The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) is a collegiate athletic powerhouse located in the Eastern United States. Founded in 1953, the ACC is home to fifteen powerhouse universities that compete in the NCAA Division I, as well as the Football Bowl Subdivision. With a storied history of success in numerous sports, the ACC is widely regarded as one of the premier collegiate conferences in the country.
From basketball to football, the ACC is a powerhouse of top-tier competition and the conference has produced some of the best teams and athletes in the world. With an impressive list of accomplishments, the Atlantic Coast Conference is one of the premier conferences in the NCAA.
1. Phil Ford
Point guard
Career
- High school: Rocky Mount, (Rocky Mount, North Carolina)
- College: North Carolina (1974–1978)
- NBA draft 1978 / Round: 1 / Pick: 2nd overall
- Selected by the Kansas City Kings
- Playing career: 1978–1985
- Position: Point guard
- Number: 1, 12
- Coaching career: 1988–2011
- All-NBA Second Team (1979), NBA Rookie of the Year (1979), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1979), John R. Wooden Award (1978), USBWA Player of the Year (1978), NABC Player of the Year (1978), Sporting News Player of the Year (1978), 2× Consensus first-team All-American (1977, 1978), Consensus second-team All-American (1976), ACC Player of the Year (1978), 3x First-team All-ACC (1976–1978), ACC tournament MVP (1975), No. 12 retired by the North Carolina Tar Heels, First-team Parade All-American (1974)
- Points: 5,594 (11.6 ppg)
- Rebounds: 854 (1.8 rpg)
- Assists: 3,083 (6.4 apg)
- College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2012
- Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing United States, : 1976 Montreal: Team competition
- Men's basketball
- Representing United States
- : 1976 Montreal: Team competition
Ford was a point guard who played in the NBA for thirteen seasons. He is best known for his time with the Kansas City Kings, where he averaged over 20 points per game in eight of his thirteen seasons.
Ford later went on to coach the Charlotte Hornets and Detroit Pistons before retiring from coaching in 2011. Ford was a two-time consensus first-team All-American and an all-NBA Second Team selection.
Ford played for both the Kansas City Kings and the New Jersey Nets before coaching in the NBA with stints at Detroit, Charlotte, and New York. As a player, Ford averaged 19 points per game over his career while shooting 53 percent from the field and 43 percent from three-point range.
Also Played For: sacramento kings, unc basketball
2. Alondes Williams
Career
- High school: Riverside, (Milwaukee, Wisconsin)
- College: , Triton (2017–2019), Oklahoma (2019–2021), Wake Forest (2021–2022)
- NBA draft: 2022 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 2022–present
- 2022–present: Brooklyn Nets
- 2022–present: →Long Island Nets
- ACC Player of the Year (2022), First-team All-ACC (2022), N4C Player of the Year (2019), 2× First-team All-N4C (2018, 2019)
Williams played collegiately for Triton. Williams was drafted by the Brooklyn Nets in the 2021 NBA Draft. Williams has stated his desire to play professionally in Europe after completing his college career.
Williams is known for his scoring ability and athleticism at point guard and shooting guard positions, respectively, on both sides of the ball Alondes Williams is a professional basketball player who currently plays for the Brooklyn Nets.
He was named an All-ACC performer in his final season at Wake Forest, and he has also been nominated for N4C Player of the Year honors. Williams played two seasons with Long Island before joining the Brooklyn Nets as a free agent in 2020. In his first year with the team, he led them to their first playoff appearance since 2015.
Williams is known for his scoring ability from beyond the arc, and he has averaged over 20 points per game throughout his career thus far. He will likely be playing professionally until at least 2030, given that he is still only 26 years old.
Also Played For: brooklyn nets, wake forest best basketball players
3. Paolo Banchero
Power forward
Career
- High school: O'Dea (Seattle, Washington)
- College: Duke (2021–2022)
- NBA draft 2022 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
- Selected by the Orlando Magic
- Playing career: 2022–present
- 2022–present: Orlando Magic
- Consensus second-team All-American (2022), ACC Rookie of the Year (2022), First-team All-ACC (2022), ACC All-Rookie Team (2022), McDonald's All-American (2021), Jordan Brand Classic (2021), Nike Hoop Summit (2021)
He is a power forward for the Orlando Magic and was drafted first overall in the 2022 NBA draft. Paolo started his college career at Duke, but transferred to O'Dea after one year.
He averaged 22 points, 10 rebounds and 2 blocks per game during his two seasons at O'Dea. The Orlando Magic selected him with their 1st pick in the 2022 NBA draft and he has since made an impact on the team as a rookie player.
Paolo Banchero was selected by the Orlando Magic in the second round of the 2018 NBA Draft. He played college basketball at Duke University, where he was a consensus second-team All-American and ACC Rookie of the Year in 2022. In his four seasons with Duke, Paolo averaged 17 points, 6 rebounds, and 1 assists per game.
After going undrafted in the 2019 NBA draft, Paolo signed with Orlando as an free agent on July 2nd 2019.
His first season with Orlando saw him make appearances off the bench but start 11 games during the regular season - averaging 5 minutes per game overall - including 4 starts in their playoff run to reach The Finals for just their third appearance ever.
In 2020-21 he became a starter full time and continued to play key minutes throughout all 82 games (averaging 29 MPG) as they made it all way to The Finals again only to lose 3-1 against Milwaukee Bucks who were led by Giannis Antetokounmpo & Khris Middleton respectively In 2021-22 Paolo increased.
His averages slightly (24 MPG; 10 PPG; 7 RPG) while leading Duke to another ACC Championship before being named First Team All-ACC and earning Consensus Second Team All-American honors from both ESPN & USA TODAY Sports that year 8.
On June 25th 2022 at age 20 years old Paolo Banchero achieved arguably one of greatest moments of his young career when he scored 23 points off a career best 16 shots – shooting 69% from 3 point range en route setting an NCAA record for most field goals attempted without making any turnovers.
This performance helped lead Duke past #1 North Carolina 87–79 which would eventually give them their first national championship since 1991.
Also Played For: orlando magic, duke university
4. Antawn Jamison
Small forward
Career
- High school: Providence, (Charlotte, North Carolina)
- College: North Carolina (1995–1998)
- NBA draft 1998 / Round: 1 / Pick: 4th overall
- Selected by the Toronto Raptors
- Playing career: 1998–2014
- Position: Power forward / Small forward
- Number: 7, 33, 4
- 1998–2003: Golden State Warriors
- 2003–2004: Dallas Mavericks
- 2004–2010: Washington Wizards
- 2010–2012: Cleveland Cavaliers
- 2012–2013: Los Angeles Lakers
- 2013–2014: Los Angeles Clippers
- 2× NBA All-Star (2005, 2008), NBA Sixth Man of the Year (2004), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (1999), National college player of the year (1998), Consensus first-team All-American (1998), Consensus second-team All-American (1997), ACC Player of the Year (1998), 3× First-team All-ACC (1996–1998), ACC tournament MVP (1998), ACC All-Freshman Team (1996), No. 33 retired by North Carolina Tar Heels, McDonald's All-American (1995), North Carolina Mr. Basketball (1995)
- Points: 20,042 (18.5 ppg)
- Rebounds: 8,157 (7.5 rpg)
- Assists: 1,761 (1.6 apg)
- College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2021
- Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing United States, World Championships, : 2006 Japan: Team
- Men's basketball
- Representing United States
- World Championships
- : 2006 Japan: Team
Antawn Jamison was drafted fourth overall by the Toronto Raptors in the 1998 NBA draft. He played his entire career with the Raptors, retiring after playing 14 seasons in the league.
Antawn Jamison is best known for his time as a power forward and small forward with Toronto, where he averaged 18 points and 7 rebounds per game over his 14-year career.
In 2003, Antawn Jamison won an NBA championship with Toronto, becoming just the third player in franchise history to win a title.
After leaving the Raptors, AntawnJamson briefly spent time on several other teams before ending his professional basketball career in 2014. Antawn Jamison was a two-time NBA All-Star, and won the Sixth Man of the Year award in 2004.
He played for four different teams over nine seasons, before spending one season with the Clippers in 2013-14. Jamison is most well known for his time at Duke, where he was a consensus first-team All-American and ACC Player of the Year as a senior in 1998.
After retiring from professional basketball following the 2014–15 season, Antawn now works as an assistant coach with Cleveland's youth teams.
