Chris Boucher’s road to the NBA wasn’t promising, growing up in one of Montreal’s toughest neighborhoods; Chris used basketball as a way out. During his mid-teen year Boucher faced many trials and even admitted to being homeless sleeping on his friends couches. While Attending Alma Prep in Quebec Boucher went on to met friend and now manager Ibrahim Appiah. Before you know it Boucher was flourishing as a top player in the US, where he caught the attention from Coach Dana Altman. Boucher attended the University of Oregon for two season playing alongside fellow Canadians Dillon Brooks and Dylan Ennis. During his time at Oregon Chris Boucher led to ducks to the elite eight. It was at this moment where Boucher saw the possibility of entering the NBA.
Sports Illustrated
Chris Boucher Graces the cover of Sports Illustrated
“From 16-18 I’m Homeless, I’m going to friends house or whatever. Basically I had to find my own way and figure out what I wanted to do in life.”
During his senior campaign Boucher suffered an ACL injury during the Pac-12 Championship Tournament. Because of his ACL injury Boucher’s stock dropped drastically and as a result he went undrafted.. In 2017 The Golden State Warrior signed Boucher on a 2-way deal where Chris got to play for their G-League affiliate team. In his first season with the warriors Boucher struggled to find his way in the league and it was a learning process for him. After Boucher’s rookie season he signed with the Toronto Raptors. This was the golden opportunity that Boucher needed. Injuries plagued that Raptors roster, which gave Boucher more minutes with the Raptors 905. In 28 games Boucher averaged 25 ppg while shooting 46 % from deep. Later that season Boucher was named NBA G-League MVP and Defensive Player of The Year, being the first player to do so in the same season.
G-LEAGUE MVP
Chris Boucher wins MVP & Defensive Player Honours.
“ Everything changed I went from being a 10 minute guy in the G-League to a MVP and defensive player of the year, and after that I won a Championship.”
Boucher spoke on his experiences in the G-League and how it impacted his career thus far. in two seasons Boucher won 2 NBA titles ( Warriors, Raptors) , G-League MVP award, and Defensive Player of the year award. From being homeless at 16 to this, it’s safe to safe that Boucher has reached the mountaintop. This past summer Boucher got the chance to celebrate his championship back in his hometown. Montreal isn’t known for their unique sports culture but now, they’re apart of the story. Boucher reflects on his childhood life and feels grateful that he has the chance to share his successes with the place the raise him. The work doesn’t stop; Boucher is motivated to bring another championship back to his hometown in Montreal. C’est La Vie!
NBA CHAMPS
Chris Boucher brings Larry O’Brian Trophy home.
“I say to kids all the time if they say you can’t fly, then try to fly. For a minute I never thought I was going to get here. ”
Thanks: @vicesports, @raptors, @nbagleague, @rocnationsports
Athlete: Chris Boucher (@slimmduck)