Ray McCallum Jr.
Ray McCallum Jr. (born June 12, 1991) is an American professional basketball player who plays as a point guard. He is the son of former college basketball coach Ray McCallum Sr.[1] Standing at 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 m) tall, he rose to prominence during his college career at the University of Detroit Mercy, where he was named the Horizon League Player of the Year in 2013 after leading the league in scoring with an average of 18.7 points per game.[2] Drafted by the Sacramento Kings in the second round (36th overall) of the 2013 NBA draft, McCallum played three seasons in the National Basketball Association (NBA), appearing in 154 regular-season games for the Kings, Memphis Grizzlies, and San Antonio Spurs, where he averaged 6.0 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game.[1][3] Following his NBA tenure, he competed in the NBA G League and various international leagues across Europe and Asia, and he plays for the Taipei Taishin Mars of the Taiwan Professional Basketball League (TPBL), where he averaged 17.1 points and 6.1 assists per game during the 2024–25 season.[4] McCallum was born in Madison, Wisconsin, but grew up in Beverly Hills, Michigan, where he attended Detroit Country Day School and earned McDonald's All-American honors in 2010 as a senior.[1][5] At Detroit Mercy from 2010 to 2013, he started all 102 games, finishing his college career with averages of 15.9 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game, while helping the Titans achieve a second-place finish in the Horizon League during his junior year.[5] His scoring prowess and playmaking ability earned him All-Horizon League first-team selections in 2012 and 2013, solidifying his reputation as one of the top point guards in mid-major college basketball.[2] In the NBA, McCallum's most productive season came in 2014–15 with the Kings, where he appeared in 68 games and averaged 7.4 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game, including a career-high 27 points in a single contest.[1] After being waived by the Spurs in 2016, he transitioned to the G League with teams such as the Grand Rapids Drive and Greensboro Swarm, maintaining strong production with averages of 15.7 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game.[6] His international career has spanned multiple countries, including stints in Israel's Ligat HaAl with Hapoel Jerusalem, Germany's Basketball Bundesliga, and Turkey's Basketbol Süper Ligi, where he continued to excel as a scoring and facilitating guard before joining the TPBL.[4]Early life and high school career
Family background
Ray McCallum Jr. was born on June 12, 1991, in Madison, Wisconsin.[1] He is the son of Ray McCallum Sr., a longtime college basketball coach, and Wendy McCallum; his father began his coaching career as a volunteer assistant at Ball State University in 1983 before serving as an assistant coach at the University of Wisconsin from 1984 to 1993, which aligned with the period of McCallum Jr.'s birth in Madison.[7] The family later relocated multiple times due to Ray Sr.'s professional opportunities, including moves to Muncie, Indiana, for his head coaching role at Ball State (1993–2000), Houston, Texas, for his head coaching position at the University of Houston (2000–2004), Norman, Oklahoma, as an assistant at the University of Oklahoma (2004–2006), Bloomington, Indiana, as an assistant at Indiana University (2006–2008), and Detroit, Michigan, for the University of Detroit Mercy (2008–2016), where Ray Sr. served as head coach during McCallum Jr.'s college years.[7] McCallum Jr. has an older sister, Brittany Rae.[7] From an early age, McCallum Jr. was immersed in basketball through his father's career, often participating in halftime dribbling exhibitions during Ray Sr.'s games and learning fundamentals under his direct guidance.[8] This paternal influence shaped his development, emphasizing discipline and skill-building in a coaching household that prioritized the sport's core principles.[9]High school career
Ray McCallum Jr. began his high school basketball career at Bloomington High School North in Bloomington, Indiana, where he played as a freshman and sophomore while his father served as an assistant coach at Indiana University.[10] Following his father's appointment as head coach at the University of Detroit Mercy in 2008, McCallum transferred to Detroit Country Day School in Beverly Hills, Michigan, for his junior and senior seasons.[10] This move allowed him to continue developing under familial guidance, drawing on his father's background as a former NBA player and coach to refine his point guard skills.[10] At Detroit Country Day, McCallum emerged as a standout leader during his junior year, averaging 17.1 points, 6.1 assists, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.0 steals per game.[2] His senior season in 2009–10 marked a pinnacle, as he elevated his performance to averages of 22.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game, earning him recognition as Class B Player of the Year and a spot on the McDonald's and Parade All-American teams.[2] McCallum's leadership shone brightest in guiding Detroit Country Day to the 2010 Class B state championship, culminating in a 71–47 victory over Lansing Sexton in the final at Michigan State's Breslin Center.[11] In that game, he scored 32 points—including 25 in the first half—while adding eight rebounds and seven steals to secure the title.[2] His contributions also placed him third in voting for Michigan Mr. Basketball.[2] Throughout his high school tenure, McCallum attracted attention from top college programs, but he ultimately committed to the University of Detroit Mercy on April 15, 2010, choosing to play under his father's coaching.[12]College career
