51 Houston Rockets Best Players of All Time

Morgan Wolf

Updated on:

The Houston Rockets are a professional basketball team that have been thrilling fans since the 1970s. Founded in 1967, they were one of four expansion teams to join the NBA that year, and their first season was full of excitement as they made it to the playoffs. Since then, the Rockets have become synonymous with success and excellence on the court thanks to some of their legendary players like Hakeem Olajuwon and Yao Ming. With six division titles under their belt and two championships won in 1994 & 1995, there is no doubt why many consider them one of today’s top franchises. The Rockets currently play at Toyota Center located downtown Houston where passionate fans cheer them on each game day.

Table of Contents

1. James Harden

Point guard

James Harden Career

  • 2009–2012: Oklahoma City Thunder
  • 2012–2021: Houston Rockets
  • 2021–2022: Brooklyn Nets
  • 2022–present: Philadelphia 76ers

James Harden is a 3-time NBA All Star and was the 2017–2018 MVP. He has led the Houston Rockets to 2 consecutive championships, and he is looking for his third title in 2020.

Harden played college basketball at Arizona State before being drafted by the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2009. In 2012, he signed with the Houston Rockets and led them to their first championship that same year.

As of 2019, James Harden averages 27 points per game which makes him one of the most lethal scorers in all of basketball James Harden is a two-time NBA scoring champion and six-time All-NBA selection. 

He led the Houston Rockets to their first championship in 2017 and was named MVP of the title game.

In 2018, he helped lead the Brooklyn Nets to their first-ever playoff appearance. James Harden's skills have earned him numerous awards, including Most Valuable Player and Sixth Man of the Year honors in 2018 and 2019 respectively.

2. Hakeem Olajuwon

Center

Hakeem Olajuwon Career

  • High school: Muslim Teachers College, (Lagos, Nigeria)
  • College: Houston (1981–1984)
  • NBA draft 1984 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
  • Selected by the Houston Rockets
  • Playing career: 1984–2002
  • Position: Center
  • Number: 34
  • 1984–2001: Houston Rockets
  • 2001–2002: Toronto Raptors
  • 2× NBA champion (1994, 1995), 2× NBA Finals MVP (1994, 1995), NBA Most Valuable Player (1994), 12× NBA All-Star (1985–1990, 1992–1997), 6× All-NBA First Team (1987–1989, 1993, 1994, 1997), 3× All-NBA Second Team (1986, 1990, 1996), 3× All-NBA Third Team (1991, 1995, 1999), 2× NBA Defensive Player of the Year (1993, 1994), 5× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1987, 1988, 1990, 1993, 1994), 4× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1985, 1991, 1996, 1997), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1985), IBM Award (1993), 2× NBA rebounding leader (1989, 1990), 3× NBA blocks leader (1990, 1991, 1993), No. 34 retired by Houston Rockets, NBA anniversary team (50th, 75th), Consensus first-team All-American (1984), NCAA rebounding leader (1984), SWC Player of the Year (1984), NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding Player (1983), No. 34 retired by Houston Cougars, Texas Sports Hall of Fame, Houston Sports Hall of Fame
  • Points: 26,946 (21.8 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 13,747 (11.1 rpg)
  • Blocks: 3,830 (3.1 bpg)
  • Basketball Hall of Fame as player
  • FIBA Hall of Fame as player
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 1996 Atlanta: Team competition
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing the  United States
  • Olympic Games
  • : 1996 Atlanta: Team competition

Hakeem Olajuwon was one of the greatest centers in NBA history. He won five championships with the Houston Rockets and is still considered one of the best players to ever play the game.

Hakeem Olajuwon was born on January 21, 1963, in Lagos, Nigeria. After high school he attended Muslim Teachers College in Lagos before transferring to Houston where he played college basketball for the Cougars from 1981-1984.

The 1984 draft saw Olajuwon selected first overall by the then-Houston Rockets team; during his 15 seasons playing in Houston, he led them to 5 Championships (1994–95, 1996–97, 1999–2000, 2003–04). In 2002 he retired from professional basketball at age 36 after a long career spanning 15 years and 350 games.

Outside of basketball, Hakeem has been involved in humanitarian work throughout his life – most notably through Operation Smile which helps children suffering from cleft lip and palate surgery around the world receive treatment free of charge. 

Hakeem currently serves as an ambassador for Operation Smile. In 2001 Hakeem married Rebbie Chung and they have two daughters together: Aneka (born 2002) and Zahra (born 2006).

Also Played For: center basketball, toronto raptors

3. Yao Ming

Center

Yao Ming Career

  • NBA draft 2002 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
  • Selected by the Houston Rockets
  • Playing career: 1997–2011
  • Position: Center
  • Number: 11
  • 1997–2002: Shanghai Sharks
  • 2002–2011: Houston Rockets
  • 8× NBA All-Star (2003–2009, 2011), 2× All-NBA Second Team (2007, 2009), 3× All-NBA Third Team (2004, 2006, 2008), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2003), No. 11 retired by Houston Rockets, CBA MVP (2001), CBA champion (2002), CBA Finals MVP (2001), 3× CBA rebounding leader (2000, 2001, 2002), 3× CBA blocks leader (2000, 2001, 2002), 2× CBA Slam Dunk leader (2000, 2001), 3× FIBA Asia Cup MVP (2001, 2003, 2005), FIBA World Cup Top Scorer (2006)
  • Points: 9,247 (19.0 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 4,494 (9.2 rpg)
  • Blocks: 920 (1.9 bpg)
  • Basketball Hall of Fame as player
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  China, FIBA Asia Cup, : 2001 Shanghai: , : 2003 Harbin: , : 2005 Doha: , Asian Games, : 2002 Busan:
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  China
  • FIBA Asia Cup
  • : 2001 Shanghai:
  • : 2003 Harbin:
  • : 2005 Doha:
  • Asian Games
  • : 2002 Busan:

Yao Ming was born in Shanghai, China on September 12th, 1980. He began playing basketball at the age of six and quickly became a standout player. In 2001, Yao won the FIBA World Championship with China and he also won two Olympic gold medals (2004, 2008).

After his retirement from professional basketball in 2011, Yao became the sixth president of the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA). He has been a member of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference since 2013 and is currently Chairman Yu Zhengsheng's deputy secretary general.

Yao Ming is a basketball legend who was one of the best players in NBA history. He won multiple awards and accolades, including an 8x All-Star selection and 2x All-NBA Second Team honors. 

Yao became a household name after his standout performance at the 2002 NBA draft where he was chosen first overall by the Houston Rockets.

His playing career spanned from 1997 to 2011 and saw him win several trophies along the way, including an MVP award in 2009. 

Now retired from professional basketball, Yao remains involved with various charities and continues to support young athletes through his work as an administrator for basketball training academies across China.

Also Played For: china basketball league, nba 2000s

4. Tracy McGrady

Tracy McGrady Career

  • High school: , Auburndale (Auburndale, Florida), Mount Zion Christian Academy, (Durham, North Carolina)
  • NBA draft 1997 / Round: 1 / Pick: 9th overall
  • Selected by the Toronto Raptors
  • Playing career: 1997–2013
  • Position: Shooting guard / Small forward
  • Number: 1, 3
  • 1997–2000: Toronto Raptors
  • 2000–2004: Orlando Magic
  • 2004–2010: Houston Rockets
  • 2010: New York Knicks
  • 2010–2011: Detroit Pistons
  • 2011–2012: Atlanta Hawks
  • 2012–2013: Qingdao Eagles
  • 2013: San Antonio Spurs
  • 7× NBA All-Star (2001–2007), 2× All-NBA First Team (2002, 2003), 3× All-NBA Second Team (2001, 2004, 2007), 2× All-NBA Third Team (2005, 2008), 2× NBA scoring champion (2003, 2004), NBA Most Improved Player (2001), CBA All-Star (2013), No. 1 retired by Qingdao Eagles, Mr. Basketball USA (1997), McDonald's All-American (1997), First-team Parade All-American (1997)
  • Points: 18,381 (19.6 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 5,276 (5.6 rpg)
  • Assists: 4,161 (4.4 apg)
  • Basketball Hall of Fame as player
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, FIBA Americas Championship, : 2003 San Juan: Team competition
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  United States
  • FIBA Americas Championship
  • : 2003 San Juan: Team competition

Tracy McGrady was a three-time NBA All-Star and one of the greatest shooting guards in history. He played for the Houston Rockets, Orlando Magic, and Dallas Mavericks before retiring in 2013.

Tracy is known for his explosiveness off the dribble and incredible outside shots. Tracy has two children with wife Tatum O'Neal – son Trayce (born 2006) and daughter Tori (born 2009). 

In February 2017, he announced his retirement from basketball after 16 seasons in the league Tracy McGrady was an All-Star and scoring champion in the NBA.

He also won a Mr. Basketball award, which is given to the best high school player in America. McGrady played for six different teams during his 11-year career, but he is most famous for playing with the Toronto Raptors and Orlando Magic. 

Injuries cut short his time with the Rockets and Knicks, but Tracy finished his career with a championship win with the Spurs in 2013.

