Chris Chiozza
Christopher Xavier Chiozza (born November 21, 1995) is an American professional basketball player who plays as a point guard for Karşıyaka Basket of the Turkish Basketbol Süper Ligi (BSL).[1][2] Standing at 5 feet 11 inches (1.80 m) tall, Chiozza is known for his quickness, playmaking ability, and defensive tenacity despite his undersized stature for the position.[3] He achieved prominence in the NBA as a two-way contract player and member of the Golden State Warriors' 2022 NBA Championship roster during the 2021–22 season, where he appeared in 34 regular-season games.[4] Chiozza honed his skills at White Station High School in his hometown of Memphis, Tennessee, where he led the team to a 30–3 record in his senior year, averaging 15 points and eight assists per game.[5] At the University of Florida from 2014 to 2018, he became the Gators' all-time leader in assists with 571 and the 54th member of their 1,000-point club with 1,025 career points; his senior season stats included 11.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game.[5] Undrafted in the 2018 NBA Draft, he signed with the Houston Rockets and made his NBA debut that season, later playing for the Washington Wizards (2019–20), Brooklyn Nets (2020–21, including playoffs), and Warriors (2021–22), appearing in 91 total NBA games with career averages of 3.3 points, 1.3 rebounds, and 2.4 assists in 11.4 minutes per game.[1] Following his NBA tenure, Chiozza transitioned to professional basketball in Europe, signing with UCAM Murcia of the Spanish Liga ACB in April 2023 for his first overseas stint, followed by Baskonia (2023–24) and Valencia Basket (2024).[6][7] He then joined Manisa Basket of the Turkish BSL in October 2024, competing in the Basketball Champions League (BCL) during the 2024–25 season.[8] In August 2025, he signed a contract with Karşıyaka Basket for the 2025–26 BSL season, marking his continued pursuit of high-level international play.[2] Throughout his career, Chiozza has earned recognition for his leadership and versatility, including a career-high 14 points in an NBA game and strong G League performances that facilitated his NBA opportunities.[1]Early life and high school
Early life
Christopher Xavier Chiozza was born on November 21, 1995, in Memphis, Tennessee.[1] Born in Memphis, he grew up in Mason, Tennessee, where his maternal grandmother, Pearlie Crenshaw, retired early from her job to raise him on her farm there; the family later moved to the nearby suburb of Bartlett.[9] Chiozza's parents are Chris Chiozza Sr., a former point guard at Christian Brothers University, and Curtistine Crenshaw-Chiozza; his family has a strong athletic heritage, including great-grandfather Dino Chiozza and great-uncle Lou Chiozza, both Major League Baseball players.[10] Chiozza's introduction to basketball came early in Memphis's basketball-centric culture, where he first learned to dribble on his kitchen floor at age three.[11] By age four, he was already recording his first assist in informal play, showcasing an innate talent for passing influenced by his father's college experience.[10] At seven, he stood out in a youth basketball league in Bartlett, Tennessee, for his precise passes to teammates, honing his point guard skills despite his small stature.[10] Throughout his youth, Chiozza remained undersized for his age, a trait that persisted into his adult height of 5 feet 11 inches (1.80 m), yet it fueled his development of agility and court vision in local training and leagues.[1] His grandmother's encouragement and the family's emphasis on perseverance shaped his early dedication to the sport, setting the foundation for his later pursuits.[9]High school career
Chris Chiozza attended White Station High School in Memphis, Tennessee, from 2011 to 2014, where he played basketball under coach Jesus Patino.[5] As a senior in the 2013–14 season, he averaged 15 points and 8 assists per game, helping lead the Spartans to a 30–3 overall record and a perfect 12–0 mark in district play.[5] Chiozza's standout performances on the AAU circuit with Team Thad elevated his profile, particularly at events like the Spiece Run N Slam tournament, where he showcased his quickness and playmaking ability.[12] He also participated in high-profile camps including the Under Armour Elite 24, NBA Top 100 Camp, LeBron James Skills Academy, Deron Williams Skills Academy, and Penny Hardaway Camp, drawing attention from college scouts for his vision and ball-handling skills.[5] These experiences contributed to his national ranking as the No. 45 point guard in the class of 2014 by Rivals.com. During his recruitment, Chiozza received scholarship offers from programs including Tennessee, Ole Miss, USC, Ohio State, and Memphis.[13] He committed to the University of Florida on May 14, 2013, choosing the Gators over his other finalists after a persistent pursuit by the coaching staff.[14]College career
2014–15 season
As a freshman during the 2014–15 season, Chris Chiozza joined the Florida Gators under head coach Billy Donovan, where he faced stiff competition at point guard from returning starter Kasey Hill, limiting his role primarily to that of a reserve player despite his high school pedigree as a top-50 national recruit.[15][16] Chiozza appeared in all 33 games, starting 11, and averaged 22.8 minutes per game while adjusting to the increased physicality and speed of college basketball, which he described as a challenging but valuable learning experience early in practices.[15][17] In limited minutes, Chiozza contributed as a distributor and scorer off the bench, posting season averages of 3.9 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game, along with 1.2 steals, while shooting 38.9% from the field and 32.3% from three-point range.[15] One notable performance came in the season-opening win over Navy, where he scored seven straight points for Florida during a key spurt, helping secure the victory.[5] His development focused on building endurance and decision-making under pressure, as he noted the season's toughness in fostering team growth amid inconsistent results.[18] The Gators finished the year with a 16–17 overall record, going 8–10 in Southeastern Conference (SEC) play to tie for eighth place, and they advanced to the quarterfinals of the SEC Tournament before losing to Kentucky, missing the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2008.[19] Chiozza's freshman campaign laid the groundwork for his increased responsibilities in later years, emphasizing patience and role acceptance within a deep backcourt rotation.[20]2015–16 season
