R. J. Hampton Biography: Age, Height, Family, NBA Career, Net Worth & 2026 Update

R. J. Hampton is an American professional basketball player known for his explosive athleticism, combo-guard versatility, and bold decision to skip college to turn pro in Australia before becoming a first-round NBA Draft pick. From starring at Little Elm High School in Texas to playing for the Denver Nuggets, Orlando Magic, and now overseas in China, his R. J. Hampton biography reflects a modern basketball journey defined by talent, risk-taking, and resilience.

As of 2026, Hampton remains one of the most talked-about young guards from the 2020 draft class, with fans searching for his age, height, career stats, net worth, and recent activity after his move to the Chinese National Basketball League.

Quick Facts

If you follow modern combo guards and rising basketball talents like LaMelo Ball, Anthony Edwards, Tyrese Maxey, Cole Anthony, Jalen Green, and James Wiseman, you will find R. J. Hampton’s career path especially interesting, as he was part of the same elite high school class and the groundbreaking NBL Next Stars program that reshaped the route to the NBA.

Early Life & Education

Roderick Deon Hampton Jr. was born on February 7, 2001, in Dallas, Texas, and raised in Little Elm, a suburb north of Dallas. He grew up in a basketball family. His father, Rod Hampton, played college basketball at Southern Methodist University (SMU) from 1987 to 1991, and introduced R. J. to the game at just three years old. His mother, Markita Hampton, and his extended family provided strong support as he developed into a prodigy.

Hampton attended Little Elm High School, where he became one of the most decorated players in Texas high school history. As a freshman in 2016-17, he averaged 23.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 3.5 steals per game, leading Little Elm to a 29-5 record and earning MaxPreps Freshman All-American honors and Texas Association of Basketball Coaches (TABC) Class 5A All-State recognition.

In 2017, he briefly announced a transfer to Montverde Academy in Florida, a national powerhouse, but ultimately decided to stay home at Little Elm. The decision paid off. As a sophomore, he averaged 30.3 points, 8.8 rebounds, 6 assists, 4.4 steals, and 2.5 blocks, earning MaxPreps Sophomore All-American First Team and USA Today All-Texas honors.

His junior year was historic. On December 29, 2018, he scored a career-high 50 points with 12 rebounds, 7 assists, and 6 steals against Coppell High School, and later dropped another 50-point game in February 2019. He averaged 32 points, 9.7 rebounds, 6.4 assists, and 3.9 steals for the season, leading Little Elm to a 24-10 record. He became the first non-senior since Justise Winslow in 2013 to win Texas Gatorade Player of the Year and was named to the USA Today All-USA First Team.

A consensus five-star recruit ranked in the top 5-6 nationally in the 2019 class, Hampton held offers from Kansas, Memphis, and Texas Tech. On April 30, 2019, he reclassified to the 2019 class, graduated high school early after completing online coursework, and shocked the basketball world by choosing a professional path over college.

Career Journey: From High School Star to 2026 China Move

R. J. Hampton’s professional career is a case study in the new era of basketball development, spanning three continents and multiple leagues by age 25.

New Zealand Breakers (2019–2020) – The NBL Next Stars Gamble

On May 28, 2019, Hampton signed a multi-year deal with the New Zealand Breakers of the Australian National Basketball League (NBL) through the league’s Next Stars program, designed to prepare NBA draft prospects. He turned down major college programs, saying his dream was to live like a pro and play against grown men.

He made his professional debut on September 20, 2019, with 11 points, 3 rebounds, and 4 assists against Melbourne United, and scored a season-high 20 points two days later against South East Melbourne Phoenix. A hip injury sidelined him for about four weeks in December, and he left the team on February 4, 2020, to prepare for the NBA Draft. In 15 NBL games, he averaged 8.8 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 2.4 assists on 40.7% shooting. Alongside LaMelo Ball, his move helped legitimize the NBL as an alternative to NCAA basketball.

Denver Nuggets (2020–2021) – NBA Draft Night

Hampton was selected 24th overall in the 2020 NBA Draft by the Milwaukee Bucks, but his rights were traded on draft night to the Denver Nuggets in a four-team deal. He signed his rookie-scale contract on December 1, 2020, a four-year deal worth $11.1 million.

With a deep Denver roster featuring Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic, Hampton played limited minutes, appearing in 25 games and averaging 2.6 points and 2.0 rebounds in 9.3 minutes per game. The Nuggets saw his long-term potential but needed win-now pieces.

Orlando Magic (2021–2023) – Breakout Opportunity

On March 25, 2021, Hampton was traded to the Orlando Magic along with Gary Harris and a future first-round pick for Aaron Gordon and Gary Clark. The move was a turning point.