McCallum played college basketball for the University of Detroit Mercy Titans in the Horizon League from 2010 to 2013.[2] As a freshman in the 2010–11 season, McCallum started 32 of 33 games, averaging 13.5 points, 4.7 rebounds, 4.9 assists, and 1.6 steals per game. He led the team in scoring, assists, and steals, while recording 157 assists (second among NCAA freshmen) and a 1.89 assist-to-turnover ratio. McCallum earned Horizon League Newcomer of the Year, All-Horizon League Second Team honors, and was named to the CollegeInsider.com Freshman All-America team. Notable performances included a double-double with 23 points and 11 rebounds against Central Michigan, and 20+ points against Milwaukee and Niagara.[5][2] In his sophomore year (2011–12), McCallum started all 36 games, improving to averages of 15.4 points, 4.5 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 1.6 steals per game. He scored 20+ points in 10 games, including 26 points against Cleveland State and 22 points against Valparaiso in the Horizon League Championship game, where he was named MVP. McCallum received All-Horizon League First Team honors and the Robert Calihan Team MVP award. The Titans won the Horizon League regular-season title.[5][2] During the 2012–13 season, his junior year, McCallum started all 33 games and led the Horizon League in scoring (18.7 points per game) and steals (1.9 per game), while averaging 5.1 rebounds and 4.5 assists. He achieved a career-high 30 points against Green Bay and a versatile performance of 16 points, 13 rebounds, 8 assists, and 4 steals against Cleveland State. McCallum was named Horizon League Player of the Year, All-Horizon League First Team, and Lute Olson All-American. The Titans finished second in the Horizon League. Over his college career, he started all 102 games, totaling 1,618 points (15.9 per game, 8th in program history), 451 assists (4.4 per game, 7th all-time), and 175 steals (1.7 per game, 4th all-time). He also earned academic honors, including the Horizon League All-Academic Team and UDM Athletic Director’s Honor Roll. McCallum declared for the 2013 NBA draft after his junior year.[5][2]NBA career
Sacramento Kings (2013–2015)
Ray McCallum Jr. was selected by the Sacramento Kings with the 36th overall pick in the second round of the 2013 NBA Draft.[1] Following the draft, he signed a multi-year contract with the Kings on July 18, 2013, marking the beginning of his professional career.[13] In his rookie season of 2013–14, McCallum was assigned to the Kings' NBA Development League affiliate, the Reno Bighorns, on November 21, 2013, to gain additional playing experience before being recalled shortly thereafter.[14] He appeared in 45 games for Sacramento, averaging 6.2 points, 2.7 assists, and 19.9 minutes per game off the bench, with 10 starts, as he adjusted to the NBA's pace and physicality.[1] His role focused on providing backcourt depth and learning under veterans, contributing to the team's rotation during a rebuilding phase. During the 2014–15 season, McCallum saw an expanded role with the Kings, playing in 68 games and averaging 7.4 points, 2.8 assists, and 21.1 minutes per game, primarily as a reserve guard.[1] He offered consistent bench scoring and playmaking, helping stabilize the second unit amid injuries and lineup changes. On July 9, 2015, the Kings traded McCallum to the San Antonio Spurs in exchange for a protected 2016 second-round draft pick, concluding his two-year stint in Sacramento.[16]San Antonio Spurs (2015–2016)
On July 9, 2015, the San Antonio Spurs acquired Ray McCallum Jr. from the Sacramento Kings in exchange for a protected 2016 second-round draft pick.[17] This move positioned McCallum as a potential depth option at point guard following the departure of Cory Joseph to the Toronto Raptors in free agency. Building briefly on his two seasons with the Kings, where he honed his skills as a backup point guard averaging 6.9 points and 2.8 assists per game, McCallum joined a Spurs roster emphasizing defensive versatility and team play.[1] McCallum participated in the Spurs' 2015 training camp and preseason, competing intensely for the third-string point guard role under head coach Gregg Popovich.[18] Popovich, known for his rigorous development of young players, emphasized McCallum's need to adapt to the team's unselfish system, with early camp reports highlighting his defensive effort and smoother jump shot mechanics.[19] In six preseason games, McCallum averaged 2.7 points in limited minutes, contributing to the Spurs' undefeated exhibition slate before the regular season opener.[20] During the 2015–16 regular season, McCallum shuttled between the NBA roster and the Spurs' G League affiliate, the Austin Spurs, with multiple assignments—including on December 4, 16, 27, and 29, 2015, and January 2 and 29, 2016—to refine his game.[1] He appeared in 31 NBA games for San Antonio, starting three, while averaging 8.3 minutes, 2.2 points, 1.1 assists, and 1.0 rebound per game, often providing backcourt depth during injury stretches.[21] His role remained peripheral in Popovich's rotation, behind starters Tony Parker and Patty Mills, focusing on high-energy minutes in blowout situations.[18] On February 29, 2016, the Spurs waived McCallum to create roster space for veteran point guard Andre Miller, ending his tenure with the team after 31 appearances and a total of 67 points scored.[22]Memphis Grizzlies (2016)
