Patrick O’Neal Baldwin Jr., fondly nicknamed “PBJ,” stands as a rising star in professional basketball. Born on November 18, 2002, in Evanston, IL, his journey has been marked by exceptional talent and unwavering determination, capturing the attention of basketball enthusiasts worldwide.

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Quick Facts

Full Name	Patrick O’Neal Baldwin Jr.
Birth Date	November 18, 2002
Birth Place	Evanston, IL
Nick Name	PBJ
Nationality	American
Education	High School Hamilton High School College Milwaukee Panthers
Father’s Name	Pat Baldwin Sr.
Mother’s Name	Shawn Baldwin
Siblings	Not specified
Age	21
Height	6 ft 9 in (2.06 m)
Weight	220 lb (100 kg)
League	NBA
Hair Color	N/A
Eye Color	N/A
Position	Forward
Marital Status	Single
Wingspan	7 ft 2 in (2.18 m)
NBA Draft	2022: 1st round, 28th overall pick, selected by the Golden State Warriors
Career Highlights	McDonald’s All-American (2021) Jordan Brand Classic (2021) Nike Hoop Summit (2021)
Playing Career	2022–present
Net Worth	$2,337,720
Social Media	Instagram Twitter
Merch	N/A

Patrick Baldwin Jr Early Life and Education

Patrick Baldwin Jr., an esteemed American citizen, was born and raised in the picturesque town of Sussex, Wisconsin. His upbringing in the heart of the United States has profoundly influenced his identity and aspirations. From his earliest days, Baldwin Jr. demonstrated a passion for basketball, a sport that would become the focal point of his journey.

His educational foundation was laid at Hamilton High School, a public school in Sussex, where Baldwin Jr. excelled academically and emerged as a standout basketball player for the school’s team. It was within the halls of Hamilton High School that he honed his skills, leaving an indelible mark on the local basketball scene.

Family

A unique blend of familial support and exposure to the basketball world marked Patrick Baldwin Jr.’s childhood. Growing up with a father, Pat Sr., who is deeply entrenched in the basketball community, provided Patrick Jr. with an early introduction to the sport. The family dynamic, shaped by both parents’ athletic backgrounds, laid the foundation for Patrick Jr.’s love for the game.

Shawn Baldwin emerges as the resilient heart of the family. Her journey through breast cancer serves as a testament to her strength and determination. A former college volleyball star, Shawn’s ability to maintain a positive outlook, even during challenging chemotherapy treatments, reflects her indomitable spirit. Her impact on the family extends beyond her role as a loving mother, becoming a source of inspiration for Patrick Jr. and the entire Baldwin family.

High School Career

Baldwin’s ascent in basketball began during his formative years at Hamilton High School in Sussex, Wisconsin. His first year saw him contribute significantly to the team’s commendable state tournament run in the 2017–18 season, although the ultimate victory eluded them. 

However, during his junior year, Baldwin left an indelible mark, showcasing his scoring prowess by averaging 24.3 points and 10.8 rebounds per game. These stellar performances earned him the esteemed Wisconsin Gatorade Player of the Year honors. 

Despite adversity with a season-ending ankle injury during his senior year, Baldwin’s resilience and skill were undeniable, earning him coveted spots in prestigious events such as the McDonald’s All-American Game, Jordan Brand Classic, and Nike Hoop Summit.

Recruiting Journey

As a consensus five-star recruit and one of the standout players in the 2021 class, Baldwin found himself courted by basketball powerhouses such as Duke, Arizona State, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, LSU, Michigan, North Carolina, USC, and Georgetown. 

A remarkable twist in his recruiting tale unfolded when he made the surprising decision to commit to playing college basketball for the Milwaukee Panthers under the guidance of his father. This decision marked a milestone, as Baldwin became the highest-rated recruit to commit to a Horizon League program.

Examining his recruiting star ratings reveals the unanimous acclaim he received—5/5 stars from Rivals, 247Sports, and ESPN—with an impressive ESPN grade of 97. These ratings solidified his standing as the 7th-ranked recruit by Rivals and 247Sports and the 5th-ranked recruit by ESPN.