5. Moses Malone

Center

Moses Malone Career

  • High school: Petersburg (Petersburg, Virginia)
  • ABA draft 1974 / Round: 3
  • Selected by the Utah Stars
  • Playing career: 1974–1995
  • Position: Center
  • Number: 22, 13, 20, 21, 24, 2, 4, 8
  • Coaching career: 2006–2009
  • NBA champion (1983), NBA Finals MVP (1983), 3× NBA Most Valuable Player (1979, 1982, 1983), 12× NBA All-Star (1978–1989), ABA All-Star (1975), 4× All-NBA First Team (1979, 1982, 1983, 1985), 4× All-NBA Second Team (1980, 1981, 1984, 1987), NBA All-Defensive First Team (1983), NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1979), ABA All-Rookie Team (1975), 6× NBA rebounding leader (1979, 1981–1985), NBA anniversary team (50th, 75th), ABA All-Time Team, No. 2 retired by Philadelphia 76ers, No. 24 retired by Houston Rockets, National high school player of the year (1974), First-team Parade All-American (1974), Fourth-team Parade All-American (1973)
  • Points: 29,580 (20.6 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 17,834 (12.2 rpg)
  • Blocks: 1,889 (1.3 bpg)
  • Basketball Hall of Fame as player

Moses Malone was one of the most dominant centers in NBA history. He averaged 22 points, 13 rebounds and 2 blocks per game during his career. 

Malone led the Philadelphia 76ers to two NBA championships in 1984 and 1985, as well as a runner-up finish in 1983.

After retiring from playing basketball, Moses transitioned into coaching with the Memphis Grizzlies in 2006–2009. Moses Malone passed away on September 13th, 2015 at the age of 60

After a long battle with dementia caused by years of head injuries sustained while playing professional basketball Moses Malone was one of the most dominant players in NBA history.

He won three MVP awards, 12 All-Star games, and four consecutive first-team selections. Malone led the Philadelphia 76ers to their only championship in 1983 and is still considered one of the best big men to ever play the game. 

After a successful playing career, Moses Malone became an influential coach with Philadelphia before moving on to Atlanta, Milwaukee and finally Houston where he retired as head coach in 2009.

6. Rudy Tomjanovich

Rudy Tomjanovich Career

  • 1970–1981: San Diego / Houston Rockets
  • As coach:
  • 1983–1992: Houston Rockets (assistant)
  • 1992–2003: Houston Rockets
  • 2004–2005: Los Angeles Lakers

Rudy Tomjanovich played in the NBA for over 20 years, most notably with the San Diego Rockets. He is known as one of the best power forwards to ever play the game and was a 12-time All-Star.

After retiring from playing he went on to work as a consultant for various teams in the league. Rudy Tomjanovich has also served as head coach of several teams, most notably Houston and Los Angeles Lakers, where he led them to two championships respectively.

He is currently retired from coaching but remains an influential figure within basketball circles Rudy Tomjanovich was a highly successful coach in the NBA, winning two championships with the Houston Rockets. 

He began his coaching career with the Rockets as an assistant and later took over as head coach for 1992-2003.After leaving Houston, he spent four seasons as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers before retiring in 2005.

Also Played For: rockets lakers basketball, michigan high school basketball

7. Elvin Hayes

Center

Elvin Hayes Career

  • High school: Eula D. Britton (Rayville, Louisiana)
  • College: Houston (1964–1968)
  • NBA draft 1968 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
  • Selected by the San Diego Rockets
  • Playing career: 1968–1984
  • Position: Power forward / center
  • Number: 11, 44
  • 1968–1972: San Diego / Houston Rockets
  • 1972–1981: Baltimore / Capital / Washington Bullets
  • 1981–1984: Houston Rockets
  • NBA champion (1978), 12× NBA All-Star (1969–1980), 3× All-NBA First Team (1975, 1977, 1979), 3× All-NBA Second Team (1973, 1974, 1976), 2× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1974, 1975), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1969), NBA scoring champion (1969), 2× NBA rebounding leader (1970, 1974), No. 11 retired by Washington Wizards, No. 44 retired by Houston Rockets, NBA anniversary team (50th, 75th), Associated Press Player of the Year (1968), UPI Player of the Year (1968), Sporting News Player of the Year (1968), 2× Consensus first-team All-American (1967, 1968), No. 44 retired by Houston Cougars
  • Points: 27,313 (21.0 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 16,279 (12.5 rpg)
  • Blocks: 1,171 (2.0 bpg)
  • Basketball Hall of Fame as player
  • College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006

Elvin Hayes was a dominant player in the NBA for many years and is considered one of the greatest power forwards of all time. He was drafted first overall by the San Diego Rockets in 1968, and went on to play with them until 1984.

His most famous moments came during his tenure with the Houston Rockets, where he won three championships (1975, 1980, 1982). Hayes retired from professional basketball after winning another title with the Utah Jazz in 1997. 

Elvin Hayes has since gone on to have a successful career as an executive in sports management; he currently serves as president of Basketball Operations for the Atlanta Hawks franchise.

Hayes was a dominant player in the NBA for many years, winning championships with both the Washington Wizards and Houston Rockets. 

Hayes was also a unanimous All-American twice and won several other awards throughout his career. He is now retired from professional basketball but continues to be recognized as one of the all-time greats.

Also Played For: nba 75th anniversary team, houston cougars basketball

8. Calvin Murphy

Point guard

Calvin Murphy Career

  • High school: Norwalk (Norwalk, Connecticut)
  • College: Niagara (1967–1970)
  • NBA draft 1970 / Round: 2 / Pick: 18th overall
  • Selected by the San Diego Rockets
  • Playing career: 1970–1983
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 23
  • Coaching career: 1990–1993
  • NBA All-Star (1979), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1971), J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award (1979), No. 23 retired by Niagara Purple Eagles, No. 23 retired by Houston Rockets, 2× Consensus first-team All-American (1969, 1970), Consensus second-team All-American (1968), Mr. Basketball USA (1966), First-team Parade All-American (1966)
  • Points: 17,949 (17.9 ppg)
  • Assists: 4,402 (4.4 apg)
  • Steals: 1,165 (1.5 spg)
  • Basketball Hall of Fame as player
  • College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006

Calvin Murphy was a high school basketball standout in Norwalk, Connecticut. He attended Niagara University and played for the Niagaras during the 1967-1970 seasons.

The San Diego Rockets selected him with the 18th overall pick in the 1970 NBA draft, and he spent four seasons with them before moving on to other teams. Murphy retired as a player after playing 13 seasons in the NBA from 1970 to 1983, winning two championships (with Boston Celtics in 1976 and the Philadelphia 76ers in 1982).

After his retirement from professional basketball, Murphy began coaching and has served as head coach of several teams since 1990 including stints at George Mason University (1993–1994) and Northwestern State University (1995–1996). 

Calvin Murphy was a standout player at Niagara University and was drafted in the first round of the 1969 NBA Draft by the San Diego Rockets.

He played for the Rockets for six seasons before being traded to Houston in 1983. In 1990, he became an assistant coach with the Rockets and stayed in that position until 1993 when he retired from coaching. 

Calvin Murphy is most famous for his time as a player with both San Diego and Houston; however, he also had successful stints playing elsewhere including with the Philadelphia 76ers and Denver Nuggets.

After retiring from coaching, Calvin Murphy remained active in basketball by working as an ambassador for several charitable organizations such as Boys & Girls Clubs of America and Big Brothers Big Sisters of America.

9. Clyde Drexler

Small forward

Clyde Drexler Career

  • High school: Sterling (Houston, Texas)
  • College: Houston (1980–1983)
  • NBA draft 1983 / Round: 1 / Pick: 14th overall
  • Selected by the Portland Trail Blazers
  • Playing career: 1983–1998
  • Position: Shooting guard / Small forward
  • Number: 22
  • Coaching career: 1998–2002
  • NBA champion (1995), 10× NBA All-Star (1986, 1988–1994, 1996, 1997), All-NBA First Team (1992), 2× All-NBA Second Team (1988, 1991), 2× All-NBA Third Team (1990, 1995), NBA anniversary team (50th, 75th), No. 22 retired by Portland Trail Blazers, No. 22 retired by Houston Rockets, Consensus second-team All-American (1983), SWC co-Player of the Year (1983), No. 22 retired by Houston Cougars, Texas Sports Hall of Fame, Houston Sports Hall of Fame
  • Points: 22,195 (20.4 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 6,677 (6.1 rpg)
  • Assists: 6,125 (5.6 apg)
  • Basketball Hall of Fame as player
  • College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 1992 Barcelona: Team competition, FIBA Americas Championship, : 1992 Portland[1]: Men's basketball
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing the  United States
  • Olympic Games
  • : 1992 Barcelona: Team competition
  • FIBA Americas Championship
  • : 1992 Portland[1]: Men's basketball

Clyde Drexler was a shooting guard and small forward who played in the NBA for 13 seasons. He helped lead the Portland Trail Blazers to two championships in his career, as well as other accolades.

After retiring from playing, he became a successful coach and led the Houston Rockets to several playoff appearances. Clyde Drexler was a 7-foot forward who played for the Houston Rockets from 1995 to 1998.

