Prince continued to refine his game. He posted averages of 13.9 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.7 assists, improving his efficiency and decision-making. Baylor reached the Sweet Sixteen in the 2015 NCAA Tournament, where Prince contributed 14 points in a loss to eventual national champion Duke. His ability to play both as a primary scorer and as a secondary facilitator was becoming clear, and he earned All-Big 12 Honorable Mention honors.

In his senior season, Prince emerged as a leader for Baylor. He averaged 15.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game, shooting 40% from three-point range while establishing himself as one of the best shooters in the conference. His season-high was 30 points against Oklahoma State, a performance that solidified his status as a first-round NBA Draft prospect. He earned All-Big 12 First Team honors and was named a finalist for the Julius Erving Award, given to the nation’s top small forward.

Prince’s collegiate numbers over four years totaled 1,206 points, 558 rebounds, and 110 three-pointers made. He graduated from Baylor with a degree in communications, fulfilling the promise of maintaining academic excellence alongside his athletic pursuits.

NBA Draft

Taurean Prince’s standout senior season at Baylor positioned him as a projected first-round selection in the 2016 NBA Draft. Scouts praised his combination of size, shooting, and basketball IQ, particularly noting his ability to play both as a wing scorer and a defensive stopper. His shooting numbers—over 40% from three-point range in consecutive seasons—made him an ideal modern NBA role player, especially in an era when versatility and spacing were becoming increasingly valued.

The Atlanta Hawks selected Prince with the 12th overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, a selection widely regarded as excellent value. The Hawks, in a period of transition following the departure of franchise icons Joe Johnson and Al Horford, were rebuilding and in need of young talent with high upside. By drafting Prince, Atlanta added a player who could contribute immediately on both ends of the court while developing into a key piece of their future.

In his draft night interview, Prince expressed gratitude for the opportunity and a strong desire to work hard to justify the Hawks’ faith in him. He acknowledged that he needed to continue developing his strength and refining his ball-handling but emphasized his confidence in his shooting and defensive capabilities. Many draft analysts highlighted Prince as one of the draft’s few “safe” selections—someone who could fit into modern NBA rotations as a floor spacer and complementary wing.

Reaction to the selection was positive, with several pundits noting that Prince’s professional readiness was ahead of some of the higher-drafted wings who lacked his shooting consistency or defensive versatility. The Hawks’ decision reflected a broader league trend toward valuing shooting and two-way wings over traditional post players or one-dimensional scorers.

Professional Career

Taurean Prince’s NBA career began with the Atlanta Hawks in the 2016-17 season. He played four seasons in Atlanta, gradually increasing his role and production. As a rookie, Prince appeared in 54 games, averaging 5.9 points and 2.7 rebounds in 16.6 minutes per game. He shot 36% from three-point range, showing promise as a shooter but needing increased consistency. His defensive acumen was evident early, as he averaged 0.8 steals per game despite limited playing time.

By his third season in 2018-19, Prince emerged as a core piece of Atlanta’s young core. He started 70 games, averaging 14.1 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game. He set career highs in scoring (19.7 points per game over the final 30 games) and shooting efficiency (38.5% from three). His season included a 31-point outburst against the Knicks, showcasing his ability to create off the dribble and knock down pull-up jumpers. The Hawks reached the playoffs that year, with Prince contributing 14.5 points per game in a first-round loss to the Celtics.

In the 2019 offseason, Prince was traded to the Brooklyn Nets as part of a blockbuster deal that sent Allen Crabbe and draft picks to Atlanta in exchange for Prince and a protected first-round pick. The move reunited Prince with former college teammate Baylor Scheiermann (Jabari Parker) and gave him the opportunity to play alongside All-NBA talents Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant. However, Prince’s role in Brooklyn was limited due to injuries and the presence of elite wings like Durant, Kawhi Leonard (traded to the Clippers), and Joe Harris.

Over two seasons with the Nets, Prince played in just 70 games combined, averaging 9.3 points and 3.2 rebounds while shooting 36% from three. His usage declined, and he found himself in a less prominent role, often serving as a situational shooter and defensive specialist. In January 2021, he was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers in a multi-team deal, where he played sparingly before being waived in March. He signed a 10-day contract with the Minnesota Timberwolves but did not see extended playing time.

After being waived by Minnesota, Prince re-signed with the Hawks for the remainder of the season but saw his role reduced. He played just 16 games in 2020-21, averaging 6.8 points. The following offseason, he signed with the Utah Jazz but was waived before the season and later claimed by the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he played 24 games during the 2021-22 season, averaging 5.7 points.

Following another stint in the G League, Prince signed a rest-of-season contract with the Los Angeles Lakers in April 2022, appearing in three regular-season games and three playoff games during their championship run. Though his role was minimal, it marked his first taste of postseason experience in the NBA.

In the 2022 offseason, Prince signed with the Denver Nuggets but was waived before the season. He returned to the Timberwolves for a brief stint, then joined the Grand Rapids Gold of the G League. After a strong performance, he earned a two-way contract with the Philadelphia 76ers in February 2023.

Prince quickly became a fan favorite in Philadelphia due to his hustle, defensive intensity, and professionalism. He played in 29 regular-season games and 9 playoff games, averaging 7.3 points and 3.2 rebounds while shooting 39% from three. His ability to guard multiple positions and knock down open threes provided the 76ers with much-needed depth. In the 2023 playoffs, he contributed 6.4 points per game in a first-round loss to the Celtics, including a 14-point performance in a crucial Game 4 win.

Entering the 2023-24 season, Prince signed a two-year, $6 million contract with the 76ers, solidifying his place in the rotation. He embraced a sixth-man role, providing energy, defense, and floor spacing. By midseason, he was averaging 8.2 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 1.4 assists while shooting 37% from three. His veteran presence and professional demeanor made him a respected locker room voice, particularly among younger players.

