43. Depaul Basketball Best Players of All time

Jalen Rose

The DePaul Blue Demons men’s basketball program is one of the most storied and successful teams in college sports. Founded in 1906, they have been a powerhouse on the court for more than 100 years, competing at the highest level of NCAA Division I intercollegiate competition.

The team plays its home games at Wintrust Arena at McCormick Place convention center on Chicago’s Near South Side, and competes in the Big East Conference where it has had numerous successes over its long history.

With some of the best players to ever grace their courts, this proud institution has consistently put out top quality talent that year after year keeps them among college basketball’s elite programs.

Table of Contents

1. Quentin Richardson

Quentin Richardson Career

  • High school: Whitney Young (Chicago, Illinois)
  • College: DePaul (1998–2000)
  • NBA draft 2000 / Round: 1 / Pick: 18th overall
  • Selected by the Los Angeles Clippers
  • Playing career: 2000–2013
  • Position: Shooting guard / Small forward
  • Number: 3, 23, 5, 55
  • Coaching career: 2014–present
  • NBA Three-Point Contest champion (2005), USBWA National Freshman of the Year (1999), Conference USA Player of the Year (1999), 2× First-team All-Conference USA (1999, 2000), McDonald's All-American (1998), Second-team Parade All-American (1998)
  • Points: 8,032 (10.3 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 3,666 (4.7 rpg)
  • Assists: 1,138 (1.5 apg)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, FIBA Americas U18 Championship, : 1998 Puerto Plata: Team competition1
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  United States
  • FIBA Americas U18 Championship
  • : 1998 Puerto Plata: Team competition1

Richardson was drafted by the Clippers in 2000, and played for them until 2013. Richardson is best known for his time with the Knicks, where he spent six seasons (2005-11).

In 2014, Richardson became a coach with the Mavericks. He has since been promoted to head coach of their G League affiliate, the Texas Legends. Quentin Richardson was a versatile player in the NBA who excelled at both shooting and ball handling.

He played for three separate teams over his career, most notably with the Phoenix Suns and New York Knicks. In 2007, he won the Three-Point Contest while playing for the Miami Heat. After retiring from professional basketball, Quentin became a coach with the Detroit Pistons.

Also Played For: orlando magic, los angeles clippers

2. Terry Cummings

Terry Cummings Career

  • High school: Carver (Chicago, Illinois)
  • College: DePaul (1979–1982)
  • NBA draft 1982 / Round: 1 / Pick: 2nd overall
  • Selected by the San Diego Clippers
  • Playing career: 1982–2000
  • Position: Power forward
  • Number: 34, 35
  • 1982–1984: San Diego Clippers
  • 1984–1989: Milwaukee Bucks
  • 1989–1995: San Antonio Spurs
  • 1995–1996: Milwaukee Bucks
  • 1996–1997: Seattle SuperSonics
  • 1997–1998: Philadelphia 76ers
  • 1998: New York Knicks
  • 1999–2000: Golden State Warriors
  • 2× NBA All-Star (1985, 1989), All-NBA Second Team (1985), All-NBA Third Team (1989), NBA Rookie of the Year (1983), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1983), Consensus first-team All-American (1982)
  • Points: 19,460 (16.4 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 8,630 (7.3 rpg)
  • Steals: 1,255 (1.1 spg)

Terry Cummings was drafted by the San Diego Clippers in 1982 and played for them until 2000. He had a successful playing career, averaging 18 points and 10 rebounds per game over his 14 seasons in the NBA.

Terry Cummings is best known for his time with the Milwaukee Bucks, where he averaged 21 points and 9 rebounds per game during the 1989-1995 season. Terry Cummings also spent two years with the Spurs before moving toMilwaukee again in 1995-1996.

In total, Terry Cummings scored 17,461 points (12th all-time) and grabbed 10,529 boards (6th all-time) in his professional career Cummings was drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics in the first round of the 1996 NBA Draft. Cummings played for the SuperSonics, Philadelphia 76ers and New York Knicks before retiring after the 2000 season.

As a player, Cummings was known for his scoring abilities and rebounding prowess. He also led both teams he played on to postseason appearances. After retirement, Cummings has worked as a broadcaster for Turner Sports and ESPN Deportes networks. 

In 2013, Cummings was named head coach at Florida Gulf Coast University where he served until 2016 when he took over as head coach of Marshall Thundering Herd men's basketball team.

Also Played For: milwaukee bucks

3. Wilson Chandler

Small forward

Wilson Chandler Career

  • High school: Benton Harbor, (Benton Harbor, Michigan)
  • College: DePaul (2005–2007)
  • NBA draft 2007 / Round: 1 / Pick: 23rd overall
  • Selected by the New York Knicks
  • Playing career: 2007–2020
  • Position: Small forward
  • 2007–2011: New York Knicks
  • 2011: Denver Nuggets
  • 2011–2012: Zhejiang Lions
  • 2012–2018: Denver Nuggets
  • 2018–2019: Philadelphia 76ers
  • 2019: Los Angeles Clippers
  • 2019–2020: Brooklyn Nets
  • 2020: Zhejiang Guangsha Lions
  • Second-team All-Big East (2007), Big East All-Rookie Team (2006), Third-team Parade All-American (2005), Mr. Basketball of Michigan (2005)

Chandler was born in Benton Harbor, Michigan on May 10, 1987. He attended high school at Benton Harbor and played college basketball for DePaul. Chandler was drafted by the New York Knicks in 2007 and spent seven seasons with the team before joining Denver in 2020.

His height of 6'8" (2.03 m) and weight of 235 lb (107 kg) make him a physical small forward capable of scoring inside as well as outside the paint. 

Chandler has amassed career averages of 12 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 assists per game over his 7-year NBA career which has included stints with Memphis Grizzlies, Dallas Mavericks, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Nuggets respectively Wilson Chandler was a key player for the Nuggets and 76ers during his time in the NBA.

He is known for his toughness and rebounding ability, which has helped him earn multiple accolades over the years. His playing style is versatile, allowing him to play both at small forward and power forward positions. 

In 2019 he signed with the Clippers, where he will be counted on to provide offensive firepower off the bench.

Also Played For: denver nuggets

4. Rod Strickland

Rod Strickland Career

  • High school: Truman (The Bronx, New York), Oak Hill Academy, (Mouth of Wilson, Virginia)
  • College: DePaul (1985–1988)
  • NBA draft 1988 / Round: 1 / Pick: 19th overall
  • Selected by the New York Knicks
  • Playing career: 1988–2005
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 11, 1, 31
  • Coaching career: 2014–present
  • All-NBA Second Team (1998), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (1989), NBA assists leader (1998), Third-team All-American – UPI (1988), First-team Parade All-American (1985)
  • Points: 14,463 (13.2 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 4,084 (3.7 rpg)
  • Assists: 7,987 (7.3 apg)

Rod Strickland played for the New York Knicks from 1988 to 2005. He was a key player on their championship teams in 1994 and 1999. Rod Strickland is an assistant coach with the Kentucky Wildcats.

He has been with the team since 2009, helping them win two national championships (2012 and 2013). Rod Strickland was born in 1966 in The Bronx, New York. He attended Truman High School before going on to play college basketball at DePaul University.

After playing professional basketball for 11 years, Rod retired as a player in 2005 due to injury concerns. Nowadays he works as an assistant coach with the Kentucky Wildcats. Rod Strickland is a point guard who has spent the last 14 seasons coaching in the NBA.

He was an assistant coach with South Florida from 2014 to 2017, and then became head coach of LIU Brooklyn in 2018. Rod Strickland's playing career included stints with the New York Knicks, San Antonio Spurs, Portland Trail Blazers, Washington Bullets/Wizards and Toronto Raptors.

He won two championships as a player - with San Antonio in 1999 and 2000, and also helped lead Portland to their first title in 1996. 

As a coach, Rod Strickland has led South Florida to three NCAA tournament appearances (2014-2017), plus back-to-back Atlantic 10 regular season titles in 2019 & 2020.

Also Played For: portland trail blazers

5. Em Bryant

Em Bryant Career

  • High school: DePaul Academy (Chicago, Illinois)
  • College: DePaul (1961–1964)
  • NBA draft 1964 / Round: 7 / Pick: 53rd overall
  • Selected by the New York Knicks
  • Playing career: 1964–1972
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 7
  • NBA champion (1969)
  • Points: 3,722 (6.6 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 1,593 (2.8 rpg)
  • Assists: 1,700 (3.0 apg)

Emmette Bryant was born in Chicago, Illinois on November 4th, 1937. He attended DePaul Academy where he starred as a point guard and helped lead the team to four championships between 1961-1964.

After graduating from DePaul with honors in 1964, Emmette entered into the NBA draft and was drafted by the New York Knicks with the 53rd overall pick. Bryant played for the Knicks for six seasons before being traded to the Los Angeles Lakers during his seventh season in 1972.

Emmette retired from playing professional basketball following his trade to LA and has since served as an assistant coach for several teams including Detroit Pistons, Milwaukee Bucks and Dallas Mavericks over the past two decades or so. As a player, Em Bryant was known for his strong rebounding abilities and defensive prowess.

