Baylor Scheierman, a rookie forward for the Boston Celtics, has quickly become a name to watch in the NBA. Drafted 30th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft, Scheierman’s journey from a small-town Nebraska kid to a key bench player for the reigning NBA champions is a story of grit, talent, and unshakable confidence. This article dives into his background, career highlights, recent performances, and the questions fans are asking about him, drawing on the latest information available from credible sources.
A Small-Town Nebraska Upbringing
Baylor Scheierman was born and raised on a farm outside Sutton, Nebraska, a small town with a tight-knit community. Growing up in a rural setting, Scheierman’s early life was shaped by early mornings, hard work, and a deep connection to family. His parents, Scott and Shannon Scheierman, played pivotal roles in his development, both as an athlete and as a person.
Scott, a former basketball player at Hastings College, was Baylor’s first coach, teaching him the fundamentals of the game on an 8-foot hoop in their driveway. Shannon, a high school math teacher at Aurora Public Schools, provided emotional support and instilled a sense of discipline.
From an astonishingly young age 2½ years old Baylor showed an affinity for basketball, shooting at Fisher Price hoops in the living room. A defining moment came when his family watched a VHS tape of The Pistol: The Birth of a Legend, a film about basketball icon Pete Maravich. While his siblings watched cartoons, Baylor was captivated by Maravich’s flair, sparking a lifelong passion for the game.
Athletic Versatility
Scheierman’s athletic talents weren’t limited to basketball. Growing up, he excelled in multiple sports, particularly football, where he set records as a quarterback. However, he made the pivotal decision to focus on basketball, a choice that would define his career. His parents supported this decision, recognizing his potential on the hardwood. This versatility and early exposure to competition laid the foundation for his well-rounded skill set.
Family and Faith
The Scheierman family’s influence extends beyond athletics. Scott and Shannon, described as “American through and through,” were constant presences at Baylor’s games, offering unwavering support. Their faith played a significant role in Baylor’s life, with team prayers and a strong Christian upbringing shaping his values. Baylor has spoken about carrying his Bible with him, reflecting his grounded nature despite the pressures of professional sports.
Collegiate Career: From South Dakota State to Creighton
South Dakota State Success: Scheierman began his college basketball career at South Dakota State University, where he quickly established himself as a standout player. Over three seasons, he showcased his ability to shoot, pass, and rebound at an elite level, earning recognition as a versatile wing. His shooting prowess, particularly from beyond the arc, became a hallmark of his game, with a 39.0% three-point shooting percentage on 5.6 attempts per game across his college career.
Transfer to Creighton: In 2022, Scheierman made a significant move by transferring to Creighton University, a decision that elevated his profile. At Creighton, he continued to shine, averaging 18.5 points per game in his senior year and earning First Team Big East All-Conference honors. His ability to perform under pressure was evident in March Madness, where he delivered standout performances.
His mother, Shannon, recalled crying tears of joy watching his career-defining games, a testament to his impact on and off the court. Scheierman initially entered the 2022 NBA Draft but withdrew to return to Creighton, a decision that allowed him to further hone his skills. This move paid off, as his final college season solidified his reputation as a top prospect.
NBA Draft and Joining the Boston Celtics
Draft Night Nerves: Scheierman’s journey to the NBA culminated in the 2024 NBA Draft, where he was selected 30th overall by the Boston Celtics. Unlike many prospects, he chose not to attend the draft in person, instead watching from a restaurant in Omaha with friends and family. The experience was nerve-wracking, as international players were called before him, causing tension in the room. His mother, Shannon, noted the anxiety of the moment but highlighted the positive feedback Baylor received from his NBA Combine performance and workouts.
A Perfect Fit for Boston: The Celtics, coming off their 2024 NBA Championship, saw Scheierman as an ideal fit for their system. General Manager Brad Stevens valued his elite three-point shooting and versatility, qualities that aligned with Boston’s ball-movement-heavy and switch-heavy defensive schemes. Despite a crowded roster, Scheierman’s skill set made him a valuable addition, especially as the team faced luxury tax constraints.
Rookie Season Performance
Scheierman’s rookie season with the Celtics began with limited opportunities, as expected for a late first-round pick on a championship-caliber team. The preseason was tough, with Scheierman struggling to find his rhythm, going 1-for-15 from three-point range in his early regular-season appearances. However, he remained confident, stating, “I knew that it wasn’t necessarily reflective of how I am as a shooter.”
This resilience would prove crucial as he began to carve out a role. In 31 regular-season games, Scheierman averaged 3.6 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.1 assists in 12.4 minutes, shooting 35.5% from the field. While these numbers were modest, they reflected his limited role early on.
Breakout Moments
Scheierman’s breakout came in March 2025, when injuries to key players like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown opened the door for extended minutes. On March 6, he scored 15 points against the Philadelphia 76ers, showcasing his ability to step up when needed. His defining performance came on March 18 against the Brooklyn Nets, where he erupted for a career-high 20 points, including 6-of-7 three-pointers. His flair for the dramatic blowing kisses to the TD Garden crowd and celebrating with an emphatic battle cry endeared him to fans and teammates alike.