As a sophomore during the 2015–16 season, Chris Chiozza saw a significant increase in playing time at the University of Florida, transitioning from a limited reserve role as a freshman to a key contributor at point guard. He appeared in all 36 games for the Gators, starting 22 of them—including 15 of their 18 Southeastern Conference (SEC) contests—and averaged 23.8 minutes per game. Chiozza's statistical output improved markedly, posting season averages of 7.2 points, 2.9 rebounds, and a team-leading 4.3 assists per game, while ranking sixth in the SEC in both total assists (156) and assist-to-turnover ratio (2.4).[15][5] Chiozza faced competition for the starting point guard spot alongside junior Kasey Hill, with both players sharing duties under head coach Mike White, who occasionally critiqued the backcourt's efficiency in high-stakes games. Despite these challenges, Chiozza excelled in several notable matchups, particularly within the SEC. He recorded 17 points and 8 assists in a win over Arkansas on February 3, and notched double-digit points with 8 assists each against Texas A&M (January 12) and Auburn (January 23). Another standout performance came in a late-season victory against Missouri on March 5, where he tallied 17 points, 8 assists, and a career-high 7 rebounds.[21][22] The Florida Gators finished the regular season with a 21–15 overall record and 9–9 in SEC play, tying for eighth place in the conference before losing to Texas A&M in the quarterfinals of the SEC Tournament. They earned a bid to the National Invitation Tournament (NIT), where Chiozza contributed 11 points and 7 assists in a dominant 97–68 first-round victory over North Florida on March 15. The Gators advanced to the NIT quarterfinals but fell 82–77 to George Washington on March 23, ending their season.[23][24][25]2016–17 season
As a junior in the 2016–17 season, Chris Chiozza served as a key reserve guard for the Florida Gators, playing in all 36 games without any starts while averaging 7.2 points, 3.8 assists, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game.[15] His assist-to-turnover ratio of 2.4 led the Southeastern Conference (SEC), highlighting his efficiency as a playmaker despite coming off the bench.[5] Building on increased playing time from his sophomore year, Chiozza emerged as a reliable facilitator, contributing to the Gators' 27–9 overall record and 14–4 mark in SEC play, finishing second in the conference.[15][26] Chiozza's standout moment came during the 2017 NCAA Tournament, where the fourth-seeded Gators, as SEC Tournament champions, advanced to the Elite Eight for the first time since 2014. In the Round of 64, Florida defeated East Tennessee State 83–70, with Chiozza scoring 14 points on 4-of-5 shooting, including 2-of-2 from three-point range, while adding three assists and five rebounds.[27] The team followed with a dominant 65–39 win over fifth-seeded Virginia in the Round of 32, where Chiozza tallied seven points, five assists, four rebounds, and two steals in 28 minutes.[27] In the Sweet 16 at Madison Square Garden, Chiozza hit a dramatic running, one-handed three-pointer at the overtime buzzer to secure an 84–83 victory over eighth-seeded Wisconsin, finishing with eight points (including the game-winner), five assists, four rebounds, and one steal.[28] The shot, taken from beyond half-court after grabbing a rebound and racing the floor, propelled Florida to the East Regional final but drew widespread media acclaim as one of the tournament's most iconic plays, featured on front pages of New York newspapers and replayed extensively on national broadcasts.[29][30] Florida's tournament run ended in the Elite Eight with a 77–70 loss to seventh-seeded South Carolina, where Chiozza contributed nine points, four assists, three rebounds, and two steals despite 3-of-10 shooting.[27] Across the four games, he averaged 9.5 points, 4.3 assists, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.5 steals in 26.5 minutes per contest, earning recognition on the NCAA All-East Regional Team for his clutch contributions.[5] The buzzer-beater elevated Chiozza's profile, generating significant media attention and positioning him as a pivotal leader heading into his senior year.[31]2017–18 season
As a senior and starting point guard for the Florida Gators in the 2017–18 season, Chris Chiozza earned First Team All-SEC honors from the coaches, along with selection to the SEC All-Defensive Team, recognizing his leadership and defensive prowess after a junior year highlighted by a buzzer-beating three-pointer against Wisconsin in the NCAA Tournament's Sweet Sixteen.[32][15] Chiozza delivered career-high averages of 11.1 points, 6.1 assists, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.9 steals per game across 34 appearances, starting in 32 contests while leading the SEC in assist-to-turnover ratio at 3.4.[15] These contributions helped the Gators secure an 11-7 record in SEC play, finishing third in the conference standings with an overall mark of 21-13, before advancing to the NCAA Tournament where they fell in the Round of 32 to Texas Tech, 69-66.[33] Following the season, Chiozza graduated from the University of Florida in spring 2018 with a degree in telecommunication, capping a four-year college career in which he averaged 7.4 points and 4.1 assists per game overall, and transitioned to the professional ranks as an undrafted free agent.[34][15]Professional career
Capital City Go-Go (2018–2019)