He played in the NBA from 1964 to 1968 with the New York Knicks and Boston Celtics before becoming a coach. 

Bryant had a successful coaching career at Columbia (assistant) and Seattle SuperSonics (assistant), winning two championships as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers in 1984–85 and 1992–93.

Also Played For: buffalo braves

6. B. J. Tyler

B. J. Tyler Career

  • High school: Lincoln (Port Arthur, Texas)
  • College: DePaul (1989–1990), Texas (1991–1994)
  • NBA draft 1994 / Round: 1 / Pick: 20th overall
  • Selected by the Philadelphia 76ers
  • Playing career: 1994–1995
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 1
  • 1994–1995: Philadelphia 76ers
  • Third-team All-American – AP, UPI (1994), SWC Player of the Year (1994)

B. J. Tyler was a tough defender in the NBA, and he helped lead Philadelphia to the playoffs twice during his tenure with the team. Tyler also had some successful seasons outside of basketball, including being an entrepreneur and actor.

He announced his retirement from professional basketball following the 2006-07 season, but has since returned to play for various teams around the world. B B Tyler is currently 52nd all time in points scored in NBA history, with 10,471 total over 994 games played.

B. J. Tyler was a standout point guard for the Philadelphia 76ers during the 1994-1995 season, earning third-team All American honors from both AP and UPI. He led his team to a SWC title that year, averaging 21 points per game en route to becoming the league's top player.

After two seasons in the NBA with Philadelphia, he signed as a free agent with Portland in 1997 before moving on to various European teams over the next few years before retiring at age 34 in 2001.

Also Played For: 1994 nba draft, texas longhorns men's basketball

7. Mark Aguirre

Mark Aguirre Career

  • High school: Westinghouse (Chicago, Illinois)
  • College: DePaul (1978–1981)
  • NBA draft 1981 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
  • Selected by the Dallas Mavericks
  • Playing career: 1981–1994
  • Position: Small forward
  • Number: 24, 23, 7
  • Coaching career: 2002–present
  • 2× NBA champion (1989, 1990), 3× NBA All-Star (1984, 1987, 1988), Naismith College Player of the Year (1980), Adolph Rupp Trophy (1980), USBWA Player of the Year (1980), AP Player of the Year (1980), UPI Player of the Year (1980), Sporting News College Player of the Year (1981), 2× Consensus first-team All-American (1980, 1981), No. 24 retired by DePaul Blue Demons, Mr. Basketball USA (1978), Third-team Parade All-American (1978), McDonald's All-American (1978)
  • Points: 18,458 (20.0 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 4,578 (5.0 rpg)
  • Assists: 2,871 (3.1 apg)
  • College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2016

Aguirre was drafted 1st overall by the Dallas Mavericks in the 1981 NBA Draft. He spent his entire playing career with the team, retiring after 1994. Aguirre is best known for his time with the Dallas Mavericks, where he averaged 20 points and 7 rebounds per game over his 13-year career.

After retirement, Aguirre has served as an assistant coach for various teams including Orlando Magic, Sacramento Kings and Philadelphia 76ers. Mark Aguirre was born on December 10th, 1959 in Chicago Illinois to parents of Mexican descent. 

Growing up in a Latino community in Chicago helped him develop into a successful player and leader both on and off court during his time playing in the NBA.

An All Star selection six times throughout his career (1981-1989), Aguirre is one of only three players to achieve this feat while wearing a different jersey each season (joining Michael Jordan & Kobe Bryant). 

His 23 total All Stars ranks 4th all-time among small forwards behind Wilt Chamberlain (38), LeBron James (34) and Kevin Durant (32).

 Known for being an excellent defender despite not possessing great athleticism or quickness offensively; many credit Aguirres tenacious playstyle along with some outstanding shooting percentages from deep (.402 3PT%, .481 FT%).

which led to him earning MVP honors twice ('88-'89) during seasons when he averaged 25+ PPG/RPG/.800+ APG respectively.

Finally, mark aguire currently serves as head coach of Austin Spurs who compete in G League - North Division.

Also Played For: detroit pistons, dallas mavericks

8. George Mikan

Minneapolis Lakers

George Mikan Career

  • High school: Joliet Catholic (Joliet, Illinois)
  • College: DePaul (1942–1946)
  • Playing career: 1946–1954, 1956
  • Position: Center
  • Number: 99
  • Coaching career: 1957–1958
  • 5× BAA/NBA champion (1949, 1950, 1952–1954), 2× NBL champion (1947, 1948), NBL Most Valuable Player (1948), 4× NBA All-Star (1951–1954), NBA All-Star Game MVP (1953), 6× All-BAA/NBA First Team (1949–1954), 2× All-NBL First Team (1947, 1948), NBL scoring champion (1948), 3× NBA scoring champion (1949–1951), NBA rebounding leader (1953), Greatest Player of the First Half-Century (1950), NBA anniversary team (25th, 35th, 50th, 75th), No. 99 retired by Los Angeles Lakers, 2× Helms Player of the Year (1944, 1945), Sporting News Player of the Year (1945), 3× Consensus first-team All-American (1944–1946), No. 99 retired by DePaul Blue Demons, WPBT champion (1948), 2× WPBT MVP (1946, 1948), 2× All-WPBT First Team (1946, 1948)
  • Points: 11,764 (22.6 ppg) (NBL / BAA / NBA), 10,156 (23.1 ppg) (BAA / NBA)
  • Rebounds: 4,167 (13.4 rpg) (NBA last five seasons)
  • Assists: 1,245 (2.8 apg) (BAA / NBA)
  • Basketball Hall of Fame as player
  • College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006

George Mikan was one of the greatest players in NBA history, and is often considered to be the best center ever. He started his career with the Chicago American Gears before joining the Minneapolis Lakers in 1947.

The Lakers won five championships during Mikan's tenure, including three consecutive titles from 1949 to 1951. After leaving Los Angeles, Mikan played for several other teams before retiring in 1954 at age 33. In 1957 he became head coach of DePaul University and led them to two Final Four appearances (1959 and 1960).

George Mikan died on June 1, 2005 at age 80 after a long illness Mikan was a trailblazer and one of the most influential players in NBA history. 

He helped establish the game as an international phenomenon, won five championships with the Minneapolis Lakers, and was named MVP of both the NBA All-Star Game and the National Basketball League (NBL) Finals.

Mikan's dominance on offense is still unparalleled to this day - he holds records for points scored, rebounds, assists, blocks and steals in league history. 

His influence on basketball culture can also be seen through his numerous awards and recognitions throughout his career. George Mikan will always be remembered as one of basketball's greatest legends - thanks for everything.

Also Played For: center basketball, los angeles lakers

9. Kevin Edwards

Kevin Edwards Career

  • High school: St. Joseph (Cleveland, Ohio)
  • College: Lakeland CC (1984–1986), DePaul (1986–1988)
  • NBA draft 1988 / Round: 1 / Pick: 20th overall
  • Selected by the Miami Heat
  • Playing career: 1988–2001
  • Position: Shooting guard
  • Number: 21, 20
  • 1988–1993: Miami Heat
  • 1993–1998: New Jersey Nets
  • 1998: Orlando Magic
  • 2000–2001: Vancouver Grizzlies
  • NBA All-Rookie Second Team (1989)
  • Points: 6,596 (10.9 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 1,653 (2.7 rpg)
  • Assists: 1,609 (2.7 apg)

Kevin Edwards was born in Cleveland Heights, Ohio on October 30th, 1965. He attended high school at St. Joseph's where he played shooting guard for the varsity team from 1984 to 1986.

Edwards then went onto play college basketball at Lakeland CC and DePaul before being drafted by the Miami Heat in 1988 with their twentieth overall pick. Kevin spent nine seasons (1988-2001) with the Heat, averaging 16 points per game over his career while also winning two championships (1995 & 1997).

After retiring as a player, Kevin has worked as an analyst for ESPN and Turner Broadcasting during the NBA Playoffs since 2002-2003 season onwards (including 2016 Finals). 

Edwards was drafted by the Miami Heat in 1988 and, after two seasons with them, he was traded to the New Jersey Nets. He played for five different teams during his 12-year NBA career before retiring in 2001.

Edwards is best known for playing alongside Shaquille O'Neal on the Heat, and he won a championship with them in 2006. After retirement, Edwards became an assistant coach with Orlando Magic before leaving that position in 2016 to become head coach of the Delaware 87ers of the G League.

10. Bobby Simmons

Brooklyn Nets

Bobby Simmons Career

  • High school: Simeon (Chicago, Illinois)
  • College: DePaul (1998–2001)
  • NBA draft 2001 / Round: 2 / Pick: 41st overall
  • Selected by the Seattle SuperSonics
  • Playing career: 2001–2012
  • Position: Small forward
  • Number: 21, 1
  • 2001–2003: Washington Wizards
  • 2003–2005: Los Angeles Clippers
  • 2005–2008: Milwaukee Bucks
  • 2008–2010: New Jersey Nets
  • 2010: San Antonio Spurs
  • 2011–2012: Reno Bighorns
  • 2012: Los Angeles Clippers
  • NBA Most Improved Player (2005)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, FIBA Americas U18 Championship, : 1998 Puerto Plata: Team competition, FIBA U19 World Championship, : 1999 Lisbon: Team competition
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  United States
  • FIBA Americas U18 Championship
  • : 1998 Puerto Plata: Team competition
  • FIBA U19 World Championship
  • : 1999 Lisbon: Team competition

Simmons was born in Chicago, Illinois on June 2nd, 1980. He attended Simeon High School where he starred for the basketball team and earned All-City honors as a senior.

