Ivica Zubac, stat the towering Croatian center for the Los Angeles Clippers, has steadily evolved into one of the most reliable and consistent big men in the NBA. Known for his shot-blocking ability, impressive rebounding, and efficient scoring in the paint, Zubac’s journey through the NBA has been marked by steady growth and impactful performances, especially in the 2024-2025 season. This article takes a deep dive into Zubac’s career and highlights his statistical achievements up to the 2025 season, providing insight into his evolution as a player, his contributions to the Clippers, and his future potential.
Early Career and Background
Croatian Roots
Ivica Zubac, stats was born on March 6, 1997, in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, but moved to Croatia at a young age. His basketball journey began at a very young age in his home country. Zubac’s impressive height and physicality made him a natural fit for the center position. He started playing for the Croatian team Cibona in his youth and quickly made a name for himself with his powerful inside game, rim protection, and rebounding skills.
Zubac’s potential was noticed by scouts and he transitioned to playing in Serbia for Mega Leks, one of Europe’s prominent basketball clubs. His play in the Adriatic League drew the attention of NBA scouts, setting the stage for his entry into the NBA.
NBA Draft and Early Years
In the 2016 NBA Draft, Zubac was selected by the Los Angeles Lakers with the 32nd overall pick. He made his debut in the 2016-2017 season and immediately showed flashes of his potential. He spent time between the Lakers and their G-League affiliate but had standout performances when he got his opportunities with the main roster.
Though he wasn’t a regular starter during his early years with the Lakers, Zubac did show enough promise to earn a consistent role in the rotation. His rebounding, rim protection, and inside scoring were skills that had significant value on the NBA stage.
Trade to the Clippers
The turning point in Zubac’s career came in February 2019, when he was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers. This move was pivotal for Zubac, as it allowed him to become a regular starter on a playoff-contending team. The trade, which also saw the Clippers acquire other valuable players, allowed Zubac to establish himself as one of the key pieces in the team’s interior defense and overall frontcourt rotation.
In his first season with the Clippers, Zubac showed promise, especially during the postseason, where his rebounding and rim protection were vital in the team’s success. Since then, he has solidified his place as the team’s starting center.
Ivica Zubac’s 2024-2025 Season Overview
The 2024-2025 Campaign
The 2024-2025 NBA season has been a breakthrough year for Ivica Zubac, where he has taken his game to the next level. As of the latest updates, Zubac has become one of the league’s most efficient centers, continuing to contribute consistently both offensively and defensively.
Scoring Prowess
Ivica Zubac, stat offensive game has improved drastically since his early years. He has developed a more consistent post game, often finishing with ease around the basket. Zubac is known for his physicality and ability to overpower smaller defenders in the post, but he has also expanded his scoring range with the ability to knock down mid-range shots and finish pick-and-roll opportunities.
Through the 2024-2025 season, Zubac has averaged around 15 points per game, maintaining impressive efficiency. He has proven to be one of the most reliable big men in terms of scoring within the paint, with a field goal percentage regularly above 60%. His improved free-throw shooting has also been a notable factor, allowing him to contribute more efficiently in clutch moments.
Rebounding Excellence
One of Ivica Zubac, stat trademarks has always been his rebounding ability, and in the 2024-2025 season, he has continued to assert himself on the boards. He is consistently among the top rebounders in the league, averaging around 11 rebounds per game. His ability to clean the glass on both ends has been vital for the Clippers, especially on defense, where he frequently secures crucial defensive rebounds after forcing opponents to miss.
Zubac’s presence in the paint not only disrupts opponents’ offenses but also creates second-chance opportunities for the Clippers’ offense. His size, timing, and positioning make him a dominant force in rebounding, whether it’s crashing the offensive glass or boxing out on the defensive end.
Defensive Impact
Zubac has always been known for his rim protection and defensive presence. This season, he remains a key defensive anchor for the Clippers. As of 2025, he is averaging over 1.5 blocks per game, and his ability to alter shots at the rim has made him one of the league’s best defensive centers. Zubac has also shown significant improvement in his help defense, often rotating to challenge shots in the paint and prevent easy baskets.
Additionally, his defensive IQ has allowed him to become an excellent pick-and-roll defender. He is adept at switching on smaller players and defending in space while still maintaining his impact in the paint.
