Caris LeVert
Caris LeVert – Life, Career, and Memorable Quotes
Caris LeVert (born August 25, 1994) is an American professional basketball player known for his versatility, resilience, and clutch performances. Explore his life from high school to the NBA, career milestones, style of play, and inspiring quotes.
Introduction
Caris Coleman LeVert is an American basketball player currently in the NBA, noted for his adaptability, scoring touch, and ability to overcome adversity. From a modest recruiting profile in high school to standout seasons at Michigan and a winding professional journey, LeVert has made a name for himself through grit and skill. In an era where two-way wings and “combo wings” are highly valued, LeVert’s blend of size, playmaking, and scoring makes him a compelling figure.
Early Life and Family
Caris LeVert was born on August 25, 1994, in Columbus, Ohio, U.S.
His parents are Kim and Darryl Wayne LeVert.
He has a younger brother, Darryl Marcus, who is about 11 months younger.
Tragically, his father passed away on April 4, 2010, at age 46.
His mother worked as a first grade teacher in Columbus City Schools.
LeVert grew up partly in Columbus, then moved to Pickerington, Ohio in the second grade.
He comes from a musical family: he is a third cousin of Eddie LeVert, lead singer of The O’Jays.
High School & College Career
High School
He attended Pickerington Central High School in Ohio.
As a senior, he led his team to a 26–2 record and an OHSAA Division I state championship.
During that season, he was named Columbus Dispatch Metro Player of the Year and earned All-Ohio Second Team honors.
Despite his success in high school, he was not heavily recruited. His only official college visit was to Alabama State.
He ultimately committed to Michigan University under coach John Groce.
College (Michigan, 2012–2016)
LeVert played for the Michigan Wolverines between 2012 and 2016.
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As a freshman, he was behind other players on the depth chart but gradually earned playing time and made his first start in late December 2012.
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During his sophomore year, he became a more regular scorer and contributor.
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By his junior and senior seasons, he had become one of Michigan’s core players, earning All-Big Ten recognition.
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Injury challenges marred parts of his college career; his senior year was cut short by leg issues.
LeVert showed early signs of his versatility: he could defend, pass, score in transition, and handle different wing roles.
Professional Career & Highlights
Draft & Early Years
In the 2016 NBA Draft, LeVert was selected 20th overall by the Indiana Pacers.
On draft night, his rights were traded to the Brooklyn Nets.
He signed his rookie contract and made his NBA debut on December 7, 2016 against the Denver Nuggets.
He had an eventful rookie year, posting steals and making his first points, though injuries limited his playing time.
Brooklyn Nets (2016–2021)
Over his years in Brooklyn, LeVert showed steady improvement in scoring, playmaking, and flexibility.
Some standout moments include:
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In the 2017–18 season, with injuries to other guards, he earned more playing time.
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In 2018–19, he matched career highs, including a game-winning shot with 0.3 seconds left versus the Denver Nuggets.
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He suffered a severe right leg injury (a subtalar dislocation) in November 2018, which caused him to miss many games.
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He returned in February 2019 after missing 42 games.
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In March 2020, he erupted for a career-high 51 points (including 37 in the 4th quarter + overtime) in a comeback win over the Boston Celtics.
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He also recorded his first triple-double later that season: 27 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists.
Indiana Pacers (2021–2022)
On January 16, 2021, LeVert was traded to the Indiana Pacers in a four-team deal.
Shortly after, doctors discovered a small mass on his left kidney.
He underwent successful surgery to remove it; it was diagnosed as renal cell carcinoma.
LeVert later said that the trade may have saved his life, since the medical team identified the mass.
He returned to play on March 13, 2021, posting 13 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 assists against the Phoenix Suns.
Cleveland Cavaliers (2022–2025)
On February 6, 2022, LeVert (plus a 2022 second-round pick) was traded to his hometown team, the Cleveland Cavaliers.
During his time in Cleveland:
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He had standout performances, including a 41-point game in overtime vs. the Boston Celtics.
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He re-signed with the Cavs on a multi-year contract in July 2023.
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His steady production and veteran presence have been assets for the Cavaliers.
Atlanta Hawks (2025)
On February 6, 2025, LeVert was traded to the Atlanta Hawks (along with Georges Niang and picks) in exchange for De’Andre Hunter.
While with the Hawks:
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He made an impact off the bench, notably hitting a game-winning buzzer beater vs. the Memphis Grizzlies on March 3, 2025.
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He scored a season-high 31 points on April 11 vs. the Philadelphia 76ers.
Detroit Pistons (2025–present)
On July 8, 2025, Caris LeVert signed a two-year, $29 million contract with the Detroit Pistons.
This marks the next chapter in his career, in which he is expected to bring scoring, versatility, and experience to Detroit’s roster.
Style of Play & Strengths
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LeVert is about 6’6″ (198 cm) and plays as a shooting guard / wing.
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He is known for his versatility — able to play multiple wing and guard roles.
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He poses mismatches: with length, playmaking ability, and scoring instincts.
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His midrange game, floaters, and “in-between” scoring (between the rim and the arc) are part of his offensive arsenal.
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He contributes as a playmaker and secondary ball handler, not just a spot scorer.
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Defensively, his length and effort help him in guard and wing matchups.
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He has shown resilience in returning from serious injuries and medically sensitive issues, which underscores mental toughness as much as physical skill.
Career Statistics & Achievements
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LeVert has steadily increased his scoring and usage in the NBA over time.
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In the 2019–2020 season, he scored 51 points in a single game — one of the highest individual game totals in his career.
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He also recorded a triple-double that season (27 pts, 11 reb, 10 ast).
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He has been known to deliver clutch shots and step up when teammates were injured.
While he hasn’t yet made All-Star teams or won major league awards, his trajectory and key performances have earned him respect around the league.
Inspiring & Memorable Quotes
Here are a few quotes attributed to Caris LeVert:
“There’s a lot of people out here who have the same dreams I had when I was their age … a lot of kids look up to us … it inspires us to be great.”
“For me, the most important thing is to get my body healthy and make sure I live a long life.”
“Starting, coming off the bench, whatever it may …” (on his role)
“I’m kind of versatile and I can play with the …” (speaking about adaptability)
“After my dad died, all I wanted to do was work as hard as I possibly could to accomplish all the things that I knew would have made him proud.”
“You just have to stay the course, you can’t get too high or too low on yourself. There is always going to be those highs and those lows, but you have to stay even keel yourself.”
These reflect his mindset about perseverance, consistency, health, and motivation.
Lessons from Caris LeVert
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Resilience under adversity
LeVert’s journey includes serious injuries and even a medical diagnosis. His ability to bounce back shows the importance of mental strength and persistence. -
Versatility matters
In modern basketball, being able to shift roles, handle the ball, defend multiple positions, and adapt is a huge advantage—LeVert exemplifies that. -
Stay level-headed
His quote about not getting too high or low is a reminder that even elite athletes face peaks and valleys; balance is key. -
Motivation from legacy
The loss of his father gave him a personal mission—to honor him through work and achievement. That kind of internal drive is often a differentiator. -
Health as foundation
His recognition that longevity and well-being are central shows that beyond performance, taking care of body and mind is indispensable.
Conclusion
Caris LeVert’s story is one of talent met with challenge, adaptability forged through turbulence, and growth driven by intent. From a less-hailed high school recruit to a consistent contributor in the NBA, his journey is still unfolding. As he joins the Detroit Pistons for the next chapter, his blend of skill, maturity, and character bode well for meaningful impact ahead. Let me know if you want a season-by-season breakdown or comparisons with similar players.