Payton Pritchard’s journey to winning the 2024-25 NBA Sixth Man of the Year award is a tale of perseverance, precision, and passion
He proved that you don’t need to be a starter to be a star, and that true impact can come from any role on the team.
As the Celtics gear up for a deep playoff run, they know they have one of the most valuable weapons in the league—coming off the bench and ready to deliver.
With this achievement, Pritchard has not only etched his name into NBA history books but also into the hearts of Celtics fans everywhere. The future is bright for this rising star, and the league is officially on notice.
In a league that often focuses on superstars and viral highlights, Payton Pritchard stands as a refreshing reminder of what consistent growth and hard work can achieve.
His journey from an overlooked draft pick to the 2025 Sixth Man of the Year is a blueprint in perseverance, and the recognition from someone like Charles Barkley only amplifies its significance.
As the Celtics march forward in the 2025 playoffs, Pritchard’s story is far from over. But one thing is clear—he’s no longer just a promising player. He’s a proven one.
And in the eyes of Charles Barkley and basketball fans everywhere, that makes all the difference.
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Payton Pritchard Claims 2024-25 NBA Sixth Man of the Year Honors
The 2024-25 NBA Awards season kicked off with an exciting announcement: Boston Celtics guard Payton Pritchard was named the NBA Sixth Man of the Year.1
Recognized for his explosive impact off the bench, Pritchard outshone other contenders in one of the league’s most competitive categories, setting a high standard for bench production across the NBA.
Payton Pritchard’s 2024-25 regular season was nothing short of sensational. Entering his fifth year in the league, the Oregon product elevated his game to new heights.
He posted averages of 14.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, all career highs. What made his season even more impressive was the efficiency with which he scored—47.2% shooting from the field and 40.7% from three-point range, making him a lethal perimeter threat and a reliable scoring option off the bench.
This level of production wasn’t just eye-popping; it was historic. Pritchard scored a record-setting 1,079 points as a reserve, the most ever in NBA history for a bench player in a single season. He consistently delivered in crucial moments, helping propel the Celtics to one of the top records in the Eastern Conference.
— Payton Pritchard (@paytonpritch3) March 23, 2025
Dominance in Key Metrics: A Statistical Marvel
It wasn’t just traditional box-score numbers that highlighted Pritchard’s impact. He also led all bench players in several advanced metrics, including points, three-pointers made, and +/- rating off the bench.
These stats reflect his consistent positive influence on the floor, whether stretching defenses with his sharpshooting or orchestrating the offense during second-unit rotations.
These performances weren’t isolated moments either. Pritchard was a picture of consistency, maintaining his level of play throughout the 82-game grind of the regular season.
His ability to stay locked in and make winning plays became a cornerstone of the Celtics’ strategy.
Payton Pritchard: Teammates and Fans Celebrate the Win
After the award was announced, congratulations poured in from across the NBA world.2
One of the most notable shout-outs came from Torrey Craig, fellow NBA player and boyfriend of rapper Megan Thee Stallion.
Craig shared the Boston Celtics’ official Instagram post celebrating Pritchard’s win on his story, including a graphic of Pritchard’s standout statistics.
“Like that @paytonpritch3,” Craig wrote, hyping up his Celtics teammate and showing respect for the incredible season.
The Celtics’ social media channels also lit up with congratulatory messages from fans and former players. Pritchard’s humble demeanor and work ethic made his success all the more rewarding to those who’ve followed his journey from a college standout to a key contributor on a title-contending team.
The Competition: Beasley and Jerome Fall Short
While Pritchard’s dominant season made him the clear frontrunner, the Sixth Man of the Year race still featured impressive contenders.
Malik Beasley, who played a key role for the Milwaukee Bucks, finished as the runner-up with 279 total points in the voting process. Known for his scoring and perimeter defense, Beasley had a strong season but ultimately couldn’t match Pritchard’s statistical impact.
Coming in third was Ty Jerome, who had a solid season in a limited role, earning 91 voting points. While Jerome impressed with his composure and decision-making off the bench, his numbers and overall influence didn’t compare to Pritchard’s historic output.
Pritchard secured the award with a commanding lead, earning 454 total voting points, including 82 first-place votes, a testament to the respect he earned from media members and analysts alike.
Payton Pritchard: Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz
Social media exploded with reactions to Pritchard’s award, with hashtags like #SixthManSZN, #PritchardPower, and #BenchBoss trending shortly after the announcement.3
Celtics fans praised the organization for developing homegrown talent, while neutral fans admired Pritchard’s underdog story.
Memes, tribute videos, and highlight reels flooded platforms like X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Instagram.
Many users pointed out the contrast between Pritchard’s humble public image and his fiery on-court demeanor, dubbing him the “silent assassin” of the Celtics roster.
The Broader Impact: Redefining the Sixth Man Role
Pritchard’s win may also help redefine what fans expect from a Sixth Man. In past seasons, the award often went to high-volume scorers who could light up the stat sheet.
While Pritchard certainly fits that mold, his win also reflects a growing appreciation for well-rounded, efficient bench production that contributes directly to winning.
