DJ Steward’s basketball career is a compelling narrative of perseverance, adaptability, and hard work
From his early days at Fenwick and Whitney Young High Schools to his current role with the Chicago Bulls, Steward has consistently demonstrated his passion for the game and his commitment to improving.
His journey reminds us that setbacks can be stepping stones, and with dedication, success is always within reach.
Like all athletes, DJ Steward has encountered obstacles on his journey to success. Transitioning from high school to college basketball and then to professional aspirations brings its share of challenges, including adapting to increased competition and physicality.
At Duke, the shortened 2020-21 season due to the pandemic added an extra layer of difficulty, as players had limited time to train and build chemistry. Despite these hurdles, Steward showcased resilience and determination, leaving an indelible mark during his freshman year.
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Table of Contents
DJ Steward: Who Is He?
A Rising Star in the NBA
The journey of DJ Steward, a young shooting guard currently playing for the Chicago Bulls, reflects perseverance, adaptability, and consistent growth.1
From high school standout to professional basketball player, Steward’s story highlights the challenges and triumphs of pursuing a professional basketball career.
ALL GLORY TO GOD!! https://t.co/mQV2CnEKie
— DJ Steward (@djstewardd) October 15, 2024
Early Life and High School Success
DJ Steward was born on October 30, 2001, in Chicago, Illinois. Basketball became a central part of his life at an early age, and his natural talent for the game was evident by the time he began playing competitively.
Steward started his high school basketball career at Fenwick High School in Oak Park, Illinois, where he quickly gained recognition as one of the top players in the state.
However, his transition to Whitney Young High School in Chicago marked a turning point in his development.
Whitney Young, renowned for its strong basketball program, provided Steward with a platform to showcase his abilities against tougher competition.
At Whitney Young, Steward excelled as both a scorer and a playmaker. His senior season was particularly impressive, with several high-scoring games that attracted the attention of top college basketball programs.
DJ Steward: Career
College Basketball at Duke University
In 2020, DJ Steward committed to Duke University, joining the storied Duke Blue Devils basketball program.2
Playing under legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski, Steward faced high expectations but quickly proved his worth.
During the 2020–21 season, Steward averaged 13.0 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game. His consistent performances earned him a spot on the ACC All-Freshman Team.
Known for his scoring versatility, quickness, and ability to create his own shot, Steward became a key contributor for Duke, even in a challenging season for the team.
Although Duke missed the NCAA Tournament that year, Steward’s potential was evident, making him a player to watch as he declared for the NBA Draft in 2021.
NBA Draft Disappointment and the G League Journey
Despite his impressive college season, DJ Steward went undrafted in the 2021 NBA Draft. This setback could have derailed his career, but instead, it motivated him to work harder.
Steward joined the Stockton Kings, the G League affiliate of the Sacramento Kings, for the 2021–22 season. The G League provided Steward with valuable experience and an opportunity to refine his skills against other professional players.
In Stockton, Steward demonstrated flashes of brilliance, particularly as a scorer. His ability to penetrate defenses and shoot from mid-range made him a reliable offensive weapon. While he faced stiff competition, his time in the G League served as an essential stepping stone in his journey.
Transition to the Canadian Elite Basketball League
In 2023, DJ Steward took his talents to the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL), signing with the Vancouver Bandits. This move marked a new chapter in his career and allowed him to gain international experience.
Playing in the CEBL, Steward emerged as one of the league’s standout players. The league’s fast-paced style suited his game, and he thrived as a primary scorer for the Bandits.
His performances in Canada helped him regain confidence and attract attention from NBA scouts, paving the way for a return to the United States.
Return to the U.S. with the Boston Celtics Organization
DJ Steward’s resurgence in the CEBL caught the attention of the Boston Celtics organization. In 2024, he joined the team, playing primarily for their G League affiliate, the Maine Celtics.
With the Maine Celtics, Steward took another step forward in his development. He became a more complete player, improving his playmaking and defensive skills while maintaining his scoring touch. His performances in the G League showcased his readiness to contribute at the NBA level.
DJ Steward: Signing with the Chicago Bulls
DJ Steward’s hard work paid off in 2024 when he signed a two-way contract with the Chicago Bulls.3
This contract allowed him to split his time between the Bulls and their G League affiliate, the Windy City Bulls.
