Sam Merrill’s journey to the NBA is a story of perseverance, hard work, and clutch shooting. From being the last pick in the 2020 NBA Draft to earning a spot as a key contributor for the Cleveland Cavaliers, Merrill’s path has been anything but ordinary.
Fans love his three-point shooting and his ability to step up in big moments, making him a favorite among teammates and coaches. As he continues to build his career, many are curious about his personal life, net worth, contract details, and on-court achievements. Here’s a detailed look at Sam Merrill’s life and career.
Sam Merrill’s Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Samuel Hoskins Merrill |
| Date of Birth | May 15, 1996 |
| Age | 28 |
| Education | Utah State University |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m) |
| Weight | 205 lbs (93 kg) |
| Turned Pro | 2020 |
| Net Worth | $2 million (approximate) |
| Salary (2024-25) | $2,164,993 |
| Career Earnings | $7,684,044 |
| Wife | N/A |
| Instagram Profile | N/A |
| Twitter Profile | N/A |
Early Career
Sam Merrill’s early career is a story of steady growth, leadership, and consistent excellence on and off the basketball court. Born on May 15, 1996, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Merrill was raised in Bountiful, Utah, by his parents John and Jenny Merrill.
He grew up in a sports-loving family, with his older sister Molli excelling in soccer at Utah State. From a young age, Sam showed a passion and talent for basketball, which became clear when he joined Bountiful High School’s basketball team.
At Bountiful High, Merrill quickly made a name for himself. He became a starter midway through his sophomore year, averaging 6.5 points and 2.6 assists per game. By his junior season, he had developed into one of Utah’s top high school players, putting up impressive numbers: 18.3 points, 6.8 rebounds, 5.4 assists, and 2.2 steals per game.
His performances earned him first-team all-state honors from both the Deseret News and Salt Lake Tribune. Merrill’s senior year was even more impressive. He averaged 15.8 points, 7.4 assists, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.3 steals per game, leading Bountiful to a 4A state championship. He scored 20 or more points six times that year and reached double figures in all but one game.
Merrill’s leadership and ability to perform in big moments made him a standout in Utah high school basketball. He was also recognized as the Region 6 MVP for both his junior and senior years and was named 4A MVP as a senior. In addition to basketball, Merrill lettered in football, baseball, and golf, showing his versatility as an athlete.
After high school, Merrill was recruited by several prestigious colleges, including Stanford and Princeton, but he chose to play for Utah State University. Before starting his college basketball career, he took a two-year mission trip to Nicaragua for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This experience helped him mature and gain perspective, both as a person and as an athlete.
Professional Career
Sam Merrill’s professional basketball career is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and the value of elite shooting in the modern NBA. After being selected with the 60th and final pick in the 2020 NBA Draft by the Milwaukee Bucks, Merrill entered the league with little fanfare but a reputation as a clutch shooter from his college days at Utah State.
Joining a championship-contending Bucks squad, Merrill had to earn his minutes among established stars and veterans. In his rookie season (2020–21), Merrill played in 30 regular season games, averaging 7.8 minutes and 3.0 points per game while shooting an impressive 44.7% from three-point range. Though he had a limited role, he contributed as a reliable floor-spacer off the bench and was part of the Bucks’ playoff roster.
That season, Milwaukee captured the NBA title, and Merrill earned a championship ring in his first year as a professional, appearing in eight postseason games and gaining invaluable experience alongside players like Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Following his rookie campaign, Merrill was traded to the Memphis Grizzlies for the 2021–22 season. His time in Memphis was brief and marked by limited opportunities due to a crowded backcourt and some injury setbacks.
Merrill appeared in just six games for the Grizzlies, averaging 9.6 minutes and 4.2 points per game. Despite showing flashes of his shooting ability, he was waived by Memphis during the season.
Undeterred, Merrill continued to pursue his NBA dream. He spent time in the G League with the Cleveland Charge, the affiliate of the Cleveland Cavaliers, during the 2022–23 season. His performances in the G League showcased his scoring and leadership, earning him a call-up to the Cavaliers’ main roster.
Merrill played five games for Cleveland that season, averaging 11.7 minutes and 5.0 points per game. His work ethic and shooting touch impressed the Cavaliers’ coaching staff, leading to a more stable role with the team moving forward.
Sam Merrill’s Net Worth Details
Sam Merrill’s net worth is estimated to be $2 million as of 2025.
Contract
Sam Merrill is currently signed to a three-year contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers, which he agreed to in March 2023. The total value of the deal is $5,012,231, with $2,847,238 guaranteed. This contract reflects the Cavaliers’ confidence in Merrill’s shooting and his role as a reliable bench contributor.
The agreement pays him an average annual salary of around $1.67 million, and it secures his spot on the team through the end of the 2024-25 NBA season. After this contract expires, Merrill will become an unrestricted free agent, giving him the opportunity to negotiate his next deal based on his continued performance and value in the league.