By excelling in multiple aspects—shooting, playmaking, spacing, and on-ball defense—Pritchard set a new standard for modern Sixth Men: versatile, intelligent, and always ready.
The Culture Fit: Grit Meets Glory in Boston
Pritchard’s play style fits seamlessly into the Celtics’ storied culture—gritty, tough, and always team-first.
He embodies the kind of blue-collar mentality that Boston fans adore. Never one to seek the spotlight, he’s remained focused on winning and helping his team, whether as a spark plug off the bench or in crunch-time situations.
His humility and dedication were frequently praised by teammates and coaches throughout the season. Veteran Celtics players highlighted how Pritchard’s approach set an example for younger teammates, and many insiders believe he’s quickly becoming a locker-room leader.
What This Means for Pritchard’s Future
Winning the Sixth Man of the Year award is a milestone moment in Pritchard’s career, but it also signals a possible evolution in his role.
With his growing confidence and production, it’s fair to wonder whether Pritchard could eventually earn a permanent starting position—either in Boston or elsewhere.
Teams across the league are undoubtedly taking notice of his breakout campaign. Whether he remains a super-sub or steps into a larger role, his value has skyrocketed.
For the Celtics, retaining a player of Pritchard’s caliber gives them a crucial edge in future postseason battles.
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Charles Barkley Praises Payton Pritchard
A Star in the Making
When NBA legend Charles Barkley speaks, fans and players alike tend to listen. Known for his candid, often unfiltered commentary, Barkley rarely minces words—especially when he’s impressed.
During a recent episode of NBA on TNT, Barkley took time to shower praise on Boston Celtics guard Payton Pritchard, who was recently named the 2025 NBA Sixth Man of the Year.
“You know what’s really cool about that situation?” Barkley said. “He built his game. He made himself a hell of a player. A lot of guys come in, they got all the hype and everything, but that kid made himself a terrific NBA player.
You’re happy to see guys win awards like that.”
This moment of admiration from Barkley speaks volumes. It’s not just about the award—it’s about the journey that got Pritchard there.
The Long Road to Recognition
Payton Pritchard’s path to NBA stardom was anything but conventional.
Unlike some of his peers who were touted as prodigies before they even stepped on a college court, Pritchard came into the league with relatively modest expectations. Drafted 26th overall by the Celtics in 2020, he was seen as a solid but unspectacular backup guard.
However, what he lacked in hype, he more than made up for in hustle. From his rookie year onward, Pritchard showed flashes of high-level shooting and decision-making, quickly carving out a niche as a sparkplug off the bench.
Each season since then has seen him gradually increase his minutes, his role, and—most importantly—his impact.
A Championship Contributor
While some may have questioned his ceiling early on, Pritchard proved his worth during Boston’s 2024 championship run.
Though his stats weren’t gaudy—averaging 6.4 points per game in the playoffs—his value went beyond the box score. He provided steady minutes as a secondary ball handler, offered instant scoring when needed, and always brought energy to the second unit.
Those contributions didn’t go unnoticed. Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla often spoke highly of Pritchard’s professionalism and work ethic, emphasizing how much trust the coaching staff had in him during crucial playoff moments.
Payton Pritchard: Elevating His Game in 2025
Fast forward to the current 2025 season, and Pritchard has elevated his game to new heights.
No longer just a role player, he has become a consistent offensive threat and floor general off the bench. His scoring average jumped, his assist numbers improved, and his confidence soared.
The result? The NBA’s 2025 Sixth Man of the Year award—a testament to both his production and his perseverance.
His performance in the first game of the 2025 playoffs was a statement.
With 19 points in just 25 minutes, Pritchard showed he could be a difference-maker when it matters most. If he maintains this form, he could prove to be a game-changer in Boston’s bid to defend their title.
A Blueprint for Young Players
Pritchard’s rise is inspiring, not just for Celtics fans, but for aspiring players everywhere. In a league full of athletic marvels and viral highlights, he’s a reminder that hard work, resilience, and fundamentals still matter.
He’s not the tallest or fastest guard in the league, but he’s carved out a role through skill, IQ, and grit.
Young players watching his journey can see a clear message: if you keep working, stay coachable, and maximize your minutes, the league will take notice.
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The Value of Depth in the Modern NBA
Pritchard’s emergence also highlights the increasing importance of bench depth in today’s NBA. With stars often resting during the regular season and rotations tightening in the playoffs, a reliable sixth man is invaluable.
For championship teams like the Celtics, having someone who can keep the offense flowing when the starters sit is crucial.
In Pritchard, Boston has that—and more. His ability to space the floor, handle the ball, and defend competently allows the Celtics to maintain balance even when Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, or Jrue Holiday are off the floor.
Championship Repeat? Pritchard Could Be the Key
As the Celtics aim for back-to-back championships, Pritchard’s role could become even more pronounced.
His ability to produce offensively allows the starters more rest, reducing wear and tear during the brutal playoff grind.
And if he continues scoring at the pace he did in Game 1 of the 2025 postseason, he may force opposing defenses to rethink their bench matchups entirely.
In a league often dominated by big names, Pritchard may not always get the headlines—but he may just be the piece that tips the balance in Boston’s favor once again.
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