On March 12, 2016, Ray McCallum signed a 10-day contract with the Memphis Grizzlies under the NBA's hardship provisions to address injuries at the point guard position, particularly after All-Star Mike Conley suffered an Achilles strain that sidelined him for at least three to four weeks.[23][24] The signing came shortly after McCallum had been waived by the San Antonio Spurs on February 29, 2016, making him available as a free agent.[25] With the Grizzlies struggling amid multiple backcourt absences, McCallum provided immediate depth during a critical late-season stretch. McCallum's first contract was extended with a second 10-day deal on March 22, 2016, allowing him to remain with the team through the end of March.[26] Over the course of these contracts, he appeared in 10 regular-season games for Memphis, starting three of them. In 21.9 minutes per game, McCallum averaged 6.9 points, 2.7 assists, and 1.6 rebounds while shooting 35.4% from the field and 38.5% from three-point range.[27] His contributions included a season-high 14 points against the Los Angeles Clippers on March 19 and seven assists in a win over the Phoenix Suns on March 21.[27] McCallum's contracts expired on April 1, 2016, after which he became an unrestricted free agent and departed the Grizzlies without further extension.[28] Despite his efforts to bolster the rotation, McCallum's stint had limited overall impact as the injury-plagued Grizzlies clinched a playoff spot with a 42-40 record but were swept 4-0 by the Golden State Warriors in the first round.Detroit Pistons (2016)
On July 26, 2016, McCallum signed a one-year non-guaranteed contract with the Detroit Pistons.[29] He was waived by the team on October 22, 2016, prior to the start of the 2016–17 season, without appearing in any regular-season games.[30]G League career
Reno Bighorns (2013–2014)
During the 2013–14 NBA season, Ray McCallum Jr. was assigned by the Sacramento Kings to their NBA Development League affiliate, the Reno Bighorns, on November 21, 2013, to gain additional playing experience as a rookie point guard. He made an immediate impact in his debut stint, averaging 22.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game while shooting 45.5% from the field, contributing to the Bighorns' early-season efforts.[31] McCallum was recalled by the Kings on November 27, 2013, after appearing in three games.[31] McCallum returned to the Bighorns on January 13, 2014, for a second assignment, where he continued to showcase his skills as the starting point guard, averaging 18.5 points, 2.3 rebounds, 4.8 assists, and 2.5 steals per game over four contests while shooting 46.9% from the field and 46.7% from three-point range.[14][32] In total, across seven games—all as starts—with Reno that season, he averaged 20.0 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 4.3 assists in 35.7 minutes per game, serving as the team's primary offensive engine by orchestrating plays and providing efficient scoring.[33] His performances helped the Bighorns go 3-1 during his second stint, improving their overall record to 13-10.[32] McCallum was recalled to the Kings once more on January 21, 2014, concluding his time with the Bighorns and allowing him to apply the gained experience toward his NBA rookie adjustment.[32]Austin Spurs (2015–2016)
Following his trade to the San Antonio Spurs in July 2015, Ray McCallum Jr. was assigned to the team's NBA Development League affiliate, the Austin Spurs, multiple times during the 2015–16 season to gain additional playing time and development opportunities.[34] His first assignment occurred on December 4, 2015, after which he was recalled shortly thereafter, but he experienced frequent shuttling between the NBA and D-League rosters, including re-assignments on December 16, December 27, December 29, January 2, and January 29, 2016, with corresponding recalls on December 5, December 21, December 28, December 30, January 4, and February 1.[34] These moves allowed him to appear in nine games for Austin, all as a starter.[33] In those nine outings, McCallum averaged 17.1 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game while playing 38.6 minutes on average, shooting 43.1% from the field and 37.5% from three-point range.[33] He demonstrated strong playmaking and scoring ability as a primary ball-handler, highlighted by a 17-point, 8-rebound performance against the Reno Bighorns on January 2, 2016.[35] His efficiency in transition and ability to facilitate for teammates contributed to Austin's competitive standing in the Southwest Division, though his D-League stint was interrupted by NBA recalls.[33] McCallum's time with Austin ended when the San Antonio Spurs waived him on February 29, 2016, amid roster adjustments, prior to the D-League playoffs.[36] This waiver came after he had been recalled for the final time on February 1, marking the conclusion of his affiliation with the Spurs organization that season.[34]Grand Rapids Drive (2016–2017)
After being waived by the Detroit Pistons on October 24, 2016, following three preseason appearances, McCallum signed with their NBA G League affiliate, the Grand Rapids Drive, ahead of the 2016–17 season.[37] This move allowed him to continue developing as a point guard in a familiar organization, leveraging his prior NBA experience to assume a leadership role on the roster.[38] In 43 games with the Drive, mostly as a starter, McCallum averaged 17.6 points, 7.0 assists, and 5.8 rebounds per game while playing 36.9 minutes per contest.[33] As the team's primary ball-handler, he led Grand Rapids in assists (303 total) and steals (96 total), showcasing his playmaking ability and defensive instincts to facilitate the offense and disrupt opponents.[39] His scoring efficiency, including a 44.3% field goal percentage, helped anchor the backcourt during a season marked by his consistent on-court presence.[33] McCallum's strong individual performance earned him a selection to the 2017 NBA D-League All-Star Game as a member of the Eastern Conference roster, recognizing his contributions as one of the league's top guards at that point.[40] He briefly interrupted his G League stint with a 10-day contract from the Charlotte Hornets in early February 2017, appearing in two games before returning to Grand Rapids.[41] Under McCallum's leadership, the Drive finished the regular season with a 19–31 record, struggling in the competitive Central Division but benefiting from his role in distributing the ball and providing veteran guidance to younger teammates.[42] His emphasis on team-oriented play helped maintain competitiveness in several close contests, solidifying his status as a key figure in the franchise's development efforts.[43]Agua Caliente Clippers (2019)