After going undrafted in the 2018 NBA draft, Chris Chiozza signed with the Washington Wizards for the NBA Summer League, where his performance as a point guard earned him a spot on the team's G League affiliate, the Capital City Go-Go, for the 2018–19 season. His college accolades, including First Team All-SEC honors in his final year at Florida, contributed to his appeal as an undrafted free agent. In 43 games with the Go-Go, primarily as a starter, Chiozza averaged 13.6 points, 6.8 assists, 4.8 rebounds, and 1.8 steals per game while playing 33.5 minutes on the floor. He shot efficiently from beyond the arc at 42.0 percent on 5.2 attempts per game, showcasing his development as a shooter after college. Notable performances included a career-high 30 points on January 13, 2019, in a win over the Long Island Nets, and a season-high 13 assists on February 2, 2019. His playmaking and defensive instincts were highlighted midway through the season, where he ranked among the league leaders in assists and was the only Go-Go starter averaging over six assists per game at that point. Chiozza's contributions helped the Capital City Go-Go finish the regular season with a 25–25 record, securing second place in the Southeast Division. For his efforts as a rookie, he was named to the 2018–19 NBA G League All-Rookie Team, recognizing his impact on both offense and defense. This standout season paved the way for his first NBA call-up, as the Houston Rockets signed him to a contract for the remainder of the 2018–19 season on March 22, 2019.Houston Rockets and Rio Grande Valley Vipers (2019)
On February 22, 2019, following a strong performance with the Capital City Go-Go in the NBA G League where he averaged 13.1 points and 6.8 assists per game, Chris Chiozza signed a 10-day contract with the Houston Rockets. During this period, Chiozza was assigned to the Rockets' G League affiliate, the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, where he appeared in four regular-season games, posting averages of 9.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, and a league-leading 12.5 assists per game in 32.0 minutes of play. After his 10-day contract expired on March 4, 2019, Chiozza briefly became a free agent before signing a rest-of-the-season contract with the Rockets on March 22. He made his NBA debut the following day, on March 24, 2019, against the New Orleans Pelicans, entering in the fourth quarter for 4 minutes and 49 seconds without recording any statistics in a 113–85 victory. Over the remainder of the 2018–19 season, Chiozza appeared in seven total games for Houston, averaging 0.9 points, 0.6 assists, and 4.7 minutes per game, primarily in mop-up duty during blowout wins. Chiozza did not return to the Vipers after his NBA call-up, as the team's regular season concluded shortly thereafter. The Vipers, bolstered by their strong 34–16 regular-season record and first-place finish in the Southwest Division, advanced to the G League playoffs and captured the league championship by defeating the Long Island Nets 2–1 in the Finals. On July 30, 2019, the Rockets waived Chiozza as they trimmed their roster ahead of the 2019–20 season, making him an unrestricted free agent.Washington Wizards (2019–2020)
On September 26, 2019, Chiozza signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Washington Wizards, securing a spot in their training camp. This non-guaranteed deal allowed the team to evaluate him during preseason, building on his brief prior NBA experience with the Houston Rockets in 2018–19. Following a strong showing in training camp and preseason—where he averaged 14.4 points, 5.0 assists, and 3.0 rebounds over five games—the Wizards converted his contract to a two-way agreement on October 21, 2019. Under the two-way contract, Chiozza split time between the Wizards and their G League affiliate, the Capital City Go-Go. He appeared in 10 NBA games for Washington during the 2019–20 season, averaging 2.7 points, 2.8 assists, 1.5 rebounds, and 1.0 steal in 12.3 minutes per game, often providing backcourt depth off the bench. His shooting efficiency included 29.4% from the field and 43.8% from three-point range on limited attempts. Assigned to the Go-Go on multiple occasions, Chiozza excelled in the G League, playing 10 games (nine starts) and posting averages of 10.7 points, 6.6 assists, 3.6 rebounds, and 2.7 steals in 31.1 minutes per game, showcasing his playmaking and defensive instincts. Chiozza's tenure with the Wizards organization ended on December 17, 2019, when he was waived to accommodate the signing of center Anžejs Pasečniks to a two-way contract. He cleared waivers and rejoined the Capital City Go-Go on December 21, 2019, continuing to contribute before the G League season was suspended on March 12, 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The NBA's broader restart in the Orlando bubble later that summer did not involve the Wizards or Go-Go, as Washington finished the regular season at 25–39 and did not qualify for the playoffs, marking an abrupt end to Chiozza's non-guaranteed pathway with the team.Brooklyn Nets (2020–2021)
Chiozza joined the Brooklyn Nets for the 2020–21 NBA season after receiving a training camp invitation in late 2020. On December 1, 2020, he re-signed with the team on a non-guaranteed training camp contract, following the expiration of his previous two-way deal. He was waived on December 19 at the conclusion of training camp but re-signed to a new two-way contract on December 22, allowing him to split time between the Nets and their NBA G League affiliate, the Long Island Nets. During the regular season, Chiozza appeared in 22 games for the Nets, including one start, averaging 4.0 points, 3.0 assists, 1.1 rebounds, and 10.5 minutes per game while shooting 35.2% from the field and 31.0% from three-point range. His role primarily involved providing backcourt depth amid injuries to key players like Spencer Dinwiddie, where he contributed as a facilitator in limited minutes, including a season-high 13 points and 10 assists in a single game against the Portland Trail Blazers on January 24, 2021. Chiozza was assigned to the Long Island Nets multiple times during