Introduction
Jared Gladwyn Butler is a professional American basketball player who plays as a point guard. Born on August 25, 2000, in Reserve, Louisiana, he made a name for himself in college basketball before entering the NBA. Standing at 6’3″ and weighing 195 pounds, Butler is known for his ability to control the game, shoot from long range, and defend with intensity. His career highlights include a national college championship and stints with multiple NBA teams, culminating in his recent signing with the Phoenix Suns in July 2025. This article traces his journey from his early years to the latest updates in October 2025, highlighting his achievements and contributions to the sport.
Butler grew up in a family that valued sports. The son of Richard and Juanea Butler, he began playing basketball as a child, competing in out-of-state tournaments by age 11. His passion for the game led to a promising career marked by determination and natural talent. Over the years, he evolved from a talented high school player to a respected professional, overcoming challenges such as pre-draft medical evaluations and team changes. At 25 years old in 2025, Butler continues to seek stability in the league, with recent performances showcasing his potential.
Early Life and Background
Jared Butler was born and raised in Reserve, a small community in Louisiana. Basketball became an integral part of his life from a young age. By 11, he was competing in regional and national tournaments, displaying precocious skills in dribbling and shooting. His parents, Richard and Juanea, encouraged his dedication, providing opportunities for training and travel.
In high school, Butler attended Riverside Academy, where he joined the varsity team as an eighth-grader. As a junior, he averaged 20.4 points and 6.7 assists per game, earning first-team All-State honors. In his senior year, he posted impressive stats: 27.4 points, 8.8 rebounds, 8.4 assists, and 3.0 steals per game. He was named Player of the Year by The Times-Picayune and again made the first-team All-State.
Rated as a four-star prospect, Butler initially committed to the University of Alabama but later switched to Baylor after being released from his letter of intent. This decision marked the start of a transformative phase in his career, where he honed his skills in a competitive environment. During high school, Butler not only excelled on the court but also developed a resilient mindset, handling the pressure of high expectations.
College Career
Freshman Season (2018–2019)
Butler arrived at Baylor University in 2018 as a promising freshman. Playing for the Bears, he quickly adapted to the college level. In his first season, he averaged 10.2 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game. His performance earned him All-Big 12 honorable mention and a spot on the All-Freshman team.
A key moment came in February 2019 when he was named Big 12 Freshman of the Week after averaging 14.5 points, 4.5 assists, and 4.0 rebounds in significant games. Butler showcased versatility, contributing on both offense and defense. His three-point shooting and playmaking ability made him a valuable asset in coach Scott Drew’s system.
Sophomore Season (2019–2020)
In his second year, Butler elevated his game. Ranked as the 98th-best college player by CBS Sports, he averaged 16.0 points, 3.2 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 1.6 steals per game. Highlights included a 30-point, eight-three-pointer performance against Central Arkansas in November 2019 and earning MVP honors at the Myrtle Beach Invitational.
He was named Big 12 Player of the Week twice, including after a historic win over Kansas in January 2020, where he scored 22 points. Butler was a Wooden Award candidate and a finalist for the Bob Cousy Award. By season’s end, he earned first-team All-Big 12 and third-team All-American honors from multiple organizations. Though he considered entering the 2020 NBA Draft, he returned to Baylor to pursue a championship.
Junior Season and NCAA Championship (2020–2021)
Named Big 12 Preseason Player of the Year, Butler led Baylor to its best campaign. Averaging 16.7 points, 3.3 rebounds, 4.8 assists, and 2.0 steals, he was a unanimous first-team All-Big 12 selection and a consensus first-team All-American.
Notable performances included 30 points and eight assists against Kansas in January 2021. Butler guided the Bears to their first national championship, defeating Gonzaga 86–70 in the NCAA Tournament final in April 2021. With 22 points and seven assists in the title game, he was named the Most Outstanding Player of the tournament. This achievement cemented his college legacy, and he declared for the 2021 NBA Draft, forgoing his remaining eligibility.
