Keon Ellis is quickly becoming a name to watch in the NBA. Known for his relentless defense, sharp shooting, and inspiring journey, Ellis has captured the attention of basketball fans and analysts alike.
As a guard for the Sacramento Kings, he’s shown that hard work and determination can turn dreams into reality. Ellis stands out not just for his on-court skills but also for his resilience and character off the court.
Keon Ellis’ Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Keon Ellis |
| Date of Birth | January 8, 2000 |
| Age | 25 |
| Education | Alabama (College), Florida SouthWestern State College (JUCO) |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) |
| Weight | 175 lbs (79 kg) |
| Turned Pro | 2022 |
| Net Worth | $2.5 million (approximate, 2025) |
| Salary/Career Earnings | $2,854,123 |
| Wife/Husband | N/A |
| Instagram Profile | N/A |
| Twitter Profile | N/A |
Early Career
Keon Ellis’s early basketball journey is a story of steady growth, resilience, and standout performances at every level. Born in Eustis, Florida, on January 8, 2000, Ellis first played high school basketball at Eustis High before transferring to Leesburg High School for his junior and senior years.
At Leesburg, he quickly became a key player, helping the team win back-to-back Florida Class 6A state championships in 2017 and 2018. As a senior, Ellis averaged 18.1 points per game, earning first team all-state honors and leading his team to an impressive 29-1 record.
His ability to contribute on both ends of the floor, along with his leadership, made him a standout in the Florida high school basketball scene. He was recognized as a two-time Class 6A All-State and All-Area honoree by the Florida Association of Basketball Coaches, and he was selected to play in the FABC All-Star game at the end of his senior year.
Despite his high school success, Ellis was not heavily recruited by major Division I programs. He initially signed with Gardner–Webb but chose to attend Florida SouthWestern State College, a junior college, for academic reasons. At Florida SouthWestern, Ellis’s game flourished.
As a freshman, he averaged 8.3 points and three rebounds per game, earning Second Team All-Suncoast Conference honors. His sophomore season was a breakout year—he averaged 18.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 2.1 steals per game, setting school records for points and steals in a single season.
Ellis’s scoring ability was on full display when he set a school record with 41 points in a single game. He was named a Second Team NJCAA All-American and the Suncoast Conference Player of the Year, and he finished his JUCO career as the program’s all-time leader in steals.
Ellis’s time at Florida SouthWestern was marked by team success as well. He helped lead the Buccaneers to a 59-5 record over two seasons, back-to-back undefeated Suncoast Conference Championships, and consecutive berths in the NJCAA National Tournament.
His defensive skills, athleticism, and scoring made him one of the top junior college prospects in the country. By the end of his JUCO career, he was rated the No. 1 combo guard and the No. 4 overall JUCO player nationally by 247Sports.
Professional Career
Keon Ellis’s professional basketball career is a story of perseverance, growth, and seizing every opportunity. After going undrafted in the 2022 NBA Draft, Ellis signed a two-way contract with the Sacramento Kings, splitting his time between the NBA and their G League affiliate, the Stockton Kings.
This initial step was crucial, as it allowed Ellis to showcase his skills and adapt to the professional level. In the 2022 NBA Summer League, he made an immediate impression, averaging 11.4 points, 3.6 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 2.0 steals per game, while shooting an impressive 46.9% from three-point range. His defensive tenacity and ability to contribute on both ends of the floor quickly caught the attention of the Kings’ coaching staff.
During his rookie season (2022–23), Ellis saw limited NBA action, appearing in 16 games and averaging 1.5 points in just 4.4 minutes per game. However, he continued to develop his game in the G League, where he was a standout performer for Stockton.
His time in the G League was marked by strong defensive play, improved shooting, and a growing confidence in his offensive abilities. The Kings recognized his progress and re-signed him to another two-way contract for the 2023–24 season.
The 2023–24 NBA season marked a turning point for Ellis. He played in 57 games for Sacramento, starting 21 of them, and averaged 5.4 points, 2.2 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 0.9 steals in 17.2 minutes per game.
His shooting efficiency improved, with a field goal percentage of 46.1% and a three-point percentage of 41.7%. Ellis’s defensive skills became a valuable asset for the Kings, as he often guarded the opposing team’s best perimeter players. His energy, hustle, and ability to make timely plays earned him a regular spot in the rotation.
Ellis’s breakout moment came in the 2024 NBA Play-In Tournament, where he delivered a standout performance against the Golden State Warriors. In that crucial game, he scored 15 points, dished out five assists, grabbed four rebounds, and contributed three steals and three blocks, helping the Kings secure a victory and advance in the postseason.
