Filipowski appeared in 72 games in his rookie campaign with Utah, making 27 starts. He averaged 9.6 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.9 assists in 21.2 minutes per game. By season’s end, Filipowski was one of only two NBA rookies to total more than 650 points, 400 rebounds and 100 assists.

Filipowski, who grew up in New York, transferred to Wilbraham & Monson as a sophomore and was named the Bay State's top player as a junior.

Next to the MVP, Filipowski also found his way to All-Summer League First-Team, next to other eye-catching stars of the time in Vegas, including Sacramento Kings' Nique Clifford, and Minnesota Timberwolves' Terrence Shannon Jr.