the season, joining their roster as a two-way player, though the G League's limited schedule due to the COVID-19 pandemic restricted opportunities for extended play. The Nets, bolstered by stars Kevin Durant, James Harden, and Kyrie Irving, finished the regular season with a 48–24 record and advanced through the playoffs, defeating the Boston Celtics 4–1 in the first round before falling to the Milwaukee Bucks 4–3 in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. Chiozza made six playoff appearances for Brooklyn, averaging 0.8 points in 3.2 minutes per game across the postseason. His time with the Nets built on prior NBA seasoning gained in the 2020 bubble environment during his stint with the Washington Wizards. Following the Nets' elimination, Chiozza was not extended a qualifying offer by the team on August 1, 2021, becoming an unrestricted free agent.Golden State Warriors and Santa Cruz Warriors (2021–2022)
On August 14, 2021, the Golden State Warriors signed Chris Chiozza to a two-way contract, allowing him to split time between the NBA team and its G League affiliate, the Santa Cruz Warriors. This deal marked Chiozza's first opportunity with a contending franchise, building on his limited playoff exposure from the previous season with the Brooklyn Nets. During the 2021–22 regular season, Chiozza appeared in 34 games for the Warriors, averaging 2.0 points, 1.1 rebounds, and 1.9 assists in 10.9 minutes per game while shooting 32.1% from three-point range. He provided backcourt depth as a quick, playmaking guard off the bench, often contributing in spot minutes during the Warriors' 53–29 campaign that secured the Western Conference's third seed. With the Santa Cruz Warriors, Chiozza played in three games, posting averages of 16.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, 10.0 assists, and 2.3 steals in 37.0 minutes per game, showcasing his development as a facilitator and rebounder for his size in the G League environment. Chiozza did not log minutes in the 2022 NBA playoffs, where the Warriors advanced through four rounds to defeat the Boston Celtics 4–2 in the Finals for their fourth championship in eight years. As a member of the active two-way roster throughout the postseason, he earned a championship ring and contributed to the team's depth during practice and preparation. Following the title run, the Warriors declined to extend Chiozza a qualifying offer on June 29, 2022, rendering him an unrestricted free agent effective July 1. This elevated his profile from a playoff cameo role in Brooklyn to a contributor on a championship-caliber squad.Long Island Nets (2022–2023)
After being waived by the Brooklyn Nets following training camp, Chiozza joined their NBA G League affiliate, the Long Island Nets, on their opening night roster on November 4, 2022. As a veteran guard coming off an NBA championship with the Golden State Warriors, he provided leadership and playmaking to a young roster featuring several Brooklyn assignees. In 30 regular-season games for the Nets, Chiozza averaged 12.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, and a team-high 7.8 assists per game while playing 32.8 minutes. His facilitating ability was evident in standout performances, including a career-first triple-double of 21 points, 10 rebounds, and 19 assists in an overtime victory against the Raptors 905 on November 21, 2022, which helped spark an 11-game winning streak. As the team's floor general, Chiozza mentored younger players and emphasized team chemistry, contributing to Long Island's league-best defensive rating and a 23-9 regular-season record that secured the Eastern Conference's top seed. His efforts earned him a spot on the All-NBA G League Third Team for the 2022-23 season. The Nets advanced to the playoffs as the East's No. 1 seed, defeating the Cleveland Charge 111-107 in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals on March 31, 2023, where Chiozza recorded 16 points, 6 rebounds, and 11 assists. However, Long Island fell to the Delaware Blue Coats 108-94 in the Eastern Conference Finals on April 2, 2023, ending their postseason run. Following the G League season, Chiozza opted to pursue opportunities abroad, signing a contract with UCAM Murcia of Spain's Liga ACB on April 5, 2023, for the remainder of the 2022-23 campaign.UCAM Murcia (2023)
In April 2023, Chris Chiozza signed a contract with UCAM Murcia of Spain's Liga ACB for the remainder of the 2022–23 season, marking his first professional stint in Europe following a strong performance with the Long Island Nets in the NBA G League, where he earned All-NBA G League Third Team honors. During his brief time with UCAM Murcia, Chiozza appeared in eight Liga ACB games, averaging 9.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 5.4 assists in 23.8 minutes per game, while shooting 33.8% from three-point range. In the Basketball Champions League, he played one game in the quarterfinals against Unicaja Málaga on April 12, 2023, contributing 8 points, 2 rebounds, and 2 assists in 22 minutes. UCAM Murcia finished the 2022–23 Liga ACB regular season with a 16–18 record, placing 10th and missing the playoffs. In the Basketball Champions League, the team compiled a 10–6 overall record, advancing to the quarterfinals before a loss to Unicaja Málaga, who went on to win the title. Chiozza's contract with UCAM Murcia expired at the end of the 2022–23 season, after which he joined Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz in November 2023.Baskonia (2023–2024)