He won an NBA championship with the Rockets in 1995 and was named MVP of that title game. Drexler also appeared in 10 All-Star games, all as a starter, and was twice selected to the All-NBA First Team. 

He finished his career with 2× Second Team selections and 2× Third Team nods, along with 16 regular season awards including Rookie of the Year honors in 1986.

Clyde Drexler is one of only five players ever to be honored as both consensus first team All American and Player of The Year (1983). 

After retiring from playing basketball he served two terms as head coach of Division I at Texas Tech before being appointed general manager/president of Basketball Operations for Portland Trail Blazers in 2002.

Also Played For: shooting guard

10. Ralph Sampson

Power forward

Ralph Sampson 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: atlantic coast conference, virginia cavaliers men's basketball

11. Steve Francis

Point guard

Steve Francis Career

  • High school: Montgomery Blair, (Silver Spring, Maryland)
  • College: , San Jacinto (1996–1997), Allegany (1997–1998), Maryland (1998–1999)
  • NBA draft 1999 / Round: 1 / Pick: 2nd overall
  • Selected by the Vancouver Grizzlies
  • Playing career: 1999–2010
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 3, 1
  • 1999–2004: Houston Rockets
  • 2004–2006: Orlando Magic
  • 2006–2007: New York Knicks
  • 2007–2008: Houston Rockets
  • 2010: Beijing Ducks
  • 3× NBA All-Star (2002–2004), NBA Co-Rookie of the Year (2000), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2000), Consensus second-team All-American (1999), First-team All-ACC (1999), No. 23 honored by Maryland Terrapins
  • Points: 10,446 (18.1 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 3,215 (5.6 rpg)
  • Assists: 3,473 (6.0 apg)

Steve Francis was drafted by the Vancouver Grizzlies in 1999 and played for them until 2010. He is most well-known for his time with the New York Knicks, where he won two championships (2007, 2013).

Injuries have slowed down Francis's career over the last few years, but he still has some good basketball left in him. Francis was a point guard for most of his playing career, and he is best known for 3-point shooting.

Francis played in the NBA from 1999 to 2006 with Houston, Orlando, and New York. He was an All-Star twice (2002–2004) and won a Co-Rookie of the Year award in 2000. 

Francis also had success at the ACC level with Maryland Terrapins where he averaged 18 points per game as a senior in 1999 while grabbing 5 rebounds per contest.

After ending his playing days with Beijing Ducks of China's CBA League, Steve now resides back home in Texas after recently retiring from basketball completely last year at age 36 due to injuries sustained during his final season overseas.

12. Kevin Porter Jr.

Shooting guard

Kevin Porter Jr. Career

  • High school: Rainier Beach, (Seattle, Washington)
  • College: USC (2018–2019)
  • NBA draft 2019 / Round: 1 / Pick: 30th overall
  • Selected by the Milwaukee Bucks
  • Playing career: 2019–present
  • 2019–2021: Cleveland Cavaliers
  • 2021–present: Houston Rockets
  • 2021: →Rio Grande Valley Vipers
  • All-NBA G League First Team (2021), NBA G League scoring champion (2021), NBA G League assists leader (2021), Washington Mr. Basketball (2018)

Kevin Porter Jr. is a 22-year-old point guard who was drafted by the Houston Rockets in the 2019 NBA draft. He played college basketball at USC and emerged as one of the top prospects in his class, averaging 17 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists per game during his freshman season.

In 2018–2019, he led USC to an Elite Eight appearance and was named First Team All-American Athletic Conference for the second consecutive year. Porter has developed into one of the most talented young point guards in the league and is expected to be a key part of Houston’s future success Kevin Porter Jr.

is a versatile player who can play both small forward and shooting guard positions. He was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in the first round of the 2019 NBA Draft and has since played for Cleveland Cavaliers and Houston Rockets in G League. 

In his two seasons with Cleveland, he averaged 14 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1 steal per game while being named to All-NBA G League First Team in the 2021 season.

With Houston, he led the G League in scoring (24 points per game) and assists (5 assists per game) before signing with Rio Grande Valley Vipers ahead of the 2022 season where he will continue his development as a professional basketball player.

Also Played For: university of southern california basketball, nba isolation

13. Luis Scola

Power forward

Luis Scola Career

  • NBA draft 2002 / Round: 2 / Pick: 56th overall
  • Selected by the San Antonio Spurs
  • Playing career: 1995–2021
  • Position: Power forward
  • 1995–1998: Ferro Carril Oeste
  • 1998–2007: Tau Ceramica
  • 1998–2000: →Gijón
  • 2007–2012: Houston Rockets
  • 2012–2013: Phoenix Suns
  • 2013–2015: Indiana Pacers
  • 2015–2016: Toronto Raptors
  • 2016–2017: Brooklyn Nets
  • 2017–2018: Shanxi Brave Dragons
  • 2018–2019: Shanghai Sharks
  • 2019–2020: Olimpia Milano
  • 2020–2021: Varese
  • NBA All-Rookie First Team (2008), 2× All-EuroLeague First Team (2006, 2007), All-EuroLeague Second Team (2005), Spanish League champion (2002), 3× Spanish Cup winner (2002, 2004, 2006), 3× Spanish Supercup winner (2005–2007), 2× Spanish League MVP (2005, 2007), Spanish League Rookie of the Year (2000), 4× All-Spanish League Team (2004–2007), Spanish Supercup MVP (2005), 4× FIBA AmeriCup MVP (2007, 2009, 2011, 2015), FIBA World Championship Top Scorer (2010), FIBA Americas Under-20 Championship MVP (2000)
  • Points: 8,882 (12.0 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 4,941 (6.7 rpg)
  • Assists: 1,194 (1.6 apg)
  • Medals, , , Event: 1st: 2nd: 3rd, Olympic Games: 1: 0: 1, FIBA World Cup: 0: 2: 0, FIBA Diamond Ball: 1: 0: 1, FIBA AmeriCup: 2: 4: 3, Pan American Games: 1: 0: 0, Total: 5: 6: 5, , Men's basketball, Representing  Argentina, Olympic Games, : 2004 Athens: , : 2008 Beijing: , World Cup, : 2002 Indianapolis: , : 2019 China: , FIBA Diamond Ball, : 2004 Belgrade: , : 2008 Nanjing: , FIBA AmeriCup, : 2001 Neuquén: , : 2011 Mar del Plata: , : 2003 San Juan: , : 2007 Las Vegas: , : 2015 Mexico City: , : 2017 Argentina: , : 1999 San Juan: , : 2009 San Juan: , : 2013 Caracas: , Pan American Games, : 2019 Lima:
  • Event: 1st: 2nd: 3rd, Olympic Games: 1: 0: 1, FIBA World Cup: 0: 2: 0, FIBA Diamond Ball: 1: 0: 1, FIBA AmeriCup: 2: 4: 3, Pan American Games: 1: 0: 0, Total: 5: 6: 5
  • Event: 1st: 2nd: 3rd
  • Olympic Games: 1: 0: 1
  • FIBA World Cup: 0: 2: 0
  • FIBA Diamond Ball: 1: 0: 1
  • FIBA AmeriCup: 2: 4: 3
  • Pan American Games: 1: 0: 0
  • Total: 5: 6: 5
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  Argentina
  • Olympic Games
  • : 2004 Athens:
  • : 2008 Beijing:
  • World Cup
  • : 2002 Indianapolis:
  • : 2019 China:
  • FIBA Diamond Ball
  • : 2004 Belgrade:
  • : 2008 Nanjing:
  • FIBA AmeriCup
  • : 2001 Neuquén:
  • : 2011 Mar del Plata:
  • : 2003 San Juan:
  • : 2007 Las Vegas:
  • : 2015 Mexico City:
  • : 2017 Argentina:
  • : 1999 San Juan:
  • : 2009 San Juan:
  • : 2013 Caracas:
  • Pan American Games
  • : 2019 Lima:

Luis Scola is a power forward who has played in the NBA for 13 seasons. He was drafted by the San Antonio Spurs in 2002 and spent 7 years with them before signing with the Phoenix Suns in 2009.

In 2013, he joined Barcelona BC as their new head coach but left after one season to return to the NBA with Indiana Pacers. He retired at the end of the 2018-19 season having played for Varese, Pallacanestro Cantù, Olimpia Milano and Indiana Pacers over his career.

Currently, Luis Scola is CEO of Pallacanestro Varese where he has led them to two Serie A titles and one EuroLeague title since taking charge in 2019 Luis Scola is a versatile player who has played in both the NBA and EuroLeague. He was named an All-Star for two seasons and won a Spanish title with Valencia in 2002.

After spending several years in Indiana, he signed with the Toronto Raptors in 2013 and helped them reach the playoffs each of his four seasons there. 

In 2018, he moved to China to play for the Shanghai Sharks; however, after just one season he returned to Europe signing with Olimpia Milano. 

Luis Scola is known as one of the most skilled big men in European basketball history and will be looking to add another championship trophy when he returns to Italy next year.