Also Played For: golden state warriors, 2003–04 nba season
5. David Thompson
Career
- High school: Crest (Shelby, North Carolina)
- College: NC State (1972–1975)
- NBA draft 1975 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
- Selected by the Atlanta Hawks
- Playing career: 1975–1984
- Position: Shooting guard
- Number: 33, 44
- 1975–1982: Denver Nuggets
- 1982–1984: Seattle SuperSonics
- 4× NBA All-Star (1977–1979, 1983), NBA All-Star Game MVP (1979), 2× All-NBA First Team (1977, 1978), ABA All-Star (1976), ABA All-Star Game MVP (1976), All-ABA Second Team (1976), ABA Rookie of the Year (1976), ABA All-Rookie First Team (1976), ABA All-Time Team, No. 33 retired by Denver Nuggets, NCAA champion (1974), NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding Player (1974), National college player of the year (1975), 3× Consensus first-team All-American (1973–1975), 3× ACC Player of the Year (1973–1975), 3× First-team All-ACC (1973–1975), No. 44 retired by NC State Wolfpack
- Points: 13,422 (22.7 ppg)
- Rebounds: 2,446 (4.1 rpg)
- Assists: 1,939 (3.3 apg)
- Basketball Hall of Fame as player
- College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006
David Thompson was selected first overall by the Atlanta Hawks in the 1975 NBA draft. He played for the Denver Nuggets from 1975 to 1982 and then for the Seattle SuperSonics from 1982 to 1984.
Thompson is best known for his time with the Nuggets, where he helped lead them to two consecutive NBA Finals appearances (1980 and 1981). In 1984, he was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers and retired shortly afterwards.
David Thompson was a dominant player in both the ABA and NBA. He was twice named an All-NBA First Team member, and he also won two MVP awards. In 1975, he led NC State to the NCAA championship game, where they eventually lost to UCLA.
David Thompson is now retired from basketball, but his number remains retired by several teams including the Denver Nuggets.
Also Played For: denver nuggets, shooting guard
6. Ralph Sampson
Power forward
Career
- High school: Harrisonburg (Harrisonburg, Virginia)
- College: Virginia (1979–1983)
- NBA draft 1983 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
- Selected by the Houston Rockets
- Playing career: 1983–1995
- Position: Center / Power forward
- Number: 50
- 4× NBA All-Star (1984–1987), NBA All-Star Game MVP (1985), All-NBA Second Team (1985), NBA Rookie of the Year (1984), NBA All-Rookie Team (1984), 3× College national player of the year (1981–1983), 3× Consensus first-team All-American (1981–1983), 3× ACC Player of the Year (1981–1983), 3× First-team All-ACC (1981–1983), ACC Rookie of the Year (1980), No. 50 retired by Virginia Cavaliers, First-team Parade All-American (1979)
- Points: 7,039 (15.4 ppg)
- Rebounds: 4,011 (8.8 rpg)
- Blocks: 752 (1.6 bpg)
- Basketball Hall of Fame as player
- College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2011
- Medals, , Representing United States, Men's basketball, Pan American Games, : 1979 San Juan: Team competition
- Representing United States
- Men's basketball
- Pan American Games
- : 1979 San Juan: Team competition
Ralph Sampson was a dominant center in the NBA for many years. He was drafted first overall by the Houston Rockets, and he played for them until 1995. Ralph Sampson is considered one of the greatest players in league history, and his number 50 is still retired by the Rockets.
He has two championship rings with the Golden State Warriors, as well as several other awards and accolades on his resume. Ralph Sampson was an American basketball player who played for the Sacramento Kings, Washington Bullets, and Unicaja Ronda.
He is most famous for his time spent with the Houston Rockets where he won two championships.
Sampson was a dominant force on the court throughout his career, averaging 21 points and 14 rebounds per game in his career. He also had success outside of basketball, earning a degree from James Madison University while playing professional basketball overseas in Spain and Italy.
Sampson has been inducted into both the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as well as the College Basketball Hall of Fame, cementing his place among some of history’s greatest players.
Also Played For: houston rockets, virginia cavaliers men's basketball
7. Armando Bacot
Career
- High school: , Trinity Episcopal, (Richmond, Virginia), IMG Academy, (Bradenton, Florida)
- College: North Carolina (2019–present)
- First-team All-ACC (2022), Third-team All-ACC (2021), McDonald's All-American (2019), Jordan Brand Classic (2019)
- Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing United States, FIBA Americas U18 Championship, : 2018 Canada: Team
- Men's basketball
- Representing United States
- FIBA Americas U18 Championship
- : 2018 Canada: Team
Armando Bacot is a 22-year-old American center and power forward who played for Trinity Episcopal in Richmond, Virginia before transferring to IMG Academy.
At 6'11" and 235 pounds, Bacot has the size and strength required of a modern center or power forward in the ACC. Bacot averaged 12 points, nine rebounds, and one block per game at IMG Academy this season while shooting 61% from the field and 54% from three-point range.
Bacot will have two years of eligibility remaining when he joins North Carolina next season as a senior eligible player.
Armando Bacot is an intriguing prospect with immense potential who should develop into an important player for North Carolina over the next few seasons Armando Bacot was a McDonald's All-American and third team all-ACC player in 2021.
Bacot verbally committed to play for North Carolina on January 16th, 2019. He averaged 13 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists per game as a sophomore at College of North Carolina Wilmington this season.
Armando Bacot is the son of Haitian immigrants who moved to Bradenton when he was two years old. He will have two years of eligibility remaining at UNC starting next season.
Also Played For: march madness, ncaa men's division
8. Christian Laettner
Duke Blue Devils men's basketball
Career
- High school: Nichols School (Buffalo, New York)
- College: Duke (1988–1992)
- NBA draft 1992 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall
- Selected by the Minnesota Timberwolves
- Playing career: 1992–2005
- Position: Power forward / Center
- Number: 32, 44
- NBA All-Star (1997), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1993), 2× NCAA champion (1991, 1992), NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding Player (1991), National college player of the year (1992), Consensus first-team All-American (1992), Consensus second-team All-American (1991), ACC Player of the Year (1992), 2× ACC Athlete of the Year (1991, 1992), 2× First-team All-ACC (1991, 1992), Second-team All-ACC (1990), No. 32 retired by Duke Blue Devils, USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (1991), McDonald's All-American (1988), Second-team Parade All-American (1988), Third-team Parade All-American (1987)
- Points: 11,121 (12.8 ppg)
- Rebounds: 5,806 (6.7 rpg)
- Assists: 2,224 (2.6 apg)
- College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2010
- Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the United States, Olympic Games, : 1992 Barcelona: Team competition, World Championship, : 1990 Argentina: Team competition, FIBA Americas Championship, : 1989 Mexico City: Team competition, : 1992 Portland[1]: Men's basketball, Pan American Games, : 1991 Havana: Team competition, Goodwill Games, : 1990 Seattle: Team competition
- Men's basketball
- Representing the United States
- Olympic Games
- : 1992 Barcelona: Team competition
- World Championship
- : 1990 Argentina: Team competition
- FIBA Americas Championship
- : 1989 Mexico City: Team competition
- : 1992 Portland[1]: Men's basketball
- Pan American Games
- : 1991 Havana: Team competition
- Goodwill Games
- : 1990 Seattle: Team competition
Laettner was a dominant power forward and center during his career in the NBA. He was drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves with the third overall pick in 1992, and he played for them until 2005.
Laettner is best known for his time with the Atlanta Hawks, where he won three championships (1996, 1998, 2001). Laettner also had a successful international career playing for the United States national team at various tournaments.
In 2015, Laettner announced that he has terminal cancer and would not be returning to play professional basketball again after that year's playoffs; however, he later decided against surgery and instead began undergoing chemotherapy treatments as well as radiation therapy to fight the disease.
Laettner was a dominant player at Duke and helped lead the Blue Devils to two NCAA championships. Laettner also won an NBA title with the Detroit Pistons in 2000, and he later coached with the Fort Wayne Mad Ants.
Laettner is perhaps best known for his infamous "three-pointer" against Kentucky in 1992 that led to one of the greatest college basketball games ever played.
Also Played For: minnesota timberwolves
9. Juan Dixon
Washington Wizards
Career
- High school: Calvert Hall (Towson, Maryland)
- College: Maryland (1998–2002)
- NBA draft 2002 / Round: 1 / Pick: 17th overall
- Selected by the Washington Wizards
- Playing career: 2002–2011
- Position: Point guard / Shooting guard
- Number: 3, 8, 12
- Coaching career: 2016–present
- As player:, NCAA champion (2002), NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding Player (2002), Consensus first-team All-American (2002), Third-team All-American – NABC (2001), Senior CLASS Award (2002), Chip Hilton Player of the Year (2002), ACC Player of the Year (2002), ACC Athlete of the Year (2002), 3× First-team All-ACC (2000–2002), , As coach:, , MEAC regular season (2021)
- Medals, , Men's Basketball, Representing United States, Summer Universiade, : 2001 Beijing: Team competition
- Men's Basketball
- Representing United States
- Summer Universiade
- : 2001 Beijing: Team competition
Juan Dixon was a standout point guard at Calvert Hall in Towson, Maryland. He played for the Washington Wizards from 2002 to 2011 and helped lead them to two NBA championships (2006 and 2008).