Career-High Performances in the 2024-2025 Season
One of Zubac’s most memorable performances came during a game against the Indiana Pacers on November 27, 2024. In this game, Zubac posted a career-high 29 rebounds and 31 points, showcasing his dominance on both ends of the floor. This game was a testament to his growth as a player and his ability to take over games when needed.
Zubac also recorded several other notable performances, including a game against the San Antonio Spurs on January 30, 2025, where he recorded 21 points and 22 rebounds. This was another indication of his exceptional rebounding skills and ability to make an impact on the offensive end.
Role in the Clippers’ Success
Ivica Zubac, stat has been a key figure in the Clippers’ success throughout the 2024-2025 season. He plays a crucial role as a defensive anchor and a reliable scoring option in the paint. His chemistry with Clippers’ star players, such as Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, has allowed him to thrive within the system, contributing to the team’s offensive flow and providing a solid presence on defense.
As of 2025, the Clippers have been contenders in the Western Conference, and Zubac’s leadership on the court has been integral in their playoff push. His ability to maintain a high level of consistency has been key to the team’s stability, particularly in high-pressure moments.
Contract and Future Outlook
In the summer of 2024, Zubac signed a lucrative three-year, $58 million contract extension with the Clippers, solidifying his place as one of the team’s core players. The extension reflects the Clippers’ belief in his long-term value, and Zubac’s leadership, defense, and scoring will continue to be vital to the team’s championship aspirations.
Looking ahead, Zubac’s future in the NBA remains promising. He is entering the prime years of his career, and with the skills he has developed, he could be a key figure on a championship-contending team for years to come.
Key Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
Rebounding: Zubac is a dominant rebounder, both offensively and defensively. His ability to secure boards is one of his strongest attributes, and it’s essential to the Clippers’ overall success.
Rim Protection: Zubac is a reliable shot-blocker who can alter opponents’ shots at the rim. His ability to guard the paint is crucial in a league that places a premium on rim protection.
Efficiency: Zubac is an incredibly efficient player, especially on the offensive end. His field goal percentage consistently ranks high, and his ability to finish around the rim is impressive.
Leadership: Zubac has become a leader on and off the court for the Clippers, providing mentorship to younger players and serving as a stabilizing presence in the locker room.
Weaknesses
Free Throw Shooting: While Zubac has improved his free-throw shooting, it remains an area that could use further development. Being a center, Zubac frequently finds himself at the free-throw line, and increasing his proficiency would help the Clippers in tight games.
Outside Shooting: Zubac’s range remains limited, and while he has expanded his game, he is not considered a threat from beyond the arc. Improving his mid-range or three-point shooting could further elevate his offensive game.
Final Thoughts
Ivica Zubac, stat performance in the 2024-2025 season has solidified his status as one of the top centers in the NBA. His steady improvement, combined with his impact on the Clippers’ defense and offense, positions him as a central figure for the team’s success. As Zubac continues to refine his skills and play a leadership role, it’s clear that his future in the NBA is bright, and his contributions will be pivotal to the Clippers’ aspirations for a championship in the years to come.
Through his exceptional rebounding, efficient scoring, and defensive prowess, Zubac has firmly established himself as a cornerstone of the Los Angeles Clippers. Whether he becomes an All-Star in the future or continues to be the backbone of the Clippers’ frontcourt, his continued development will be exciting to watch as the season progresses.
FAQs
Has Ivica Zubac ever made an NBA All-Star team?
As of the 2024-2025 season, Ivica Zubac has not been selected to an NBA All-Star team. However, his consistent performances as a starting center for the Los Angeles Clippers and his significant contributions on both ends of the floor have made him a respected player in the league.
What is Ivica Zubac’s contract status?
In the summer of 2024, Ivica Zubac signed a three-year, $58 million contract extension with the Los Angeles Clippers. This extension ensures his place with the team through the 2027 season, solidifying his future as a core player for the Clippers.
Can Ivica Zubac be considered one of the top centers in the NBA?
While Ivica Zubac may not always get the same recognition as some of the NBA’s top-tier centers, he has quietly established himself as one of the more consistent and efficient big men in the league. His defensive impact, rebounding, and scoring efficiency make him one of the most reliable centers for a championship-contending team like the Los Angeles Clippers.
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