In Orlando, he finally received consistent playing time. He made his first career start on April 4, 2021, against Denver, posting 16 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists in 33 minutes. He closed his rookie season strong, averaging 11.2 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.8 assists in 26 games with the Magic and was named Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month for May 2021.

The 2021-22 season was his most productive: 64 games, 14 starts, averaging 7.6 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 2.5 assists in 21.9 minutes. He showed flashes of scoring and playmaking, including several 15+ point games. In 2022-23, his role decreased to 13.9 minutes per game, averaging 5.7 points. On December 29, 2022, he was suspended one game for leaving the bench during an altercation against the Detroit Pistons. He was waived by Orlando on February 21, 2023.

Detroit Pistons (2023) – Second Chance

Hampton was claimed by the Detroit Pistons on February 23, 2023, signing for the remainder of the season. In 21 games with Detroit, he averaged 7.3 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.0 assist in 18.5 minutes, shooting a career-best 36.5% from three. Despite solid play, his $1.99 million salary for 2023-24 was non-guaranteed, and Detroit waived him on June 24, 2023, before the guarantee date.

Miami Heat, G League & Washington Wizards (2023–2024)

On September 27, 2023, Hampton signed a two-way contract with the Miami Heat. He split time with the Sioux Falls Skyforce, the Heat’s G League affiliate, appearing in 8 NBA games averaging 1.3 points and 1.0 assist in 9.5 minutes. Miami waived him on February 9, 2024.

He was then acquired by the Capital City Go-Go, the Washington Wizards’ G League affiliate, via trade on February 14, 2024. On March 3, 2024, he signed a 10-day contract with the Washington Wizards worth $120,250, though he did not appear in a game before returning to the Go-Go on March 13. He later was involved in a five-team G League trade that sent his rights to the Delaware Blue Coats, the Philadelphia 76ers affiliate.

Where is R. J. Hampton Now in 2026? Changsha Yongsheng Move

After exploring NBA Summer League opportunities and G League options in 2024-25, Hampton made his next major career move overseas. On November 14, 2025, he signed with Changsha Yongsheng of the National Basketball League (NBL) in China for the 2025-2026 season. The transfer, listed as effective July 1, 2025, from the Washington Wizards system, marked his return to international basketball for the first time since his NBL Australia stint.

As of early 2026, Hampton is active with Changsha Yongsheng, competing in the CBA Club Cup and NBL China regular season. At 25 years old in 2026, he is viewed as a veteran guard with NBA experience leading a Chinese club, while still keeping the door open for a potential NBA return. His recent activity in 2026 has focused on rebuilding his value as a primary ball-handler and scorer overseas.

Career Stats Overview

Through 2026, Hampton’s NBA career totals stand at 170 games played with 20 starts, averaging 18.3 minutes, 6.8 points, 2.7 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 0.5 steals, and 0.2 blocks per game on 40.8% field goal and 33.8% three-point shooting. His best statistical season remains 2021-22 with Orlando.

NBA Regular Season Stats:

• 2020-21 (Denver): 25 GP, 9.3 MPG, 2.6 PPG, 2.0 RPG, 0.6 APG
• 2020-21 (Orlando): 26 GP, 25.2 MPG, 11.2 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 2.8 APG
• 2021-22 (Orlando): 64 GP, 21.9 MPG, 7.6 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 2.5 APG
• 2022-23 (Orlando): 26 GP, 13.9 MPG, 5.7 PPG, 1.5 RPG, 1.3 APG
• 2022-23 (Detroit): 21 GP, 18.5 MPG, 7.3 PPG, 2.3 RPG, 1.0 APG
• 2023-24 (Miami): 8 GP, 9.5 MPG, 1.3 PPG, 0.8 RPG, 1.0 APG
• Career: 170 GP, 18.3 MPG, 6.8 PPG, 2.7 RPG, 1.8 APG

NBL (Australia) 2019-20: 15 GP, 20.6 MPG, 8.8 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 2.4 APG, 1.1 SPG

G League Career: 29 GP, 25.9 MPG, 15.9 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 3.2 APG, 46.2% FG

Personal Life

R. J. Hampton keeps his personal life relatively private, focusing publicly on basketball and family. He is not married and has no children as of 2026. He has not publicly confirmed a girlfriend or long-term relationship, and there are no verified reports of dating history or affairs in major media.

Family is central to his story. His father, Rod Hampton, is his mentor and former coach, having played at SMU. His mother, Markita Hampton, has been a constant presence throughout his high school and professional journey. His grandfather, Richard Evans, served in the Vietnam War, a fact Hampton has acknowledged with pride.

Hampton is known for his close friendship with fellow 2020 draftee LaMelo Ball, with whom he shared the NBL Next Stars spotlight. He is also a fan of the late Kobe Bryant, who he has cited as his favorite player, and enjoys films like The Lion King, Talladega Nights, Rush Hour, and The Silence of the Lambs.