On November 1, 2023, Chiozza signed a contract with Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz through the end of the 2023–24 season, marking his entry into the EuroLeague after a stint in Spain's Liga ACB with UCAM Murcia. As a backup point guard under head coach Dusko Ivanovic, he provided depth at the position, focusing on playmaking and perimeter defense in limited minutes. In the EuroLeague, Chiozza appeared in 26 games, starting two, and averaged 10.2 minutes per contest. He contributed 1.9 points, 1.0 rebound, and a team-high 2.5 assists per game among reserves, with a 42.3% field goal percentage and notable efficiency in distribution, including a career-best nine assists in a single game against ALBA Berlin on March 14, 2024. His role emphasized quick transitions and secondary ball-handling, helping Baskonia secure a playoff spot despite the team's mid-table finish. Chiozza's minutes in the Liga ACB were more restricted, averaging 3.6 per game across 21 appearances for 1.2 points, 1.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists, often entering as a late-game specialist. Baskonia finished fifth in the regular season standings, advancing to the quarterfinals where they were swept 3–0 by Real Madrid, though Chiozza's involvement in the postseason was minimal due to his bench role. A sprained right knee ligament injury sidelined Chiozza in mid-January 2024, causing him to miss several weeks, including key EuroLeague matchups, and prompting Baskonia to sign Jordan Theodore as a replacement. He returned in late February but saw reduced playing time upon recovery, averaging under 10 minutes combined across both competitions for the remainder of the season. Chiozza's contract with Baskonia expired at the end of the 2023–24 campaign, leading to his departure from the club in June 2024.Valencia Basket (2024)
On June 25, 2024, Chris Chiozza signed a contract with Valencia Basket for the 2024–25 Liga ACB season, joining the team as a point guard following his previous experience in the EuroLeague with Baskonia. Chiozza's tenure with Valencia proved to be a short-term arrangement, lasting less than four months amid early-season roster adjustments. He did not appear in any official Liga ACB or EuroLeague games during this period, with no performance statistics recorded for the club. Chiozza was released by Valencia Basket in late October 2024 and immediately signed with Manisa Basket of the Turkish Basketbol Süper Ligi on October 28.Manisa Basket (2024–2025)
On October 28, 2024, Chiozza signed with Manisa Basket of the Turkish Basketbol Süper Ligi (BSL), joining the team after a brief stint with Valencia Basket earlier in the year. As the primary point guard, he provided veteran leadership in the backcourt, averaging 8.7 points, 6.0 assists, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.1 steals in 24.3 minutes across 25 BSL games, while shooting 41.7% from the field, 41.1% from three-point range, and 92.9% from the free-throw line. Manisa Basket finished the regular season with an 11-19 record, placing 14th in the 16-team league and missing the playoffs. Chiozza's playmaking was instrumental in several key wins, including a March 30, 2025, victory over Tofaş where he contributed 21 points and 7 assists. In the Basketball Champions League (BCL), Manisa advanced to the Round of 16, where Chiozza recorded a double-double of 14 points and 11 assists in a decisive 98-75 home win over Lietuvos Rytas on March 12, 2025, helping the team survive the knockout stage. The team did not progress further in European play or the Turkish Cup, focusing primarily on domestic league stability amid mid-table contention.Pinar Karşıyaka (2025–present)
On August 13, 2025, Chris Chiozza signed a one-year contract with Pınar Karşıyaka of the Basketbol Süper Ligi (BSL), marking his return to Turkish basketball following a brief stint with Manisa Basket the previous season. As the team's primary point guard, Chiozza has been tasked with orchestrating the offense and providing veteran leadership to a roster featuring a mix of international and domestic talent, including forwards Justin Alston and Charles Manning Jr. Through the early 2025–26 season, as of November 16, 2025, Chiozza has appeared in eight games for Pınar Karşıyaka, averaging 26.3 minutes per game. His statistical contributions include 6.0 points, 3.4 rebounds, and a team-leading 6.3 assists per game, though he has struggled with efficiency, shooting 26.6% from the field and 19.1% from three-point range, while committing 2.6 turnovers per contest. Defensively, he has added 1.4 steals per game, highlighting his quick hands and court awareness. A notable milestone came on September 9, 2025, when Chiozza recorded a season-high nine assists in a BSL matchup. Pınar Karşıyaka has faced a challenging start to the campaign, holding a 1–7 record and sitting near the bottom of the BSL standings as of November 16, 2025, with playoff qualification remaining a key goal amid efforts to integrate new signings and improve defensive cohesion. Chiozza's playmaking has been a bright spot, helping to distribute the ball effectively despite the team's overall struggles with shooting and consistency.National team career
2019 FIBA World Cup qualifying
Chiozza earned his first call-up to the United States men's national basketball team in February 2019 for the final window of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 Americas Qualifiers.[35] As a first-time invitee from the NBA G League's Capital City Go-Go, his selection highlighted his playmaking skills demonstrated during his college career at the University of Florida, including a notable buzzer-beater in the 2017 NCAA Tournament.[36] The United States, already qualified for the 2019 FIBA World Cup with an 8-2 record entering the window, hosted Group E's concluding games at the Greensboro Coliseum Complex in Greensboro, North Carolina.[35] Chiozza was named to the final 12-man roster under head coach Jeff Van Gundy, joining other G League standouts like Josh Adams and Michael Frazier II.[36] Although he did not see playing time in the matches, his presence contributed to team preparations during this post-college transition phase.[37] On February 22, the U.S. defeated Panama 111-80, with Cameron Reynolds leading the scoring and the team dominating the second half on a 63-34 run. Three days later, on February 25, the Americans edged Argentina 84-83 in a close contest, finishing the qualifiers with a perfect 2-0 window and an overall 10-2 record to secure the top spot in Group E. This experience marked Chiozza's international debut with Team USA, providing valuable exposure to FIBA rules and high-stakes competition shortly after his 2018 college graduation.[37]2023 FIBA World Cup qualifying