Across 94 games at Baylor (81 starts), Butler averaged 14.1 points, 3.2 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.5 steals, shooting 43.1% from the field and 38.4% from three.
Professional Career
Utah Jazz and Salt Lake City Stars (2021–2022)
Selected in the second round (40th overall) by the New Orleans Pelicans in the 2021 NBA Draft, Butler was traded to the Utah Jazz via the Memphis Grizzlies. After clearing a pre-draft medical evaluation, he signed a rookie contract in August 2021.
In his debut season, he played 42 regular-season games (one start), averaging 3.8 points, 1.1 rebounds, and 1.5 assists in 8.6 minutes. His best game came in March 2022, with 21 points and seven assists against the Clippers. He also played in the G-League with the Salt Lake City Stars and appeared in one playoff game. Butler was waived by the Jazz in October 2022.
Grand Rapids Gold and Oklahoma City Thunder (2022–2023)
After being waived, Butler joined the Grand Rapids Gold of the G-League in November 2022. In March 2023, he signed a two-way contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder. He played six regular-season games (one start), averaging 6.2 points, 0.7 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 12.8 minutes. He was assigned to the Oklahoma City Blue in the G-League.
Washington Wizards and Capital City Go-Go (2023–2025)
In July 2023, Butler signed a two-way contract with the Wizards. It was converted to a multi-year deal in March 2024, but he was waived and re-signed in October 2024. In the 2023–24 season, he played 40 games, averaging 6.3 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 3.2 assists in 14.1 minutes.
In 2024–25, he appeared in 32 games, averaging 6.9 points, 1.3 rebounds, and 2.6 assists in 11.3 minutes. His career-high came in January 2025: 26 points, four rebounds, and seven assists in a loss to the 76ers. He was assigned to the Capital City Go-Go in the G-League.
Philadelphia 76ers (2025)
Traded to the 76ers in February 2025 for Reggie Jackson, Butler’s contract was converted to a standard deal. He played 28 games (17 starts), averaging 11.5 points, 2.5 rebounds, 4.9 assists, and 1.1 steals in 24.4 minutes. Notable games included 25 points and seven assists against Atlanta in April 2025 and 19 points against Chicago. The 76ers declined his option for 2025–26, making him a free agent.
Phoenix Suns (2025–Present)
In July 2025, Butler signed a one-year contract with the Suns. Recent updates from October 2025 show him in preseason games: 12 points against the Lakers on October 3, eight points against Brooklyn on October 10, and seven points on October 12. He started one game against the Lakers on October 15. With career averages of 6.7 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists across 148 games, Butler is aiming for a larger role with the Suns.
Playing Style
Butler is a versatile point guard, excelling in three-point shooting (34.1% career) and playmaking. His defense is aggressive, with strong instincts for reading passing lanes. He thrives in fast-paced systems, contributing in transitions and pick-and-rolls. Challenges include shot consistency and turnover management, but his court intelligence sets him apart.
Achievements and Awards
- NCAA Champion (2021), Most Outstanding Player
- Consensus First-Team All-American (2021)
- First-Team All-Big 12 (2020, 2021)
- Myrtle Beach Invitational MVP (2019)
- Third-Team All-American (2020)
Personal Life
Butler keeps a low profile, focusing on family and basketball. He overcame pre-draft medical concerns, showcasing resilience. Off the court, he engages with communities, inspiring young athletes.
Statistics
College
- 2018–19: 10.2 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 2.7 APG
- 2019–20: 16.0 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 3.1 APG
- 2020–21: 16.7 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 4.8 APG
NBA
- Career: 6.7 PPG, 1.5 RPG, 2.8 APG, 45.0% FG
- 2024–25 (Wizards/76ers): Elevated points and assists averages
In October 2025, Butler continues to evolve, with potential to make a significant impact for the Suns in the 2025–26 season. His journey reflects dedication and adaptability in professional basketball.
