Michigan State basketball has a rich history of producing talented players who have gone on to excel in the NBA. From dominant centers to sharpshooting guards, the Spartans have sent numerous players to the professional league. Let’s take a look at the top 5 Michigan State basketball players in NBA history.
Dominant Centers: A Legacy of Greatness
Michigan State has a proud tradition of developing talented big men who have dominated in the NBA. One of the most iconic figures in Spartan basketball history is Magic Johnson. Although he didn’t complete his college career at Michigan State, having transferred from Lansing Community College, his impact on the program and the NBA cannot be overstated. However, for the purpose of this article, we’ll focus on players who spent their entire college careers with the Spartans.
Notable Big Men
One of the greatest big men to wear the Spartan green is Adreian Payne. Standing at 6’10” with a 7’1” wingspan, Payne was a versatile center who could score, rebound, and protect the rim. Drafted 15th overall by the Atlanta Hawks in 2014, Payne had a solid NBA career, playing for several teams including the Minnesota Timberwolves and Orlando Magic.
Payne's ability to stretch the defense with his shooting range and protect the paint with his length made him a valuable asset to his NBA teams.
Sharpshooting Guards: The Backbone of Spartan Success
Michigan State has also produced its fair share of talented guards who have made a name for themselves in the NBA. One such player is Draymond Green. Although he’s most famously known for his time with the Golden State Warriors, Green’s college career at Michigan State laid the foundation for his NBA success. A defensive specialist with exceptional versatility, Green’s ability to guard multiple positions and contribute on the glass made him an invaluable asset to the Warriors during their championship runs.
Key Statistics
| Player | NBA Teams | Points Per Game | Rebounds Per Game | Assists Per Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Draymond Green | Warriors | 8.7 | 6.7 | 4.6 |
| Mateen Cleaves | Pistons, Raptors | 5.6 | 2.1 | 3.4 |
| Morris Peterson | Raptors, Knicks | 9.4 | 3.3 | 1.2 |
The Top 5: A Closer Look
Draymond Green: A defensive stalwart and key contributor to the Golden State Warriors’ dynasty, Green’s NBA career has been nothing short of remarkable. With four NBA championships, multiple All-Star appearances, and a Defensive Player of the Year award, Green’s résumé is one of the most impressive among Michigan State alums.
Morris Peterson: Known for his clutch shooting and all-around skills, Peterson had a solid 10-year NBA career. Drafted 21st overall by the Toronto Raptors in 2000, Peterson played for the Raptors and New York Knicks, averaging 9.4 points per game.
Mateen Cleaves: A dynamic point guard, Cleaves was drafted 14th overall by the Detroit Pistons in 2000. Although his NBA career was marked by injuries, Cleaves showed flashes of brilliance, particularly in his ability to distribute the ball and create for his teammates.
Gaylon Nickerson: While not as well-known as some of his Spartan counterparts, Nickerson had a respectable NBA career, playing for several teams including the Atlanta Hawks and San Antonio Spurs. A sharpshooting guard, Nickerson was known for his ability to score from beyond the arc.
Adreian Payne: As mentioned earlier, Payne was a talented big man who played for several NBA teams. His versatility and defensive prowess made him a valuable asset to his teams.
What Makes These Players Stand Out?
These five players stand out not just for their individual achievements but also for their contributions to their respective teams. Whether it was Green’s defensive prowess, Peterson’s clutch shooting, or Payne’s versatility, each player brought a unique set of skills to the NBA.
The success of these Michigan State alums in the NBA is a testament to the program's ability to develop talented players who can compete at the highest level.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the most successful Michigan State basketball player in the NBA?
+Draymond Green is arguably the most successful Michigan State basketball player in the NBA, with four NBA championships and multiple All-Star appearances.
What made Draymond Green so successful in the NBA?
+Green’s success can be attributed to his versatility, defensive prowess, and ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game, including scoring, rebounding, and playmaking.
How did Morris Peterson contribute to his NBA teams?
+Peterson was known for his clutch shooting and all-around skills, averaging 9.4 points per game over his 10-year NBA career.
What was Adreian Payne’s strength as an NBA player?
+Payne’s versatility, including his ability to score, rebound, and protect the rim, made him a valuable asset to his NBA teams.