Off the court, his hobbies include gaming, fitness training, and community work. During his time in Orlando and Detroit, he participated in youth basketball camps and community outreach events. He is described by teammates as hardworking and quiet, with a strong work ethic in the gym.

Family Members

• Father: Roderick “Rod” Hampton Sr. – Former SMU Mustangs basketball player
• Mother: Markita Hampton
• Grandfather: Richard Evans – Vietnam War veteran
• Siblings: No publicly known siblings

Relationship Status

• Marital Status: Single
• Girlfriend / Partner: Not publicly disclosed as of 2026
• Dating History: No confirmed public relationships

Awards & Achievements

• Texas Gatorade Player of the Year (2019) – First non-senior winner since 2013
• Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month – May 2021 (Orlando Magic)
• USA Today All-USA First Team (2019)
• MaxPreps All-American Second Team (2019), Sophomore All-American First Team (2018), Freshman All-American First Team (2017)
• TABC Class 5A All-State Selection (2017, 2018, 2019)
• FIBA U16 Americas Championship Gold Medal – Team USA (2017) – Averaged 9.0 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.6 assists
• FIBA U17 World Cup Gold Medal – Team USA (2018) – Averaged 7.5 points, 2.5 rebounds, 1.5 steals
• McDonald’s All-American Nominee and Jordan Brand Classic participant (2019)
• Consensus 5-Star Recruit – Ranked No. 5 by 247Sports and ESPN, No. 6 by Rivals (2019 class)

Physical Statistics

R. J. Hampton’s physical profile has always been a key part of his scouting report as a long, athletic guard.

• Height: 6 feet 4 inches (1.93 m) – listed at 6’5″ (1.95 m) in some team rosters
• Weight: 175 lbs (79 kg) – playing weight; some listings at 185 lbs (84 kg)
• Wingspan: Approximately 6 feet 7 inches (2.01 m)
• Body Type: Lean, athletic
• Hair Color: Black
• Eye Color: Dark Brown
• Shoe Size: 12 US
• Position: Shooting Guard / Point Guard
• Vertical Leap: Reported 38+ inches (pre-draft)

Quotes

“My dream has never been to play college basketball. I wanted to live like a pro and play with grown men and not have to juggle books and basketball.” – R. J. Hampton on choosing the NBL over college in 2019

“I would have went to the University of Kansas if I didn’t go pro.” – Hampton on his college choice if he had stayed in the NCAA route

“One of the main reason Steph be hooping like this is cuz he in the best shape of any NBA player ever no kap.” – Hampton praising Stephen Curry’s conditioning on social media

Controversies

R. J. Hampton has largely avoided major off-court controversies, but a few on-court incidents have drawn attention:

• NBL Ejection (2019): On November 9, 2019, Hampton was ejected just four minutes into a game against South East Melbourne Phoenix after attempting to put his arm around guard John Roberson’s neck during a scuffle. The incident was seen as a learning moment in his first pro season.
• NBA Suspension (2022): On December 29, 2022, the NBA suspended Hampton for one game without pay for leaving the bench during an altercation between the Orlando Magic and Detroit Pistons the previous day. Several players were disciplined under the league’s bench decorum rule.
• Recruiting Scrutiny (2017-2019): In 2017, emails from agent Christian Dawkins, later indicted in the NCAA corruption scandal, mentioned a desire to pay Hampton. When the emails surfaced in 2019, Hampton’s father denied ever meeting Dawkins, and no wrongdoing was found against Hampton.

None of these incidents have resulted in long-term disciplinary issues, and Hampton is generally regarded as a low-maintenance professional.

Favorites

• Favorite Player: Kobe Bryant
• Favorite Movies: Talladega Nights, The Silence of the Lambs, The Lion King, Norbit, Rush Hour
• Favorite Food: Soul food and barbecue (Texas roots)
• Favorite Music: Hip-hop and R&B
• Favorite Team Growing Up: Dallas Mavericks (hometown team)
• Idol: His father, Rod Hampton

Earnings & Net Worth in 2026

R. J. Hampton’s earnings reflect his status as a first-round pick and international professional. As of 2026, his estimated net worth is between $3 million and $5 million.

His primary income has come from NBA contracts. He signed a four-year rookie-scale contract with the Denver Nuggets in 2020 worth $11,129,417, with an average annual salary of $2,782,354 and $4,496,520 guaranteed at signing. Through the 2023-24 season, his career NBA earnings exceeded $7.5 million, according to salary tracking sites. This included:

• 2020-21: $2,193,480 (Denver/Orlando)
• 2021-22: $2,303,040
• 2022-23: $2,423,160 (Orlando/Detroit)
• 2023-24: $680,032 (Miami two-way) plus $120,250 for his 10-day contract with Washington

In the NBL, he reportedly earned between $274,000 and $343,000 for his season with the New Zealand Breakers, plus a significant shoe deal with Li-Ning, a Chinese sportswear brand, signed before the draft. His current contract with Changsha Yongsheng in 2026 is not publicly disclosed, but NBL China imports typically earn mid-six figures per season, supplementing his career total.