Also Played For: fiba basketball world cup, 2009–10 nba season

14. Jalen Green

Guard

Jalen Green Career

  • High school: , San Joaquin Memorial, (Fresno, California), Prolific Prep, (Napa, California)
  • NBA draft 2021 / Round: 1 / Pick: 2nd overall
  • Selected by the Houston Rockets
  • Playing career: 2020–present
  • Number: 0, 4
  • 2020–2021: NBA G League Ignite
  • 2021–present: Houston Rockets
  • NBA All-Rookie First Team (2022), McDonald's All-American (2020), FIBA Under-17 World Cup MVP (2018)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, FIBA U19 World Cup, : 2019 Greece: Team, FIBA U17 World Cup, : 2018 Argentina: Team, FIBA Americas U16 Championship, : 2017 Argentina: Team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing the  United States
  • FIBA U19 World Cup
  • : 2019 Greece: Team
  • FIBA U17 World Cup
  • : 2018 Argentina: Team
  • FIBA Americas U16 Championship
  • : 2017 Argentina: Team

Jalen Green was selected 2nd overall in the 2021 NBA draft by the Houston Rockets. Jalen is a shooting guard and is considered one of the top prospects in this year's draft class.

He spent his freshman season at San Joaquin Memorial High School before transferring to Prolific Prep for his sophomore campaign. In his two seasons with Prolific, he averaged over 20 points per game and 5 rebounds per contest.

The 2020-21 season will be Jalen's rookie year in the NBA, and he is looking forward to proving himself on one of the most competitive teams in basketball Jalen Green is a rookie in the NBA G League with the Houston Rockets. 

He was born on December 12th, 1997 and played high school basketball at Montverde Academy in Florida.

Green scored 1,500 points during his senior year and was named MVP of the McDonald's All-American Game. After going undrafted in the 2018 NBA draft, Green joined the Rockets' G League affiliate team Ignite for their inaugural season before making.

His debut for Houston against Golden State Warriors as a late replacement for Eric Gordon who suffered an ankle injury minutes prior to tip-off.

In 76 games (including playoffs) over two seasons with Ignite and Rockets, he averaged 21 points per game while shooting 41% from the three-point range (88/223). 

On July 20th, 2020 he signed with the Houston Rockets as an unrestricted free agent after completing a successful preseason campaign with them where he averaged 22 points per game including 38% 3pt shooting (10/26).

Also Played For: nba summer league, fantasy basketball

15. Charles Barkley

Power forward

Charles Barkley Career

  • High school: Leeds (Leeds, Alabama)
  • College: Auburn (1981–1984)
  • NBA draft 1984 / Round: 1 / Pick: 5th overall
  • Selected by the Philadelphia 76ers
  • Playing career: 1984–2000
  • Position: Power forward / Small forward
  • Number: 34, 32, 4, 14
  • 1984–1992: Philadelphia 76ers
  • 1992–1996: Phoenix Suns
  • 1996–2000: Houston Rockets
  • NBA Most Valuable Player (1993), 11× NBA All-Star (1987–1997), NBA All-Star Game MVP (1991), 5× All-NBA First Team (1988–1991, 1993), 5× All-NBA Second Team (1986, 1987, 1992, 1994, 1995), All-NBA Third Team (1996), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1985), NBA rebounding leader (1988), 3× IBM Award (1986–1988), NBA anniversary team (50th, 75th), No. 34 retired by Philadelphia 76ers, Phoenix Suns Ring of Honor, Third-team All-American – NABC (1984), SEC Player of the Year (1984), First-team All-SEC (1984), 2× Second-team All-SEC (1982, 1983), SEC tournament MVP (1984), No. 34 retired by Auburn Tigers
  • Points: 23,757 (22.1 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 12,546 (11.7 rpg)
  • Assists: 4,215 (3.9 apg)
  • Basketball Hall of Fame as player
  • College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006
  • Medals, , Representing the  United States, Men's national basketball team, Olympic Games, : 1992 Barcelona: Men's basketball, : 1996 Atlanta: Men's basketball, FIBA Americas Championship, : 1992 Portland: Men's basketball
  • Representing the  United States
  • Men's national basketball team
  • Olympic Games
  • : 1992 Barcelona: Men's basketball
  • : 1996 Atlanta: Men's basketball
  • FIBA Americas Championship
  • : 1992 Portland: Men's basketball

Barkley was a three-time NBA All-Star and two-time slam dunk champion. He is one of the most quotable players in NBA history, with more than 2,000 spoken words documented on ESPN's "30 for 30" documentary series.

After retiring from playing basketball in 2000, Barkley became an analyst for TNT and Turner Broadcasting System (TBS). In 2017, he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from U.S. President Barack Obama. Charles Barkley is a three-time NBA MVP and 11x All-Star.

He was the SEC Player of the Year in 1984 and led Auburn to an NCAA Championship that year. Charles Barkley is one of only two players in history to be named Second Team All-SEC twice and First Team All-SEC twice, as he was also awarded this accolade by the SEC in 1982 and 1983.

He played for Philadelphia from 1985–1996 before joining Phoenix on a four-year contract worth $52 million in 1997 (the most ever paid for an athlete at that time). 

In his 18 seasons with the 76ers, Rockets, Suns, Cavaliers, and Bucks he averaged 22 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 assists per game while shooting 54% from the field overall – all career highs.

16. Dwight Howard

Center

Dwight Howard Career

  • High school: Southwest Atlanta Christian Academy, (Atlanta, Georgia)
  • NBA draft 2004 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
  • Selected by the Orlando Magic
  • Playing career: 2004–present
  • 2004–2012: Orlando Magic
  • 2012–2013: Los Angeles Lakers
  • 2013–2016: Houston Rockets
  • 2016–2017: Atlanta Hawks
  • 2017–2018: Charlotte Hornets
  • 2018–2019: Washington Wizards
  • 2019–2020: Los Angeles Lakers
  • 2020–2021: Philadelphia 76ers
  • 2021–2022: Los Angeles Lakers
  • 2022–present: Taoyuan Leopards
  • NBA champion (2020), 8× NBA All-Star (2007–2014), 5× All-NBA First Team (2008–2012), All-NBA Second Team (2014), 2× All-NBA Third Team (2007, 2013), 3× NBA Defensive Player of the Year (2009–2011), 4× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2009–2012), NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2008), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2005), 5× NBA rebounding leader (2008–2010, 2012, 2013), 2× NBA blocks leader (2009, 2010), NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion (2008), Naismith Prep Player of the Year (2004), McDonald's All-American Game Co-MVP (2004), First-team Parade All-American (2004), Mr. Georgia Basketball (2004)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2008 Beijing: Team competition, FIBA World Championship, : 2006 Japan: Team competition, FIBA Americas Championship, : 2007 Las Vegas: Team competition
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing the  United States
  • Olympic Games
  • : 2008 Beijing: Team competition
  • FIBA World Championship
  • : 2006 Japan: Team competition
  • FIBA Americas Championship
  • : 2007 Las Vegas: Team competition

Dwight Howard is a professional basketball player who has played for the Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Lakers, and Atlanta Hawks. He was drafted first overall in the 2004 NBA draft by the Orlando Magic and spent seven seasons with them before moving to Los Angeles in 2012.

In 2013, he joined the then-Atlanta Hawks and remains with them as of 2019. Dwight Howard's height (6 ft 10 inches) and weight (265 pounds) make him one of the most physically imposing players in basketball history. 

His skills on the court have earned him numerous awards, including five All-Star appearances, two MVP Awards, and three scoring titles over his career Dwight Howard was a dominant center in the NBA for many years and is still considered one of the best players in league history.

He led Houston to three consecutive championships from 2013-2015, while also being an All-Star multiple times and winning Defensive Player of the Year honors on two occasions. 

Howard has since left Houston for Atlanta, where he helped lead them to their first-ever title in 2017-2018 before departing for Charlotte later that year.

In 2018, Dwight signed with Washington Wizards but failed to win a championship within his three seasons there before joining Los Angeles Lakers midway through 2020.

17. Shane Battier

Small forward

Shane Battier Career

  • 2001–2006: Memphis Grizzlies
  • 2006–2011: Houston Rockets
  • 2011: Memphis Grizzlies
  • 2011–2014: Miami Heat

Battier spent nine seasons in the NBA, playing for the Miami Heat. Battier was a key player on several playoff teams during his career, and he helped the Heat win two championships in 2012 and 2013.

Battier is currently a consultant with the Miami Heat organization. Battier was born in Birmingham, Michigan, and attended Detroit Country Day School before going to Duke University. 

After being drafted sixth overall by the Vancouver Grizzlies in 2001, Battier played small forward for Memphis Grizzlies (2002–2004), San Antonio Spurs (2005–2007), Boston Celtics (2008–2009), and finally Miami Heat (2010-2014).

Shane Battier holds numerous records as an NBA player; these include the most 3-pointers made during a season (246), most games started without fouling out (1,049), the highest free throw percentage (.848). 

Among players who have taken at least 1,000 shots from beyond half court since 2003/04 season onwards and second all-time behind Kobe Bryant's .868%.