In February 2019, Ray McCallum Jr. signed a contract with the Agua Caliente Clippers, the NBA G League affiliate of the Los Angeles Clippers, marking his return to domestic professional basketball after a stint in Europe. This move came amid the mid-season period, where McCallum was brought in to bolster the team's backcourt options as a seasoned point guard capable of facilitating and scoring efficiently.[44] Over the course of his tenure, McCallum appeared in 12 games for the Agua Caliente Clippers, providing valuable depth and contributing off the bench in a rotation that emphasized his defensive savvy and playmaking abilities. In those outings, he averaged 12.3 points, 3.3 assists, and 2.6 rebounds per game while logging 23.5 minutes on average, shooting 44.8% from the field and 42.9% from three-point range.[39] His prior experience in European leagues, including time with Darüşşafaka, influenced a versatile style that blended perimeter shooting and transition play effectively in the G League setting.[44] McCallum's time with the team concluded in late March 2019 when he was released to pursue international opportunities, allowing him to transition back overseas shortly after joining.[45] This brief engagement highlighted his role as a reliable interim contributor rather than a long-term fixture, aligning with the fluid nature of G League rosters during the season.Greensboro Swarm (2021)
In February 2021, Ray McCallum Jr. joined the Greensboro Swarm, the NBA G League affiliate of the Charlotte Hornets, for the league's single-site bubble tournament in Orlando, Florida, after the team acquired his returning player rights during the offseason.[46] This move came following a period of international play in Europe, providing McCallum an opportunity to rebuild his rhythm in a familiar domestic environment amid the shortened 2020–21 season disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic.[47] During the Swarm's 15-game bubble schedule, McCallum appeared in all contests, starting several and serving as a key facilitator in the backcourt. He averaged 9.8 points, 4.9 assists, and 3.0 rebounds per game while shooting 37.3% from the field and 34.8% from three-point range over 24.7 minutes of play.[33] His scoring output included efficient drives to the basket and perimeter shooting, contributing to the team's competitive efforts despite a 5–10 record, with notable performances such as 21 points and five assists against the Rio Grande Valley Vipers on February 23.[48] McCallum's time with Greensboro emphasized his veteran leadership and playmaking skills, helping to mentor younger players while sharpening his conditioning for future opportunities. He parted ways with the Swarm in late March 2021 to sign abroad with Hapoel Jerusalem in Israel's Winner League.[49]International career
European career
After concluding his NBA and G League stints, Ray McCallum Jr. transitioned to professional basketball in Europe by signing a one-year contract with Unicaja Málaga of the Spanish Liga ACB on August 1, 2017.[50] This move marked the beginning of a seven-year period in which he competed across multiple European countries, including Spain, Turkey, Israel, Germany, France, Poland, Italy, and Greece.[4] McCallum's European tenure featured participation in high-level competitions such as the EuroLeague and EuroCup, where he served primarily as a point guard, emphasizing playmaking and scoring. In 46 EuroLeague games across two seasons with Unicaja Málaga (2017–18) and Darüşşafaka (2018–19), he averaged 9.3 points, 2.8 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 0.9 steals per game, while shooting 45% from two-point range.[51] His domestic league performances highlighted his adaptability, with season averages including 7.5 points and 2.8 assists in 34 Liga ACB games for Unicaja (2017–18), 15.5 points and 4.5 assists in 8 Liga ACB games for Breogán (2018–19), and 13.4 points with 5.1 assists in 13 LNB Pro A games for BCM Gravelines (2021–22).[52] Throughout his European career, McCallum frequently changed teams, often mid-season, to join clubs in need of backcourt leadership, such as his March 2021 signing with Hapoel Jerusalem in Israel's Winner League following stints in Spain and Turkey, and his August 2022 agreement with Legia Warszawa in Poland's Basketball League to replace an injured player. By 2023, he had appeared in over 150 games across these leagues, contributing to team efforts in regular seasons and playoffs while maintaining double-digit scoring in several campaigns.[52]Unicaja Málaga (2017–2018)