Simmons then played college ball at DePaul and helped lead them to consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances (1998–2001). After two seasons with the Washington Wizards, Simmons was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers in 2003.

With LA he averaged 14 points per game over three seasons before being traded again - this time to Milwaukee in 2005. In his eight years with Milwaukee, Simmons totaled 1136 points (41st all-time) and 342 rebounds (tied for 26th all-time).

On July 10th, 2012 it was announced that Bobby would be signing with Greek club Panathinaikos after deciding not to re-sign with Milwaukee following their playoff run; during his tenure with Bucks/Sonics he had won 3 championships & 2 MVP awards.

11. Steven Hunter

Memphis Grizzlies

Steven Hunter Career

  • High school: Proviso East (Maywood, Illinois)
  • College: DePaul (1999–2001)
  • NBA draft 2001 / Round: 1 / Pick: 15th overall
  • Selected by the Orlando Magic
  • Playing career: 2001–2011
  • Position: Center / Power forward
  • Number: 34, 45
  • 2001–2004: Orlando Magic
  • 2004–2005: Phoenix Suns
  • 2005–2007: Philadelphia 76ers
  • 2007–2008: Denver Nuggets
  • 2009–2010: Memphis Grizzlies
  • 2011: Dinamo Sassari

Steven Hunter was born in Chicago, Illinois on October 31st 1981. He played high school basketball at Proviso East and college ball at DePaul. In 2001, the Orlando Magic drafted Steven with the 15th overall pick in the NBA draft.

After playing a couple of seasons in the NBA for the Magic and then Memphis Grizzlies, he retired from professional basketball in 2006 due to an injuriy. 

Today, Steven works as a motivational speaker and is involved with charities such as raising money for sick children through The Make-A-Wish Foundation .

Hunter was drafted in the first round of the 2001 NBA draft by the Orlando Magic. He played for the Magic from 2001-2004 before being traded to Phoenix and then Philadelphia. 

In 2007, Hunter signed with Denver as a free agent but was waived shortly after due to injury. The Grizzlies signed him in 2009 and he spent two seasons there before signing with Dinamo Sassari in 2011.

Hunter has averaged 6 points per game throughout his career which includes playing over 1000 minutes each season except for his rookie year when he only played 8 games due to injury.

 Hunter is known more for defensive contributions than offensive output, averaging 2 blocks and 1 steal per game throughout his career despite never topping 10 rebounds or shooting above 50% from the field during that time period.

12. Andre Brown

Andre Brown Career

  • High school: , Brother Rice (Chicago, Illinois), Leo Catholic (Chicago, Illinois)
  • College: DePaul (2000–2004)
  • NBA draft: 2004 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2004–2015
  • Position: Center / Power forward
  • Number: 44, 1
  • 2004–2005: Sedima Roseto
  • 2005: Budućnost Podgorica
  • 2005: Barangay Ginebra Kings
  • 2005–2006: Daegu Orions
  • 2006: Incheon ET Land Black Slamer
  • 2006–2007: Sioux Falls Skyforce
  • 2007: Seattle SuperSonics
  • 2007–2008: Memphis Grizzlies
  • 2008: Charlotte Bobcats
  • 2008–2009: Austin Toros
  • 2009: Banvit
  • 2009–2010: Zhejiang Golden Bulls
  • 2010: Leones de Ponce
  • 2010: Al Jalaa Aleppo
  • 2010: Panellinios
  • 2011: Perth Wildcats
  • 2011: Huracanes del Atlántico
  • 2011–2012: Shahrdari Gorgan
  • 2012–2013: KCC Egis
  • 2013: Club Atlético Atenas
  • 2014: Al-Ahli
  • 2014–2015: Dundgovi Hawks
  • KBL All-Star (2006), Second-team All-Conference USA (2004), McDonald's All-American (2000), Second-team Parade All-American (2000)

Andre Brown was born in Chicago, Illinois on May 12th, 1981. After playing college basketball at DePaul, Andre was undrafted and signed with the Sedima Roseto of the Italian league in 2004.

He spent a year there before being drafted by Budućnost Podgorica of Montenegro in 2005. In 2006–07 he played for Le Mans Sarthe of France and then returned to Serbia to play for KK Partizan during the 2007–08 season before joining Philadelphia 76ers late that year as a free agent.

Andre spent four seasons with the Sixers (2008-12) where he averaged 16 points and 6 rebounds per game en route to being named an All-Star twice (2010 & 2012). On July 10th, 2015.

 it was announced that Andre had signed with Russian team Khimki Moscow Oblast for the rest of the 2014–15 season.

After his contract with Philadelphia expired; however, due to visa issues he did not appear in any games for Khimki this season but instead played two unofficial games against Basket Rimini Cantù on November 5th and 7th.

Brown continues his career abroad as an unrestricted free agent currently playing for Spanish club Gran Canaria since August 2016.

13. Dave Corzine

Dave Corzine Career

  • High school: John Hersey, (Arlington Heights, Illinois)
  • College: DePaul (1974–1978)
  • NBA draft 1978 / Round: 1 / Pick: 18th overall
  • Selected by the Washington Bullets
  • Playing career: 1978–1992
  • Position: Center
  • Number: 40, 42
  • Second-team All-American – AP, NABC (1978), Third-team All-American – UPI (1978)
  • Points: 7,615 (8.5 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 5,262 (5.9 rpg)
  • Assists: 1,477 (1.7 apg)

Dave Corzine was a two-time All-Star center in the NBA. Dave Corzine started his professional career with the Washington Bullets and remained with them until 1992, when he was traded to the New Jersey Nets.

Dave Corzine was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2003 as part of their second class of honorees. After retirement from playing basketball, Dave Corzine became an executive with Goldman Sachs and later served as president and CEO of Starwood Capital Group.

In 2013, Dave married Debbie Jaffe; they have one child together and reside in Westport, Connecticut. Dave Corzine was a basketball coach who had an extensive career in the NBA. 

He played collegiately for San Antonio Spurs and Chicago Bulls before becoming a head coach. His most successful years were as the head coach of Orlando Magic, Seattle SuperSonics, and Filanto Forlì teams respectively.

He retired from coaching in 1996 after leading the Chicago Rockers to the playoffs but continued with his role as assistant general manager of that team until 2001 when he stepped down completely due to health reasons. Dave Corzine passed away at the age of 60 in 2013 after a long battle with cancer.

14. Dallas Comegys

Dallas Comegys Career

  • High school: Roman Catholic, (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
  • College: DePaul (1983–1987)
  • NBA draft 1987 / Round: 1 / Pick: 21st overall
  • Selected by the Atlanta Hawks
  • Playing career: 1987–2006
  • Number: 45, 22
  • 1987–1988: New Jersey Nets
  • 1988–1989: San Antonio Spurs
  • 1989–1990: Oximesa Granada
  • 1990–1991: Dinamo Sassari
  • 1991: Philadelphia Spirit
  • 1991–1992: Dinamo Sassari
  • 1992: Philadelphia Spirit
  • 1992–1994: Fortitudo Bologna
  • 1994–1995: Montepaschi Siena
  • 1995–1998: Fenerbahçe
  • 1998–1999: SNAI Montecatini
  • 1999–2000: Maccabi Tel Aviv
  • 2000–2001: Chicago Skyliners
  • 2002: Pınar Karşıyaka
  • 2002: Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs
  • 2003–2004: Delaware Destroyers
  • 2006: NEPA Breakers
  • Second-team All-American – NABC (1987), Third-team All-American – AP, UPI (1987), Second-team Parade All-American (1983)

Dallas Comegys was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on August 17, 1964. After graduating from high school in 1983, he attended DePaul University and played for the DePaul Blue Demons basketball team.

He was drafted by the Atlanta Hawks with the 21st overall pick in the 1987 NBA draft and started playing professional basketball with them that same year. Dallas Comegys spent his entire ten-year career with the Hawks before moving to Spain to play for Granada during the 1995–1996 season.

In 2006, he retired from professional basketball after spending time playing overseas again - this time with Sassari of Italy's Serie A league.. Dallas Comegys was a 6'10" center from Duke who played six seasons in the NBA. He averaged 5.4 points and 4.9 rebounds per game, appearing in 251 games (all starts).

Dallas came to the NBA as an undrafted free agent with the Philadelphia 76ers in 1988 and played his first two seasons there before being traded to the Denver Nuggets for guard Byron Scott. 

In 1990, Dallas joined the Phoenix Suns and won his only championship that season while averaging 10.5 points and 8 rebounds per game en route to All-Star status both years he was with them; he also helped lead Phoenix to their first ever appearance in the Finals that year against Michael Jordan's Chicago Bulls.

losing 92–89 after hitting a Game-winning shot at home with 1 seconds left on the clock (the ball bounced off of MJ's arm onto baseline whereupon Drexler scooped it up & fired it into orbit).

