Last Updated on April 23, 2026 by Mat Diekhake

Here’s a detailed profile of Wendell Carter Jr.:

  • Full Name: Wendell Andre Carter Jr.
  • Nationality: American
  • Age: Born April 16, 1999
  • Hometown: Atlanta, Georgia
  • Height: 6 ft 10 in (2.08 m)
  • Weight: 270 lbs (122 kg)
  • Wingspan: 7 ft 4 in (2.24 m)
  • Shoe Size: Size 18 (US)
  • Jersey Number:
    • #34 — Chicago Bulls
    • #34 — Orlando Magic
  • Position: Center / Power Forward
  • High School: Pace Academy (Atlanta, GA)
  • College: Duke University (2017–2018) – Duke Blue Devils
  • NBA Draft: 7th overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft by the Chicago Bulls
  • Player Archetype: Two-way modern big (defensive anchor with interior scoring and developing stretch ability)
  • Primary Offensive Role: Interior finisher, pick-and-roll screener, secondary playmaker from the high post
  • Defensive Role: Paint protector, positional rim deterrent, switch-capable big in certain schemes
  • Play Style: Fundamentally sound big who relies on positioning, strength, and touch rather than explosive athleticism; operates efficiently within team structure
  • Handedness / Shooting Hand: Right
  • Athletic Profile: Strong, well-built frame with good length; average vertical athlete but above-average coordination and balance
  • Recruiting Status: 5-star recruit (2017 class)
  • Draft Status Detail: One-and-done prospect from Duke; projected lottery pick due to two-way versatility and high basketball IQ
  • Injury Status Category: Moderate Risk — has missed stretches with lower-body and core injuries but no career-altering setbacks
  • Career Stage: Prime / Established Starter
  • Comparison Style: Modern two-way center with traditional fundamentals and evolving perimeter touch
  • Comparable Players:
    • Al Horford — versatile big with passing and defensive IQ
    • Nikola Vučević — skilled interior scorer with touch and rebounding
    • Marc Gasol — high-IQ defensive anchor with playmaking ability
  • Teams Played For:
    • Chicago Bulls (2018–2021)
    • Orlando Magic (2021–present)
  • Championship Rings: None as of now
  • Kids: None publicly known
  • Siblings: No publicly known siblings

Wendell Carter Jr.’s player archetype is that of a two-way modern big, blending interior scoring efficiency with disciplined defensive anchoring. Defensively, he operates as a positional rim protector who relies on timing, strength, and awareness rather than elite verticality, consistently impacting shots and controlling space in the paint. Offensively, he functions primarily as a pick-and-roll finisher and interior scorer, with flashes of passing ability from the high post and a gradually expanding perimeter touch. Physically, his sturdy 6’10” frame and long wingspan allow him to hold ground against stronger centers while maintaining mobility in structured defensive schemes. His overall play style is methodical and team-oriented, favoring smart reads and fundamentals over high-usage creation.

Fun Facts

  • His parents played professional basketball. His father played for Delta State (Statesman basketball) and was a pro in the Dominican Republic. His mother played for the Ole Miss Rebels.

Sources:
Basketball Reference — Wendell Carter Jr. Stats
NBA.com — Wendell Carter Jr. Player Profile
ESPN — Wendell Carter Jr. Stats, News, Bio