In 2016, he became head coach of Coppin State Eagles in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC). Juan Dixon played college basketball at the University of North Carolina. After graduating from UNC, he was drafted by the Washington Wizards in 2002.
Juan Dixon spent five seasons with the Wizards before being traded to Portland Trail Blazers in 2007.
He then enjoyed a successful eight-year career with Toronto Raptors and Detroit Pistons respectively before retiring in 2009. In 2016, Juan Dixon became head coach of District of Columbia women’s team and has since led them to two championships (2017 & 2018).
Also Played For: university of maryland
10. Caleb Love
Career
- High school: Christian Brothers College, (St. Louis, Missouri)
- College: North Carolina (2020–present)
- ACC All-Freshman Team (2021), McDonald's All-American (2020), Jordan Brand Classic (2020), Nike Hoop Summit (2020), Mr. Show-Me Basketball (2020)
Caleb Love is a 2021 graduate of St. Louis’ Webster Groves High School and will play for the North Carolina Tar Heels next season in the Atlantic Coast Conference.
Caleb was born on September 27, 2001 and stands at 6'4'' tall with an average weight of 200 lbs according to 247 Sports. As a point guard or shooting guard, Caleb has the outstanding court vision and passing ability which allows him to create shots for his teammates.
something that he proved throughout his high school career as captain of Team USA's U16 squad, averaging 16 points per game en route to winning gold medals at both the FIBA Americas Tournament and World Championship in 2019.
Alongside Trae Young (No 1) Caleb loves spending time with family and friends but also enjoys playing basketball outdoors whenever possible – whether it be during summer tournaments or simply shooting around with close friends after school or work.
Also Played For: college basketball
11. Isaiah Wong
Career
- High school: , Notre Dame, (Lawrenceville, New Jersey), Bonner & Prendergast, (Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania)
- College: Miami (Florida) (2019–present)
- 2× Third-team All-ACC (2021, 2022), Pre-season First Team All-ACC (2022-2023), 2x ACC Player of the Week (2022-2023), 1x National Player of the Week (2022-2023)
Isaiah Wong is a talented point guard and shooting guard for the Miami Hurricanes. He was born on January 28, 2001 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. His height is listed as 6 ft 4 inches and his weight as 185 pounds.
Isaiah played high school basketball for Bishop Sullivan High School in Orlando, Florida where he averaged 21 points per game as a senior en route to being named First Team All-State and Second Team All-American by ESPN360.com.
After graduating from high school, Wong attended the University of Miami where he started all 34 games that he played during his freshman season averaging 10 points per game while also leading the team in assists (6) and steals (1).
In his sophomore year, Wong increased his scoring average to 13 points per game while adding 5 rebounds and 1 steal helping lead the Hurricanes to their first ever ACC Championship appearance before losing 82–79 to Duke in the finals.
As a junior this past season, Isaiah averaged 18 points along with 7 assists making him one of only two players at UM with over 1000 career Assist Points; additionally he ranked third nationally averaging 3 steals per 40 minutes played ranking behind Trae Young (#1) and Mikal Bridges (#2).
The 2018 Atlantic Coast Conference Men's Basketball Player of Year led Miami back into March Madness but fell 79-77 against Virginia Tech in double overtime after holding an 11 point halftime lead which was UVA’s first postseason win since 1984 (per NCAA ).
Overall during college career Wong has scored 2186 total points on 839 field goals made (.471 FG%) along with 992 assists giving him an overall PER rating of 23 indicating that he is among the best players currently playing in America according to ESPN Stats & Info.
Also Played For: school basketball, miami hurricanes basketball
12. Dereck Lively II
Career
- High school: Westtown School, (West Chester, Pennsylvania)
- College: Duke (2022–present)
- McDonald's All-American (2022), Jordan Brand Classic (2022), Nike Hoop Summit (2022)
Dereck Lively II is a freshman center for Duke Blue Devils. He was born in 2004 and he is just 18 years old. Dereck has an impressive 7 ft 1 inch height and 230lb weight, which makes him one of the strongest players on the team.
In high school, Dereck played basketball for Bishop McDevitt High School where he led his team to two state championships and was named Pennsylvania Gatorade Player of the Year as a senior in 2015-2016 season.
After graduation from high school, Dereck enrolled at Duke University where he started playing basketball for the Blue Devils this past year 2016-2017 season Duke became ACC Champions with Lively playing a major role during their run to it all including being selected.
Most Valuable Player of ACC Tournament 2017 Duke will now face Kentucky Wildcats in National Championship game on April 6th.
13. Tyler Van Dyke
Quarterback
Career
- College: , Miami (2020–present)
- High school: Suffield Academy (Suffield, Connecticut)
- ACC Rookie of the Year (2021), ACC Offensive Rookie of the Year (2021)
Tyler Van Dyke is a sophomore quarterback for the Miami Hurricanes. Van Dyke attended Glastonbury High School in Glastonbury, Connecticut and was named first-team all-state as a junior and senior.
He played college football at the University of Michigan, where he won the starting job as a true freshman in 2018 and led the Wolverines to an 11–1 record and a berth in the Rose Bowl against Georgia Tech.
In January 2019, Van Dyke announced that he would forgo his final year of eligibility to enter the NFL Draft. Van Dyke is known for his strong arm and accurate passing ability;
he has completed more than 60% of his passes in each of his two seasons with Michigan, leading both teams to victories over top opponents (Alabama & Penn State). The Indianapolis Colts drafted him with their seventh selection overall in the 2019 NFL Draft.
Also Played For: miami hurricanes football, ncaa division football
14. Danny Ferry
Career
- High school: DeMatha Catholic, (Hyattsville, Maryland)
- College: Duke (1985–1989)
- NBA draft 1989 / Round: 1 / Pick: 2nd overall
- Selected by the Los Angeles Clippers
- Playing career: 1989–2003
- Position: Power forward / Small forward
- Number: 35
- 1989–1990: Il Messaggero Roma
- 1990–2000: Cleveland Cavaliers
- 2000–2003: San Antonio Spurs
- NBA champion (2003), Naismith College Player of the Year (1989), USBWA Player of the Year (1989), UPI College Player of the Year (1989), Consensus first-team All-American (1989), Consensus second-team All-American (1988), 2× ACC Player of the Year (1988, 1989), 2× First-team All-ACC (1988, 1989), Second-team All-ACC (1987), 2× ACC Athlete of the Year (1988, 1989), No. 35 retired by Duke Blue Devils, National high school player of the year (1985), First-team Parade All-American (1985), Second-team Parade All-American (1984)
- Points: 6,439 (7.0 ppg)
- Rebounds: 2,550 (2.8 rpg)
- Assists: 1,185 (1.3 apg)
- Medals, , Men's Basketball, Representing United States, Summer Universiade, : 1987 Zagreb: National team
- Men's Basketball
- Representing United States
- Summer Universiade
- : 1987 Zagreb: National team
Ferry played power forward and small forward for the Clippers from 1989 to 2003. He was drafted by the Los Angeles Clippers with the 2nd overall pick in the 1989 NBA draft.
Ferry won an NBA championship with the Miami Heat in 2006, his final season in the league. Ferry is now a color commentator for Duke men's basketball games on ESPNU and ACC Network Extra broadcasts.
Danny Ferry was born on October 17, 1966, in Hyattsville, Maryland, U.S.. Ferry played 11 seasons in the NBA, with Cleveland and San Antonio. He was a two-time champion (2003, 2007) and multiple All-Star.
Ferry is most known for his time at Duke University where he won National High School Player of the Year honors in 1985 before going on to play for the Blue Devils from 1984-89.
Also Played For: cleveland cavaliers
15. Sam Hartman
Wake Forest Demon Deacons football
Career
- College: Wake Forest (2018–2022), Notre Dame (2023–present)
- Bowl games: , 2021 Gator Bowl (co-MVP), 2022 Gasparilla Bowl (MVP)
- High school: Oceanside Collegiate Academy (Mount Pleasant, South Carolina)
- Second-team All-ACC (2021), Third-team All-ACC (2022), Brian Piccolo Award Recipient (2022)
Sam Hartman is a senior quarterback at Notre Dame and was one of the most highly touted recruits in his class. He has had an impressive career at Notre Dame, starting every game since he stepped on campus and leading the Fighting Irish to back-to-back playoff appearances.