Chiozza returned to the United States national team for the November 2022 window of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 Americas Qualifiers, marking his first on-court action after being named to the final roster for the 2019 qualifiers without appearing in games.[37] Selected for his playmaking ability as a point guard, he provided key facilitation in the team's final push to secure qualification for the tournament. Over two games, Chiozza averaged 3.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 5.5 assists in 21.1 minutes per game, while shooting 30.0% from the field and 25.0% from three-point range.[38] In the opener against Brazil on November 11, 2022, he recorded 7 points (on 1-of-4 three-pointers and 2-of-2 free throws), 4 rebounds, and a game-high 7 assists in 24 minutes during a 79–94 loss, helping to keep the U.S. competitive despite the defeat.[39] Two days later, versus Colombia on November 14, Chiozza contributed 0 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists in an 88–81 victory that clinched the United States' spot in the 2023 FIBA World Cup, improving their qualifying record to 8–3 (the team ultimately finished qualifying 9–3 overall).[40][37] Chiozza's performance highlighted his evolution into a reliable backup facilitator, leading the team with 11 total assists across the window and tying for second in rebounds with 8, a step up from his non-playing role in 2019 that served as foundational international exposure.[37] His efforts underscored the team's depth in the backcourt during the successful qualification, positioning the U.S. for the upcoming World Cup in the Philippines, Japan, and Indonesia.[40]Awards and honors
College honors
During his senior season at the University of Florida in 2017–18, Chris Chiozza earned First Team All-SEC honors from the league's coaches, recognizing his leadership as the Gators' point guard and his elite playmaking abilities.[41] He was also selected to the Second Team All-SEC by the Associated Press and named to the SEC All-Defensive Team for his disruptive perimeter defense, where he ranked second in the conference with 1.9 steals per game.[42] Additionally, Chiozza received national recognition as a First Team NABC All-District 21 selection and was named to the top 10 watch list for the Bob Cousy Award, which honors the nation's top point guard.[43][44] These accolades were underpinned by Chiozza's standout statistical performance, as he led the SEC with 6.1 assists per game while averaging 11.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, and maintaining a conference-best 3.4 assist-to-turnover ratio, contributions that helped Florida secure a 21–13 record and an NCAA Tournament berth.[41] His earlier junior year highlight, including a game-winning buzzer-beater 3-pointer in the 2017 NCAA Tournament's East Regional that propelled Florida to the Elite Eight, had set the stage for his senior recognition and earned him All-East Regional Team honors.[5] Chiozza's honors solidified his legacy at Florida as one of the program's premier floor generals, culminating in him breaking the school's all-time assists record with 571 for his career, surpassing Erving Walker's previous mark of 547 and emphasizing his unselfish, high-IQ style that influenced the Gators' offensive identity.[37][45][15]G League and NBA honors
Chiozza's professional career in the NBA and G League was marked by a journeyman path, beginning as an undrafted free agent in 2018 and featuring multiple two-way contracts with teams including the Washington Wizards, Houston Rockets, Brooklyn Nets, and Golden State Warriors, which provided opportunities to earn recognition despite limited NBA minutes.[1] His early college success as a First-team All-SEC selection in 2018 served as validation for his potential as a quick, playmaking guard.[37] In his rookie G League season with the Capital City Go-Go in 2018–19, Chiozza was named to the All-NBA G League All-Rookie Team after averaging 13.2 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 7.3 assists per game over 47 appearances.[46] This honor highlighted his immediate impact as a facilitator and scorer from the point guard position in the developmental league.[47] During the 2021–22 NBA season, Chiozza signed a two-way contract with the Golden State Warriors, contributing to their playoff run and ultimately earning a share of the 2022 NBA Championship as part of the roster, though he appeared in only two regular-season games.[4] He received his championship ring in a ceremonial presentation in July 2023.[37] Chiozza's most prominent G League accolade came in the 2022–23 season with the [Long Island Nets](/page/Long Island_Nets), where he earned a spot on the All-NBA G League Third Team following a strong performance of 18.0 points, 7.3 assists, and 4.4 rebounds per game in 26 outings.[48] This selection recognized his veteran leadership and efficiency as a combo guard, capping a multi-year progression through the G League.[49]International honors
Chiozza has earned recognition for his contributions to the United States national team through selections to FIBA World Cup qualifying rosters. He was named to the USA Men's World Cup Qualifying Team for the February 2019 window, where he played a role in the team's victories, including an 111-80 win over Panama and an 84-83 triumph against Argentina in Greensboro, North Carolina.[37] In 2023, Chiozza returned to the USA roster for the FIBA Basketball World Cup Americas Qualifiers, appearing in two games and averaging 3.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per contest while posting an efficiency rating of 8.5.[38] These appearances underscored his value as a playmaking guard in high-stakes international play, contributing to the USA's qualification efforts for the World Cup. While Chiozza has competed in prominent European competitions such as the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague with Baskonia and Valencia Basket, as well as the Basketball Champions League with Manisa Basket, he has not yet secured individual awards or team titles in these leagues as of 2025.[50] His international club performances, bolstered by prior All-NBA G League Third Team honors, have enhanced his reputation across European basketball circuits.[43]Career statistics