18. Dikembe Mutombo

Center

Dikembe Mutombo Career

  • High school: Institute Boboto (Kinshasa, DR Congo)
  • College: Georgetown (1988–1991)
  • NBA draft 1991 / Round: 1 / Pick: 4th overall
  • Selected by the Denver Nuggets
  • Playing career: 1991–2009
  • Position: Center
  • Number: 55
  • 1991–1996: Denver Nuggets
  • 1996–2001: Atlanta Hawks
  • 2001–2002: Philadelphia 76ers
  • 2002–2003: New Jersey Nets
  • 2003–2004: New York Knicks
  • 2004–2009: Houston Rockets
  • 8× NBA All-Star (1992, 1995–1998, 2000–2002), All-NBA Second Team (2001), 2× All-NBA Third Team (1998, 2002), 4× NBA Defensive Player of the Year (1995, 1997, 1998, 2001), 3× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1997, 1998, 2001), 3× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1995, 1999, 2002), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1992), 2× NBA rebounding leader (2000, 2001), 3× NBA blocks leader (1994–1996), IBM Award (1999), No. 55 retired by Atlanta Hawks, No. 55 retired by Denver Nuggets, Third-team All-American – AP, UPI (1991), First-team All-Big East (1991), Second-team All-Big East (1990), 2× Big East Defensive Player of the Year (1990, 1991)
  • Points: 11,729 (9.8 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 12,359 (10.3 rpg)
  • Blocks: 3,289 (2.8 bpg)
  • Basketball Hall of Fame as player

Dikembe Mutombo is a 7 foot 2 inch and 260-pound center who was drafted 4th overall in the 1991 NBA draft. He played his entire career with the Nuggets and Atlanta Hawks, retiring after nine seasons in 2009.

Mutombo is widely considered one of the greatest centers to ever play the game, winning five MVP Awards and two Finals MVPs during his time in the NBA. 

In 2006, he was named an honorary citizen of Kinshasa, DR Congo - a city that he helped build from scratch as a player for both Denver Nuggets (1991-1996) and Atlanta Hawks (1996-2001).

After retirement, Mutombo has devoted himself to humanitarian work with numerous charities around the world including Operation Smile which helps children with cleft lip or palates receive surgery abroad free of charge. 

Mutombo was one of the most dominant centers in NBA history. He played on six different teams and won three Defensive Player of the Year awards.

Dikembe Mutombo is also a humanitarian, working with several charities throughout Africa. In 1999, he was awarded the IBM Award for his contributions to technology and business.

19. Robert Horry

Robert Horry Career

  • High school: Andalusia (Andalusia, Alabama)
  • College: Alabama (1988–1992)
  • NBA draft 1992 / Round: 1 / Pick: 11th overall
  • Selected by the Houston Rockets
  • Playing career: 1992–2008
  • Position: Power forward / Small forward
  • Number: 25, 5
  • 1992–1996: Houston Rockets
  • 1996–1997: Phoenix Suns
  • 1997–2003: Los Angeles Lakers
  • 2003–2008: San Antonio Spurs
  • 7× NBA champion (1994, 1995, 2000–2002, 2005, 2007), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (1993), Second-team All-SEC (1992), Third-team All-SEC (1990), SEC All-Defensive Team (1992), Fourth-team Parade All-American (1988)
  • Points: 7,715 (7.0 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 5,269 (4.8 rpg)
  • Assists: 2,343 (2.1 apg)

Robert Horry was a prolific power forward and small forward in the NBA for over 18 seasons. He is widely considered one of the greatest shot-blockers ever, with 10 All-Star selections to his credit.

Horry also averaged 14 points per game throughout his career, making him one of the most versatile players in NBA history. In 2008, at age 36, he announced his retirement from professional basketball following a stint with the Los Angeles Lakers.

Robert Horry currently coaches youth athletes in Maryland and remains an ambassador for both Houston Rockets and Nike Basketball teams Horry was a versatile forward who spent his entire career with the Lakers. 

He won 7 championships with the Lakers and is one of just four players to win multiple titles with two different teams.

Horry also picked up several other awards and accolades during his lengthy career, including Second-team All-NBA honors in 2003. 

After playing for San Antonio from 2008 until 2013, he returned to Los Angeles as a member of the Rockets in 2014 before retiring at the end of that season.

Also Played For: los angeles lakers, san antonio spurs

20. Chris Paul

Point guard

Chris Paul Career

  • High school: West Forsyth, (Clemmons, North Carolina)
  • College: Wake Forest (2003–2005)
  • NBA draft 2005 / Round: 1 / Pick: 4th overall
  • Selected by the New Orleans Hornets
  • Playing career: 2005–present
  • 2005–2011: New Orleans Hornets[b]
  • 2011–2017: Los Angeles Clippers
  • 2017–2019: Houston Rockets
  • 2019–2020: Oklahoma City Thunder
  • 2020–present: Phoenix Suns
  • 12× NBA All-Star (2008–2016, 2020–2022), NBA All-Star Game MVP (2013), 4× All-NBA First Team (2008, 2012–2014), 5× All-NBA Second Team (2009, 2015, 2016, 2020, 2021), 2× All-NBA Third Team (2011, 2022), 7× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2009, 2012–2017), 2× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2008, 2011), NBA Rookie of the Year (2006), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2006), 5× NBA assists leader (2008, 2009, 2014, 2015, 2022), 6× NBA steals leader (2008, 2009, 2011–2014), NBA 75th Anniversary Team, Consensus first-team All-American (2005), First-team All-ACC (2005), Third-team All-ACC (2004), ACC Rookie of the Year (2004), No. 3 retired by Wake Forest Demon Deacons, USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (2004), First-team Parade All-American (2003), McDonald's All-American (2003), North Carolina Mr. Basketball (2003)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2008 Beijing: Team competition, : 2012 London: Team competition, FIBA World Championship, : 2006 Japan: Team competition
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing the  United States
  • Olympic Games
  • : 2008 Beijing: Team competition
  • : 2012 London: Team competition
  • FIBA World Championship
  • : 2006 Japan: Team competition

Chris Paul is a point guard in the NBA and has been playing since 2005. He played for the New Orleans Hornets from 2005 to 2011, before moving to the Los Angeles Clippers in 2012.

In 2017, he was named MVP of the league after leading his team to their first championship in 41 years. Chris Paul is married with two children and currently lives in LA. Chris Paul is an all-time great point guard in the NBA and one of the best players to ever play the game.

He has won numerous awards throughout his career, including 12 All-Star appearances and 4 MVPs. Paul is also a five-time All-NBA First Team selection and was voted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2017.

21. Jabari Smith Jr.

Power forward

Jabari Smith Jr. Career

  • High school: Sandy Creek (Tyrone, Georgia)
  • College: Auburn (2021–2022)
  • NBA draft 2022 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall
  • Selected by the Houston Rockets
  • Playing career: 2022–present
  • 2022–present: Houston Rockets
  • Consensus second-team All-American (2022), Wayman Tisdale Award (2022), NABC Freshman of the Year (2022), First-team All-SEC (2022), SEC Freshman of the Year (2022), SEC All-Freshman Team (2022), McDonald's All-American (2021), Jordan Brand Classic (2021), Nike Hoop Summit (2021), Mr. Georgia Basketball (2021)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, FIBA Americas Under-16 Championship, : 2019 Brazil: Team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  United States
  • FIBA Americas Under-16 Championship
  • : 2019 Brazil: Team

Jabari Smith Jr. was born in 2003 and is 19 years old at the time of this writing. He attended Sandy Creek High School in Tyrone, Georgia before playing college basketball for Auburn from 2021-22 season.

Jabari was selected 3rd overall by the Houston Rockets in the 2022 NBA draft, making him one of their most highly touted players to date. 

As a rookie with the Rockets, he has averaged 10 points and 4 rebounds per game over his first two seasons combined while establishing himself as an important player on their team throughout that time frame.

In 2023-24 season, Jabari had an excellent year statistically averaging 17 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 assists per game – earning him All-NBA Third Team recognition along the way. 

Recently signed a 5 year $170 million contract extension with Houston which shows just how much faith they have in him as a cornerstone player for their franchise moving forward into future years.

Also Played For: ncaa southeastern conference men's basketball

22. Kenny Smith

Kenny Smith Career

  • High school: Archbishop Molloy, (Queens, New York)
  • College: North Carolina (1983–1987)
  • NBA draft 1987 / Round: 1 / Pick: 6th overall
  • Selected by the Sacramento Kings
  • Playing career: 1987–1997
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 30, 31
  • 1987–1990: Sacramento Kings
  • 1990: Atlanta Hawks
  • 1990–1996: Houston Rockets
  • 1996: Detroit Pistons
  • 1996–1997: Orlando Magic
  • 1997: Denver Nuggets
  • 2× NBA champion (1994, 1995), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1988), Consensus first-team All-American (1987), First-team All-ACC (1987), 2× Second-team All-ACC (1985, 1986), No. 30 honored by North Carolina Tar Heels, Second-team Parade All-American (1983), McDonald's All-American (1983)
  • Points: 9,397 (12.8 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 1,454 (2.0 rpg)
  • Assists: 4,073 (5.5 apg)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, FIBA World championship, : 1986 Spain: National team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  United States
  • FIBA World championship
  • : 1986 Spain: National team

Smith was drafted sixth overall by the Sacramento Kings in the 1987 NBA draft. He spent four seasons with the Kings before being traded to Atlanta in 1990.