Sam is a two-time All-American who ranked second in Division I history with 10,361 passing yards as a senior. He will be playing for the NFL's Philadelphia Eagles this season after being selected in the first round (No. 10 overall) of the 2019 NFL Draft.
Hartman was a two-time second-team All-ACC selection and an award recipient at Wake Forest, where he helped lead the Deacons to back-to-back bowl games.
Hartman has experience playing in both the Gator Bowl and Gasparilla Bowl, with his 21st birthday just days away from each game. Hartman is coming off of a season in which he recorded 78 receptions for 1,145 yards and six touchdowns.
Also Played For: college football, wake forest university football
16. Johnny Dawkins
Duke Blue Devils men's basketball
Career
- High school: Mackin Catholic (Washington, D.C.)
- College: Duke (1982–1986)
- NBA draft 1986 / Round: 1 / Pick: 10th overall
- Selected by the San Antonio Spurs
- Playing career: 1986–1995
- Position: Point guard
- Number: 24, 12
- Coaching career: 1998–present
- As player:, Naismith Player of the Year (1986), 2× Consensus first-team All-American (1985, 1986), 2× First-team All-ACC (1985, 1986), 2× Second-team All-ACC (1983, 1984), No. 24 retired by Duke Blue Devils, Third-team Parade All-American (1982), McDonald's All-American (1982), , As coach:, , 2× NIT champion (2012, 2015)
- Points: 5,984 (11.1 ppg)
- Rebounds: 1,336 (2.5 rpg)
- Assists: 2,997 (5.5 apg)
Johnny Dawkins is the current head coach of UCF Knights in American Athletic Conference. He played point guard for the San Antonio Spurs from 1986 to 1995, earning NBA titles in 1990 and 1991.
After retiring as a player, he worked as an assistant coach with the Philadelphia 76ers (1996–1998), Golden State Warriors (1999–2001), Portland Trail Blazers (2002–2004) and Atlanta Hawks (2005).
He was promoted to head coach of the Hawks in 2006 and led them to three consecutive 60-win seasons before being fired at the end of 2012-13 season.
In 2013, he joined Temple University's coaching staff as an interim head coach following Fran Dunphy's retirement but left after one season due to contract disputes with university administration.
In 2017, he returned to UCF as its full-time Head Coach succeeding George O'Leary who retired after 16 years at helm.
17. Art Heyman
New York Knicks
Career
- High school: Oceanside (Oceanside, New York)
- College: Duke (1960–1963)
- NBA draft 1963 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
- Selected by the New York Knicks
- Playing career: 1963–1970
- Position: Small forward / Shooting guard
- Number: 4, 21, 35, 40, 12, 32
- 1963–1965: New York Knicks
- 1965: Cincinnati Royals
- 1965–1966: Philadelphia 76ers
- 1966: Wilmington Blue Bombers
- 1966–1967: Hartford Capitols
- 1967: New Jersey Americans
- 1967–1969: Pittsburgh / Minnesota Pipers
- 1969–1970: Miami Floridians
- ABA champion (1968), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1964), NCAA Final Four MOP (1963), USBWA Player of the Year (1963), AP Player of the Year (1963), UPI Player of the Year (1963), Sporting News Player of the Year (1963), Helms Foundation College Player of the Year (1963), Consensus first-team All-American (1963), Consensus second-team All-American (1962), Third-team All-American – AP, UPI (1961), ACC Player of the Year (1963), ACC Athlete of the Year (1963), 3× First-team All-ACC (1961–1963), No. 25 retired by Duke Blue Devils, First-team Parade All-American (1959)
- Points: 4,030 (13.0 ppg)
- Rebounds: 1,461 (4.7 rpg)
- Assists: 859 (2.8 apg)
Art Heyman was a prolific scorer in the NBA, ranking fifth all-time in three-pointers made. He played for the New York Knicks from 1963 to 1970 and helped them win two championships.
After retiring from playing, Heyman became a successful coach, guiding teams such as the Boston Celtics and Orlando Magic to playoff appearances. Heyman died on August 27th 2012 at 71 years old after an extended battle with cancer.
Heyman was a standout player at the University of Cincinnati and helped lead the Bearcats to an NCAA championship in 1963. Heyman played professionally for three seasons in the ABA before joining the New York Knicks as a rookie in 1964.
He quickly emerged as one of the league's top players, winning four consecutive All-Star games between 1966 and 1969. Heyman then spent two years.
With the Philadelphia 76ers before moving on to more successful stints with Pittsburgh and Minnesota, where he won another pair of All-Star Game titles in 1970 and 1971 respectively.
18. Matthew Cleveland
Florida State Seminoles men's basketball
Career
- High school: , Cambridge, (Milton, Georgia), Pace Academy, (Atlanta, Georgia)
- College: Florida State (2021–present)
- ACC Sixth Man of The Year (2022), Nike Hoop Summit (2021)
Matthew Cleveland is a shooting guard and small forward for the Florida State Seminoles. He was born on September 15, 2002 in Tallahassee, Florida. Cleveland attended high school at Lake Gibson School in Tavares, Florida before transferring to IMG Academy where he played his senior season.
As a junior at Lake Gibson School, he averaged 23 points per game while leading his team to the state championship game. In February of 2018, Cleveland declared for the NBA draft but later withdrew and returned to FSU for his final year of college eligibility.
At 20 years old, Matthew has already made an impact on both ends of the floor at FSU and looks poised to have a long career in basketball.
Cleveland was one of the top recruits in his class and has shown great potential both on and off the court. Cleveland is a versatile player who can play multiple positions well, making him an asset to any team he joins.
He averaged 14 points and six rebounds per game as a freshman at Pace Academy and looks to be even better in college. Cleveland is known for his hustle on defense, which helps make up for his lack of height (6'0").
His versatility will definitely come in handy as he tries to carve out a role for himself at Florida State over the next few years. He should have no trouble finding success with head coach Leonard Hamilton's squad, considering their rich history of developing players into stars.
Also Played For: florida state university basketball
19. Caleb Mills
Career
- High school: Asheville Christian Academy, (Swannanoa, North Carolina)
- College: , Houston (2018–2021), Florida State (2021–present)
- Second-team All-AAC (2020), AAC All-Rookie Team (2020)
Caleb Mills is a versatile guard who can play both shooting guard and point guard positions for Florida State Seminoles. He was named to the ACC All-Freshman Team in 2018 after averaging 14.5 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists per game while leading FSU to the conference tournament semifinals.
Mills attended Arden high school where he averaged 23 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists as a senior in 2017–18 season.
He played two seasons of college basketball for Florida State Seminoles before declaring for the 2019 NBA draft on April 10th Mills was a standout high school player, earning First Team All-State and Third Team Academic All-State honors as a sophomore at Asheville Christian Academy.
He then transferred to Houston where he became one of the most highly recruited players in the country, eventually signing with Florida State. Mills has had an up-and-down career so far, but is expected to be a major contributor for Florida State in the future.
20. Mark Williams
Duke Blue Devils men's basketball
Career
- High school: , Norfolk Academy, (Norfolk, Virginia), IMG Academy, (Bradenton, Florida)
- College: Duke (2020–2022)
- NBA draft 2022 / Round: 1 / Pick: 15th overall
- Selected by the Charlotte Hornets
- Playing career: 2022–present
- 2022–present: Charlotte Hornets
- 2022: →Greensboro Swarm
- ACC Defensive Player of the Year (2022), ACC All-Defensive Team (2022), Third-team All-ACC (2022), McDonald's All-American (2020), Jordan Brand Classic (2020)
Williams was born in 2001 in Norfolk, Virginia, and is a 21-year-old center for the Charlotte Hornets in the NBA. Williams played high school basketball at Norfolk Academy and then attended IMG Academy.
In his first year in the NBA, Williams averaged 7.7 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks in 31.5 minutes per game. In his second year, Williams averaged 16.1 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 2.9 blocks in 36.1 minutes per game.
Williams is an All-Star and defensive player of the year candidate for the Hornets in the 2018-19 season. Williams is a strong candidate to win the 2019-20 NBA MVP. Williams was a highly touted recruit coming out of high school and was considered a top-10 pick in the 2020 NBA draft.
Williams made his debut with the Charlotte Hornets in the 2022-23 season. He quickly established himself as a key player on the team and was named to the All-Defensive Team.
Williams has continued to be one of the most consistent players in the league and has been selected to the All-Star team twice.
He is also a three-time winner of the ACC Defensive Player of the Year award. Williams is a true floor general and is a perfect fit for the Charlotte Hornets' offense. He is a natural scorer and passer and is a key part of the team's success.
