Well, the NBA’s declining television ratings have become a major topic of discussion this season. Obviously, the rising volume of three-pointers is being deemed a key reason for the issue. That’s why when a young Center, who loves playing inside the paint and prides himself on being a rim protector emerges, he instantly becomes a sight for sore eyes. Walker Kessler is one such player.

Yes, the Utah Jazz big is gradually turning into a dominant force and he is only in his third season. That’s because he has inherited his skills from his father.

Where is Walker Kessler from? What is the Jazz star’s nationality?

It was on July 26, 2001, that the Atlanta native took his first breath. His parents Andrea and Chad Kessler have lived in the USA for years, which makes Walker an American by nationality as well as ethnicity. Although his mother likes to keep her life private, Walker’s father is a well-known name in the hoop world. That’s because Chad was a basketball star at Georgia for four years in the 80s, and even earned the Academic All-America honors. And his journey did not end there!

After dominating in college, he got drafted by the Clippers in the 1987 draft. Unfortunately, he was soon cut by the team and never played in an NBA game. From there, he went on to pursue a successful career as an orthopedic surgeon. Apart from his father, Walker’s late uncle Alec and brother Houston were also hoopers in Georgia. Moreover, Alec also made it to the NBA as the ninth pick in the 1990 draft by the Rockets. So, it’s safe to say that Walker was destined to be an elite athlete.

Additionally, Walker also seems to be a religious person as his X bio reads, “Follower of Christ.” Being a proud American, the Center has worn the red, white, and blue while representing the nation on multiple occasions.

Has Walker Kessler played for the US National Team?

Walker’s journey with Team USA began long before he even made it to the league. It was in 2019 that he was announced as the finalist for the Men’s U19 National Team. Only a year later, he booked his spot on the USA Nike Hoop Summit Team, an event that was later canceled because of the pandemic.

However, Walker got his big break in last year’s FIBA World Cup as he played for the National Team. He averaged 4 points and nearly two blocks in three appearances. Sure enough, he showed off his defensive prowess by leading his team in blocks. Earlier this year, he was also part of the player pool for the Olympics’ Team USA selection.

Obviously, the future is bright for the 23-year-old as he has shown immense growth playing for the Jazz. And this season, Walker is averaging a career-high 10.5 points and nearly three blocks. Hopefully, he will get more chances to represent the nation in future tournaments.