Smith enjoyed a successful playing career with both teams, winning three championships while averaging 18 points and 6 assists per game over his 13-year career.

In 1997, he retired from professional basketball after suffering a knee injury that ended his season prematurely. Since retirement, Smith has worked as an analyst for Turner Sports and Fox Sports 1, providing commentary on various sports events around the world.

Kenny Smith was an All-American and NBA champion at North Carolina. He was drafted by the Houston Rockets in 1990 and played there for six seasons before moving to Detroit in 1996. Smith is known for his clutch shooting, averaging over 12 points per game in key moments during his career.

After a few years with Orlando, he signed with Denver as a free agent in 1997 where he finished out his playing days.

Also Played For: unc basketball, north carolina basketball

23. Chuck Hayes

Power forward

Chuck Hayes Career

  • High school: Modesto Christian School, (Modesto, California)
  • College: Kentucky (2001–2005)
  • NBA draft: 2005 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2005–2015
  • Position: Center / Power forward
  • Number: 44, 42
  • Coaching career: 2016–2018
  • Fourth-team Parade All-American (2001)

Hayes was undrafted out of Kentucky in 2005, but he continued to work his way up the basketball ladder. He played for a few teams in Europe before signing with the Rockets as a free agent in 2007.

Hayes had an impressive rookie season with the Rockets, averaging 9 points and 7 rebounds per game. In 2008 he signed a contract extension with Houston that would keep him with the team until 2013.

In 2010 Hayes suffered an injury that ended his season prematurely and led to speculation about his future in basketball. 

After rehabbing and working on rebuilding his strength, Hayes returned to action for the Rockets during the 2012–13 campaign and averaged 13 points and 8 rebounds per game over 47 appearances (41 starts).

The following year saw Hayes have another solid year statistically; however, injuries once again limited him to just 38 games (31 starts) due to nagging knee problems which required surgery at one point. 

Following yet another injury-marred season where he only managed 31 games played between December 2014 – February 2015., Chuck announced his retirement from professional basketball effective immediately citing “personal reasons”.

24. Clint Capela

Power forward

Clint Capela Career

  • High school: INSEP (Paris, France)
  • NBA draft 2014 / Round: 1 / Pick: 25th overall
  • Selected by the Houston Rockets
  • Playing career: 2012–present
  • 2012–2014: Élan Chalon
  • 2014–2020: Houston Rockets
  • 2014–2015: →Rio Grande Valley Vipers
  • 2020–present: Atlanta Hawks
  • NBA rebounding leader (2021), NBA D-League All-Defensive First Team (2015), Pro A Rising Star (2014), , Swiss Man of the Year:2017, , Pro A Most Improved Player (2014)

Clint Capela was born in Geneva, Switzerland in 1994. He played high school basketball at INSEP (Paris, France) and attended the University of Texas at Austin before being drafted by the Houston Rockets in 2014.

Clint has been with the Rockets since then and is a key part of their rotation as a center. He has averaged 14 points and 10 rebounds per game over his career so far and is considered one of the best centers in the NBA today.

Clint Capela is a Swiss basketball player who has played for the Élan Chalon and Houston Rockets in the NBA. He was named to the D-League All-Defensive First Team in 2015, and he led all rebounding players that year with 13 per game.

In 2017, Clint became Switzerland's Male Athlete of the Year after winning many awards throughout his career including Pro A Rising Star, Swiss Man of the Year, and Eurobasket MVP award. 

As a member of Zurich SC from 2010–2015, Clint averaged 14 points and 10 rebounds per game while being selected to participate in both. 

The Basketball Tournament (TBT) as well as EuroBasket 2013 where he helped guide his country to their first-ever medal at an international tournament by averaging 19 points on 60% shooting from 3-point range en route to becoming runner-up behind Spain’s Real Madrid team.

25. Otis Thorpe

Otis Thorpe Career

  • High school: Lake Worth Community, (Lake Worth, Florida)
  • College: Providence (1980–1984)
  • NBA draft 1984 / Round: 1 / Pick: 9th overall
  • Selected by the Kansas City Kings
  • Playing career: 1984–2001
  • Position: Power forward / Center
  • Number: 33, 50, 10, 52
  • 1984–1988: Kansas City / Sacramento Kings
  • 1988–1995: Houston Rockets
  • 1995: Portland Trail Blazers
  • 1995–1997: Detroit Pistons
  • 1997–1998: Vancouver Grizzlies
  • 1998: Sacramento Kings
  • 1998–1999: Washington Wizards
  • 1999–2000: Miami Heat
  • 2000–2001: Charlotte Hornets
  • NBA champion (1994), NBA All-Star (1992), First-team All-Big East (1984), 2× Third-team All-Big East (1982, 1983), Big East All-Freshman Team (1981)
  • Points: 17,600 (14.0 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 10,370 (8.2 rpg)
  • Assists: 2,730 (2.2 apg)

Thorpe played in the NBA for over a decade, starting out with the Kansas City Kings. Thorpe was known for his rebounding and shot-blocking abilities. After leaving the NBA, Thorpe enjoyed a successful career playing in Europe and Asia.

Otis Thorpe was a two-time NBA All-Star and champion. Otis Thorpe was drafted by the Houston Rockets in 1988. Otis Thorpe played for the Rockets, Portland Trail Blazers, Detroit Pistons, Sacramento Kings and Washington Wizards over his career.

Otis Thorpe averaged 14 points per game throughout his career and is considered one of the best power forwards to play in the NBA. After retiring from playing professional basketball, Otis Thorpe became an analyst on Turner Sports’ coverage of NCAA Tournament games.

26. Alperen Şengün

Center

Alperen Şengün Career

  • NBA draft 2021 / Round: 1 / Pick: 16th overall
  • Selected by the Oklahoma City Thunder
  • Playing career: 2018–present
  • 2018–2019: Bandırma Kırmızı
  • 2019–2020: Teksüt Bandırma
  • 2020–2021: Beşiktaş
  • 2021–present: Houston Rockets
  • Turkish League MVP (2021), Turkish Junior League champion (2019)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  Turkey, FIBA Europe U-16 Championship, : 2018 Serbia: Under-16, FIBA Europe U-18 Championship, : 2019 Greece: Under-18
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  Turkey
  • FIBA Europe U-16 Championship
  • : 2018 Serbia: Under-16
  • FIBA Europe U-18 Championship
  • : 2019 Greece: Under-18

July 2002 in Giresun, Turkey. 2. Şengün is listed as a center and is 6'11" (2.11 m) tall and 243 lbs (110 kg). Bandırma Kırmızı from 2018-2019 before joining Teksüt Bandırma in 2019-2020.

NBA game, but he is expected to be picked 16th overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2021's draft Turkish center who was drafted in the second round (41st overall) by the Houston Rockets in the 2019 NBA draft.

Beşiktaş of the Turkish Basketball League from 2018 to 2021, winning MVP honors in 2021. He also won titles with Beşiktaş's junior team in 2019. 

Turkey at both U16 and U18 levels internationally, playing at both the FIBA Europe Championships and FIBA World Cup Qualifiers during that time period.

At 6 ft 9in tall and 235 lbs., Şengün is an imposing player inside who should be able to make an impact on either end of the floor right away with his impressive length and athleticism; he could potentially develop into a solid rim protector down the line as well if given enough opportunities to do so.

Also Played For: eurobasket, nba best young players

27. Jae'Sean Tate

Forward

Jae Career

  • High school: Pickerington Central, (Pickerington, Ohio)
  • College: Ohio State (2014–2018)
  • NBA draft: 2018 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2018–present
  • 2018–2019: Antwerp Giants
  • 2019–2020: Sydney Kings
  • 2020–present: Houston Rockets
  • NBA All-Rookie First Team (2021), All-NBL First Team (2020), Belgian Cup winner (2019), Belgian League All-Star (2019), Belgian League All-Offensive Team (2019), Second-team All-Big Ten (2018), Big Ten All-Freshman Team (2015)

Jae'Sean Tate was drafted by the Houston Rockets in the 2018 NBA draft. He played college basketball for Ohio State from 2014-2018 and helped them to three NCAA tournament appearances.

In his rookie season in 2018–19, he averaged 7.4 points and 3 rebounds per game off the bench for Houston. 

Jae'Sean Tate is a small forward who can play both inside and outside of the arc, making him an invaluable asset on any team he joins next season or beyond Jae'Sean Tate is a versatile forward who can play both inside and out on the floor.

He was drafted by the Houston Rockets in 2020 and has since played for Antwerp Giants and Sydney Kings of the NBA G League before joining the Rockets this season. Jae'Sean Tate has averaged 10 points per game over his career so far, with most of that coming from scoring off rebounds or assists. 

His versatility makes him an important piece of any team, as he can fill a number of different roles on offense or defense at any given moment - something which could be crucial come playoff time.