There title Dallas Comegys is one of those players you can't help but love orhate because no matter what happens during his playing career—whether its good or bad—you always remember him for one reason: That infamous last second shot against Michael Jordan and The Chicago Bulls which cost Phoenix their chance at a 3peat.

15. Bill Robinzine

Bill Robinzine Career

  • High school: Wendell Phillips Academy, (Chicago, Illinois)
  • College: DePaul (1972–1975)
  • NBA draft 1975 / Round: 1 / Pick: 10th overall
  • Selected by the Kansas City Kings
  • Playing career: 1975–1982
  • Position: Power forward
  • Number: 52, 50, 54
  • 1975–1980: Kansas City Kings
  • 1980: Cleveland Cavaliers
  • 1980–1981: Dallas Mavericks
  • 1981–1982: Utah Jazz
  • Points: 5,541 (10.5 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 3,209 (6.1 rpg)
  • Assists: 560 (1.1 apg)

Bill Robinzine was a high school basketball standout in Chicago, Illinois before enrolling at DePaul. He was drafted by the Kansas City Kings in 1975 and spent three seasons with the team.

In 1980, he was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers and played two more seasons before retiring from professional basketball. After his retirement, Bill moved to Kansas City, Missouri where he died of an accidental drug overdose at 29 years old.

Bill Robinzine was a power forward who played in the NBA from 1975-1982. During that time, he averaged 10.5 points and 6.1 rebounds per game. Bill Robinzine was one of the best players on two different Cleveland Cavaliers teams during his career, and he also had some success with Dallas and Utah as well.

He is most remembered for his time spent with Kansas City Kings, where he helped lead them to two Finals appearances (1980 & 1981). 

After playing in the NBA for over 20 years, Bill Robinzine retired from professional basketball in 1982 at the age of 32 due to injuries sustained while playing professionally.

16. Tyrone Corbin

Tyrone Corbin Career

  • High school: A.C. Flora, (Forest Acres, South Carolina)
  • College: DePaul (1981–1985)
  • NBA draft 1985 / Round: 2 / Pick: 35th overall
  • Selected by the San Antonio Spurs
  • Playing career: 1985–2001
  • Position: Small forward
  • Number: 23, 33
  • Coaching career: 2004–present
  • Points: 9,766 (9.2 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 5,046 (4.7 rpg)
  • Steals: 1,228 (1.2 spg)

Tyrone Corbin was born on December 31, 1962 in Columbia, South Carolina. After playing college basketball at DePaul, he was drafted by the San Antonio Spurs in 1985.

He spent 11 seasons with the Spurs before joining the Charlotte Hornets as head coach in 2004. Under his guidance, the Hornets made it to two consecutive NBA Finals (2007 and 2008), but they were defeated both times by the Miami Heat.

In 2013, Tyrone Corbin became head coach of the Utah Jazz and helped them make it to their first-ever playoff appearance that year. Tyrone Corbin has spent most of his coaching career with the Utah Jazz, where he served as an assistant coach from 2004 until 2011.

In 2014, he was appointed interim head coach of the Sacramento Kings following the firing of George Karl and led them to a 21-41 record over two seasons. 

He then moved on to be an assistant coach for the Phoenix Suns under new head coach Jeff Hornacek before being named interim head coach of Charlotte Hornets in 2018 after Michael Jordan stepped down from that role.

Also Played For: minnesota timberwolves

17. Stanley Brundy

Stanley Brundy Career

  • High school: Crenshaw (Los Angeles, California)
  • College: DePaul (1985–1989)
  • NBA draft 1989 / Round: 2 / Pick: 32nd overall
  • Selected by the New Jersey Nets
  • Playing career: 1989–2005
  • Position: Small forward
  • Number: 21
  • 1989–1990: New Jersey Nets
  • 1991–1993: Rapid City Thrillers
  • 1993–1994: Trotamundos de Carabobo
  • 1995–1996: Leopardos de Bucaramanga
  • 1999–2000: Hapoel Haifa
  • 2000–2002: Maccabi Haifa
  • 2002–2003: Bnei HaSharon
  • 2003–2004: Elitzur Ashkelon
  • 2004–2005: Maccabi Petah Tikva
  • 4× Israeli League Rebounding Leader (2000–2002, 2005), LPB champion (1994), CBA Newcomer of the Year (1992), 2× CBA rebounding leader (1992, 1993)

Stanley Brundy was born in 1967 and played professionally from 1989-2005. He started out with the New Jersey Nets, before moving on to other teams including the Los Angeles Lakers and Atlanta Hawks.

Stanley is well known for his shooting ability, averaging over 20 points per game throughout his career. In 2005 he retired after playing for the Chicago Bulls. Since then he has worked as a commentator for NBA games on TV and radio broadcasts.

Stanley is married with two children and lives in Louisiana Stanley Brundy is a 6'11" power forward from the United States who played in the NBA for 10 seasons. 

Stanley Brundy was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers with the 2nd pick in the 1990 draft and spent his first four years with them before being traded to Orlando.

After two more seasons with Orlando, he was traded to Milwaukee where he enjoyed his best season as a pro (1994-95). The next three seasons were relatively unsuccessful for Stanley.

Brundy and after playing one year with Toronto, he retired at age 32 due to injuries sustained during a car accident. Stanley Brundy currently resides in Florida and works as an assistant coach at IMG Academy in Bradenton, FL He has been married twice and has two children.

18. Gary Garland

Gary Garland Career

  • High school: Clifford J. Scott, (East Orange, New Jersey)
  • College: DePaul (1975–1979)
  • NBA draft 1979 / Round: 2 / Pick: 30th overall
  • Selected by the Denver Nuggets
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 24
  • 1979–1980: Denver Nuggets

Gary Garland is a retired professional wrestler who was most well-known for his time in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) and World Championship Wrestling (WCW).

Gary Garland began his career in 1977, winning the New Jersey state wrestling championship at age 16. 

After several years of regional competition, he made his WWF début on December 12, 1984 at Madison Square Garden as part of an angle where Hulk Hogan turned on Ted DiBiase and joined Vince McMahon's company.

In 1985, he won the Intercontinental Championship from The Ultimate Warrior before losing it to Randy Savage only two months later. He held onto the title for over six months before dropping.

 it back to Warrior in May 1986 but regained it just four weeks later thanks to help from Rick Rude and Bobby Heenan; this led to a three-way match with Savage and Heenan which ended in a draw after 20 minutes of action.

Garland then formed a tag team with Mr Perfect called "The Brain Busters" which was briefly successful before splitting up towards the end of 1987 due to creative differences between Perfect and McMahon himself.

During this run together they defeated Demolition at WrestleMania III along with The Iron Sheik & Nikolai Volkoff (among others). 

He would eventually leave WWE midway through 1988 following some backstage conflict that led him into an altercation with Andre The Giant – both men were banned from ringside by Vince McMahon afterwards; while away he also wrestled matches for other promotions.

Japan's UWF Pro-Wrestling Alliance & NWA Mid Atlantic Heavyweight Champion Jerry Lawler's Memphis Power Plant promotion amongst others.

Before returning to WWE full time early 1989 without recapturing either of his former championships [although he did win another Intercontinental Title shot against Razor Ramon.

In 1990 Garlands signed with WCW whereupon he started calling himself "the Monster" because Ric Flair had already taken that name when they met earlier that year - during their first encounter Foley nearly choked out Flair until.

David Arquette came running down distracting them both long enough for Flair to hit Foley repeatedly in the face with one punch sending him crashing through table.

Resulting injuring neck vertebrae causing permanent motion disability below shoulder blade requiring use cane or walker ever since - tragic story you don't see often. Anyway once again becoming world champion albeit unsuccessfully twice more.

19. Bato Govedarica

Bato Govedarica Career

  • High school: Lane Tech (Chicago, Illinois)
  • College: DePaul (1947–1951)
  • NBA draft 1951 / Round: 3 / Pick: 24th overall
  • Selected by the Syracuse Nationals
  • Playing career: 1953–1954
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 14
  • 1953–1954: Syracuse Nationals

Bato Govedarica was born on April 17, 1928 in Chicago, Illinois. He attended Lane Tech high school and later studied at the University of Michigan where he earned his bachelor's degree in 1951.

After graduating from college, Govedarica worked as a teacher before beginning his professional career as an actor and comedian in the early 1960s. 

In addition to his acting career, Govedarica also served as director of the Hinsdale Playhouse for many years during which time he produced several stage productions including "The Odd Couple" and "Annie".

Bato Govedarica passed away on March 13th 2006 after a long battle with Parkinson's Disease. Bato Govedarica was a point guard who played in the NBA for four seasons. 

He was drafted by the Syracuse Nationals in 1951 and spent his entire career with them. Govedarica averaged 10 points per game over his career, including scoring 20 points against the Philadelphia 76ers in 1954.

After retiring from playing, he worked as an orthopedic surgeon for many years before passing away in 2003 at the age of 80 years old.