NBA regular season
Chris Chiozza appeared in 91 regular-season games over four NBA seasons, primarily as a backup point guard, averaging 3.3 points, 1.3 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game in 11.1 minutes of playing time.[1] His career shooting efficiency included a 35.7% field goal percentage and 34.7% from three-point range, reflecting his role as a spot-up shooter and facilitator off the bench.[1] Chiozza's NBA journey began with the Houston Rockets in the 2018–19 season, where he played sparingly in 7 games, averaging 0.9 points and 0.6 assists in 4.7 minutes.[1] He saw expanded opportunities in 2019–20, splitting time between the Washington Wizards (10 games, 2.7 points, 2.8 assists in 12.3 minutes) and Brooklyn Nets (18 games, 6.4 points, 3.1 assists in 15.4 minutes), marking his most productive stretch with a career-high 3.0 assists per game.[1] In 2020–21, he remained with the Nets, appearing in 22 games for 4.0 points and 3.0 assists in 10.5 minutes.[1] His final NBA season came in 2021–22 with the Golden State Warriors, where he played 34 games, averaging 2.0 points and 1.9 assists in 10.9 minutes, often in mop-up duty.[1] Advanced metrics highlight Chiozza's variable impact as a reserve player. His player efficiency rating (PER) peaked at 12.9 in 2020–21, supported by a 21.0% usage rate, but dropped to 4.4 the following season amid reduced efficiency.[1] True shooting percentage followed a similar trend, reaching 49.9% in 2019–20 before falling to 40.7% in 2021–22, influenced by inconsistent shot volume and defensive matchups.[1]| Season | Team | GP | MPG | PPG | APG | PER | USG% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018–19 | HOU | 7 | 4.7 | 0.9 | 0.6 | 7.0 | 11.8 |
| 2019–20 | WAS/BRK | 28 | 14.3 | 5.1 | 3.0 | 12.0 | 18.1 |
| 2020–21 | BRK | 22 | 10.5 | 4.0 | 3.0 | 12.9 | 21.0 |
| 2021–22 | GSW | 34 | 10.9 | 2.0 | 1.9 | 4.4 | 13.4 |
| Career | 91 | 11.1 | 3.3 | 2.4 | 8.8 | 16.5 |
NBA playoffs
Chiozza made his NBA playoff debut with the Brooklyn Nets during the 2020 playoffs, appearing in all four games of their first-round series against the Toronto Raptors, which the Nets lost 0–4.[51] In that series, he averaged 16.1 minutes per game off the bench as a point guard, contributing 5.8 points, 4.3 assists, 1.5 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game.[51] His standout performance came in Game 3 on August 21, 2020, where he scored 14 points on 5-of-8 shooting, including two three-pointers, while adding three assists and a playoff-career-high four steals in 22 minutes of play.[51] In Game 4 on August 23, he recorded six points, a playoff-high six assists, and five rebounds in another 22 minutes.[51] In the 2021 playoffs, Chiozza's role with the Nets diminished, as he appeared in only six games across the first round and Eastern Conference semifinals, averaging 3.2 minutes per game.[51] He logged under one minute in each of the two games he played during the first-round sweep of the Boston Celtics (4–1 series win), providing minimal contributions.[51] In the semifinals against the Milwaukee Bucks, a seven-game series the Nets lost 3–4, Chiozza saw slightly more action in four games, averaging 4.3 minutes, 1.3 points, 0.3 assists, and 0.3 steals per game.[51] His most notable moment was in Game 5 on June 13, 2021, scoring five points in five minutes during a 96–107 loss.[51] Across his 10 total playoff games with the Nets, Chiozza averaged 8.3 minutes, 2.8 points, 1.8 assists, 0.7 rebounds, and 0.8 steals per game, maintaining shooting efficiency similar to his regular-season marks of around 40% from the field and 35% from three-point range, though in far fewer opportunities.[51] Following the 2020–21 season, Chiozza signed a two-way contract with the Golden State Warriors and contributed during the regular season, earning a spot on their playoff roster for the 2022 postseason.[3] Although he did not appear in any of the Warriors' 22 playoff games en route to the NBA championship—defeating the Boston Celtics 4–2 in the Finals—Chiozza received his championship ring as a member of the title-winning team.[4]| Series | Team | Games | MPG | PPG | APG | RPG | SPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 First Round (vs. TOR) | BRK | 4 | 16.1 | 5.8 | 4.3 | 1.5 | 1.3 |
| 2021 First Round (vs. BOS) | BRK | 2 | 0.8 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 |
| 2021 Semifinals (vs. MIL) | BRK | 4 | 4.3 | 1.3 | 0.3 | 0.3 | 0.3 |
| Career Totals | - | 10 | 8.3 | 2.8 | 1.8 | 0.7 | 0.8 |
G League
Chiozza's NBA G League career spanned five seasons from 2018 to 2023, during which he established himself as a dynamic point guard known for his playmaking and scoring ability across multiple teams affiliated with NBA franchises.[52] His time in the league was occasionally interrupted by NBA call-ups to teams like the Washington Wizards and Brooklyn Nets.[52] Over 100 regular-season games, Chiozza averaged 33.2 minutes, 12.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, 8.1 assists, 1.7 steals, and 0.1 blocks per game, while shooting 43.7% from the field, 40.9% from three-point range, and 76.0% from the free-throw line.[52][53] He earned recognition for his rookie performance with the All-NBA G League All-Rookie First Team in 2019 and was named to the All-NBA G League Third Team following his standout 2022–23 season.[54][48] Chiozza's G League statistics varied by team and season, reflecting his adaptability and growth as a professional. The following table summarizes his regular-season per-game averages:| Season | Team | GP | MPG | PPG | RPG | APG | SPG | FG% | 3P% | FT% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018–19 | Capital City Go-Go | 43 | 33.5 | 13.6 | 4.8 | 6.8 | 1.9 | 44.2 | 41.3 | 75.5 |