Williams is a beloved member of the Charlotte Hornets community and is widely considered one of the team's most valuable players. He is well-respected by his teammates and fans alike. Williams is a consummate professional and is always prepared to give his best effort on the court.
He is a true role model for younger players and has established himself as one of the best guards in the league. Williams is expected to continue playing at a high level for many years to come and is highly respected by his peers and fans alike.
He is a true ambassador for the game of basketball and is a true fan favorite.
21. Terquavion Smith
Career
- High school: Farmville Central, (Farmville, North Carolina)
- College: NC State (2021–present)
- ACC All-Rookie Team (2022), North Carolina Mr. Basketball (2021)
Terquavion Smith is a shooting guard and point guard for NC State. Smith was born on December 31, 2002. He is listed at 6'4" and 165 pounds. Smith has played for NC State since he was a freshman in 2015.
Smith has averaged 10.4 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 3 assists per game in his three seasons at NC State. Smith is a member of the United States national basketball team. Smith is a potential first-round pick in the 2018 NBA Draft.
Smith is a two-time Atlantic Coast Conference Player of the Year. Terquavion Smith is a potential top-10 pick in the 2018 NBA Draft. Terquavion Smith is a high school basketball player from Farmville, North Carolina. He played college ball at NC State and was an All-Rookie Team selection in 2022.
Smith has since gone on to have a successful career in the NBA, playing for the Milwaukee Bucks and Atlanta Hawks. He has won a number of awards and accolades during his time in the NBA, including a Mr. Basketball award from North Carolina in 2021.
Smith is a beloved figure in the NBA, and is known for his exceptional play on the court. He is a fan favorite and will be remembered for his contributions to the sport for many years to come.
22. Tyler Hansbrough
Indiana Pacers
Career
- High school: Poplar Bluff (Poplar Bluff, Missouri)
- College: North Carolina (2005–2009)
- NBA draft 2009 / Round: 1 / Pick: 13th overall
- Selected by the Indiana Pacers
- Playing career: 2009–present
- 2009–2013: Indiana Pacers
- 2013–2015: Toronto Raptors
- 2015–2016: Charlotte Hornets
- 2017: Fort Wayne Mad Ants
- 2017–2018: Guangzhou Long-Lions
- 2018–2019: Zhejiang Golden Bulls
- 2019–2020: Sichuan Blue Whales
- 2022-present: Cangrejeros de Santurce
- NCAA champion (2009), Consensus National college player of the year (2008), 3× Consensus first-team All-American (2007–2009), Consensus second-team All-American (2006), USBWA National Freshman of the Year (2006), ACC Player of the Year (2008), 4× First-team All-ACC (2006–2009), ACC Rookie of the Year (2006), ACC All-Freshman Team (2006), ACC tournament MVP (2008), No. 50 retired by North Carolina Tar Heels, McDonald's All-American (2005), First-team Parade All-American (2005)
Tyler Hansbrough is an American power forward who has played for the Indiana Pacers and Toronto Raptors in the NBA. Hansbrough was drafted 13th overall by the Indiana Pacers in the 2009 NBA draft.
Hansbrough started his NBA career with the Pacers in 2009 and spent three seasons with the team. In 2013, Hansbrough was traded to the Toronto Raptors, where he has played since. Hansbrough has won two NBA championships with the Raptors (2015, 2017).
Hansbrough is a two-time All-Star and has been named to the All-NBA Second Team twice. Hansbrough is also a two-time Olympic gold medalist, having played for the United States at the 2008 and 2012 games. In 2017, Hansbrough was named the NBA's Most Improved Player.
Hansbrough is married and has two children. Tyler Hansbrough is a retired player from the North Carolina Tar Heels.
He was a consensus first-team All-American in 2007-09 and was also a three-time consensus second-team All-American. He won the ACC Player of the Year in 2008 and was a four-time first-team All-ACC selection.
He also won the ACC tournament MVP in 2008. Hansbrough was drafted by the Toronto Raptors in 2009 and spent four seasons with the team before being traded to the Charlotte Hornets in 2015. He played three more seasons with the Hornets before retiring in 2018.
Hansbrough has had a successful career in the NBA. He has been a part of two championship teams, won the ACC Player of the Year twice, and was also a part of the USBWA National Freshman of the Year team.
He is a two-time All-Star and has also been named to the All-NBA Second Team and All-Star Game. Hansbrough is currently a part of the Cangrejeros de Santurce in the Spanish Liga ACB.
Also Played For: north carolina basketball
23. Lennie Rosenbluth
Career
- High school: Staunton Military Academy, (Staunton, Virginia)
- College: North Carolina (1954–1957)
- NBA draft 1957 / Round: 1 / Pick: 6th overall
- Selected by the Philadelphia Warriors
- Playing career: 1957–1959
- Position: Small forward
- Number: 18
- 1957–1959: Philadelphia Warriors
- NCAA champion (1957), Helms Foundation Player of the Year (1957), Consensus first-team All-American (1957), Second-team All-American – AP, UPI, INS (1956), Third-team All-American – NEA, Collier's (1956), ACC Player of the Year (1957), 3× First-team All-ACC (1955–1957), No. 10 retired by North Carolina Tar Heels
- Points: 342
- Rebounds: 145
- Assists: 92
Lennie Rosenbluth was born on January 22, 1933 in The Bronx, New York. After playing college basketball for North Carolina, Rosenbluth was drafted sixth overall by the Philadelphia Warriors in the 1957 NBA draft.
Rosenbluth played for the Warriors for two seasons, before being traded to the Detroit Pistons in 1959. Rosenbluth played for the Pistons until 1964, when he was traded to the Boston Celtics. Rosenbluth retired from the NBA in 1966, after which he began a career in business.
Rosenbluth passed away on June 18, 2022 at the age of 89. Lennie Rosenbluth was an All-American basketball player in the 1950s.
He was a three-time first-team All-ACC player and was a key player on the North Carolina Tar Heels team that won the NCAA championship in 1957. Rosenbluth later played in the NBA for the Philadelphia Warriors and the Baltimore Bullets.
He was a key contributor to both teams and was a two-time All-Star. He retired from the NBA in 1969 after playing for the Baltimore Bullets and the Milwaukee Bucks. He later served as the head coach at UNC-Asheville from 1988 to 1993.
He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1985. Rosenbluth died in 2005 at the age of 73. He was a trailblazer for both men's and women's basketball and is still considered one of the greatest players in NCAA history.
24. Larry Miller
Career
- High school: Catasauqua, (Catasauqua, Pennsylvania)
- College: North Carolina (1965–1968)
- NBA draft 1968 / Round: 5 / Pick: 62nd overall
- Selected by the Philadelphia 76ers
- Playing career: 1968–1975
- Position: Shooting guard
- Number: 44, 4
- 1968–1970: Los Angeles Stars
- 1970–1972: Carolina Cougars
- 1972–1973: San Diego Conquistadors
- 1973–1974: Virginia Squires
- 1974: Utah Stars
- ABA All-Rookie first team (1969), Consensus first-team All-American (1968), Consensus second-team All-American (1967), 2× ACC Player of the Year (1967, 1968), 2× First-team All-ACC (1967, 1968), First-team Parade All-American (1964)
Larry Miller was born on April 4, 1946 in Allentown, Pennsylvania. He attended high school in Catasauqua, Pennsylvania. Miller played college basketball at North Carolina from 1965 to 1968.
He was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 1968 NBA Draft and played for them from 1968 to 1975. He is best known for his time with the 76ers, where he averaged 18.1 points per game over his career.
Miller has since retired and lives in Florida. He has been involved in a number of business ventures, including a stint as a basketball coach. In 2006, Miller was inducted into the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame.
Miller is married and has two children. Miller was one of the most versatile players in the ABA and was able to play both forward positions. He was two-time ACC Player of the Year and was one of the best players in the ABA.
Miller was a key part of the San Diego Conquistadors and was one of the best teams in the league. Miller was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2009. Miller was also a broadcaster for the Utah Stars and is currently a commentator for the Utah Jazz.
Miller is currently an assistant coach for the Utah Jazz. Miller is a great ambassador for the game of basketball and is always willing to help out with clinics and events.
Miller is one of the most respected basketball officials in the league. Miller is a legend in the sport and is always welcome at any event or clinic.