Endorsements, including his Li-Ning deal, and G League salaries have added to his income. While not among the highest-paid NBA stars, his early first-round status secured financial stability by age 25 in 2026.

Interesting Facts

• Hampton started playing basketball at age 3, coached by his father.
• He reclassified and graduated high school in just three weeks of online classes to turn pro early.
• He was the first major American prospect to use the NBL Next Stars program as a direct alternative to college, paving the way for LaMelo Ball and others.
• He scored 50 points twice in high school, including a 50-point, 12-rebound, 7-assist, 6-steal game.
• He was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks but never played for them, being traded to Denver on draft night.
• Despite being a point guard in high school, he has played primarily as a shooting guard in the NBA due to his size and athleticism.
• He won two gold medals with USA Basketball at the U16 and U17 levels before turning 18.
• In 2026, he is one of the few players from the 2020 draft class to have played professionally in the USA, Australia, and China.

Did You Know Already?

• Did you know R. J. Hampton was ranked as high as No. 5 nationally in his high school class, ahead of several current NBA All-Stars?
• Did you know he chose the New Zealand Breakers over Kansas, Memphis, and Texas Tech, even though he later said he would have picked Kansas if he went to college?
• Did you know Hampton’s grandfather served in the Vietnam War, and Hampton often credits his family’s discipline for his work ethic?
• Did you know his career-high NBA game was 19 points with Orlando, and he once recorded a near double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds?
• Did you know that as of the 2025-2026 season, Hampton is still only 25, younger than many players drafted after him who stayed four years in college?

Social Media Links

Follow R. J. Hampton’s official and verified accounts for the latest updates in 2026:

• Instagram: @rj_hampton – Official verified account with highlights and lifestyle posts
• Twitter / X: @RjHampton14 – Active for game reactions and announcements
• Facebook: R.J. Hampton Official – Updates and community posts
• TikTok: @rjhampton – Behind-the-scenes and training clips (when active)

Note: Always look for the verified checkmark. Hampton does not have an official LinkedIn or personal website as of 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

How old is R. J. Hampton in 2026?

R. J. Hampton was born on February 7, 2001, which makes him 25 years old as of September 2026. His zodiac sign is Aquarius.

What is R. J. Hampton’s height and weight?

Hampton is listed at 6 feet 4 inches (1.93 m), with some team rosters listing him at 6 feet 5 inches (1.95 m). His playing weight is 175 pounds (79 kg), giving him excellent length for a combo guard.

What team does R. J. Hampton play for in 2026?

As of the 2025-2026 season in 2026, R. J. Hampton plays for Changsha Yongsheng in the National Basketball League (NBL) of China. He signed with the club on November 14, 2025, after his NBA and G League stints with Miami, Detroit, Orlando, and Denver.

What is R. J. Hampton’s career average and stats?

In 170 NBA games, Hampton averages 6.8 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.8 assists in 18.3 minutes per game, shooting 40.8% from the field and 33.8% from three. His best season was 2021-22 with Orlando, where he averaged 7.6 points and 2.5 assists in 64 games.

What is R. J. Hampton’s net worth in 2026?

As of 2026, R. J. Hampton’s estimated net worth is $3 million to $5 million. He earned over $7.5 million in NBA salary through 2024 on his rookie contract, plus earnings from the NBL, G League, China, and his Li-Ning endorsement deal.

Is R. J. Hampton married or does he have a girlfriend?

No, R. J. Hampton is not married and has not publicly confirmed a girlfriend as of 2026. He keeps his dating life private and is currently focused on his basketball career.

Why did R. J. Hampton skip college?

Hampton skipped college to join the New Zealand Breakers in Australia’s NBL via the Next Stars program in 2019. He said he wanted to train and play like a professional against grown men rather than balance academics and basketball, and to better prepare for the NBA Draft.

Conclusion

R. J. Hampton’s biography is a story of bold choices and perseverance. From a record-setting high school career in Texas to pioneering a new path to the NBA through Australia, and from a promising breakout with the Orlando Magic to reinventing himself in China in 2026, he has shown adaptability at every stage. At just 25 years old in 2026, his journey is far from over, and many fans still hope to see him return to the NBA.

If you found this R. J. Hampton biography helpful, please share it with fellow basketball fans and leave a comment below with your favorite Hampton highlight. Stay tuned for more updates on his 2026 season with Changsha Yongsheng.

Key Sources: NBA.com, Basketball-Reference, ESPN, Washington Post