Basketball fans and enthusiasts have long been captivated by the prodigious talent of Julian Newman, a name that resonates within the realms of the sport. But amidst the buzz and acclaim that surrounded him during his early teenage years, a lingering question remains: Where is Julian Newman now? As time has passed since his meteoric rise, this article delves into the current whereabouts of the once-promising young basketball phenom, shedding light on his journey, accomplishments, and the path he has chosen to forge in the basketball world. From the hardwood to the challenges he has faced along the way, discover the fascinating narrative of Julian Newman as he continues to navigate his way through the ever-evolving landscape of the sport.
Julian Newman: From prodigy to receiving not even one college D1 offer
Back in 2012, an 11-year-old kid went viral after a video of him playing basketball with high schoolers was posted on the internet. That kid was the basketball sensation, Julian Newman. At the time, he was only 4 feet and 5 inches tall but played with hoopers that are sometimes 8 years older than him. After the video went viral, Julian Newman became super famous and everybody had eyes on this young fella. Dubbed the best high school basketball player in Florida and even in the country, Newman’s name was so popular that he was already called the next LeBron and the next MJ. Julian was everywhere. From playing varsity high school to appearing on television, and creating mixtapes.
However, Julian would only reach the height of his basketball career in high school
After his stint at Downey Christian School (DCS), the prodigy was nowhere to be found. He received not at least one D1 offer despite being a very famous and talented player. Because of that, his father created an Academy, Prodigy Prep, wherein Julian played after DCS. There were rumors in the past that Newman was going to play in Australia’s National Basketball League, but that did not transpire. Honestly, there are only three reasons why Julian Newman had no D1 offers or any chance at playing in the NBA.
- First, Julian only stands at 5 feet and 7 inches tall. Although it’s not impossible for a player of his size to play in the NBA since we’ve already seen guys just like him (e.g. Spud Webb, Muggsy Bogues, and Nate Robinson), it’s definitely going to be hard for him. With his skills and talents, it would have helped if he only spurted to at least 6 feet tall.
- Second, he is a highlight reel but he doesn’t play real basketball. Indeed Julian Newman is a very skilled player, no question about that. He can shoot lights out and has been doing it from NBA range since 5th grade. Moreover, his dribbling skills are unmatched. However, playing in pro basketball leagues isn’t like the And1 mixtape. At his height, he can only play point guard and be a facilitator – something he has a hard time doing. Julian doesn’t have a high basketball IQ, to say the least. But, props to his dribbling.
- Lastly, Julian Newman’s ego destroyed his career. There are videos showing that Julian had an attitude problem. If you’ve seen him play, you’re going to agree with this one. There have been numerous times of his outburst and no college coach would probably take a guy with anger issues.
Where is Julian Newman now?
Today, Julian Newman is still playing basketball, only not professionally. He graduate from Prodigy Prep in 2020. Since then, he’s been spotted playing in exhibition games like the ones BallIsLife organizes. The former child prodigy is now 22 years old and it seems that his NBA dreams are over.
Aside from playing with YouTubers and streetballers, Julian is also a social media influencer. Right now, he has 669,000 followers on Instagram. On that platform, he still continues to showcase his family’s brand, Prodigy. He is also an entrepreneur and ambassador of famous brands like Ethika, Nova Men, and Boost Mobile. Despite being far from the basketball prodigy he once was, it’s obvious that Julian Newman is still living a great life.
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