| 2018–19 | Rio Grande Vipers | 4 | 32.0 | 9.5 | 4.5 | 12.5 | 0.8 | 38.5 | 33.3 | 83.3 |
| 2019–20 | Capital City Go-Go | 10 | 31.1 | 10.7 | 3.6 | 6.6 | 1.5 | 40.7 | 39.4 | 72.7 |
| 2019–20 | Long Island Nets | 10 | 31.8 | 13.3 | 5.7 | 5.9 | 1.7 | 45.0 | 41.9 | 78.6 |
| 2021–22 | Santa Cruz Warriors | 3 | 37.0 | 16.3 | 7.3 | 10.0 | 2.0 | 34.6 | 28.1 | 100 |
| 2022–23 | Long Island Nets | 30 | 32.8 | 12.2 | 4.8 | 8.1 | 1.5 | 45.2 | 43.8 | 73.7 |
| Career | 100 | 33.2 | 12.7 | 4.8 | 8.1 | 1.7 | 43.7 | 40.9 | 76.0 |
EuroLeague
Chiozza joined Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz in November 2023, marking his debut in the EuroLeague as a backup point guard during the 2023–24 season. He appeared in 26 games, including two starts, logging an average of 10 minutes and 20 seconds per game while providing depth to the backcourt.[50] In the regular season, across 21 games, Chiozza averaged 1.8 points, 0.9 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 0.6 steals per game, showcasing his facilitation skills in limited minutes. His playoff contributions in five games included averages of 2.6 points, 1.2 rebounds, and 1.2 assists, helping Baskonia in their postseason efforts. Overall season averages stood at 1.9 points, 1.0 rebound, 2.5 assists, 0.5 steals, and a performance index rating (PIR) of 2.6, reflecting efficient playmaking despite modest scoring output and shooting percentages of 42.3% from two-point range and 20.6% from three.[55][50] Chiozza faced top EuroLeague opponents in key matchups, such as against AS Monaco and Bayern Munich, where his assists per minute underscored his role in orchestrating the offense under pressure. His efficiency metrics, including a positive assist-to-turnover ratio in several games, highlighted his value as a reliable reserve against elite competition.[56] In June 2024, Chiozza signed with Valencia Basket, a fellow EuroLeague club, but did not appear in any EuroLeague contests during his short tenure before departing in October.[57][43]Other international leagues
Chiozza's professional career in international leagues outside the EuroLeague includes stints in Spain's Liga ACB and Turkey's Basketbol Süper Ligi (BSL), where he has served primarily as a playmaking point guard, along with participation in the Basketball Champions League (BCL). His contributions in these competitions highlight his passing ability and defensive activity, often leading teams in assists while providing scoring support from the perimeter. In the 2022–23 Liga ACB season with UCAM Murcia, Chiozza appeared in 8 regular-season games, averaging 23.8 minutes, 9.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, 5.4 assists, and 0.6 steals per game, with shooting splits of 33.8% from the field, 32.0% from three-point range, and 78.6% from the free-throw line.[55] The following year, 2023–24, he joined Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz for 21 regular-season games, averaging 11.7 minutes, 3.6 points, 1.2 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 0.4 steals, improving to 45.0% field goal shooting and 100% from the line on limited attempts.[55] In June 2024, Chiozza signed with Valencia Basket for the 2024–25 season but did not appear in any regular-season games in Liga ACB before departing in October to pursue opportunities in Turkey.[55] No domestic cup or playoff stats are recorded for his Spanish tenures. Transitioning to Turkey's BSL in the 2024–25 season with Manisa Büyüksehir Belediye, Chiozza played 25 regular-season games, averaging 24.3 minutes, 8.7 points, 2.7 rebounds, 6.0 assists, and 1.1 steals, while connecting on 41.1% of his three-point attempts and ranking fifth league-wide in total assists (151).[55] He also contributed in the Turkish Cup, appearing in 2 games with averages of 6.0 points and 4.5 assists.[58] Manisa reached the playoffs, where Chiozza played 4 postseason games, averaging 7.3 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 5.0 assists.[58] For the 2025–26 BSL season with Pınar Karşıyaka, as of November 16, 2025, he has played 8 regular-season games, averaging 26.3 minutes, 6.0 points, 3.4 rebounds, 6.3 assists, and 1.4 steals, with shooting splits of 26.6% from the field, 19.1% from three-point range, and 100% from the free-throw line.[55] In the 2022–23 BCL with UCAM Murcia, Chiozza appeared in 1 game.[8]| League/Competition | Team | Season | GP | MPG | PPG | RPG | APG | SPG | FG% | 3P% | FT% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liga ACB (Regular) | UCAM Murcia | 2022–23 | 8 | 23.8 | 9.9 | 3.5 | 5.4 | 0.6 | .338 | .320 | .786 |
| Liga ACB (Regular) | Baskonia | 2023–24 | 21 | 11.7 | 3.6 | 1.2 | 2.6 | 0.4 | .450 | .314 | 1.000 |
| BSL (Regular) | Manisa BSB | 2024–25 | 25 | 24.3 | 8.7 | 2.7 | 6.0 | 1.1 | .417 | .411 | .929 |
| BSL (Regular) | Pınar Karşıyaka | 2025–26 | 8 | 26.3 | 6.0 | 3.4 | 6.3 | 1.4 | .266 | .191 | 1.000 |
| BCL (Regular) | UCAM Murcia | 2022–23 | 1 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Turkish Cup | Manisa BSB | 2024–25 | 2 | — | 6.0 | — | 4.5 | — | — | — | — |
| BSL Playoffs | Manisa BSB | 2024–25 | 4 | — | 7.3 | 2.8 | 5.0 | — | — | — | — |
College
Chris Chiozza played college basketball for the Florida Gators from 2014 to 2018, appearing in 139 games over four seasons.[15] He averaged 7.4 points, 4.1 assists, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game during his career, while shooting 39.0% from the field and 32.6% from three-point range.[15]Per-Season Breakdown
Chiozza's role evolved from a reserve to a starting point guard, with his scoring and playmaking peaking in his senior year. The following table summarizes his per-game averages by season:| Season | Games | Minutes | Points | Assists | Rebounds | Steals | FG% | 3P% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014–15 | 33 | 22.8 | 3.9 | 2.2 | 2.2 | 1.2 | 41.0 | 33.3 |
| 2015–16 | 36 | 23.8 | 7.2 | 4.3 | 2.9 | 1.1 | 41.1 | 35.6 |
| 2016–17 | 36 | 22.1 | 7.2 | 3.8 | 3.3 | 1.3 | 42.3 | 35.0 |
| 2017–18 | 34 | 32.0 | 11.1 | 6.1 | 4.3 | 1.9 | 43.1 | 33.3 |