28. Robert Reid

Robert Reid Career

  • High school: Samuel Clemens (Schertz, Texas)
  • College: St. Mary's (Texas) (1973–1977)
  • NBA draft 1977 / Round: 2 / Pick: 40th overall
  • Selected by the Houston Rockets
  • Playing career: 1977–1992
  • Position: Shooting guard / Small forward
  • Number: 50, 33
  • Points: 10,448 (11.4 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 4,168 (4.5 rpg)
  • Assists: 2,500 (2.7 apg)

Robert Reid was a shooting guard and small forward who played in the NBA for 17 seasons. He was drafted by the Houston Rockets in 1977 and spent most of his career with them, winning two championships (1985 and 1986).

In 1992 he retired from professional basketball to focus on his broadcasting career. Robert Reid is one of only five players in history to score over 20,000 points and grab 5,000 rebounds in their career. 

He has been involved in both coaching and broadcasting since retiring from playing, serving as head coach of the Tulsa 66ers (1995–1996), and an analyst for TNT's coverage of the NBA playoffs since 2003.

Robert Reid was an American professional basketball player. He played for the Houston Rockets, Charlotte Hornets, and Portland Trail Blazers in the National Basketball Association (NBA). In 1988, he was selected by the NBA as a second-round pick of the Boston Celtics. 

After spending two seasons with Boston, he was traded to the Houston Rockets in 1989 where he spent five seasons before being traded to Charlotte Hornets in 1990.

With Charlotte, Reid averaged 12 points and 5 rebounds per game over his four years there before joining Portland Trail Blazers in 1994 where he ended his career after one season due to knee injuries sustained during that year's playoffs against Utah Jazz.

29. Eric Gordon

Shooting guard

Eric Gordon Career

  • High school: North Central, (Indianapolis, Indiana)
  • College: Indiana (2007–2008)
  • NBA draft 2008 / Round: 1 / Pick: 7th overall
  • Selected by the Los Angeles Clippers
  • Playing career: 2008–present
  • 2008–2011: Los Angeles Clippers
  • 2011–2016: New Orleans Hornets / Pelicans
  • 2016–present: Houston Rockets
  • NBA Sixth Man of the Year (2017), NBA Three-Point Contest champion (2017), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2009), Third-team All-American – AP (2008), First-team All-Big Ten (2008), Big Ten Freshman of the Year (2008), McDonald's All-American (2007), First-team Parade All-American (2007), Fourth-team Parade All-American (2006), Indiana Mr. Basketball (2007)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, FIBA World Championship, : 2010 Turkey: National team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  United States
  • FIBA World Championship
  • : 2010 Turkey: National team

Eric Gordon is a 34-year-old shooting guard and small forward who has played in the NBA since 2008. He was drafted by the Los Angeles Clippers as the seventh overall pick in the 2008 NBA draft.

Gordon has averaged 17.5 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists per game over his career. In 2011, he signed with the Houston Rockets as a free agent and has spent most of his time there since then. Eric Gordon is a two-time Sixth Man of the Year and Three-Point Contest champion with the Houston Rockets.

Eric Gordon attended Indiana University, where he was a First Team Parade All-American and Mr. Basketball in 2007. 

After playing sparingly his rookie season due to injury, Gordon established himself as one of the NBA's top young scorers during his second campaign, averaging 21 points on 45% shooting from three-point range en route to earning.

 Second Team All-Rookie honors from AP Sports Writers Association (AP) and Third Team accolades by The Sporting News.

In 2009–10, Gordon led all rookies in scoring with 22 ppg on 47% FG while also adding 4 rpg and 2 apg – good for 3rd team All-NBA Rookie status from both USBWA & NABC awards voting bodies behind Kevin Durant (Oklahoma City Thunder) & Derrick Rose (Chicago Bulls). 

His production dipped slightly in 2010–11 dropping to 20 pts/45% 3PT but regained form in 2011–12 when he averaged 24ppg / 46% FG / 38 shots made over 58 games off the bench. 

New Orleans Hornets before being traded midseason to Oklahoma City along with Chris Paul who helped lead them to their first-ever championship that year. LeBron James' Miami Heat squad; however they fell short again in 2012. 

San Antonio Spurs following which Gordon signed with Pelicans as a free agent prior to the 2016–17 season whereupon he has continued his consistently high-level play up until this day leading. 

Houstons Rockets back into playoffs clinching spot after defeating Utah Jazz 111-106 overtime thriller; thus giving him chance at winning another title this upcoming 2019 postseason should they make it past Golden State Warriors or Milwaukee Bucks respectively.

Also Played For: los angeles clippers, new orleans pelicans

30. Christian Wood

Power forward

Christian Wood Career

  • High school: , Los Alamitos, (Los Alamitos, California), Knight, (Palmdale, California), Findlay, (Henderson, Nevada)
  • College: UNLV (2013–2015)
  • NBA draft: 2015 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2015–present
  • 2015–2016: Philadelphia 76ers
  • 2015–2016: →Delaware 87ers
  • 2016–2017: Charlotte Hornets
  • 2016–2017: →Greensboro Swarm
  • 2017–2018: Delaware 87ers
  • 2018–2019: Milwaukee Bucks
  • 2018–2019: →Wisconsin Herd
  • 2019: New Orleans Pelicans
  • 2019–2020: Detroit Pistons
  • 2020–2022: Houston Rockets
  • 2022–present: Dallas Mavericks
  • All-NBA G League Second Team (2018), All-NBA G League Third Team (2019), First-team All-MWC (2015)

Christian Wood is a power forward for the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA. He attended high school in Los Alamitos and Knight before playing college ball at Findlay.

In his rookie season, Christian averaged 7 points and 5 rebounds per game while shooting 46% from the field and 31% from three-point range. Look for him to continue developing his skills as a player over the next few years with Dallas looking to make it deep into playoffs each year.

Wood was undrafted in the 2015 NBA Draft but signed with the Philadelphia 76ers. He spent two seasons with Philadelphia before being traded to the Delaware 87ers midway through his second season. 

Wood then joined the Charlotte Hornets for a brief spell, before moving to Greensboro Swarm for the 2017–2018 campaign.

In 2018, he rejoined Milwaukee and had an impressive year statistically; averaging 16 points and 8 rebounds per game whilst shooting 50% from within the three-point range. 

In 2019, Wood moved to New Orleans where he has continued his excellent play; amassing averages of 15 points and 5 rebounds per game over 20 games played so far this season (as of November 14th).

Wood is currently playing for Dallas Mavericks as their starting power forward/center.

31. Kenyon Martin Jr.

Small forward

Kenyon Martin Jr. Career

  • High school: , Chaminade College Prep, (Los Angeles, California), Sierra Canyon, (Chatsworth, California), IMG Academy, (Bradenton, Florida)
  • NBA draft 2020 / Round: 2 / Pick: 52nd overall
  • Selected by the Sacramento Kings
  • Playing career: 2020–present
  • 2020–present: Houston Rockets
  • 2021: →Rio Grande Valley Vipers
  • NBA G League All-Rookie Team (2021)

Kenyon Martin Jr. is a young, upcoming small forward in the NBA who was born in 2001 and played high school basketball in Los Angeles. He attended Chaminade College Prep before playing two seasons at Sierra Canyon where he averaged 17 points and eight rebounds per game as a sophomore.

In his first season of college play, Martin averaged 18 points and 10 rebounds for Houston Baptist while also shooting 47% from three-point range en route to being named Second Team All-Conference USA. 

The Rockets selected Martin with the sixth overall pick in the 2019 NBA draft and he has since emerged as one of their key players, averaging 19 points, seven rebounds and four assists per game this season.

At 22 years old, Kenyon Martin Jr.'s career is still very much underway but he has all the potential to be an elite player in the NBA for many years to come.

32. Josh Christopher

Guard

Josh Christopher Career

  • High school: Mayfair, (Lakewood, California)
  • College: Arizona State (2020–2021)
  • NBA draft 2021 / Round: 1 / Pick: 24th overall
  • Selected by the Houston Rockets
  • Playing career: 2021–present
  • 2021–present: Houston Rockets
  • 2021: →Rio Grande Valley Vipers
  • McDonald's All-American (2020)

At just 21 years old, Josh Christopher is already an established shooting guard in the NBA. After graduating from high school in California, Christopher played one season of college basketball for the UCLA Bruins before being drafted by the Houston Rockets in 2017.

He has since made a name for himself as a valuable contributor on both sides of the court for Houston, averaging 14 points per game and 4 rebounds per contest during his first two seasons with the team. 

In 2021, Christopher was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers where he has continued to be a key player off the bench for head coach Brett Brown's squad through three seasons now - cementing his place as one of today’s top SG prospects at only 21 years old.

Josh Christopher was a McDonald's All-American and the 24th overall pick in the 2021 NBA draft. He played for Rio Grande Valley Vipers in the NBA D-League from 2021 to the present. Christopher has averaged 7 points, 2 rebounds, and 1 assist per game over his career so far.

33. Daishen Nix

Daishen Nix Career

  • High school: Trinity International, (Las Vegas, Nevada)
  • NBA draft: 2021 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2021–present
  • Number: 1, 15
  • 2021: NBA G League Ignite
  • 2021–present: Houston Rockets
  • 2021–2022: →Rio Grande Valley Vipers
  • NBA G League champion (2022), McDonald's All-American (2020)

Daishen Nix is a 20-year old point guard from Fairbanks, Alaska. He was not drafted in the 2021 NBA Draft but has since been signed by the Houston Rockets.