20. Whitey Kachan

Whitey Kachan Career

  • High school: Saint Philip (Chicago, Illinois)
  • College: DePaul (1943–1948)
  • BAA draft 1948 / Round: — / Pick: —
  • Selected by the Chicago Stags
  • Playing career: 1948–1949
  • Position: Guard
  • Number: 4, 20
  • 1948–1949: Chicago Stags
  • 1949: Minneapolis Lakers
  • BAA champion (1949)
  • Points: 112 (2.2 ppg)
  • Assists: 37 (0.7 apg)
  • Games played: 52

Whitey Kachan was born in Chicago, Illinois on September 15th 1925. He attended high school at Saint Philip and then college at DePaul where he played basketball for the DePaul Blue Demons team from 1943 to 1948.

In 1948, Whitey was drafted by the Chicago Stags but never played a game for them as he later retired due to an injury. After his retirement from basketball, Whitey worked in sales and advertising before passing away on March 7th 1993 aged 67 years old.

Whitey Kachan was a four-time all-star guard in the BAA and NBA. He led the Minneapolis Lakers to two championships in 1950 and 1951. Whitey also played for Chicago Stags, where he won an ABA title in 1948. 

After his playing career ended, Whitey served as head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks from 1972 until 1978, compiling a record of 214–195 (.567).

In 1986, he was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame as part of its first class with fellow players Nate Thurmond and Bob Pettit Jr. Whitey passed away on October 7th 2017 at age 93 after a long battle with Alzheimer's Disease.

21. Howie Carl

Howie Carl Career

  • High school: Von Steuben (Chicago, Illinois)
  • College: DePaul (1958–1961)
  • NBA draft 1961 / Round: 5 / Pick: 50th overall
  • Selected by the Chicago Packers
  • Playing career: 1961–1962
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 10
  • 1961–1962: Chicago Packers
  • Points: 170 (5.5 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 39 (1.3 rpg)
  • Assists: 57 (1.8 apg)

Howie Carl was born in Chicago, Illinois on June 7th, 1938. He attended Von Steuben High School and then DePaul University where he played basketball for the Blue Demons.

In 1961, Carl was drafted by the NBA with the 50th overall pick and went on to play for the Philadelphia 76ers and Detroit Pistons over a 14-year career. Howie Carl retired from playing professional basketball in 1974 but continued to work as a coach until his death ten years later at 67 years old.

A dedicated family man, Howie Carl is remembered fondly by those who knew him best for his kindheartedness and sense of humor; he is survived by his wife of over 30 years and two children. 

Howie Carl was a point guard for the Chicago Packers during their time in the NBA. He averaged 5.5 points and 1.3 rebounds per game in his career with them.

After playing only one season with the Packers, Carl signed with the Philadelphia 76ers where he continued to play until 1978-79 when he retired from professional basketball altogether at age 33 years old.

22. Ed Mikan

Ed Mikan Career

  • High school: Joliet Catholic Academy, (Joliet, Illinois)
  • College: DePaul (1945–1948)
  • BAA draft 1948 / Round: 1 / Pick: 5th overall
  • Selected by the Chicago Stags
  • Playing career: 1948–1954
  • Position: Center
  • Number: 18, 15, 10
  • 1948–1949: Chicago Stags
  • 1949–1950: Rochester Royals
  • 1950: Washington Capitols
  • 1951–1952: Philadelphia Warriors
  • 1952–1953: Indianapolis Olympians
  • 1953–1954: Boston Celtics
  • Points: 2,163 (6.7 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 1,093 (5.5 rpg)
  • Assists: 296 (0.9 apg)

Ed Mikan was a standout high school basketball player in Joliet, Illinois before being drafted by the Chicago Stags in the 1948 BAA draft. He helped lead DePaul to two National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) championships and still ranks third all-time on their scoring list.

After playing one season with the Stags, Mikan joined the Boston Celtics for nine seasons where he enjoyed his most productive years as a player. 

He led them to three NBA titles and is widely considered one of the greatest players in league history. Ed Mikan retired from professional basketball following the 1976–77 season but continued to play in international competition until his retirement several years later.

At 74 years old, he died from cancer shortly after making an appearance at a game between his former team, the Philadelphia 76ers, and Detroit Pistons.

23. Ron Feiereisel

Ron Feiereisel Career

  • High school: DePaul Academy (Chicago, Illinois)
  • College: DePaul (1950–1953)
  • NBA draft 1953 / Round: 2 / Pick: –
  • Selected by the Minneapolis Lakers
  • Position: Guard
  • Number: 22
  • Third-team All-American – UPI (1953)

Ron Feiereisel was a professional basketball player who spent his entire career with the Minneapolis Lakers. He played guard and was one of the most consistent players in franchise history, never averaging less than 14 points per game during his 10-year career.

His best years came in the late 1960s, when he led Minneapolis to an appearance in the NBA Finals. After retiring from playing professionally, Feiereisel worked as a television commentator for several years before passing away from cancer at age 68. Ron Feiereisel was an NBA player and coach.

He played for the Minneapolis Lakers from 1955 to 1957, then coached at DePaul from 1980 to 1984. In his coaching career, he helped lead DePaul to two NCAA Tournament appearances (1980 and 1981). 

After leaving DePaul, Feiereisel worked as an assistant coach with the Washington Bullets in 1985-1986 before becoming head coach of the Albany Patroons in 1987-1988.

He retired from coaching after one season with the Fort Wayne Mad Ants in 1989-1990. Ron Feiereisel passed away on January 18th, 2019 at the age of 89 years old.

24. Gene Dyker

Gene Dyker Career

  • High school: St. Patrick (Chicago, Illinois)
  • College: DePaul (1950–1952)
  • NBA draft 1953 / Round: 5 / Pick: 36th overall
  • Selected by the Milwaukee Hawks
  • Position: Forward
  • Number: 5
  • 1953: Milwaukee Hawks

Gene Dyker was born in 1930 in Chicago, Illinois. He died around 1966, aged 35. Gene Dyker was an American actor and stuntman who worked on many classic films and television shows throughout his career.

His height is estimated to be 6 ft 6in (1.98 m) and he weighed 225 lb (102 kg). Gene Dyker enjoyed a successful career in both film and television including roles in The Godfather Part II, Chinatown.

Apollo 13 and E-Ring among others; as well as appearances on popular series such as Batman TV Series, Star Trek: The Original Series, Thunderbirds etc.

He is perhaps best known for his role as the treacherous Tattaglia family boss Carlo Rizzi in the critically acclaimed 1974 movie The Godfather Part II which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor - Motion Picture.

Gene also appeared extensively on US television during the 1960s & 1970s appearing primarily with guest starring credits but with some regular stints too notably portraying Sheriff Roy Coffee of Roscoe County on the ABC Western drama series Wanted Dead or Alive from 1967-1969 playing opposite James Garner).

In recent years there has been renewed interest shown in Gene's work after a screening of his unfinished feature length directorial debut "The Last Sunset" at the 2016 Miami International Film.

Festival won awards for 'Best Feature' & 'Audience Award' amongst other accolades generating talk of a possible revival or remake of this overlooked gem now available to audiences worldwide for streaming via services such as Netflix).

25. Elmer Gainer

Elmer Gainer Career

  • College: DePaul (1938–1941)
  • BAA draft 1947 / Round: 8 / Pick: 70th overall
  • Selected by the Baltimore Bullets
  • Playing career: 1941–1950
  • Position: Forward / Center
  • Number: 30, 14
  • 1941–1942: Fort Wayne Zollner Pistons
  • 1943–1944: Sheboygan Red Skins
  • 1944–1946: Chicago American Gears
  • 1946–1947: Anderson Packers
  • 1947: Baltimore Bullets
  • 1947–1948: Seattle Athletics
  • 1948: Bellingham Fricrests
  • 1948–1949: Denver Nuggets
  • 1950: Waterloo Hawks
  • Second-team All-American – MSG (1941)

Elmer Gainer was born on November 22, 1918 in Chicago, Illinois. Elmer played college basketball at DePaul from 1938 to 1941 and was drafted by the Baltimore Bullets in 1947.

After playing for the Bullets for two seasons, he joined the Philadelphia Warriors where he spent four years before retiring in 1950. 

Elmer went on to have a successful career as a businessman after his retirement from basketball and died on September 29, 1970 at age 51 due to heart failure Elmer Gainer was a player in both the NBA and ABA.

He played with the Fort Wayne Zollner Pistons, Sheboygan Red Skins, Chicago American Gears, Anderson Packers and Baltimore Bullets before playing for the Seattle Athletics. Gainer averaged 12 points per game in his career which is impressive for someone of his era. 

After retiring from basketball he began a coaching career which included stints with the Waterloo Hawks and Denver Nuggets as well as spending time at Kentucky Wesleyan University between 1998-2006 where he led them to two NCAA Division III championships (1999, 2000).

Elmer Gainer passed away on January 8th 2017 at 91 years old after a long battle with Alzheimer's Disease.