Also Played For: virginia squires
25. Pete Brennan
Career
- High school: St. Augustine (Brooklyn, New York)
- College: North Carolina (1955–1958)
- NBA draft 1958 / Round: 1 / Pick: 4th overall
- Selected by the New York Knicks
- Playing career: 1958–1959
- Position: Small forward
- Number: 15, 16
- 1958–1959: New York Knicks
- NCAA champion (1957), Consensus second-team All-American (1958), ACC Player of the Year (1958), First-team All-ACC (1958), Second-team All-ACC (1957), North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame (2007)
Pete Brennan was a 6'6" tall and 225 lb. center who played for the New York Knicks in the 1958-1959 NBA season. Brennan was a four-year starter at St. Augustine High School in Brooklyn, New York, and was drafted by the Knicks in the 1958 NBA draft.
Brennan spent one season with the Knicks, averaging 5.3 points and 4.8 rebounds in 57 games. Brennan then moved on to play for the Fort Wayne Pistons, Boston Celtics, and Philadelphia 76ers in the next four seasons. He retired from professional basketball in 1969.
Brennan later worked as a basketball coach at Wake Forest University and North Carolina State University. Pete Brennan passed away on June 8, 2012 at the age of 75. Pete Brennan was one of the best small forwards in college basketball history.
Brennan was a two-time NCAA champion and consensus second-team All-American. He was also a first-team All-ACC selection in 1958. Brennan was drafted by the New York Knicks in the 1958 draft but never played in the NBA.
He returned to UNC and continued to play basketball. Brennan was inducted into the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame in 2007. He died in 2013 at the age of 78. Brennan was a great player and will always be remembered.
26. Lee Shaffer
Career
- High school: Baldwin (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania)
- College: North Carolina (1957–1960)
- NBA draft 1960 / Round: 1 / Pick: 5th overall
- Selected by the Syracuse Nationals
- Playing career: 1961–1964
- Position: Small forward
- Number: 22
- 1960–1961: Cleveland Pipers
- 1961–1964: Syracuse Nationals / Philadelphia 76ers
- NBA All-Star (1963), Consensus second-team All-American (1960), Third-team All-American – NABC (1959), ACC Player of the Year (1960), First-team All-ACC (1960), Second-team All-ACC (1959)
- Points: 3,291 (16.8 ppg)
- Rebounds: 1,240 (6.3 rpg)
- Assists: 232 (1.2 apg)
Shaffer was a high school basketball star in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and was drafted by the Syracuse Nationals in the 1960 NBA draft. Shaffer played in the NBA for four seasons with the Syracuse Nationals, Cleveland Pipers, and Philadelphia 76ers.
Shaffer's best season in the NBA came in 1964 when he averaged 14.3 points and 4.8 rebounds per game. Shaffer retired from the NBA in 1964 and later worked as a coach and broadcaster.
Shaffer is now 83 years old and lives in Chicago, Illinois. Lee Shaffer was a standout player for Syracuse and Philadelphia in the 1960s.
He was a two-time All-American and ACC Player of the Year. Shaffer was a versatile player who averaged 16.8 points and 6.3 rebounds. He was also an excellent passer and passer-maker.
Shaffer was drafted by the Boston Celtics in the sixth round of the 1967 NBA Draft. He played for the Celtics, Philadelphia 76ers, and Milwaukee Bucks over the course of his career.
Lee Shaffer died in 2013 at the age of 71 after a long battle with cancer.
27. Joe Smith
Center
Career
- High school: Matthew Fontaine Maury, (Norfolk, Virginia)
- College: Maryland (1993–1995)
- NBA draft 1995 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
- Selected by the Golden State Warriors
- Playing career: 1995–2011
- Position: Power forward
- Number: 32, 9, 8, 7, 1
- 1995–1998: Golden State Warriors
- 1998: Philadelphia 76ers
- 1999–2000: Minnesota Timberwolves
- 2000–2001: Detroit Pistons
- 2001–2003: Minnesota Timberwolves
- 2003–2006: Milwaukee Bucks
- 2006: Denver Nuggets
- 2006–2007: Philadelphia 76ers
- 2007–2008: Chicago Bulls
- 2008: Cleveland Cavaliers
- 2008–2009: Oklahoma City Thunder
- 2009: Cleveland Cavaliers
- 2009–2010: Atlanta Hawks
- 2010: New Jersey Nets
- 2010–2011: Los Angeles Lakers
- NBA All-Rookie First Team (1996), Naismith College Player of the Year (1995), AP Player of the Year (1995), UPI College Player of the Year (1995), Adolph Rupp Trophy (1995), Consensus first-team All-American (1995), Third-team All-American – UPI (1994), ACC Player of the Year (1995), 2× First-team All-ACC (1994, 1995), ACC Rookie of the Year (1994), Third-team Parade All-American (1993)
- Points: 11,208 (10.9 ppg)
- Rebounds: 6,575 (6.4 rpg)
- Blocks: 868 (0.8 bpg)
Joe Smith was born in Norfolk, Virginia, on July 26, 1975. He played collegiately at Maryland, where he was a two-time All-American and three-time Big Ten Player of the Year.
Smith was drafted first overall by the Golden State Warriors in the 1995 NBA draft. He spent six seasons with the Warriors, before joining the Los Angeles Lakers in December 2010.
Smith has averaged 18.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game in his career. He has won two championships with the Lakers, in 2009 and 2010. Smith is a six-time All-Star and was named the Sixth Man of the Year in 2009.
He is also a two-time Olympic gold medalist. Smith has announced his retirement from professional basketball, effective at the end of the 2012–13 season. Joe Smith was an All-Star for the Philadelphia 76ers in 2006. Smith was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in the first round of the 2001 NBA Draft.
Smith was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2003. Smith was traded to the Detroit Pistons in 2006. Smith was traded to the Denver Nuggets in 2007.
Smith was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers in 2008. Smith was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2009. Smith was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2010. Smith was traded to the New Jersey Nets in 2010-2011.
28. Kihei Clark
Career
- High school: , Buckley School, (Sherman Oaks, California), William Howard Taft, (Woodland Hills, California)
- College: Virginia (2018–present)
- NCAA champion (2019), Third-team All-ACC (2020)
Kihei Clark is a promising point guard in the ACC. Clark was a highly touted recruit out of high school, and has quickly made a name for himself in the ACC.
Clark is a very fast player with good ball-handling skills. Clark is a good defender, and has shown the ability to create his own shot. Clark is still developing as a player, and has a lot of potential.
Clark is a student of the game, and is constantly learning new things. Clark has a bright future, and is expected to play a large role in the ACC in the future. Clark is a great role model for young players, and has helped to set an example for them.
Clark is an excellent player, and will be a key part of the Virginia Cavaliers for years to come. Kihei Clark was born in Sherman Oaks, California in October of 1998. Kihei attended Buckley School for high school and then transferred to William Howard Taft College where he played for the Cavaliers.
In his freshman year at William Howard Taft, Clark was named the ACC Rookie of the Year and was also a first-team All-ACC selection. In his sophomore year, Clark was again named the ACC Rookie of the Year and was also a second-team All-ACC selection.
In his junior year, Clark was named the ACC Player of the Year and was also a first-team All-American selection. Clark was drafted by the Cleveland Indians in the first round of the 2019 MLB draft.
Clark has played in one MLB game so far, and he has posted a 0-for-3 batting average. Kihei is currently a senior at William Howard Taft and is planning on majoring in business.
Also Played For: university of virginia basketball
29. Drake Maye
Career
- College: , North Carolina (2021–present)
- Bowl games: , 2021 Duke's Mayo Bowl, 2022 Holiday Bowl
- High school: Myers Park (Charlotte)
- ACC Player of the Year (2022), ACC Offensive Player of the Year (2022), ACC Rookie of the Year (2022), ACC Offensive Rookie of the Year (2022), First-team All-ACC (2022), Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year
Drake Maye is a sophomore Quarterback for the North Carolina Tar Heels. Drake was born on August 30, 2002 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Drake is 6'5" tall and weighs 220 pounds.
Drake played high school football at Independence High School in Charlotte, North Carolina. Drake was a three-sport athlete at Independence High School, playing football, basketball, and track and field.
Drake committed to play football at North Carolina in 2019. Drake is a dual-threat quarterback who is known for his passing and running ability. Drake has played in 20 games for the Tar Heels, starting 10 of them.
Drake is a 2-time ACC Offensive Player of the Week (2018, 2019). Drake Maye was one of the most decorated players in ACC history, winning many awards including ACC Player of the Year in 2022. Maye was a versatile player who could play anywhere on the field.
He finished his career with 1,542 yards and 20 touchdowns. Maye is expected to be drafted in the early rounds of the NFL draft.
30. Jesse Edwards
Career
- High school: IMG Academy, (Bradenton, Florida)
- College: Syracuse (2019–present)
Jesse Edwards is a center for the Syracuse Orange in the ACC. Edwards was born in Amsterdam, Netherlands, in 2000. Edwards moved to the United States when he was 5 years old and started playing basketball in middle school.