Just days earlier, on April 9, 2024, Ellis had set a then-career-high with 26 points in a game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, further cementing his reputation as a player who rises to the occasion.
Keon Ellis’ Net Worth Details
As of 2026, Keon Ellis’ net worth is estimated to be $2.5 million.
Contract
Keon Ellis is currently signed to a three-year contract with the Sacramento Kings, which began in the 2023-24 NBA season. The total value of the contract is $5,105,710, with $2,804,123 guaranteed. For the 2024-25 season, Ellis will earn a base salary of $2,120,693.
The contract also includes a team option for the 2025-26 season, which, if exercised by the Kings, will pay him $2,301,587. This deal reflects the Kings’ confidence in Ellis’s growth and value as a key contributor to their roster, rewarding his hard work and steady improvement since joining the team.
Salary
For the 2024-25 NBA season, Keon Ellis is earning a base salary of $2,120,693 as a guard for the Sacramento Kings. This salary marks a significant increase from his previous seasons, reflecting his growing role and value to the team.
If the Kings exercise their team option for the 2025-26 season, Ellis’s salary will rise to $2,301,587. His current contract ensures financial stability and rewards his consistent performance and development on the court.
Career Earnings
| Season | Team | Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 2022-23 | Sacramento Kings | $508,891 |
| 2023-24 | Sacramento Kings | $683,430 |
| 2024-25 | Sacramento Kings | $2,120,693 |
| 2025-26* | Sacramento Kings | $2,301,587 |
| Total | $5,614,601 |
NBA Career Stats
| Season | Team | GP | GS | MIN | PTS | REB | AST | STL | BLK | FG% | 3P% | FT% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022-23 | Sacramento Kings | 16 | 0 | 4.4 | 1.5 | 0.5 | 0.4 | 0.3 | 0.1 | .438 | .500 | .571 |
| 2023-24 | Sacramento Kings | 57 | 21 | 17.2 | 5.4 | 2.2 | 1.5 | 0.9 | 0.5 | .461 | .417 | .743 |
| 2024-25 | Sacramento Kings | 80 | 28 | 24.4 | 8.3 | 2.7 | 1.5 | 1.5 | 0.8 | .489 | .433 | .849 |
FAQs
1. Which NBA team does Keon Ellis play for and how did she enter the league?
Ellis plays for the Sacramento Kings and entered the NBA as an undrafted free agent in 2022 after showcasing her skills in the NBA Summer League and earning a two-way contract.
2. What position does Ellis primarily play and what are her main strengths?
She is a shooting guard and small forward, recognized for defensive versatility, quick hands, perimeter shooting, and the ability to guard multiple positions effectively.
3. What is Ellis’ collegiate basketball background and where did she play?
Ellis played two seasons at the University of Alabama, where she became a key starter and earned All-SEC Defensive Team honors through consistent hustle and defensive excellence.
4. How has Ellis contributed to the Kings since joining the team?
Ellis brought energy off the bench, using defense and three-point shooting to create a role as a rotation player, and frequently guarded the opposition’s top backcourt scorer.
5. What are Ellis’ statistical strengths in the NBA so far?
She posts respectable numbers in steals per game, has an efficient three-point percentage, and minimizes turnovers, contributing in transition and as a spot-up shooter.
6. Has Ellis earned any recognition early in her NBA career?
Ellis has drawn praise from coaches, teammates, and analysts for NBA-ready defense, earning extra playing time and positive reviews as an undrafted player exceeding initial expectations.
7. How do coaches and teammates describe Ellis’ attitude and impact?
Coaches value her commitment to defense, willingness to learn, and ability to execute game plans, while teammates appreciate her quiet confidence and accountability on and off the court.
8. What areas is Ellis focused on improving for long-term NBA success?
She continues developing ball-handling, playmaking under pressure, and finishing at the rim, aiming to become a more complete offensive threat in addition to standout defense.
9. What is Ellis’ reputation among NBA scouts and analysts?
NBA scouts highlight her wingspan, timing, and anticipation on defense. Analysts believe Ellis could become an elite role player with consistent three-point shooting and leadership qualities.
10. What are Ellis’ career goals and aspirations in the NBA?
Ellis strives to secure a full roster spot, regularly contribute in the Kings’ rotation, help Sacramento reach the playoffs, and earn recognition as a top defensive guard in the NBA.
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