In August 2017, Ray McCallum Jr. signed a one-year contract with the Spanish club Unicaja Málaga, marking his entry into European professional basketball after stints in the NBA and G League.[53] During the 2017–18 season, McCallum appeared in 34 games for Unicaja in the Liga ACB, averaging 7.5 points and 2.8 assists per game while contributing as a key reserve guard.[52] In the EuroLeague, he played 30 games, posting 9.2 points and 2.7 assists per game, helping the team secure a playoff spot with a 17–13 regular-season record.[52] McCallum adapted to the faster-paced, more tactical European style by focusing on film study and leveraging support from teammates like Nemanja Nedović, emphasizing his role as a combo guard who could handle point guard duties while providing scoring off the bench.[54] Coming off a strong G League campaign where he averaged 17.6 points per game with the Grand Rapids Drive, he viewed each EuroLeague matchup as an opportunity to refine his playmaking and defensive reads in a league demanding constant readiness.[39][54]Darüşşafaka (2018–2019)
On July 6, 2018, McCallum signed a one-year contract with Darüşşafaka of the Turkish Basketball Super League (BSL) and the EuroLeague.[55] Building on his EuroLeague experience from the previous season with Unicaja Málaga, McCallum served as a key guard for Darüşşafaka during the 2018–19 campaign. In the EuroLeague, he appeared in 16 games, averaging 9.4 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game while playing 22.1 minutes.[56] Despite his contributions, including standout performances like a 19-point outing against AX Armani Exchange Olimpia Milan, the team struggled overall, finishing the regular season with a 5–25 record and placing 16th out of 18 teams.[57][58] In the Turkish BSL, McCallum played in 7 regular-season games, posting averages of 10.3 points and 4.0 assists per game in 23.5 minutes of action.[59] Darüşşafaka ended the BSL regular season in 10th place with a 13–15 record, failing to advance to the playoffs.[60] McCallum was released by the club on January 19, 2019, midway through the season.[61]Breogán (2019)
In March 2019, following a brief return to the NBA G League with the Agua Caliente Clippers, Ray McCallum Jr. signed with CB Breogán of the Spanish Liga ACB, bringing recent experience from his time with Darüşşafaka in the Turkish Basketball Super League. McCallum appeared in 8 regular-season games for Breogán during the 2018–19 Liga ACB campaign, averaging 15.5 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game while playing 28.6 minutes.[52] His scoring and playmaking provided a boost to the backcourt amid the team's struggle to avoid relegation, though Breogán ultimately finished last and dropped to the LEB Oro for the following season. McCallum parted ways with Breogán in December 2019 to join the Shanghai Sharks in the Chinese Basketball Association.[62]Hapoel Jerusalem (2021)
In March 2021, Ray McCallum Jr. signed with Hapoel Jerusalem of the Israeli Winner League for the remainder of the 2020–21 season, bringing his experience as a veteran point guard to the team's backcourt.[49] Following a productive stretch with the Greensboro Swarm in the NBA G League earlier that season, where he contributed as a key playmaker, McCallum adapted quickly to the Israeli league's pace, serving primarily as a scoring guard off the bench and in starting lineups during crucial domestic matches. Over his brief tenure, he appeared in 8 regular-season games, averaging 13.5 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game while playing 23.8 minutes on the floor, shooting 40.5% from the field and 45.7% from three-point range.[63] McCallum's time with Hapoel ended prematurely when he was released in May 2021, as the club parted ways with several foreign players amid disruptions to the league schedule caused by the ongoing conflict in Israel.[64]Hamburg Towers (2021–2022)
In October 2021, McCallum signed with the Hamburg Towers of the German Basketball Bundesliga, joining the team after his earlier departure from Hapoel Jerusalem that year.[65][66] McCallum appeared in 11 Bundesliga games for Hamburg during the 2021–2022 season, averaging 5.4 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game while shooting 38.6% from the field.[67] He often started at point guard, providing veteran leadership to the backcourt amid the team's push for a playoff spot.[68] The Towers qualified for the BBL playoffs for the second consecutive year, finishing the regular season with a competitive record before facing Telekom Baskets Bonn in the opening round.[69] McCallum's stint ended in February 2022 when the team mutually parted ways with him, allowing Hamburg to sign Trevon Bluiett as a replacement.[70]Fuenlabrada (2022)
On February 6, 2022, McCallum signed a one-month contract with Urbas Fuenlabrada of the Spanish Liga ACB, joining the team mid-season as a veteran point guard following his departure from Hamburg Towers.[71] During his brief tenure, McCallum appeared in four regular-season games for Fuenlabrada, averaging 12.8 minutes per game off the bench.[52] He contributed 2.3 points, 1.3 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per contest, though his shooting efficiency was limited at 18.2% from the field amid adjustment challenges.[52] McCallum and Fuenlabrada mutually parted ways at the end of the month, with him signing with BCM Gravelines in France on February 28, 2022.[72]BCM Gravelines (2022)
In February 2022, following his release from Baloncesto Fuenlabrada of the Spanish Liga ACB, Ray McCallum Jr. signed with BCM Gravelines-Dunkerque of the French LNB Pro A on February 26.[73] This move came shortly after a brief stint in Spain, where he had appeared in four games, providing the veteran guard an opportunity to continue his European campaign in a competitive domestic league.[74] McCallum served as a key veteran addition to Gravelines, bringing NBA experience and point guard leadership to bolster the team's backcourt depth during the latter part of the 2021–22 season.[75] Over 13 games in the Betclic Elite, he averaged 13.4 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game, contributing significantly to the team's playmaking and scoring while shooting 45.4% from the field and 40.5% from three-point range.[74][76] His efficient performances helped stabilize the rotation as Gravelines navigated the regular season and playoffs. McCallum departed Gravelines at the conclusion of the 2021–22 campaign in June 2022, seeking a new opportunity in Poland for the following season.[77]Legia Warszawa (2022–2023)
