Zach Collins, a versatile big man known for his blend of offensive skill and defensive potential, has navigated a challenging yet ultimately rewarding path in the National Basketball Association. Drafted as a lottery pick, his career has been marked by significant injuries, but his unwavering determination and adaptable game have allowed him to carve out a valuable role in the league. This article explores Collins’s journey, his playing style, recent career developments, and addresses the frequently asked questions about this intriguing talent.
Early Life and High School Dominance
He attended Bishop Gorman High School, a perennial powerhouse in Nevada, where he was a key figure in four state championship teams. His senior year was particularly dominant, as he averaged 17.3 points, 14 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and an impressive 6.4 blocked shots per game. McDonald’s All-American Game in 2016.
Collegiate Stint at Gonzaga: A Glimpse of Potential
Collins opted to play college basketball for the Gonzaga Bulldogs, a program known for developing big men. As a freshman in the 2016-17 season, he primarily came off the bench, often rotating with and sometimes playing alongside senior center Przemek Karnowski. Despite his reserve role, Collins made a significant impact, averaging 10 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks in just 17.3 minutes per game. His efficiency was remarkable, shooting a conference-best 65% from the field and even showcasing a burgeoning three-point shot at 47.6%.
A highlight of his collegiate career was the NCAA Tournament, where he played a crucial role in Gonzaga’s run to their first national championship game. In the Final Four against South Carolina, Collins delivered a standout performance with 14 points, 13 rebounds, and 6 blocks. His impressive freshman campaign, despite the limited minutes, demonstrated his immense potential and led him to declare for the NBA Draft after just one year.
NBA Draft and Early Career Struggles
Zach Collins was selected by the Sacramento Kings with the 10th overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, but was immediately traded to the Portland Trail Blazers on draft night. This marked the beginning of his professional journey, one that would test his resilience from the outset.
Portland Trail Blazers (2017-2021)
In his first two seasons, he showed flashes of his multifaceted game, displaying his ability to shoot, pass, and defend. He appeared in 66 games as a rookie, averaging 4.4 points and 3.3 rebounds, and improved those numbers to 6.6 points and 4.2 rebounds in his second year, playing in 77 games.
However, his promising start was unfortunately derailed by a series of significant injuries. This injury, coupled with subsequent ankle issues, severely limited his playing time. Over his four seasons with the Trail Blazers, Collins played in only 154 games due to these recurring health setbacks, hindering his ability to establish consistent rhythm and demonstrate his full potential.
San Antonio Spurs (2021-2025)
This move provided him with a fresh start and an opportunity to redefine his career. The Spurs, known for their developmental philosophy, patiently worked with Collins to manage his health and reintegrate him into a consistent playing rotation.
During the 2021-22 season, he played in 28 games, averaging 7.8 points and 5.5 rebounds. The 2022-23 season saw a significant leap in his production and role, as he started 26 of 63 games and averaged career highs in points (11.6), rebounds (6.4), and assists (2.9). He showcased his improved offensive game, particularly his three-point shooting, hitting 37.4% from beyond the arc. A memorable performance included a 29-point, 11-rebound effort in a double-overtime loss to the Detroit Pistons in February 2023.
During the 2023-24 season, he continued to be a valuable contributor, playing in 69 games (starting 29) and averaging 11.2 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 2.8 assists. However, his season ended prematurely with a dislocated right shoulder in the team’s finale.
Chicago Bulls (2025-Present)
In a significant mid-season trade in February 2025, Zach Collins was part of a three-team deal that sent him, along with Tre Jones and Kevin Huerter, to the Chicago Bulls. This trademarked another chapter in his career, placing him on a team with a potentially different role and opportunity.
Upon joining the Bulls, Collins quickly made an impact. He was initially out for a few games due to a coach’s decision, but when given the opportunity, he showed the versatility and physicality the Bulls were seeking. He was reportedly asked by coach Billy Donovan to bring a physical presence, which Collins readily embraced. In his initial games with Chicago, he demonstrated a strong ability to run the floor, set screens effectively, and contribute on both ends. He even had a 21-point, 17-rebound, 6-assist performance in a game, showcasing his all-around potential when given extended minutes. His presence immediately helped the Bulls improve defensively in the paint, highlighting his two-way impact.