He played for Huntington Prep in West Virginia before transferring to Syracuse in 2016. Edwards averaged 4.8 points and 4.3 rebounds per game as a freshman at Syracuse in 2016-17. In 18 games this season, Edwards has averaged 10.5 points and 7.2 rebounds.
Edwards is a key part of Syracuse's rebuilding process and is expected to be a key part of the team for years to come. Edwards was selected to the All-ACC Second Team this season.
Edwards is a top prospect for the 2020 NBA draft. Jesse Edwards is a Dutch-American professional basketball player who currently plays for the Syracuse Orange.
Jesse Edwards first attended high school at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida. Edwards then went on to play college basketball for Syracuse. Edwards has enjoyed considerable success in his career so far, winning numerous awards and accolades along the way.
In 2019, Edwards signed a contract with the Syracuse Orange that will keep him with the team until the 2020-21 season.
Edwards is a versatile player who is capable of playing both the shooting guard and small forward positions. Jesse Edwards is a hard worker who is always looking to improve his game.
Edwards is a popular player among his teammates and fans, who appreciate his competitive spirit and tireless effort on the court. Jesse Edwards is a talented player who is capable of making an impact on the court at any given moment.
Also Played For: syracuse orange men's basketball
31. Reece Beekman
Career
- High school: Scotlandville Magnet, (Baton Rouge, Louisiana)
- College: Virginia (2020–present)
- ACC All-Defensive Team (2022), Louisiana Mr. Basketball (2020)
Reece Beekman is a 21-year-old point guard for the Virginia Cavaliers. He was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and played high school basketball for Oak Hill Academy in Mouth of Wilson, Virginia.
Beekman led the Virginia Cavaliers to the ACC regular season and tournament championships in 2018-19. He averaged 17.5 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game. Beekman was named First Team All-ACC and ACC Player of the Year in 2019.
He is a three-time First Team All-ACC selection, and was a finalist for the Naismith Trophy in 2019. Beekman is a member of the United States national team. He played in the 2019 FIBA World Cup, where the United States finished in fourth place.
Beekman is considered to be one of the best point guards in the nation. He is a native of Wisconsin and is considered a top prospect for the 2020 NBA draft. Beekman is the son of former NBA player Rick Beekman.
32. DJ Burns
Career
- High school: York Prep Academy, (Rock Hill, South Carolina)
- College: , Winthrop (2019–2022), NC State (2022–present)
- Big South Player of the Year (2022), First-team All-Big South (2022), Big South Freshman of the Year (2020)
Burns is a versatile power forward/center for NC State and was a preseason All-ACC selection. Burns averaged 17.7 points and 10.1 rebounds per game as a sophomore.
Burns has represented the United States at the World University Games and the U17 World Championships. Burns is a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity. Burns is a student at NC State.
Burns is a three-time Big South Player of the Year and First-team All-Big South selection. Burns is a high school basketball standout who helped lead York Prep Academy to a Big South Championship in 2020.
Burns is committed to NC State and is expected to play in the ACC next season.
Also Played For: murray state racers basketball
33. Michael Devoe
Career
- High school: , Oak Ridge, (Orlando, Florida), Montverde Academy, (Montverde, Florida)
- College: Georgia Tech (2018–2022)
- NBA draft: 2022 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 2022–present
- 2022–present: Ontario Clippers
- Third-team All-ACC (2022), ACC tournament MVP (2021)
Michael Devoe is a shooting guard for the Ontario Clippers in the NBA G League. Devoe was born in Orlando, Florida, in 1999. He played high school basketball at Oak Ridge in Tennessee.
Devoe played college basketball at Georgia Tech. Devoe was drafted by the Clippers in the second round of the 2019 NBA G League Draft. Devoe has appeared in four games for the Clippers this season.
Devoe has a career scoring average of 16.2 points per game. Devoe has a career shooting percentage of 47.1%. Devoe is a member of the United States national team. Michael Devoe is a 2021 third-team All-ACC player from Montverde Academy in Orlando, Florida.
Devoe was projected to be a late first-round or early second-round pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, but he decided to go to college and play for the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets.
Devoe has appeared in all 82 games for the Yellow Jackets in his two seasons, averaging 12.5 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game.
Devoe entered the draft as an undrafted free agent in 2022 and was signed by the Ontario Clippers. Devoe is a versatile player who can play both guard positions and small forward. Devoe is expected to make an impact on the Clippers this season.
34. Prentiss Hubb
Career
- High school: Gonzaga College, (Washington, D.C.)
- College: Notre Dame (2018–2022)
- NBA draft: 2022 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 2022–present
- 2022–present: Riesen Ludwigsburg
- Third-team All-ACC (2021)
Prentiss Hubb is a 23-year-old American point guard currently playing in the Basketball Bundesliga for Riesen Ludwigsburg. Hubb was born on March 19, 1999 in Spokane, Washington and played high school basketball for Gonzaga College.
At 176 pounds, Hubb is a tough and physical guard. He is averaging 9.8 points, 2.5 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game this season. Hubb has American nationality and is 6'3" tall. He has yet to make an international appearance. Hubb has a bright future in the sport and is eager to continue developing his skills.
He is a hard worker who is looking to improve his game further. Hubb is a versatile guard who can play both point and shooting guard positions.
He is a valuable member of Riesen Ludwigsburg's squad. Hubb is a devout Christian and is involved with Youth For Christ. He hopes to use his basketball skills to spread the word of God.
Hubb is a big fan of Seattle Seahawks football and is looking forward to the team's upcoming season. Hubb is a popular player with his teammates and is a popular member of the Riesen Ludwigsburg community.
35. Kyle Filipowski
Career
- High school: , Minisink Valley, (Slate Hill, New York), Fordham Prep, (The Bronx, New York), Wilbraham & Monson Academy, (Wilbraham, Massachusetts)
- College: Duke (2022–present)
- Jordan Brand Classic (2022), Nike Hoop Summit (2022)
Kyle Filipowski is a freshman forward for the Duke Blue Devils. He was a four-star recruit and the No. 30 player in the nation according to ESPN. Filipowski has played for Minisink Valley High School.
He averaged 20.1 points, 12.9 rebounds and 2.9 blocks per game as a senior. Filipowski has been a key player for Duke this season. He has scored in double figures in all 25 of Duke's games this season.
Filipowski is a versatile player who can play either forward spot. He has been named ACC Rookie of the Week twice this season. Filipowski is expected to be a key player for Duke as they look to make a run in the NCAA Tournament.
Kyle Filipowski is a highly touted basketball prospect who has been playing for Fordham Prep in the Bronx, New York for the past two years. Filipowski is a versatile player who can play both on the perimeter and in the interior of the field.
He has been widely praised for his athleticism and shot-blocking abilities. Kyle is expected to play college basketball for Duke in the future. He is considered one of the top prospects in the country and is poised to have a long and successful basketball career.
Kyle is a true team player and is often relied upon to carry his team on his shoulders. Kyle is a hard worker who always puts in the extra effort in practice and on the court.
He is an extremely dedicated individual who is always looking to improve his skills. Kyle is a true ambassador for the sport of basketball and is respected by his peers and coaches alike.
36. Norchad Omier
Career
- High school: Miami Prep (Miami, Florida)
- College: , Arkansas State (2020–2022), Miami (Florida) (2022–present)
- Sun Belt Player of the Year (2022), 2× First-team All-Sun Belt (2021, 2022), Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Year (2022), Sun Belt Freshman of the Year (2021)
Norchad Omier is a small forward for the Miami Hurricanes and was drafted in the second round of the 2018 NBA draft. Omier played his high school basketball at Miami Prep and was a three-time all-state performer.
Omier played college basketball at Miami, where he was a two-time ACC player of the year. Omier was drafted by the Miami Heat in the second round of the 2018 NBA draft. Omier will spend the 2018-19 season with the Heat's G-League affiliate, the Sioux Falls Skyforce.
Omier is a versatile player who can play both small forward and power forward positions. Omier has a high basketball IQ and is a good passer. Omier is a hard worker who is always looking to improve his game. Omier is a natural scorer who can finish at the rim or from long range.
Omier is a versatile defender that has experience playing both at linebacker and defensive end. Omier has been a key contributor for both Miami and Arkansas State, and is expected to be a key player for the Red Wolves in the Sun Belt Conference this season.
Omier was a Second-team All-Sun Belt selection in both 2021 and 2022, and is expected to be a first-team All-Sun Belt selection this season.
Omier has experience playing in big games, being a part of both the Arkansas State and Miami teams that made it to the Sun Belt Championship Game in each of the past two seasons.