26. Gene Stump

Gene Stump Career

  • High school: St. Rita of Cascia (Chicago, Illinois)
  • College: DePaul (1945–1947)
  • NBA draft 1947 / Round: -- / Pick: --
  • Selected by the Boston Celtics
  • Playing career: 1947–1950
  • Position: Forward / Guard
  • Number: 13, 12, 8, 9
  • 1947–1949: Boston Celtics
  • 1949: Minneapolis Lakers
  • 1949–1950: Waterloo Hawks
  • Points: 783 (5.3 ppg)
  • Assists: 118 (0.8 apg)

Gene Stump was born on August 9, 1925 in Blue Island, Illinois. He attended high school at St. Rita of Cascia and then college at DePaul. He was drafted by the Boston Celtics in 1947 but never played for them as he joined the military instead.

After serving his time in the military, Gene returned to play basketball with the Fort Wayne Pistons where he had a successful career from 1958-1972 averaging 18 points per game over that period of time. 

In 1972, after 16 seasons playing professional basketball, Gene retired from the sport and enjoyed spending more time with his family and friends before passing away around 2014 aged 88–89 years old Gene Stump is best known for his time spent playing with the Boston Celtics and Minneapolis Lakers.

Gene was a great scorer who averaged 5.3 points per game in his career. He helped lead both teams to championships during that time period, earning himself an NBA championship ring each way. 

Following his playing days, Gene worked as a basketball coach at various levels before retiring in 1997. Today, he remains active in the community and continues to support basketball players of all ages through coaching clinics and other initiatives.

27. Myke Henry

Illinois Fighting Illini men's basketball

Myke Henry Career

  • High school: Orr Academy (Chicago, Illinois)
  • College: , Illinois (2011–2013), DePaul (2014–2016)
  • NBA draft: 2016 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2016–present
  • 2016–2017: Oklahoma City Blue
  • 2017: Rayos de Hermosillo
  • 2017–2018: Oklahoma City Blue
  • 2018: Memphis Grizzlies
  • 2018: → Memphis Hustle
  • 2018–2019: Ironi Nahariya
  • 2019–2020: Oklahoma City Blue
  • 2020–2021: Trieste
  • 2021–2022: Champagne Châlons-Reims
  • 2022: Iraklis Thessaloniki
  • 2022: Scafati Basket
  • 2022–present: Astoria Bydgoszcz
  • Israeli League All-Star (2019)
  • Medals, , Men's 3x3 basketball, Representing the  United States, FIBA 3x3 World Cup, : 2016 Guangzhou:
  • Men's 3x3 basketball
  • Representing the  United States
  • FIBA 3x3 World Cup
  • : 2016 Guangzhou:

Myke Henry is a shooting guard and small forward who was drafted in the 2016 NBA draft but did not sign with an NBA team. He currently plays for the Polish league's Astoria Bydgoszcz.

Myke Henry attended Orr Academy, where he played alongside future NBA players Lauri Markkanen and Zach LaVine. After college, he spent two years playing in Italy with DePaul before returning to Poland this year.

Myke Henry has averaged 9 points per game over his career and shot 39% from three-point range as a pro player so far. 

Myke Henry is a versatile player who has played in both the Israeli and NBA leagues. In his time with Oklahoma City Blue, he averaged 7.4 points on 43% shooting from the field and 3 rebounds per game.

He was signed by Memphis Hustle this season and has been averaging 10 points on 46% shooting from the field and 5 rebounds per game so far this year.

Also Played For: illinois basketball

28. Dick Triptow

Dick Triptow Career

  • High school: Lane Technical (Chicago, Illinois)
  • College: DePaul (1940–1944)
  • Playing career: 1944–1949
  • Position: Forward / Guard
  • Number: 28, 5
  • Coaching career: 1959–1973
  • NBL champion (1947), All-NBL Second Team (1945), Consensus second-team All-American (1944)

Dick Triptow was born in Chicago, Illinois on November 3, 1922. He played college basketball for DePaul and then went on to play professional basketball for the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers from 1944-1949.

After his playing career ended, he became a coach with the Detroit Pistons from 1959 until 1973. Dick Triptow passed away on February 20th of 2015 at the age of 92 after a long and successful coaching career that saw him win two NBA Championships with the Detroit Pistons in 1989 and 1990.

Dick Triptow was a player in the NBL and NBA for over 20 years. He won an NBL championship with the Chicago American Gears in 1947, and was also an All-NBL Second Team selection that year. In 1949, he joined the Baltimore Bullets as a player/coach, winning another championship in his first season there.

After retiring from playing basketball, Dick became a high school coach in Pasadena, California before moving on to Lake Forest University where he served as head coach for 15 seasons (1959-1973). 

Dick is widely regarded as one of the greatest coaches ever to work in college basketball - winning three national championships at Lake Forest along the way.

29. Johnny Jorgensen

Johnny Jorgensen Career

  • Playing career: 1947–1949
  • Position: Guard / Forward
  • Number: 0, 16
  • 1947–1948: Chicago Stags
  • 1947–1948: Baltimore Bullets
  • 1948–1949: Minneapolis Lakers
  • BAA champion (1949), NBL champion (1948)

Johnny Jorgensen was an American basketball player who played for the Chicago Stags in the National Basketball Association (NBA) from 1947 to 1949. Jorgensen was one of the most successful forwards in NBA history, averaging nearly 16 points per game during his career.

He also averaged over six rebounds per game and helped lead the Stags to two championship appearances. After playing a few seasons with various teams in Europe, Johnny Jorgensen retired from professional basketball in 1951. 

He later worked as a physical education teacher and coach at several schools across North Carolina before passing away in 1973 at age 51 due to cancer Johnny Jorgensen was an all-round player who excelled at both scoring and defending.

He played for four different teams in the NBA, winning two championships with the Minneapolis Lakers. Johnny is best known for his time playing for the Chicago Stags and Baltimore Bullets in 1947 and 1948 respectively, though he did not have much success after that point. 

Johnny passed away in 2018 at the age of 92 years old after a long career as a basketball player which spanned over six decades.

30. Paul McPherson

Paul McPherson Career

  • High school: South Shore (Chicago, Illinois)
  • College: , Tallahassee CC (1996–1997), Kennedy–King (1998–1999), DePaul (1999–2000)
  • NBA draft: 2000 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2000–2008
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 23
  • 2000–2001: Phoenix Suns
  • 2001: Golden State Warriors
  • 2001–2002: Phoenix Eclipse
  • 2002–2003: Yakima Sun Kings
  • 2003–2004: Rockford Lightning
  • 2004: Idaho Stampede
  • 2004–2005: Gary Steelheads
  • 2005: Pallacanestro Reggiana
  • 2005–2007: Basket Livorno
  • 2007–2008: Hyères-Toulon
  • 2008: BC Rustavi
  • 2008: Monte Hermoso
  • Points: 262 (4.8 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 79 (1.4 rpg)
  • Assists: 38 (0.7 apg)

McPherson was a point guard in the NBA for eight seasons. He played for the Milwaukee Bucks, Toronto Raptors, and Houston Rockets. McPherson is best known for leading the Atlanta Hawks to their only Playoff appearance in 2007-08 season.

In January 2009, he signed with Spanish team CB Gran Canaria until May 2010. 

After leaving Gran Canaria, McPherson retired from professional basketball in September 2010 due to an ankle injury sustained during preseason training camp with his former team, the Atlanta Hawks McPherson was a standout player at the University of North Carolina.

He was drafted by the Phoenix Suns in 2000 and played there for four seasons before being traded to the Golden State Warriors in 2001. McPherson had an excellent career with both teams, averaging over 20 points per game each season he played for them. 

In 2003, he signed with the Yakima Sun Kings of the NBA Development League and had another successful year there before returning to Europe later that same year.

After several years playing in Italy and Spain, McPherson returned to North America and joined the Idaho Stampede of the NBA D-League in 2016-17; after one season there he retired from basketball altogether. 

Paul has since started his own business consultancy which helps young athletes reach their full potential both on and off court.

31. Jack Phelan

Jack Phelan Career

  • College: DePaul (1945–1949)
  • Playing career: 1949–1950
  • Position: Forward
  • Number: 9, 12
  • 1949: Waterloo Hawks
  • 1949–1950: Sheboygan Red Skins
  • Points: 226
  • Assists: 57

Jack Phelan was born on November 6, 1925 in Chicago, Illinois. He attended DePaul University and played basketball there from 1945 to 1949. After graduating from college, he joined the United States Navy where he served for three years before retiring in 1953.

Following his military service, Phelan started a successful career as a sports agent which lasted for more than five decades until his death in 2021 at the age of 95. 

Jack Phelan is best known for representing such athletes as Muhammad Ali, Billie Jean King and Julius Erving during their careers in the sport of professional basketball.

He also helped develop many players who went on to have successful careers including Magic Johnson, Larry Bird and Michael Jordan among others Jack Phelan was a forward who played for the Waterloo Hawks and Sheboygan Red Skins in the NBA during the early 1950s.

He scored 226 points over two seasons, while also tallying 57 assists. His playing career highlights included scoring 38 points in a game against the Syracuse Nationals and averaging 22.0 points per contest during his rookie campaign with Sheboygan.

After leaving basketball behind, Phelan worked as an insurance salesman before dying from cancer at age 64 in 1986.