College Career

Baldwin’s collegiate journey was not without its share of highs and lows. His college debut was spectacular, posting a double-double with 21 points and ten rebounds in a decisive 75–60 win against North Dakota. However, injuries became a recurring theme, with a leg injury in November 2021 and an ankle injury in January 2022 interrupting his momentum. Despite these setbacks, Baldwin declared for the 2022 NBA draft, opting to forgo his remaining college eligibility. His freshman season, marred by injuries, saw him average 12.1 points and 5.8 rebounds per game.

Professional Career

Golden State Warriors (2022–2023)

The next chapter of Baldwin’s career unfolded with the 2022 NBA draft, where the Golden State Warriors selected him as the 28th overall pick. The official announcement of his signing with the Warriors came on July 6, 2022, marking a significant milestone in his professional journey.

Baldwin was assigned to the Golden State G League affiliate, the Santa Cruz Warriors, following his selection on October 24, 2022. He made his NBA debut on October 30, 2022, in a game against the Detroit Pistons, entering the court in the match’s final minute.

Baldwin’s professional trajectory took an intriguing turn on December 21, 2022, when he achieved a career-high 17 points in a game against the Brooklyn Nets. This standout performance was characterized by efficient shooting, going 6-of-10 overall and an impressive 5-of-8 from three-point range in 23 minutes of play. This stellar showing was followed by another strong performance, contributing 11 points in a 112–107 victory over the Utah Jazz a week later, shooting 4-of-7 overall and 3-of-5 from three in just 13 minutes. However, the path to success in the NBA is often accompanied by challenges, as Baldwin was assigned to the G League again on February 5, 2023.

Washington Wizards (2023–present)

In a surprising move on July 6, 2023, Baldwin was traded to the Washington Wizards alongside Jordan Poole, Ryan Rollins, and draft picks as part of a deal that brought seasoned player Chris Paul to the Golden State Warriors.

National Team Career

Beyond his domestic success, Baldwin has also represented the United States on the international stage. His involvement in the 2021 FIBA Under-19 World Cup in Latvia showcased his versatility and contribution to team success. Averaging 7.7 points and five rebounds per game, Baldwin played a pivotal role in securing the gold medal for the United States.

Achievements

Baldwin Jr.’s achievements extend beyond the local arena to the international stage. One notable milestone in his burgeoning career came with his representation of the United States in the 2019 FIBA Americas U16 Championship. His stellar contributions played a pivotal role in leading the team to a gold medal, showcasing his individual prowess and his ability to contribute to team success on the global stage.

Baldwin Jr. received invitations to prestigious events such as the McDonald’s All-American Game, the Jordan Brand Classic, and the Nike Hoop Summit in 2021 as a testament to his exceptional skills and impact on the basketball landscape. These accolades underscored his status as one of the top talents in his graduating class, solidifying his place among the nation’s elite basketball prospects.

Physical Attributes

Listed at an impressive height of 6 feet 9 inches (2.06 meters) and weighing in at 220 pounds (100 kilograms), Baldwin Jr.’s physical attributes contribute to his effectiveness on the basketball court. His stature grants him a significant presence in the paint and allows for versatility in his playing style. Whether it’s commanding the boards, driving to the basket, or showcasing his shooting prowess, Baldwin Jr.’s physical attributes are a formidable asset in navigating the challenges of high-level basketball competition.

Personal Life

Patrick Baldwin Jr. maintains a single status in personal relationships, directing his unwavering focus toward his burgeoning basketball career. Devoted to honing his skills and making significant strides in the NBA, Baldwin Jr. prioritizes his professional journey, embracing the challenges and opportunities of pursuing excellence in the sport. His commitment to personal growth and athletic achievement is a testament to his dedication to a singular path of career success.

Salary and Net Worth

In the upcoming season with the Washington Wizards, Patrick Baldwin Jr. will earn $2,337,720. Ranked as the 380th best-paid NBA player this season, he’s climbing from the 354th position last year. Baldwin Jr.’s financial standing is on the rise as the 155th best-paid forward and the 14th best-paid player for the Wizards. With a past salary of $2,226,000 with the Golden State Warriors in 2022/23, Baldwin Jr.’s net worth steadily grows in the competitive landscape of professional basketball.

 

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