Salary
For the 2024-25 NBA season, Sam Merrill will earn a base salary of $2,164,993 with the Cleveland Cavaliers. This salary marks the highest annual amount of his career so far and reflects his increased role and contributions to the team.
Merrill’s consistent three-point shooting and steady presence off the bench have made him a valuable asset, and his current salary is a testament to the trust the Cavaliers have placed in his abilities. This figure is fully guaranteed for the season, ensuring Merrill financial security as he continues to make an impact in the NBA.
Career Earnings
| Season | Team | Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 2020-21 | Milwaukee Bucks | $898,310 |
| 2021-22 | Memphis Grizzlies | $1,517,981 |
| 2022-23 | Cleveland Cavaliers | $955,522 |
| 2022-23 | Sacramento Kings | $150,000 |
| 2023-24 | Cleveland Cavaliers | $1,997,238 |
| 2024-25 | Cleveland Cavaliers | $2,164,993 |
| Total | $7,684,044 |
His NBA Career Stats
| Season | Team | GP | GS | MPG | FG% | 3P% | FT% | RPG | APG | SPG | BPG | PPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020-21 | Milwaukee Bucks | 30 | 2 | 7.8 | .444 | .447 | 1.000 | 1.0 | 0.7 | 0.3 | 0.0 | 3.0 |
| 2021-22 | Memphis Grizzlies | 6 | 0 | 9.7 | .333 | .304 | .500 | 1.2 | 0.7 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 4.2 |
| 2022-23 | Cleveland Cavaliers | 5 | 0 | 11.8 | .409 | .278 | 1.000 | 1.8 | 1.0 | 0.8 | 0.0 | 5.0 |
| 2023-24 | Cleveland Cavaliers | 61 | 1 | 17.5 | .402 | .404 | .929 | 2.0 | 1.8 | 0.3 | 0.1 | 8.0 |
| 2024-25 | Cleveland Cavaliers | 50 | 2 | 19.3 | .391 | .353 | .964 | 2.0 | 1.5 | 0.7 | 0.2 | 7.0 |
| Career | 152 | 5 | 15.7 | .400 | .381 | .924 | 1.8 | 1.4 | 0.4 | 0.1 | 6.4 |
FAQs
1. Who is Sam Merrill and what team does he play for?
Sam Merrill is an American professional basketball player who currently plays as a shooting guard for the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA. He was born on May 15, 1996, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and is known for his three-point shooting ability. Merrill wears jersey number 5 for the Cavaliers.
2. What is Sam Merrill’s background in college basketball?
Sam Merrill played college basketball at Utah State University from 2016 to 2020. He was a standout player, earning Mountain West Conference Player of the Year honors and leading his team to multiple tournament championships. Merrill finished his college career as one of Utah State’s all-time leading scorers and was known for his clutch performances.
3. When was Sam Merrill drafted into the NBA and by which team?
Sam Merrill was selected with the 60th overall pick in the second round of the 2020 NBA Draft by the New Orleans Pelicans. Shortly after being drafted, he was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks as part of a multi-team deal.
4. What notable achievements does Sam Merrill have in his professional career?
Sam Merrill won an NBA championship with the Milwaukee Bucks during his rookie season in 2021. He also set a Cleveland Cavaliers franchise record for most three-pointers made off the bench in a single season during the 2023–24 NBA season.
5. What teams has Sam Merrill played for in the NBA?
Sam Merrill has played for several NBA teams, including the Milwaukee Bucks, Memphis Grizzlies, and Cleveland Cavaliers. He also spent time with the Memphis Hustle in the G League and the Cleveland Charge before joining the Cavaliers’ main roster.
6. What are Sam Merrill’s career NBA statistics?
Sam Merrill has played in 173 regular season games, averaging 6.5 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game. He has a career three-point shooting percentage of 38.6% and a free throw percentage of 92.5%, reflecting his strong shooting skills.
7. Has Sam Merrill set any records with the Cleveland Cavaliers?
Yes, Sam Merrill broke the Cleveland Cavaliers’ franchise record for most three-pointers made off the bench in a single season. He achieved his 129th bench three-pointer during the 2023–24 season, surpassing the previous record held by Donyell Marshall since the 2005–06 season.
8. What is Sam Merrill’s playing style and strengths?
Sam Merrill is known for his excellent three-point shooting, high basketball IQ, and ability to perform under pressure. He is often utilized as a scoring threat off the bench and has demonstrated the capability to make crucial shots in important moments.
9. What is Sam Merrill’s educational and personal background?
Sam Merrill attended Bountiful High School in Utah before playing at Utah State University. He served a two-year religious mission in Nicaragua before starting his college career. Merrill married Kanyan Ward, a soccer player, in 2018.
10. What are some of Sam Merrill’s career highlights?
Some of Sam Merrill’s career highlights include winning the 2021 NBA championship with the Milwaukee Bucks, being named the Mountain West Conference Player of the Year in college, and setting the Cavaliers’ record for bench three-pointers in a season. He has also had several high-scoring games, including a 27-point performance with eight three-pointers for the Cavaliers.
