Career Timeline of Darius Garland: Major Achievements and Milestones

How Darius Garland built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Darius Garland is an American professional basketball player currently playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA. He played college basketball at Vanderbilt University. A highly touted five-star recruit out of Brentwood Academy, where he won multiple state championships and Tennessee Mr. Basketball awards, Garland was drafted into the NBA after one season in college. He has since become a two-time NBA All-Star, solidifying his status as a prominent player in the league.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements

December 23, 2015: King of the Bluegrass Holiday Classic MVP

On December 23, 2015, Darius Garland claimed the MVP honors at the King of the Bluegrass Holiday Classic after scoring 23 points versus Fairdale High School in the title game.

November 13, 2017: Committed to Vanderbilt

On November 13, 2017, Darius Garland committed to play college basketball for Vanderbilt.

November 6, 2018: First College Game

On November 6, 2018, Darius Garland played his first college game against Winthrop, leading all scorers with 24 points.

2018: Ranked Among Best Point Guards

In 2018, Darius Garland was ranked among the best point guards in the 2018 class and was a McDonald's All-American.

January 22, 2019: Left Vanderbilt

On January 22, 2019, Darius Garland announced that he would leave Vanderbilt to recover from his injury and prepare for the 2019 NBA draft.

July 3, 2019: Signed with Cleveland Cavaliers

On July 3, 2019, Darius Garland signed his rookie scale contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

October 23, 2019: NBA Debut

On October 23, 2019, Darius Garland made his NBA debut with the Cleveland Cavaliers in a loss to the Orlando Magic. He also became the first player born in the 2000s to make his NBA debut.

December 23, 2020: Season Debut for Cavaliers

On December 23, 2020, Darius Garland made his season debut for the Cavaliers, recording 22 points, six rebounds and six assists in a win over the Charlotte Hornets.

April 5, 2021: Career-High 37 Points

On April 5, 2021, Darius Garland scored a then career-high 37 points, along with seven assists, in a win over the San Antonio Spurs.

January 12, 2022: First Career Triple-Double

On January 12, 2022, Darius Garland recorded his first career triple-double with 11 points, 10 rebounds, and 15 assists in a win over the Utah Jazz.

July 9, 2022: Signed Rookie Extension

On July 9, 2022, Darius Garland signed a five-year, $231M designated rookie extension with the Cavaliers.

2022: First NBA All-Star Game

In 2022, Darius Garland was named to his first NBA All-Star Game and finished third in voting for the NBA's Most Improved Player award.

January 30, 2025: Named All-Star Reserve

On January 30, 2025, Darius Garland was named as reserve for the 2025 NBA All-Star Game, his second selection.

February 5, 2025: Game-Winning Buzzer Beater

On February 5, 2025, Darius Garland recorded 25 points, five assists and hit a 31-foot 3-pointer at the buzzer to give the Cleveland Cavaliers a win over the Detroit Pistons.