On August 14, 2022, McCallum signed a one-year contract with Legia Warszawa of the Polish Basketball League (PLK), marking his return to European basketball after a short appearance in France.[77] In the 2022–2023 PLK regular season, McCallum played 16 games for Legia, averaging 13.0 points, 4.4 assists, 3.7 rebounds, and 28.9 minutes per game while shooting 39.9% from the field.[78] He also contributed in the Basketball Champions League, appearing in 6 games with averages of 17.2 points, 4.7 assists, and 2.5 rebounds per game.[79] Legia Warszawa finished the PLK regular season in fourth place with a 20–10 record, securing a playoff spot.[80] The team advanced to the semifinals, defeating Spójnia Stargard 3–0 in the quarterfinals before losing 1–3 to WKS Śląsk Wrocław, and then fell in the third-place game to BM Stal Ostrów Wielkopolski.[81] McCallum departed Legia in January 2023 to sign with Nanterre 92 in France, prior to the team's playoff run.[73] The PLK season concluded in June 2023.Nanterre 92 (2023)
In January 2023, Ray McCallum Jr. signed with Nanterre 92 of the French LNB Pro A, marking his return to professional basketball in France after a stint in Poland.[82] The move came as the team sought to bolster its backcourt amid injuries, with McCallum bringing his experience from the Basketball Champions League where he had averaged 17.2 points and 4.7 assists per game earlier that season.[82] During his brief tenure, McCallum appeared in 8 regular-season games for Nanterre 92, averaging 10.5 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game while shooting 48.4% from the field.[52] His scoring outbursts proved valuable in key matches; for instance, in a March 2023 victory over Limoges CSP (87-70), he tallied 17 points, including crucial three-pointers that helped secure a halftime lead and contributed to the team's improved shooting efficiency of 55% from the field.[83] This performance aligned with Nanterre 92's push for better standings, as the win marked their eighth of the season and provided momentum during a challenging mid-season period.[83] McCallum's time with the club concluded after his last recorded game on March 24, 2023, against AS Monaco, leading to his release shortly thereafter.[84] He would later move to Italy for the next phase of his career.[73]Victoria Libertas Pesaro (2023)
On July 9, 2023, following his release from Nanterre 92, Ray McCallum Jr. signed with Victoria Libertas Pesaro (also known as Carpegna Prosciutto Basket Pesaro) of the Italian Lega Basket Serie A for the 2023–24 season.[85] The 32-year-old point guard joined the team to bolster the backcourt, bringing experience from multiple European leagues and his scoring form from France, where he had averaged double figures in limited appearances earlier that year.[82] McCallum quickly adapted to the competitive Italian league, which he described as intense and physical.[86] In 11 regular-season games during the early part of the campaign, he averaged 8.4 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game while playing 23.3 minutes on average, contributing to Pesaro's efforts with efficient two-point shooting at 50.8%.[87] His playmaking helped facilitate the offense alongside teammates like Scott Bamforth and Trevon Bluiett, supporting the team's push for improved positioning in the standings amid a challenging schedule.[88] On December 15, 2023, Pesaro and McCallum mutually agreed to terminate his contract, allowing the guard to pursue other opportunities after appearing in those initial contests.[89] The club expressed gratitude for his contributions during his brief tenure.[89]Karditsa (2023–2024)
In December 2023, following his release from Italian club Victoria Libertas Pesaro, McCallum signed with Karditsa of the Greek Basket League for the remainder of the 2023–24 season. McCallum quickly established himself as a starting point guard for Karditsa, a team struggling near the bottom of the standings and focused on avoiding relegation to the second division.[90] His playmaking and scoring provided a key boost to the backcourt, particularly in crucial matchups against mid-table opponents, where he often facilitated the offense while contributing efficiently from the field.[91] In 16 regular-season appearances, McCallum averaged 12.1 points, 4.4 assists, and 3.4 rebounds per game, shooting 45% from the field overall.[91] Standout performances included a 22-point outing against AEK Athens in late April 2024 and a 10-assist double-double versus Lavrio earlier that month, highlighting his ability to elevate the team's efforts in high-stakes games.[91] Karditsa's campaign concluded in spring 2024 with an 11th-place finish and a 7–15 record, ensuring their survival in the Basket League by finishing above the relegation zone.[90]Asian career