Coach Joe Mazzulla praised Scheierman’s contributions beyond scoring, noting his defensive effort, offensive rebounding, and toughness. In a 104-96 win over the Nets, Scheierman’s three-pointer at the third-quarter buzzer and three more in the fourth quarter were pivotal in securing the victory.
G-League Dominance
When not playing with the Celtics, Scheierman spent time with the Maine Celtics in the G-League, where he showcased his scoring ability. In 14 G-League games, he shot 41.1% from three on 10.1 attempts per game, averaging 11.2 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 2.9 assists. His performance in the G-League, including a 55-point outburst over two games, highlighted his potential as a consistent offensive threat.
Recent Playoff Contributions
In the 2025 NBA Playoffs, Scheierman’s role remained limited due to Boston’s deep roster. In Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the New York Knicks on May 17, 2025, he played 14 minutes in a 119-81 loss, scoring five points and grabbing two rebounds. While these minutes came in garbage time, they underscored his readiness to contribute when called upon.
Playing Style and Strengths
Elite Three-Point Shooting: Scheierman’s calling card is his three-point shooting. His 39.0% college three-point percentage and 41.1% in the G-League demonstrate his ability to stretch the floor. His quick release and confidence from deep make him a valuable asset in Boston’s offense, which led the NBA in three-point attempts in the 2024-25 season.
All-Around Game: Beyond shooting, Scheierman brings versatility to the court. At 6’6”, he can play multiple positions, rebound effectively for a guard, and facilitate as a secondary playmaker. His defensive improvement has been a pleasant surprise, with Mazzulla noting his deflections, steals, and comfort with Boston’s switching schemes.
Intangibles and Confidence: Scheierman’s confidence is evident in his on-court demeanor. Whether blowing kisses to the crowd or engaging with fans after big shots, he plays with a swagger rare for a rookie. His work ethic, honed by 5 a.m. workouts since middle school, and his ability to stay positive through early struggles have earned him respect from coaches and teammates.
Comparisons to Sam Hauser
Scheierman’s emergence has sparked discussions about his role relative to teammate Sam Hauser, a sharpshooting wing known for his 42.4% three-point shooting in the 2024-25 season. With Hauser’s contract nearing its end and the Celtics facing luxury tax concerns, some analysts speculate that Scheierman could replace Hauser as a cost-effective alternative. His similar skill set, elite shooting and improving defense makes this a plausible scenario, though Hauser’s experience gives him an edge for now.
Learning from Hauser: Scheierman has actively sought to emulate Hauser, working closely with him to refine his preparation and post-workout routines. After gaining 10-15 pounds since Summer League, Scheierman has focused on adding strength to handle the NBA’s physicality, further aligning his game with Hauser’s mold.
FAQs
Who Are Baylor Scheierman’s Parents?
Scott and Shannon Scheierman are Baylor’s parents. Scott, a former college basketball player, coached Baylor early on, while Shannon, a high school math teacher, provided emotional support. Their presence at every game and their faith-based upbringing have been instrumental in Baylor’s success.
What Is Baylor Scheierman’s Ethnicity and Religion?
Scheierman is of American descent, with his family rooted in Nebraska. His Christian faith is a significant part of his life, as evidenced by his comments about carrying his Bible and the family’s tradition of team prayers.
How Has Scheierman Performed in the NBA?
As of May 19, 2025, Scheierman has shown flashes of brilliance in limited minutes. His 20-point performance against the Nets and consistent G-League production highlight his potential. While his playoff role has been minimal, his regular-season stats (3.6 PPG, 35.5% FG) suggest he’s on the cusp of a larger role.
Why Did He Choose Basketball Over Football?
Despite his record-breaking high school football career, Scheierman chose basketball due to his passion for the sport, ignited by watching Pete Maravich’s story. His family supported this decision, recognizing his potential to excel on the hardwood.
Is He Replacing Torrey Craig or Sam Hauser?
Scheierman’s recent performances have positioned him ahead of veteran Torrey Craig as a bench option, with his three-point shooting and all-around game earning him favor. The Hauser comparison is more speculative, but his development could make him a viable replacement if financial constraints force roster changes.
In Summary
Baylor Scheierman’s rise from a Nebraska farm to the Boston Celtics is a testament to his talent, work ethic, and family support. His elite shooting, improving defense, and infectious confidence have made him a fan favorite and a potential steal of the 2024 NBA Draft.
As he continues to develop, Scheierman is poised to become a key contributor for the Celtics, answering fans’ questions about his background, performance, and future with every three-pointer he drains. Whether he’s blowing kisses to the crowd or grinding in the G-League, Scheierman’s journey is just beginning, and Boston fans have plenty to be excited about.
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