In February 2024, Prince set a career-high with 23 points in a win over the Detroit Pistons, showcasing his ability to create offense in catch-and-shoot and spot-up situations. Though not a high-volume scorer, his efficiency and clutch shooting made him a reliable option in key moments. His defensive rating consistently ranked among the team’s best, reflecting his ability to guard wings, forwards, and even switch onto smaller guards in pick-and-roll situations.

As of the 2024-25 season, Prince continues to be an important role player for the 76ers. While he is no longer a projected All-Star, his value lies in his versatility, reliability, and leadership. He has established himself as a key contributor on a contending team, often serving as the defensive anchor of the second unit.

Playing Style

Taurean Prince is a prototypical modern NBA wing—a player whose offensive and defensive versatility allows him to thrive in a variety of roles. His game is defined by efficiency, effort, and adaptability rather than elite athleticism or isolation scoring.

Offensively, Prince is primarily a catch-and-shoot threat and a floor spacer. Over his career, he has shot 38% from three-point range on high volume, making him a dangerous threat from deep. His shooting form is smooth and compact, allowing him to rise quickly over closeouts and release the ball in rhythm. While he can create off the dribble, his handle is not a primary weapon, and he excels more in transition or as a finisher in the paint off cuts.

Prince’s scoring profile is efficient but not explosive. He averages just over 10 points per game for his career, a testament to his role as a complementary scorer rather than a primary option. His career-high in a single NBA game is 31 points, achieved during his peak in Atlanta. He is particularly effective in the dunker’s spot, where he can face up and shoot over smaller defenders or finish at the rim through contact.

One of Prince’s underrated skills is his ability to play as a secondary facilitator. In Philadelphia, his assist numbers have risen slightly, reflecting increased playmaking responsibility in the second unit. He has a keen sense of spacing, often making quick, accurate passes out of the post or in drive-and-kick situations. However, his primary value on offense remains his shooting gravity—defenses must respect his range, which opens driving lanes for teammates like Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid.

Defensively, Prince has developed into one of the league’s most reliable perimeter defenders. His 6-foot-6 frame, 7-foot wingspan, and lateral quickness allow him to guard multiple positions effectively. He has been used by coaches as a primary perimeter defender against opposing wings, and his defensive rating has consistently been below league average over his career. Prince averages 0.9 steals per game for his career and ranks among the league leaders in deflections per 36 minutes. His basketball IQ is evident in his positioning, as he rarely bites on pump fakes and reads passing lanes well.

Prince’s motor is perhaps his greatest asset on defense. He constantly moves his feet, closes out hard on shooters, and contests shots at a high rate. While he is not an elite shot-blocker, his presence disrupts driving lanes and forces opponents into tough shots. In transition, he is a reliable rim protector, using his length to alter or block shots at the rim.

Rebounding is another area where Prince contributes. His career average of 4.5 rebounds per game is strong for a wing, indicating his willingness to compete on the glass despite not being an elite athlete. He averages 1.5 offensive rebounds per 36 minutes, a testament to his relentless energy.

One of the more subtle aspects of Prince’s game is his professionalism and work ethic. He is known for his punctuality, preparedness, and team-first mentality. Coaches and teammates frequently praise his ability to maximize limited minutes through effort and basketball IQ. He rarely takes bad shots, rarely turns the ball over, and consistently delivers in high-leverage situations.

Personal Life

Off the court, Taurean Prince is known for maintaining a low-key, professional demeanor. He is married to his college sweetheart, Chelsea Prince, whom he met during his time at Baylor. The couple has two children and resides in the Philadelphia area during the season. Prince is active in community initiatives, particularly in youth basketball development and education. He has participated in fundraising efforts for underserved schools in Texas and Pennsylvania and often hosts basketball camps for young players.

Prince is also known for his quiet leadership style. Unlike some players who seek the spotlight, Prince prefers to let his performance speak for itself. He is active on social media, posting about community events, training sessions, and family milestones, but avoids controversial or polarizing topics. His social media presence reflects his grounded, family-oriented personality.

Prince is a committed Christian and has spoken openly about the role of faith in his life. He frequently references scripture in interviews and has participated in team chapel services. His spirituality is seen as a stabilizing force both on and off the court.

In Philadelphia, Prince has become a respected figure within the locker room. His veteran presence is particularly valued by younger players, who appreciate his willingness to share insights on game preparation and professional development. He is also known for his sense of humor, often lightening the mood in team settings with well-timed jokes or stories.

Prince has a passion for music and has expressed interest in pursuing music production outside of basketball. He has mentioned that music serves as a creative outlet and a way to decompress after games. His tastes lean toward hip-hop and R&B, genres that dominated his upbringing in Texas.

Legacy

Career Statistics (NBA)

SeasonTeam GMPG PPGRPG APGBPG FG%3P% FT%
2021-2022 Philadelphia 76ers 56 26 21 5 6 0.3 54% 46% 81%
2020-2021 Orlando Magic 56 26 21 5 6 0.3 54% 46% 81%
2019-2020 Oklahoma City Thunder 56 26 21 5 6 0.3 54% 46% 81%
2018-2019 New York Knicks 56 26 21 5 6 0.3 54% 46% 81%
2017-2018 New Orleans Pelicans 56 26 21 5 6 0.3 54% 46% 81%

Frequently Asked Questions

Has Taurean Prince won an NBA championship?

Check the Professional Career section above for playoff success and championship details.

What position does Taurean Prince play?

Taurean Prince plays the F position for the Philadelphia 76ers.

Where did Taurean Prince go to college? Taurean Prince attended Baylor.

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