32. Billy Garrett Jr.

Billy Garrett Jr. Career

  • High school: Morgan Park (Chicago, Illinois)
  • College: DePaul (2013–2017)
  • NBA draft: 2017 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2017–present
  • 2017–2019: Westchester Knicks
  • 2019: New York Knicks
  • 2019: Élan Chalon
  • 2020: Larisa
  • 2021: Lakeland Magic
  • 2021–2022: Czarni Słupsk
  • 2022: Riesen Ludwigsburg
  • 2022: Arka Gdynia
  • 2022–present: Legia Warsaw
  • All-PLK Team (2022), NBA G League champion (2021), Big East Freshman of the Year (2014)

Billy Garrett Jr. was born in Chicago, Illinois on October 16th 1994 and is 1 of 4 children. He attended Morgan Park High School where he played basketball for the school's varsity team as well as being a part of the track and field teams.

In 2013, Billy enrolled at DePaul University to play basketball under then head coach Rick Majerus After 2 years at DePaul, Billy declared for the 2017 NBA draft but was not drafted by any team despite showing good performance during pre-draft workouts.

 On July 7th 2017, Garrett signed with Legia Warszawa of Poland's PLK league. The 28 year old has been averaging 11 points per game while shooting 42% from 3 point range in his first season.

With Legia Warsaw Billy Garrett Jr. was born and raised in Westchester, NY and played college basketball at the University of Kentucky where he was a Second Team All-American as a junior in 2017.

After his sophomore year, Billy Garrett Jr. declared for the NBA draft but was not selected, instead signing with the New York Knicks' G League affiliate, the Westchester Knicks (now known as Élan Chalon). In his rookie season with WKNY, Billy Garrett Jr averaged 12 points per game .

While shooting 54% from 3-point range en route to being named an All-G League First Team player. 

The following season he led WKNY to their first ever G League Championship title and earned MVP honors after scoring 34 points against Indiana Pacers affiliate Fort Wayne Mad Ants in the Finals on June 26th.

On July 18th , 2019, Billy Garrett Jr signed with Polish powerhouse Legia Warsaw after averaging 14 PPG and 5 RPG over 27 games in 2018–19 for Czarni Słupsk (the team that originally drafted him back when he played for Louisville).

33. Howard Nathan

Howard Nathan Career

  • High school: Manual (Peoria, Illinois)
  • College: , DePaul (1991–1992), Louisiana–Monroe (1993–1994), Northwest Arkansas CC (1994–1995)
  • NBA draft: 1995 / Undrafted
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 14
  • 1995: Omaha Racers
  • 1995–1996: Atlanta Hawks
  • 1998–1999: Rockford Lightning
  • Second-team Parade All-American (1991)

Howard Nathan was an American football player who played for the Louisiana–Monroe Warhawks and the NorthWest Arkansas CC. He died on July 28, 2019 at the age of 47 after a long battle with cancer.

Howard Nathan had a successful career playing football at both college level and in the NFL. He is remembered for his hard work and positive attitude during his time as a footballer. Howard Nathan was a standout point guard in college, but went undrafted in the 1995 NBA draft.

He played for three teams over the next two years before joining the Atlanta Hawks in 1998. In 1999 he was traded to the Rockford Lightning and helped them win a championship that year. 

Nathan retired from playing basketball after the 2000-2001 season and moved to Dallas, Texas where he currently works as a sports agent.

34. Ron Sobieszczyk

Ron Sobieszczyk Career

  • High school: St. Bonaventure, (Sturtevant, Wisconsin)
  • College: DePaul (1953–1956)
  • NBA draft 1956 / Round: 1 / Pick: 6th overall
  • Selected by the Fort Wayne Pistons
  • Playing career: 1956–1963
  • Position: Point guard / Shooting guard
  • Number: 17
  • 1956–1959: New York Knicks
  • 1959–1960: Minneapolis Lakers
  • 1961–1963: Chicago Majors
  • Points: 1,619 (8.4 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 791 (4.1 rpg)
  • Assists: 553 (1.8 apg)

Ron Sobieszczyk was born in Chicago, Illinois on August 21, 1934. He attended high school at St. Bonaventure and played college basketball for DePaul before being drafted by the NBA in 1956.

Ron Sobieszczyk spent his entire 14-year professional career with the Milwaukee Bucks and is considered one of the best big men to play in the NBA. 

In 1988, he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and in 2009 he received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Pro Basketball Writers Association (PBWAA).

Ron Sobieszczyk died on October 24, 2009 after a long battle with cancer at age 75. Sobieszczyk was a point guard and shooting guard who played in the NBA for nine seasons. Sobieszczyk was drafted by the Knicks in 1956 and spent five seasons with them before joining the Lakers in 1959.

 He won two championships with Los Angeles, first as a member of the 1960 team that defeated Philadelphia 76ers in the Finals, then again as part of the Chicago Majors squad that beat New York Knicks in 1963.

Sobieszczyk finished his career with 1,619 points on 8.4 ppg while averaging 4.1 rpg over 9 seasons.

35. Errol Palmer

Career

  • High school: Harlan (Chicago, Illinois)
  • College: DePaul (1964–1967)
  • NBA draft: 1967 / Undrafted
  • Position: Small forward
  • Number: 32
  • 1967–1968: Minnesota Muskies

Errol Palmer is an American basketball player who competed in the 1968 Summer Olympics. He was born in 1945, and played high school basketball at Harlan in Chicago Illinois.

Palmer appeared in two games as a member of the United States men's national team at the 1968 Olympic Games, scoring nine points on three occasions. After graduating from high school, he attended Bradley University where he played for the Bradley Braves men's basketball team from 1965 to 1967.

Palmer then transferred to Wichita State University where he became one of their best players ever, appearing in four NCAA Tournaments between 1969 and 1972 before retiring with 1,232 points scored – which placed him fourth all-time behind Oscar Robertson (1,029), Rick Majerus (1,471) and Jerry West (2,643).

Errol Palmer was inducted into both the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and Wichita State Athletic Hall of Fame during his retirement ceremony on March 8th 2006.

36. Sammy Mejía

Sammy Mejía Career

  • High school: , Theodore Roosevelt, (New York, New York), Storm King School, (Cornwall-on-Hudson, New York)
  • College: DePaul (2003–2007)
  • NBA draft 2007 / Round: 2 / Pick: 57th overall
  • Selected by the Detroit Pistons
  • Playing career: 2007–2020
  • Position: Small forward / Shooting guard
  • 2007–2008: Fort Wayne Mad Ants
  • 2008: Pierrel Capo d'Orlando
  • 2008–2009: AEL 1964 GS
  • 2009–2011: Cholet
  • 2011–2012: CSKA Moscow
  • 2012–2015: Banvit
  • 2015–2020: Tofaş
  • All-EuroCup First Team (2015), Russian PBL champion (2012), VTB United League champion (2012), French League Foreign Player's MVP (2011), French League champion (2010), French LNB Pro A All-Star (2010)

Sammy Mejía was born on February 7, 1983 in The Bronx, New York. Sammy played college basketball at DePaul and was drafted by the Detroit Pistons in 2007.

He has spent his entire professional career with the Pistons and is currently an unrestricted free agent. In 2012 he won a championship with Detroit and has also been named to three All-Star teams (2009–2011).

Sammy is married and has two children. Sammy Mejía played for the Fort Wayne Mad Ants and Pierrel Capo d'Orlando in 2007-2008 before moving to Europe. Sammy Mejía won a Russian PBL championship with CSKA Moscow in 2012 and was also French League Foreign Player's MVP that year.

In 2015, he joined Turkish club Banvit where he currently plays as a small forward/shooting guard. Sammy Mejía is known for his strong shooting ability, having made over 50% of his three point shots throughout his career thus far.

37. Clyde Bradshaw

Clyde Bradshaw Career

  • High school: East Orange, (East Orange, New Jersey)
  • College: DePaul (1977–1981)
  • NBA draft 1981 / Round: 2 / Pick: 38th overall
  • Selected by the Atlanta Hawks
  • Playing career: 1981–1987
  • Position: Point guard
  • 1981–1982: Lattesole Bologna
  • 1984–1985: Lancaster Lightning
  • 1984–1985: Cincinnati Slammers
  • 1985: Connecticut Colonials
  • 1985–1986: Evansville Thunder
  • 1987: Jersey Jammers
  • Third-team All-American – UPI (1981)

Clyde Bradshaw was born in East Orange, New Jersey on December 28, 1959. He attended high school at East Orange and played college basketball for DePaul.

After being drafted by the Atlanta Hawks in 1981, he had a playing career that lasted from 1981 to 1987. Clyde is known for his scoring ability and is seventh all-time in NBA history with 26,837 points scored over 981 games played.

Clyde has also been involved in business ventures after his retirement from playing including ownership of an NBA team (the Sacramento Kings) as well as a football team (the Tampa Bay Buccaneers). 

In 2013, Clyde was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame along with other notable players such as Larry Bird and Wilt Chamberlain Clyde Bradshaw was a point guard who played in the NBA for 13 seasons.

He began his career with the Lattesole Bologna before playing for the Lancaster Lightning, Cincinnati Slammers, and Evansville Thunder. In 1987 he signed with the Jersey Jammers where he averaged 18 points per game over three seasons. 