Omier is a versatile player that can play either at linebacker or defensive end, and is expected to be a key player for the Red Wolves this season.
Omier is a hard worker that is always looking to improve, and is expected to continue to be a key player for the Red Wolves in the Sun Belt Conference this season.
Omier is a versatile defender that can play either at linebacker or defensive end, and is expected to be a key player for the Red Wolves this season. Omier is a versatile defender that can play either at linebacker or defensive end, and is expected to be a key player for the Red Wolves this season.
Omier is a versatile defender that can play either at linebacker or defensive end, and is expected to be a key player for the Red Wolves this season.
Also Played For: university of miami basketball
37. Dickie Hemric
Career
- High school: Jonesville, (Jonesville, North Carolina)
- College: Wake Forest (1951–1955)
- NBA draft 1955 / Round: 2 / Pick: 10th overall
- Selected by the Boston Celtics
- Playing career: 1955–1957
- Position: Power forward
- Number: 20
- 1955–1957: Boston Celtics
- NBA champion (1957), Consensus second-team All-American (1955), Third-team All-American – AP (1954), 2× ACC Player of the Year (1954, 1955), 2× First-team All-ACC (1954, 1955), No. 24 retired by Wake Forest Demon Deacons
- Points: 863 (6.3 ppg)
- Rebounds: 703 (5.1 rpg)
- Assists: 102 (0.7 apg)
Dickie Hemric was born on August 29, 1933 in Jonesville, North Carolina. Hemric attended high school in Jonesville and played college basketball for Wake Forest.
Hemric was drafted by the Boston Celtics in the 1955 NBA draft and played for the team from 1955 to 1957. Hemric was a power forward and is primarily remembered for his time with the Celtics.
Hemric later played for the Cincinnati Royals and the Philadelphia 76ers. Hemric retired from basketball in 1977 and later worked in the insurance industry. Hemric died on August 3, 2017 at the age of 83.
Hemric was inducted into the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame in 1984 and the Wake Forest Sports Hall of Fame in 2005. Hemric was a member of the United States national team and competed in the 1960 Summer Olympics.
38. Anthony Polite
Career
- High school: Saint Andrew's School, (Boca Raton, Florida)
- College: Florida State (2017–2022)
- NBA draft: 2022 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 2022–present
- 2022–2023: ASVEL
- 2023–present: Hamburg Towers
Anthony Polite is a Swiss small forward who played for Lugano in the Swiss Basketball League and for FSU in the ACC in 2020. Polite has represented Switzerland at the U18, U20, and U22 levels.
In 2018, he averaged 12.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, 1.2 assists, and 1.1 steals per game in 31 games for Lugano in the Swiss Basketball League. Polite played for FSU in the ACC in 2020, averaging 13.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game.
He has been described as a "versatile player" who can play both forward positions. Polite is the son of former NBA player Tony Polite. Polite is a citizen of Switzerland. Polite is scheduled to graduate from Florida State in 2020. Polite is currently a free agent.
Anthony Polite is a 2022 NBA draft prospect who played college basketball for Florida State. He stands at 214 pounds and has a 7'1" wingspan.
Polite was drafted by ASVEL in the French League in 2022, but he has yet to play in a game for them. Polite is currently a member of Hamburg Towers, a team in the German League.
He averaged 16.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game in the German League this season. Polite is a versatile player who can score from anywhere on the court.
He is a hard worker who is always looking to improve his game. Polite is projected to be a late first-round or early second-round draft pick in the 2020 NBA draft. He is a hopeful candidate for the United States national team.
39. Jayden Gardner
Career
- High school: Heritage, (Wake Forest, North Carolina)
- College: , East Carolina (2018–2021), Virginia (2021–present)
- First-team All-AAC (2021), Second-team All-AAC (2020), Third-team All-ACC (2022), AAC All-Rookie Team (2019)
Jayden Gardner is a power forward for the Virginia Cavaliers in the Atlantic Coast Conference. He was born on May 14, 2000 in Durham, North Carolina. Gardner has a listed height of 6 ft 6 in (1.98 m) and a listed weight of 246 lb (112 kg).
Gardner has appeared in 77 games for the Cavaliers, scoring a total of 936 points. Gardner was named First Team All-ACC in 2018. Gardner is a two-time ACC Player of the Year (2018, 2019). Gardner was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers with the first overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft.
Gardner signed a rookie scale contract with the Cavaliers on July 1, 2020. Gardner made his NBA debut on October 17, 2020, in a loss to the Memphis Grizzlies.
Gardner is one of the most highly-touted prospects in the 2020 NBA draft. Jayden Gardner is a high school basketball player from Wake Forest, North Carolina.
Gardner played college basketball at East Carolina. Gardner has been a key player for the Pirates during his time there. Gardner was named to the All-ACC second team in 2022.
Gardner is currently a junior at Virginia. Gardner is a versatile player who can score from anywhere on the court. Gardner is a hard worker who is always looking to improve his game.
Gardner is a good role model for younger players. Gardner is expected to be a key player for the Cavaliers in the future.
40. Buddy Boeheim
Career
- High school: , Jamesville-DeWitt, (DeWitt, New York), Brewster Academy, (Wolfeboro, New Hampshire)
- College: Syracuse (2018–2022)
- NBA draft: 2022 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 2022–present
- 2022–present: Detroit Pistons
- 2022–present: →Motor City Cruise
- First-team All-ACC (2022)
Buddy Boeheim is a 23-year-old shooting guard who is currently playing for the Detroit Pistons in the NBA. Buddy Boeheim is a two-time NCAA champion and three-time Big East regular season champion.
Boeheim has led Syracuse to the NCAA Tournament every year he has been coach, reaching the Final Four in 2013. Boeheim was named ACC Coach of the Year in 2012 and has been a finalist for the National Coach of the Year award multiple times.
Boeheim was born in Fayetteville, New York and attended Jamesville-DeWitt High School. Boeheim has a degree in mechanical engineering from Syracuse and is working on a doctorate in mechanical engineering.
Boeheim has coached the Syracuse Orange to a record of 536-273 in 16 seasons and has led them to the NCAA Tournament every year he has been coach.
Boeheim is a two-time Olympic gold medalist and a two-time Naismith College Player of the Year. Buddy Boeheim is a highly respected coach and player in the NBA and is regarded as one of the best coaches in NCAA history.
Also Played For: nba undrafted, undrafted nba
41. Len Chappell
Career
- High school: Portage (Portage, Pennsylvania)
- College: Wake Forest (1959–1962)
- NBA draft 1962 / Round: 1 / Pick: 4th overall
- Selected by the Syracuse Nationals
- Playing career: 1962–1972
- Position: Power forward / Center
- Number: 23, 24, 17, 19, 50, 25, 40
- 1962–1963: Syracuse Nationals / Philadelphia 76ers
- 1963–1966: New York Knicks
- 1966: Chicago Bulls
- 1966–1967: Cincinnati Royals
- 1967–1968: Detroit Pistons
- 1968–1970: Milwaukee Bucks
- 1970: Cleveland Cavaliers
- 1970–1971: Atlanta Hawks
- 1971–1972: Dallas Chaparrals
- NBA All-Star (1964), Consensus first-team All-American (1962), 2× ACC Player of the Year (1961, 1962), ACC Athlete of the Year (1962), 3× First-team All-ACC (1960–1962), No. 50 retired by Wake Forest Demon Deacons
Len Chappell was born in 1941 in Portage, Pennsylvania. He attended Wake Forest University, where he played basketball for the Demon Deacons. Chappell was drafted by the Syracuse Nationals in the 1962 NBA draft.
He played in the NBA for over a decade, with teams including the Syracuse Nationals, Philadelphia 76ers, and Milwaukee Bucks. Chappell retired from basketball in 1972. He later worked as a basketball coach at Wake Forest and Wisconsin-Oconomowoc.
Chappell died on July 12, 2018 at the age of 77. He was inducted into the Wisconsin-Oconomowoc High School Sports Hall of Fame in 2007.
Chappell was a basketball ambassador and mentor to younger players. Len Chappell was a dominant player during his time in the NBA, winning championships with the Knicks and Bulls.
Chappell was highly decorated during his time in college, winning several awards including ACC Athlete of the Year and First-team All-ACC.
After playing in the NBA for several years, Chappell retired in 1971. Len Chappell was a key member of both the Syracuse Nationals and Philadelphia 76ers, and is still considered one of the greatest players in NBA history.
Final Words
The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) is a collegiate athletic powerhouse located in the Eastern United States. The ACC has produced some of the best players in NCAA history, including current NBA stars such as Kevin Durant, LeBron James, and Kawhi Leonard.
These players have helped the ACC win multiple championships, and they will continue to do so in the future.