Playing Style and Strengths
Zach Collins stands at 6’11” and weighs 250 lbs, giving him the ideal physical profile for a modern NBA big man. His playing style is characterized by his versatility and well-rounded skill set.
Key Strengths
Versatile Offensive Game: Collins possesses a diverse offensive arsenal. He can score effectively in the post, using his size and touch around the rim. Crucially, he has developed a reliable three-point shot, making him a “stretch five” or “stretch four” threat who can space the floor. He’s also a capable passer from the high post or when rolling to the basket, demonstrating good court vision for a big man.
Defensive Potential: With his size, length, and mobility, Collins has the potential to be a strong defender. He can guard multiple positions, contest shots at the rim, and recover well to close out on shooters. His ability to navigate pick-and-rolls defensively is a valuable asset.
Rebounding and Screen Setting: Collins is a solid rebounder on both ends of the floor. He also excels at setting screens, creating opportunities for his teammates and generating offensive flow.
Fluidity and Agility for His Size: For a player of his stature, Collins moves with surprising fluidity and agility. This allows him to run the floor in transition, switch onto smaller players, and operate effectively along the perimeter.
Physicality: As seen with his recent move to Chicago, Collins is willing to embrace physicality and provide a tough presence in the paint, which is crucial for any successful big man.
Areas for Improvement
Injury History: The most significant concern surrounding Collins has been his extensive injury history. Staying healthy and on the court consistently will be paramount for him to reach his full potential and maintain a prominent role in the league.
Consistency: While he shows flashes of brilliance, maintaining a high level of consistency in his scoring, shooting, and decision-making over an entire season will be crucial.
Foul Trouble: Early in his career, Collins sometimes struggled with foul trouble, which limited his minutes. While improved, this remains an area to monitor.
Explosiveness: While mobile, he’s not an overly explosive above-the-rim athlete. His game relies more on skill, positioning, and touch rather than sheer verticality.
Contract Status and Future Outlook
Zach Collins signed a two-year, $34.8 million contract extension with the San Antonio Spurs in October 2023. This contract includes $34.8 million guaranteed and an average annual salary of approximately $17.4 million. For the 2024-25 season, Collins is set to earn a base salary of $16,741,200. He will be an unrestricted free agent at the end of the 2025-26 season.
His trade to the Chicago Bulls in February 2025 reshapes his immediate future. While his contract status remains the same, his role and potential impact on the Bulls could be significant. With Nikola Vucevic’s future with the Bulls often a topic of discussion, Collins could potentially step into a larger role, either as a starting center or a key rotation big man, offering a more agile and floor-spacing option. The Bulls are likely to give him a consistent opportunity to showcase his abilities, and if he can stay healthy and continue his efficient play, he could be a valuable long-term piece for the franchise or command a strong market in future free agency.
Final Thoughts
Zach Collins’s journey in the NBA is a narrative of persistence in the face of adversity. Despite a challenging start marred by injuries, he has steadily demonstrated his value as a skilled and versatile big man. His ability to space the floor, contribute offensively, and provide defensive presence makes him a valuable asset in today’s NBA. With his recent move to the Chicago Bulls, Collins has another opportunity to solidify his role and showcase his full potential. If he can maintain his health, his unique skill set positions him to be a significant contributor for years to come.
FAQs
What team does Zach Collins play for now?
As of February 2025, Zach Collins plays for the Chicago Bulls. He was traded there from the San Antonio Spurs as part of a three-team deal.
What is Zach Collins’ injury history?
Zach Collins has a notable injury history, particularly with his left shoulder (torn labrum in 2019) and recurring ankle issues. He also suffered a dislocated right shoulder at the end of the 2023-24 season. Staying healthy has been a significant challenge throughout his career.
What is Zach Collins’ contract situation?
Zach Collins is under contract through the 2025-26 season. He signed a two-year, $34.8 million extension with the Spurs in October 2023, which was then traded to the Bulls. He will be an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2026.
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