Markelle Fultz

Born on May 29, 1998, Markelle N’Gai Fultz is an American basketball player, currently playing for the Orlando Magic of the National Basketball Association. The Philadelphia 76ers drafted him as the first overall pick in the 2017 NBA draft, marking the start of his NBA career.

During College, Markelle played basketball as a point guard and shooting guard for the Washington Huskies. During the 2016-17 season, he was regarded as the third-team All-American and first-team All-Pac-12. After playing for one season, he left the team and entered the 2017 NBA draft, where the Philadelphia 76ers selected him.

Markelle Fultz’s Early Life

The younger of two kids, Markelle was born in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, on May 29, 1998. Markelle’s mother (Ebony Fultz) played a pivotal role in shaping his life and upbringing after his father abandoned them.

With a deep love for basketball, Markelle was fortunate to have Keith Williams, a local instructor, as his mentor during his early years.

Markelle Fultz’s Education

Markelle attended the DeMatha Catholic High School, an all-boys preparatory school known for its dominant basketball program. During his first year, he played for the freshman team and joined the Junior Varsity team in his sophomore year.

While playing for DeMatha’s Varsity team, Markelle averaged 16.8 points, 7.9 rebounds and 4.3 assists per game and was named the Player of the Year in the Washington Catholic Athletic Conference. With 278 assists, he set a new single-season record for the school. In addition, he led DeMatha’s basketball team to back-to-back conference championships.

On August 21, 2015, Markelle Fultz made his college decision and committed to the University of Washington. On March 31, 2016, he participated in the McDonald’s All-American Game and scored 10 points, six rebounds and four assists. The summer brought exciting news for him as he was picked to join Team USA’s FIBA Americas Under-18 roster. Propelled by Markelle’s scoring prowess, the team advanced to the championship game and competed for the gold medal. Markelle recorded 23 points and was rewarded with the tournament’s MVP award.

Markelle received honours as a First-Team All-Pac-12 and Third-Team All-American during his freshman year. After playing one college basketball season, Markelle entered the 2017 NBA draft.

Markelle Fultz’s NBA Journey

Philadelphia 76ers

In 2017, Markelle Fultz was drafted as the top pick in the NBA draft by the Philadelphia 76ers and signed a four-year rookie contract with the team on July 8. He recorded 10 points and three rebounds in his first game of the season, held on October 8. Markelle's shooting was a major concern as his shooting technique transformed rapidly due to scapular muscle imbalance, affecting his shoulder. Following the injury, Markelle was immediately sidelined with no clear timetable for return.

Finally, on March 26, 2018, it was declared that Markelle would participate in the next game against the Denver Nuggets. Despite facing a few obstacles, including an airball shot and some blocked shots, Markelle scored 10 points and eight assists in just 14 minutes of gameplay. On April 11, he became the youngest player in NBA history to record a triple-double.

Markelle was chosen by the head coach Brett Brown as the starting shooting guard for the 2018-19 season, beating out veteran JJ Redick. Later, after 15 games, the Philadelphia 76ers made a trade for Jimmy Butler, who took over his shooting guard position. In November 2018, Markelle took a break after suffering from a shoulder injury, later identified as thoracic outlet syndrome, affecting functional movement between the neck and shoulder.

Orlando Magic

Markelle Fultz was traded to the Orlando Magic on February 7, 2019, in exchange for Jonathon Simmons. Knowing the severity of Markelle’s injury, the Orlando Magic chose not to risk his health and sidelined him during the season of his acquisition. Markelle debuted for the team on October 23, 2019, recording 12 points and six assists against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Recently, on March 18, 2023, Markelle scored his career-high 28 points in a 113-108 win over the Los Angeles Clippers. His talent for the Orlando Magic has been evident since then.

Markelle Fultz Awards and Achievements

Markelle Futlz’s Net Worth

As per online sources, the net worth of Markelle Fultz is estimated to be around $5 million. This is primarily due to his lucrative contracts with various NBA teams. Moreover, he works as an endorsee for prestigious brands like Nike, significantly contributing to his wealth.

Markelle Fultz’s Family

Markelle Fultz was born in Maryland to Ebony Fultz, who also had an older daughter named Shauntese. Despite being abandoned by his father at a young age, Markelle discovered his talent and passion for basketball under the guidance and mentorship of Keith Williams (a local instructor).

Markelle Fultz’s Girlfriend

As per the latest reports, Markelle is currently single. According to some online sources, it is claimed that Markelle was dating a girl named Sierra Mack. The couple did not share much information regarding their relationship.

Markelle Fultz’s Kids

Markelle shares a son with his previous girlfriend, Sierra Mack. Their son was born on July 12, 2020. There is no information available about their son as the couple prefers to keep their relationship private and doesn’t feel the need to share the details with the public.

Markelle Fultz’s Shoes

Markelle signed his first endorsement deal with Nike in 2017. He usually prefers to wear Nike shoes during the championships. Markelle's shoe collection consists mainly of Nike models, showing his appreciation for classic and reliable footwear.