Former DME Academy Basketball Player Kris Murray Drafted 23rd by Portland in the 2023 NBA Draft

Kris Murray, DME Academy Post-Graduate Basketball alumnus (2019-2020), was selected by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2023 NBA Draft on Thursday, June 22. Portland selected the 6’8” forward with the 23rd pick in the first round.

The Blazers’ selection made Murray the second first-round pick in DME Academy history, following his brother Keegan who was drafted in 2022 as the fourth overall pick by the Sacramento Kings.

Murray’s draft achievement comes as a result of an impressive basketball career built on hard work, drive, and always staying humble. Since his post-graduate year at DME, which put him on the map as a top forward in the nation, Murray has gained the respect of his teammates and coaches as someone you always wanted on the court and as a part of your team. Dan Panaggio, DME Academy founder, said, “Kris Murray had a huge impact on DME Academy. He personified all the best qualities we look for in our student-athletes.

He was intelligent, hard-working, unselfish, and humble. His teammates not only respected him but loved him. He is a product of the best in parenting. His family is the perfect model for the American Student-athlete, and Kris is the perfect role model.”

Murray is coming off an impressive career at the University of Iowa, having scored over 20 points 17 times, double figures 43 times, and seven career double-doubles. After his junior season, he received third-team All-America and first-team All-Big Ten honors and was named a semifinalist for both the John R.

Wooden Award and the Naismith Player of the Year trophy.

Murray joins the Blazers who are coming off a 33-49 overall record, and 13th place in the NBA Western Conference. He’s expected to make an immediate impact for Portland as an NBA-ready combo forward.
To follow along with Murray’s journey to the big leagues, click here.

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