Playing for the Bulls fulfilled a lifelong dream for Steward, particularly given his Chicago roots. As a two-way player, he had the opportunity to contribute in NBA games while continuing to develop in the G League.
His speed, scoring ability, and work ethic made him a valuable asset for the Bulls, particularly as they looked to deepen their bench.
Strengths as a Player
DJ Steward’s journey has been defined by his ability to adapt and grow as a player. Some of his key strengths include:
- Scoring Versatility: Steward is a natural scorer with the ability to shoot from long range, finish at the rim, and excel in the mid-range game.
- Quickness and Agility: His speed and agility make him a threat in transition and allow him to create opportunities off the dribble.
- Work Ethic: Steward’s willingness to put in the effort to improve has been a hallmark of his career.
While DJ Steward has made significant strides, there are areas where he continues to work on his game:
- Defensive Consistency: Like many young players, Steward is striving to become a more consistent defender at the professional level.
- Playmaking: While primarily a scorer, developing his ability to distribute the ball will make him a more well-rounded guard.
As of November 2024, DJ Steward’s story is far from over. His journey from high school star to NBA player is a testament to his resilience and determination. Now with the Chicago Bulls, Steward has the opportunity to solidify his place in the league and continue to grow as a player.
Playing for the Bulls carries special significance for Steward, who grew up in Chicago. Representing his hometown team is both a privilege and a responsibility, and he has embraced the challenge with enthusiasm.
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What is DJ Steward’s Wingspan?
DJ Steward boasts a wingspan of 6 feet 7 inches (201 cm or 2.01 meters), as noted in his NBA 2K25 rating.
This wingspan gives him an edge on the court, allowing him to excel in defense by contesting shots and intercepting passes. A longer wingspan is crucial for guards, enhancing their ability to play at both ends of the court effectively.
Steward’s wingspan has contributed significantly to his ability to challenge taller opponents and extend his reach in offense and defense.
DJ Steward’s Height: How Tall is He?
Standing at 6 feet 2 inches (1.88 meters), DJ Steward’s height is standard for a combo guard in basketball. His stature allows him to be agile and quick, which are essential traits for a guard. During his freshman season at Duke University, Steward utilized his height effectively, playing in 24 games and starting in 22.
In his debut season, Steward averaged:
- 13 points per game
- 3.9 rebounds per game
- 2.4 assists per game
His performance demonstrated not only his scoring prowess but also his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game, making him a valuable player for the team.
DJ Steward’s Weight: What Does He Weigh?
DJ Steward’s weight is recorded at 162 pounds (73 kg). While relatively light for a basketball player, this weight aligns well with his playing style.
As a guard, his lightweight frame contributes to his quickness and agility, enabling him to navigate through defenses and execute fast breaks effectively.
His build allows him to maintain speed and endurance on the court, which is especially important for a player tasked with creating scoring opportunities and maintaining defensive pressure.
How Old is DJ Steward?
As of November 2024, DJ Steward is 23 years old. Born on October 2, 2001, he has spent much of his young life honing his basketball skills.
His age positions him as a player with significant potential for growth and development in the professional basketball landscape.
Challenges Faced by DJ Steward
Like all athletes, DJ Steward has encountered obstacles on his journey to success. Transitioning from high school to college basketball and then to professional aspirations brings its share of challenges, including adapting to increased competition and physicality.
At Duke, the shortened 2020-21 season due to the pandemic added an extra layer of difficulty, as players had limited time to train and build chemistry.
Despite these hurdles, Steward showcased resilience and determination, leaving an indelible mark during his freshman year.
DJ Steward: Solo Training
DJ Steward shared his solo training video on the episode 1 of FAITH and the video link he added on his instagram account.
View this post on Instagram
Off-Court Persona
Beyond basketball, DJ Steward is known for his positive attitude and work ethic. These qualities have earned him respect from teammates and coaches alike. Steward’s commitment to personal growth, both on and off the court, is evident in his interactions with fans and media.
DJ Steward is a rising star in basketball, possessing the physical attributes and skills needed to excel at the professional level. His 6’7″ wingspan, 6’2″ height, and 162-pound weight are more than just numbers—they represent the foundation of a promising career.
At 23 years old, Steward has already demonstrated immense potential, making a significant impact during his college days at Duke. His scoring ability, defensive prowess, and versatility set him apart as a player to watch in the coming years.
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