Dillon Brooks, born on January 22, 1996, in Mississauga, Ontario, is a Canadian professional basketball player known for his defensive tenacity and competitive spirit. He currently plays as a small forward/shooting guard for the Houston Rockets in the NBA.
College Career
Brooks attended the University of Oregon, where he played for the Oregon Ducks from 2014 to 2017. Over three seasons, he averaged 14.8 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game. His collegiate accolades include being named a consensus second-team All-American and earning the Pac-12 Player of the Year award in 2017.
NBA Career
In the 2017 NBA Draft, Brooks was selected 45th overall by the Houston Rockets but was promptly traded to the Memphis Grizzlies. He made an immediate impact, debuting with a 19-point game against the New Orleans Pelicans on October 18, 2017. Throughout his tenure with the Grizzlies, Brooks established himself as a formidable defender and reliable scorer, culminating in an NBA All-Defensive Second Team selection in 2023.
In July 2023, Brooks returned to the Houston Rockets via a sign-and-trade agreement. He debuted for the Rockets on October 26, 2023, contributing 14 points, four rebounds, and two assists in a game against the Orlando Magic. On January 27, 2025, Brooks delivered a standout performance, scoring a career-high 36 points, including a franchise-record-tying 10 three-pointers, leading the Rockets to a 114-112 victory over the Boston Celtics.
International Career
Brooks has been an integral part of the Canadian national team. He participated in the 2015 Pan American Games, securing a silver medal. In the 2023 FIBA World Cup, Brooks played a pivotal role in helping Canada clinch the bronze medal, marking the country’s first global tournament medal in basketball since 1936. His exceptional defensive skills earned him the Best Defensive Player award of the tournament.
Playing Style and Impact
Brooks is renowned for his aggressive defense and unyielding competitiveness. His physical playing style has been instrumental in transforming the Rockets into one of the NBA’s top defensive teams. Despite his polarizing reputation, Brooks’ influence extends beyond individual statistics; his relentless approach has galvanized teammates and redefined the Rockets’ defensive identity.
Throughout his career, Dillon Brooks has exemplified resilience and determination, emerging as a key contributor in both the NBA and international arenas.