McCallum began his professional basketball career in Asia by signing with the Shanghai Sharks of the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) in December 2019. During the 2019–20 CBA season, which was interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic and resumed in June 2020, he appeared in 32 games for the Sharks, averaging 34.0 minutes, 22.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game while shooting 42.9% from the field and 33.1% from three-point range.[52] His scoring prowess was highlighted by a career-high 38 points in a July 24, 2020, loss to the Fujian Sturgeons, underscoring his role as a key offensive guard during the league's bubble format in Qingdao.[92] McCallum's contributions helped the Sharks finish the season with a 14–18 record, though they missed the playoffs.[93] After several seasons in Europe, McCallum returned to Asia by joining the Taipei Taishin Mars of the Taiwan Professional Basketball League (TPBL) on November 8, 2024. In the 2024–25 TPBL season, he played a pivotal role in the regular season, appearing in 21 games and averaging 35.6 minutes, 18.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, 6.1 assists, and 1.9 steals per game.[94] His all-around performance as a point guard bolstered the Mars' backcourt, contributing to their competitive standing in the league. In the playoffs, McCallum suited up for 4 games, averaging 33.5 minutes, 9.5 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5.8 assists, though the team was eliminated early.[94] Overall, his debut TPBL campaign demonstrated sustained productivity at age 33, blending scoring efficiency with playmaking in Taiwan's professional circuit.[95]Shanghai Sharks (2019–2020)
In December 2019, following his departure from CB Breogán in Spain, Ray McCallum Jr. signed with the Shanghai Sharks of the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA).[62] McCallum quickly became a key contributor for the Sharks, showcasing his scoring and playmaking abilities in the high-tempo CBA environment. Over 32 games in the 2019–20 season, he averaged 22.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game, while shooting 42.9% from the field and 33.1% from three-point range.[52] His standout performance included a season-high 38 points in a July 2020 matchup against Fujian St. Bees, highlighting his efficiency in transition and perimeter shooting.[96] The season was significantly disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, with the CBA suspending play on February 1, 2020, after 41 rounds of games.[97] McCallum returned to China in April to quarantine and resume training, enabling him to participate in the league's bubble format restart in Qingdao and Dongguan that June, played without fans under strict health protocols.[98] Despite the interruptions, the Sharks finished with a 15-27 record, missing the playoffs, as McCallum helped anchor the backcourt alongside teammates like Donatas Motiejūnas.[99]Taipei Taishin Mars (2024–present)
On November 8, 2024, Ray McCallum Jr. signed with Taipei Taishin Mars of the Taiwan Professional Basketball League (TPBL) for the 2024–25 season, bringing his extensive professional experience to the team as a starting point guard.[100] Throughout the 2024–25 TPBL season, McCallum played in 25 games for Taipei Taishin Mars, averaging 17.1 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game while logging 35.3 minutes on the court; in the regular season alone, across 21 appearances, he posted 18.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per contest.[94] His scoring prowess was highlighted in March 2025 when he earned TPBL MVP of the Week honors after a standout performance that included high efficiency in points and playmaking.[101] As a veteran leader at age 34, McCallum provided on-court guidance and stability to Taipei Taishin Mars, leveraging his NBA and international background to mentor younger players and facilitate the team's offensive flow with elite three-level scoring.[100] Under his contributions, the team finished fourth in the TPBL standings with a 16–20 record, qualifying for the playoffs where McCallum averaged 9.5 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5.8 assists over four games.[102]Career statistics
College statistics
During his three seasons at the University of Detroit Mercy from 2010 to 2013, Ray McCallum Jr. posted the following per-game statistics.[5]| Season | G | MP | PTS | TRB | AST | STL | BLK | FG% | 3P% | FT% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2010–11 | 33 | 33.3 | 13.5 | 4.7 | 4.9 | 1.6 | 0.2 | .440 | .313 | .691 |
| 2011–12 | 36 | 33.7 | 15.4 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 1.6 | 0.2 | .458 | .240 | .766 |
| 2012–13 | 33 | 36.6 | 18.7 | 5.1 | 4.5 | 1.9 | 0.6 | .491 | .323 | .717 |
| Career | 102 | 34.5 | 15.9 | 4.8 | 4.4 | 1.7 | 0.3 | .465 | .289 | .726 |
NBA regular season statistics
Ray McCallum Jr. appeared in 154 NBA regular-season games over three seasons from 2013 to 2016, split between the Sacramento Kings, San Antonio Spurs, and Memphis Grizzlies.[1] His career averages included 5.9 points, 2.0 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.0 turnovers per game, while shooting 40.8% from the field and 33.3% from three-point range.[1] The following table summarizes his per-game statistics for each season:| Season | Team | G | GS | MP | FG | FGA | FG% | 3P | 3PA | 3P% | FT | FTA | FT% | ORB | DRB | TRB | AST | STL | BLK | TOV | PF | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013-14 | SAC | 45 | 10 | 19.9 | 2.5 | 6.7 | .377 | 0.5 | 1.3 | .373 | 0.7 | 1.0 | .744 | 0.4 | 1.4 | 1.8 | 2.7 | 0.5 | 0.2 | 0.9 | 1.5 | 6.2 |
| 2014-15 | SAC | 68 | 30 | 21.1 | 3.0 | 6.9 | .438 | 0.5 | 1.6 | .306 | 0.8 | 1.2 | .679 | 0.8 | 1.9 | 2.6 | 2.8 | 0.7 | 0.2 | 1.3 | 1.4 | 7.4 |
| 2015-16 | SAS | 31 | 3 | 8.3 | 0.9 | 2.2 | .403 | 0.2 | 0.5 | .313 | 0.3 | 0.3 | .900 | 0.2 | 0.8 | 1.0 | 1.1 | 0.2 | 0.1 | 0.4 | 0.5 | 2.2 |
| 2015-16 | MEM | 10 | 3 | 21.9 | 2.8 | 7.9 | .354 | 1.0 | 2.6 | .385 | 0.3 | 0.5 | .600 | 0.2 | 1.4 | 1.6 | 2.7 | 0.7 | 0.3 | 1.3 | 1.5 | 6.9 |
| Career | 154 | 46 | 18.2 | 2.3 | 5.7 | .408 | 0.5 | 1.4 | .333 | 0.6 | 0.9 | .714 | 0.5 | 1.5 | 2.0 | 2.4 | 0.5 | 0.2 | 1.0 | 1.3 | 5.9 |
G League statistics
