L.J. Figueroa, born on March 28, 1998 in Lawrence, MA, was a natural athlete from a young age. He attended Notre Dame Cristo Rey High School in his hometown, where he began to hone his skills on the basketball court. However, his journey to becoming a professional basketball player was far from straightforward.
Figueroa transferred high schools three times during his teenage years in pursuit of better opportunities to showcase his talent. He first made the move to Florida as a sophomore, where he attended Oldsmar Christian School before transferring to West Oaks Academy. These transfers helped Figueroa gain exposure and recognition from college scouts.
After a successful high school career, Figueroa committed to play college basketball for the Oregon Ducks in his senior year. He made an immediate impact on the team, showcasing his scoring ability and defensive prowess. Figueroa's performance on the court caught the attention of NBA scouts, paving the way for his eventual transition to the professional ranks.
Upon graduating from college, Figueroa signed with the Santa Cruz Warriors in the NBA G League, marking the beginning of his professional basketball career. He wasted no time in proving himself on the court, displaying his versatility and athleticism in every game. Figueroa's hard work and dedication paid off, as he quickly established himself as a key player for the Warriors.
In addition to his success in the G League, Figueroa also had the opportunity to represent the Dominican Republic national team in international competitions. He showcased his skills on the global stage in the 2016 FIBA Americas Under-18 Championships and the 2019 Pan American Games, further solidifying his reputation as a talented and versatile player.
Despite his busy schedule as a professional athlete, Figueroa remains close to his family, as evidenced by a heartfelt photo he posted with his mother on New Year's Day 2022. His family's support and encouragement have been instrumental in his journey to success both on and off the court.
Throughout his career, Figueroa has had the privilege of being coached by basketball mentor Kenny Atkinson. Under Atkinson's guidance, Figueroa has continued to evolve and grow as a player, refining his skills and expanding his basketball IQ.
As L.J. Figueroa's career continues to flourish, he remains focused on achieving new heights in the world of professional basketball. His journey from a young athlete in Lawrence, MA to a rising star in the NBA G League serves as an inspiration to aspiring players everywhere.