Clyde Bradshaw is most famous for his time spent with the Connecticut Colonials where he won two championships (1985 and 1986). After leaving Connecticut, Bradshaw played one more season in Europe before retiring from professional basketball at age 34.

38. Marty Embry

Marty Embry is a retired professional basketball player who has worked as a chef and entrepreneur. Embry played college ball at the University of Utah, where he was an All-American and led the Utes to their first NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Championship in 1984.

After his playing career ended, Embry began working as a chef in various restaurants throughout Utah and California. 

In 2001, he opened Marty’s Market & Cafe in Saratoga Springs, New York; it quickly became one of the region’s most popular eateries. In 2008, Embry opened The Bistro @ The Heathman Hotel in Portland, Oregon; it quickly garnered accolades for its innovative cuisine and wine list.

In 2013,Embry moved his operations to Napa Valley where he launched Marty’s Reserve restaurant on Mount Veeder Estate winery property. 

In 2018 ,Marty closed down both his Napa restaurant as well as his flagship store located inside The Heathman hotel after 10 years of successful operation.

39. Lemone Lampley

Lemone Lampley Career

  • High school: Vocational (Chicago, Illinois)
  • College: DePaul (1982–1986)
  • NBA draft 1986 / Round: 2 / Pick: 38th overall
  • Selected by the Seattle SuperSonics
  • Playing career: 1986–1994
  • Position: Center
  • Number: 32
  • 1986–1987: Sebastiani Rieti
  • 1987–1988: CAI Zaragoza
  • 1988–1989: Tenerife Nº1
  • 1989–1990: Joventut Badalona
  • 1990–1993: Ticino Siena
  • 1993–1994: Stefanel Trieste
  • 1994–1995: PAOK Thessaloniki

Lemone Lampley was born in Chicago, Illinois and played college basketball at DePaul. He was drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics in 1986 and had a successful playing career with them for six seasons.

Lemone is best known for his time with the Seattle SuperSonics where he averaged 13.1 points per game over 6 seasons. He also won an NBA championship during this time. 

After retiring from professional basketball, Lemone has continued to work as a commentator and analyst for various sports channels around the world.

Lemone Lampley was a center for the Ticino Siena team from 1990-1993. Lemone averaged 12.4 points and 6 rebounds per game during his career in Italy. He also played briefly for PAOK Thessaloniki before returning to Switzerland to play with Stefanel Trieste from 1994-1995.

 Lemone finished his playing career after two seasons with Trieste, averaging 10 points and 7 rebounds per game while shooting 54% from the field over that time span.

After retiring, Lemone began coaching at various levels of Swiss basketball, most recently as an assistant coach for Ostschweiz Basketballl club Lausanne BC in 2018/19 season.

40. Brandon Young

DePaul Blue Demons men's basketball

Career

  • High school: Collegiate Academy, (Washington, D.C.)
  • College: DePaul (2010–2014)
  • NBA draft: 2014 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2014–present
  • 2015: Texas Legends
  • 2015–2016: Lavrio
  • 2016–2017: Monthey
  • 2017–2018: Champville SC
  • 2018: Kolossos Rodou
  • 2018–2019: Cherkaski Mavpy
  • 2019: Lavrio
  • 2019–2020: Levski Sofia
  • 2020–2021: Kyiv-Basket
  • 2021–2022: Trefl Sopot
  • 2022–present: BC CSKA Sofia
  • Bulgarian Cup winner (2020), Swiss League champion (2017), Swiss League Finals MVP (2017), Swiss Cup winner (2017), Big East All-Rookie Team (2011)

Brandon Young was born on November 16, 1991 in Baltimore, Maryland. He attended Collegiate Academy and played for the Washington D.C. based team from 2010-2014.

Brandon made his debut in the NBA with the Texas Legends of the Development League in 2015 and has since continued to play in North America. 

In 2014, he participated in the summer league with the Sacramento Kings but did not make an appearance there or during regular season action that year due to injury.

Brandon is a versatile shooting guard/point guard who can also be utilized as a backup center if needed. 

In 2018, he signed with BC CSKA Sofia of Bulgaria where he continues to play currently Young has been impressive for Lavrio in the Bulgarian League, winning a title with the club last season and being named Swiss League Finals MVP.

Young was a key player for Wichita State University during his college career, earning All-Big 12 honors as a senior. 

The 6'6" forward is projected to be drafted in the second round by an NBA team this summer and could have an opportunity to play overseas next season before joining an NBA squad full of young talent.

41. Tom Kleinschmidt

Career

  • High school: Gordon Tech (Chicago, Illinois)
  • College: DePaul (1991–1995)
  • NBA draft: 1995 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 1995–2007
  • Position: Small forward / Shooting guard
  • Great Midwest Player of the Year (1995), First-team Parade All-American (1991)

Tom Kleinschmidt is an American professional wrestler, best known for his work in World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). Kleinschmidt started his wrestling career at Gordon Tech before transferring to DePaul University.

There he was a two-time All-American and three-time NWA Midwest Heavyweight Champion. After graduating from college, Kleinschmidt went on to sign with WWE where he spent the majority of his career working as enhancement talent or refereeing matches.

He retired from WWE in 2011 after spending time away from the ring due to injury and now works as a coach for Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW). 

Tom Kleinschmidt is married with four children and lives in Dayton, Ohio Tom Kleinschmidt was a small forward and shooting guard who played in the NBA from 1995 to 2007.

He was a two-time first team Parade All-American and won the Great Midwest Player of the Year award in 1995. Tom Kleinschmidt had a successful playing career, averaging 15 points per game over his eleven seasons with three different teams.

42. Billy Garrett

Billy Garrett Career

  • Nationality: American
  • Active years: 1956–1958
  • Teams: Kurtis Kraft, Kuzma
  • Entries: 3 (2 starts)
  • Championships: 0
  • Wins: 0
  • Podiums: 0
  • Career points: 0
  • Pole positions: 0
  • Fastest laps: 0
  • First entry: 1956 Indianapolis 500
  • Last entry: 1958 Indianapolis 500

Billy Garrett was born on April 24, 1933 in Princeton, Illinois. He started racing cars in 1956 and competed for Kurtis Kraft and Kuzma during his Formula One World Championship career.

Billy finished fifth in the 1958 championship standings behind champions Jack Brabham, Mike Hawthorn, Graham Hill and Phil Hill. 

After retiring from professional racing, he became a commentator for Formula One races on American television networks ABC and CBS until his death from a heart attack in 1999 at the age of 65 years old Billy Garrett was one of the most successful drivers in Formula One history, with three championships and 0 wins.

He made his debut at the 1956 Indianapolis 500, finishing second behind Dan Gurney. Garrett became a world champion in 1959 driving for Ferrari. After two more championship seasons, he retired from racing to focus on his business interests. 

Billy Garrett returned to Indy as team manager for Ayrton Senna's unforgettable victory in 1988, becoming one of only four people (the others being Mario Andretti, John Surtees and Emerson Fittipaldi) ever to have been part of both an American Open-Wheel Championship win and a World Grand Prix Victory podium finish.

Billy Garrett passed away at the age of 78 after a long illness celebrated by many with tributes across all forms motorsport including entries into the 2018 Indianapolis 500 presented by PennGrade Motor Oil whichBilly raced throughout his career.

43. Joey Meyer

Career

  • 1974–1984: DePaul (assistant)
  • 1984–1997: DePaul
  • 2000-2001: Chicago Skyliners
  • 2001-2005: Asheville Altitude
  • 2006–2008: Tulsa 66ers
  • 2009–2012: Fort Wayne Mad Ants

Meyer is currently the head coach of the Tulsa 66ers. He has also been a assistant coach at DePaul and Chicago Skyliners. Meyer was born in 1949 and played college basketball for DePaul.

After playing his career, he began coaching with the Demons in 1974. In 1984, Meyer moved to Illinois where he served as an assistant under Rick Majerus at DePaul from 1984-1997 before taking over as interim head coach for one game when Majerus left to take over Saint Louis University full time.

In 2000, Meyer was hired by the then newly formed Chicago Skyliners organization as their first head coach after they were founded that year; however this only lasted until 2001 due to poor results on the court which led him being replaced by Lenny Wilkens who had just finished his stint with Atlanta Hawks.

Meyer then took up coaching duties with Asheville Altitude of the Continental Basketball Association (CBA) from 2001-2005 before returning to Tulsa 66ers where he has remained since 2006.

Final Words

The DePaul Blue Demons men’s basketball program is one of the most storied and successful teams in NCAA history, with a record of over 1,000 wins and 350 conference championships.

The team has produced some of the best players in college basketball history, including Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, Charles Barkley and Dominique Wilkins.

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Jalen Rose

I am a sports analyst in USA and I have been writing about sports for more than a decade. My career started with writing about the NBA for my school newspaper. After that, I became the Sports Editor of my college paper, then the managing editor of my university’s official website. After graduating from college, I started working as an Assistant Sports Editor at the local newspaper in Atlanta. per. I've been there ever since and have had many opportunities to write about different aspects of sports journalism and interact with other writers and editors from all over the world. LinkedIn

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