Ray McCallum Jr. appeared in 86 regular-season games across five G League seasons with five different teams, primarily on two-way or assignment contracts from NBA affiliates.[33] His career averages in the G League were 16.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, 5.7 assists, and 1.6 steals per game.[33] The following table summarizes his per-season regular-season statistics by team:| Season | Team | GP | MPG | PPG | RPG | APG | SPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013–14 | Reno Bighorns | 7 | 35.7 | 20.0 | 3.4 | 4.3 | 2.0 |
| 2015–16 | Austin Spurs | 9 | 38.6 | 17.1 | 3.9 | 4.8 | 1.3 |
| 2016–17 | Grand Rapids Drive | 43 | 36.9 | 17.6 | 5.8 | 7.0 | 2.2 |
| 2018–19 | Agua Caliente Clippers | 12 | 23.5 | 12.3 | 2.6 | 3.3 | 1.1 |
| 2020–21 | Greensboro Swarm | 15 | 24.7 | 9.8 | 3.1 | 4.9 | 0.8 |
| Career | 86 | 33.0 | 16.2 | 4.5 | 5.7 | 1.6 |
EuroLeague statistics
Ray McCallum Jr. competed in the EuroLeague during the 2017–18 season with Unicaja Málaga and the 2018–19 season with Darüşşafaka Tekfen Istanbul.[51] In 46 total games across these two seasons, he averaged 9.3 points, 2.8 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and an efficiency rating of 8.5 per game.[51][52] The following table summarizes his per-season EuroLeague statistics:| Season | Team | GP | GS | MPG | PPG | RPG | APG | PIR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017–18 | Unicaja Málaga | 30 | 24 | 21:32 | 9.2 | 2.3 | 2.7 | 8.1 |
| 2018–19 | Darüşşafaka | 16 | 9 | 22:01 | 9.4 | 3.7 | 4.1 | 9.3 |
| Career | 46 | 33 | 21:44 | 9.3 | 2.8 | 3.2 | 8.5 |
Other international statistics
McCallum's international career beyond the EuroLeague spans multiple domestic leagues in Europe and professional circuits in Asia, where he has demonstrated versatility as a scoring point guard with strong assist numbers. His statistical output has fluctuated based on role and team needs, with standout scoring seasons in Asia contrasting more facilitative performances in Europe. Key highlights include a high-scoring campaign in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) and consistent double-digit averages in several European domestic leagues.Spanish Liga ACB
McCallum played in Spain's top domestic league with three teams, contributing as a bench guard and occasional starter.| Team | Season | Games | MPG | PPG | RPG | APG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unicaja Málaga | 2017–18 | 34 | 19.1 | 7.5 | 2.1 | 2.8 |
| Breogán Lugo | 2018–19 | 8 | 28.6 | 15.5 | 3.6 | 4.5 |
| Fuenlabrada | 2021–22 | 4 | 12.8 | 2.3 | 1.3 | 1.8 |
Turkish Basketball Super League (BSL)
McCallum appeared briefly with Darüşşafaka Istanbul, providing scoring off the bench in limited action during the 2018–19 season.[104]| Team | Season | Games | PPG | RPG | APG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Darüşşafaka Istanbul | 2018–19 | 7 | 10.3 | 2.7 | 4.0 |
Israeli Basketball Premier League (IBSL)
In Israel, McCallum joined Hapoel Jerusalem mid-season, averaging double figures in points during the 2020–21 campaign.[52]| Team | Season | Games | MPG | PPG | RPG | APG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hapoel Jerusalem | 2020–21 | 6 | 23.7 | 14.2 | 2.7 | 2.5 |
German Basketball Bundesliga (BBL)
McCallum signed with Hamburg Towers for the 2021–22 season, playing a reserve role before moving on. He averaged modest numbers across 10 appearances.[92]| Team | Season | Games | PPG | RPG | APG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hamburg Towers | 2021–22 | 10 | 5.8 | 1.8 | 1.8 |
French LNB Pro A
McCallum competed in France's top league with two clubs, showing improved playmaking in his first stint before a shorter second engagement.| Team | Season | Games | MPG | PPG | RPG | APG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BCM Gravelines-Dunkerque | 2021–22 | 13 | 28.6 | 13.4 | 3.4 | 5.1 |
| Nanterre 92 | 2022–23 | 8 | 24.5 | 10.5 | 2.4 | 2.8 |
Polish Basketball League (PLK)
With Legia Warszawa in the 2022–23 season, McCallum delivered a balanced performance as a starter, exceeding 13 points per game over 16 contests.[105]| Team | Season | Games | PPG | RPG | APG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Legia Warszawa | 2022–23 | 16 | 13.0 | 3.7 | 4.4 |
Italian Lega Basket Serie A (LBA)
McCallum joined Victoria Libertas Pesaro for the 2023–24 season, providing steady guard play in limited starts.| Team | Season | Games | MPG | PPG | RPG | APG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Victoria Libertas Pesaro | 2023–24 | 11 | 23.2 | 8.5 | 2.2 | 4.3 |
Greek Basket League (GBL)
In Greece, McCallum starred for Karditsa during the 2023–24 season, averaging over 30 minutes and leading the team in assists.| Team | Season | Games | MPG | PPG | RPG | APG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Karditsa | 2023–24 | 11 | 30.2 | 11.5 | 2.6 | 4.5 |
Chinese Basketball Association (CBA)
McCallum's most prolific scoring season came with the Shanghai Sharks in 2019–20, where he led the team in points and assists while playing heavy minutes.[52]| Team | Season | Games | MPG | PPG | RPG | APG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shanghai Sharks | 2019–20 | 32 | 34.0 | 22.3 | 5.0 | 5.8 |
Taiwanese T1 League / TPBL
McCallum has played multiple stints in Taiwan, culminating in a leading role with Taipei Taishin Mars starting in 2024–25, where he posted career-high rebounding averages alongside efficient scoring. In the 2024–25 regular season, he averaged 18.5 points, helping the team in playoff contention.[94]| Team | Season | Games | MPG | PPG | RPG | APG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taipei Taishin Mars | 2024–25 (Regular) | 21 | 35.6 | 18.5 | 6.5 | 6.1 |
| Taipei Taishin Mars | 2024–25 (Playoffs) | 4 | 33.5 | 9.5 | 5.8 | 5.8 |