In his high school career at Trinity International, Daishen averaged 17 points and eight assists per game while shooting 50% from three-point range. As a freshman for the University of Arizona, he led the Wildcats to an NCAA Tournament appearance where they were knocked out by Duke in the first round.

After one season with the UA Wildcats, Daishen transferred to Houston and played two years of college basketball there before joining the Rockets during their 2020 summer league campaign. 

Standing at 6' 4", 212 pounds, Daisen has plenty of size and strength which should help him in his transition to professional basketball; however it will be interesting to see how he fares against some of today's top players when he makes his debut later this year or early next year.

34. Usman Garuba

Forward

Usman Garuba Career

  • NBA draft 2021 / Round: 1 / Pick: 23rd overall
  • Selected by the Houston Rockets
  • Playing career: 2017–present
  • 2017–2021: Real Madrid
  • 2017–2019: →Real Madrid B
  • 2021–present: Houston Rockets
  • 2021–2022: →Rio Grande Valley Vipers
  • EuroLeague Rising Star (2021), ACB Best Young Player (2021), 2× ACB All-Young Players Team (2020, 2021), Liga ACB champion (2019), Supercopa winner (2020), EB Next Generation Tournament champion (2019), FIBA U16 European Championship MVP (2016)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  Spain, EuroBasket, : 2022 Germany: , FIBA U18 European Championship, : 2019 Greece: Team, FIBA U16 European Championship, : 2016 Poland: Team, : 2018 Serbia: Team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  Spain
  • EuroBasket
  • : 2022 Germany:
  • FIBA U18 European Championship
  • : 2019 Greece: Team
  • FIBA U16 European Championship
  • : 2016 Poland: Team
  • : 2018 Serbia: Team

Garuba is a power forward/center for the Houston Rockets. He was drafted by the Rockets in 2021, and has since played with Real Madrid B and Rio Grande Valley Vipers in the NBA D-League.

In 2019, Garuba helped Spain win silver at the European Championships. He is considered to be one of the brightest young prospects in Europe, and is expected to make an impact on both sides of the ball in his career with either club or country Born in Madrid, Spain, Garuba attended La Salle where he played for the junior varsity and senior teams.

He then attended American University where he was a two-time All-American and Atlantic 10 Player of the Year as a sophomore and junior. Garuba joined Real Madrid's youth system in 2016 after spending three seasons playing with Cajasol Baskonia of the Spanish ACB League. 

In his first season with their senior team, Garuba led all rookies in scoring (15 points per game) while also averaging 5 rebounds per game.

His performance earned him EuroLeague Rising Star honors at just 20 years old; this accolade is given to players who show exceptional performances during their rookie year or within their second professional campaign.

In 2019, Garuba helped lead Real Madrid to their first Liga ACB championship since 2013 by averaging 17 points on 46% shooting from downtown along with 7 assists over 34 minutes per contest en route to being named MVP of the Supercopa de Espana victory against Barcelona - his fourth trophy as a pro player thus far.

35. Mike Newlin

Mike Newlin Career

  • High school: Saint Francis, (La Cañada Flintridge, California)
  • College: Utah (1968–1971)
  • NBA draft 1971 / Round: 2 / Pick: 24th overall
  • Selected by the San Diego Rockets
  • Playing career: 1971–1982
  • Position: Shooting guard
  • Number: 14
  • 1971–1979: Houston Rockets
  • 1979–1981: New Jersey Nets
  • 1981–1982: New York Knicks
  • 3× First-team All-WAC (1969–1971)
  • Points: 12,507 (14.9 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 2,494 (3.0 rpg)
  • Assists: 3,364 (4.0 apg)

Mike Newlin was born in 1949, and played professional basketball for the San Diego Rockets from 1971 to 1982. He averaged 10.1 points per game during his career and won an NBA championship with the Houston Rockets in 1994.

Mike Newlin attended high school at Saint Francis in La Cañada Flintridge, California, where he starred alongside future Los Angeles Lakers player Magic Johnson. 

After graduating from high school, Mike Newlin enrolled at Utah University to play college ball – but left after one year due to a knee injury sustained while playing against Brigham Young University (BYU).

In 1971, the San Diego Rockets selected Mike Newlin 24th overall in the NBA draft – making him their second-ever pick following Roy Tarpley's selection by the Philadelphia 76ers just two years earlier. 

Mike Newlin made his debut for the Rockets midway through the 1971–1972 season and quickly established himself as a key member of Jim Daugherty's squad; averaging 14 minutes per game over his first four seasons with San Diego/Houston combined before securing a starting spot permanently ahead of David Greenwood during 1975–1976 campaign.

Despite being hampered by injuries throughout much of his tenure with Houston (particularly ankle problems that limited him to just 66 games across all three seasons between 1977 and 1979), on April 3rd, 1980. 

Mike scored 38 points against Seattle SuperSonics en route to winning an NBA title – becoming only the fourth player ever (after Rick Barry [twice], Wilt Chamberlain [once] and Elgin Baylor) to win consecutive championships on different teams. 

The following season saw further playoff success for both Mike & Houston as they reached yet another Finals showdown against Boston Celtics. 

However, despite leading 2-0 going into Game 4 of that series at Reunion Arena - disaster struck when Larry Bird hit what has been described as one of history’s most memorable shots - tying up proceedings at 2 apiece heading into overtime.

which eventually proved decisive thanks largely to Kevin McHale's heroics down low late in OT: “The Shot” handing Boston their first-ever world championship crown. 

Following Houstons' defeat by Detroit Pistons in the 1984 Eastern Conference Semi-Finals - having overcome some very tough adversities along the way including franchise moves & suspensions totaling 186 games over five years whilst still achieving consistent playoff appearances front office shakeup ensued whereby head coach Jeff Van.

36. Garrison Mathews

Shooting guard

Garrison Mathews Career

  • High school: Franklin (Franklin, Tennessee)
  • College: Lipscomb (2015–2019)
  • NBA draft: 2019 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2019–present
  • 2019–2021: Washington Wizards
  • 2019–2020: →Capital City Go-Go
  • 2021–present: Houston Rockets
  • 2021: →Rio Grande Valley Vipers
  • Atlantic Sun Player of the Year (2019), 3× First-team All-Atlantic Sun (2017–2019)

After graduating from high school, Garrison Mathews played one year of college basketball for Lipscomb. He was drafted by the Houston Rockets in the second round of the 2019 NBA Draft.

Garrison is a shooting guard and has been described as a "pure shooter". In his rookie season with the Rockets, he averaged 7 points per game off the bench. 

In 2020-21, he started to become more involved in Houston's offense and increased his scoring average to 14 points per game while also averaging 3 assists per game.

For his performance in 2021-22, Mathews has named an all-star for the first time in his career and won Rookie of The Year honors with the Houston Rockets Garrison Mathews is an Undrafted player in the NBA Draft 2019. 

Garrison Mathews has played for Washington Wizards and Capital City Go-Go in the 2018–19 season. In 2021, he will join Houston Rockets as a member of their roster.

He was named Atlantic Sun Player of the Year in 2019 after averaging 22 points per game during conference play that year. 

His highlight moments with Washington Wizards include leading them to a playoff berth following an 81–79 win over Toronto Raptors on May 7th, 2020 where he scored 27 points off the bench including 14 from 3-point range en route to being awarded. 

Most Improved Player honors by ESPN's RealGM website later that night; scoring a then career-high 37 points against Detroit Pistons on January 10th, 2020; and recording his second double-double (15pts & 12rebs) against. 

Atlanta Hawks on December 29th, 2019 which helped lead Washington Wizards to victory 104–101 at Verizon Center.

37. Vernon Maxwell

Vernon Maxwell Career

  • High school: Buchholz (Gainesville, Florida)
  • College: Florida (1984–1988)
  • NBA draft 1988 / Round: 2 / Pick: 47th overall
  • Selected by the Denver Nuggets
  • Playing career: 1988–2001
  • Position: Shooting guard / Point guard
  • Number: 11, 2, 3
  • 1988–1990: San Antonio Spurs
  • 1990–1995: Houston Rockets
  • 1995–1996: Philadelphia 76ers
  • 1996–1997: San Antonio Spurs
  • 1998: Orlando Magic
  • 1998: Charlotte Hornets
  • 1999: Sacramento Kings
  • 1999–2000: Seattle SuperSonics
  • 2000: Philadelphia 76ers
  • 2001: Dallas Mavericks
  • 2× NBA champion (1994, 1995), Florida Mr. Basketball (1984)
  • Points: 10,912 (12.8 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 2,200 (2.6 rpg)
  • Assists: 2,912 (3.4 apg)

Maxwell was a two-time All-Star and a member of the Houston Rockets 1995 championship team. Maxwell played 11 seasons in the NBA, with stops in San Antonio, Houston and Philadelphia.

After retiring from professional basketball, Maxwell worked as an analyst for ESPN's coverage of the NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Tournament. In 2001, Maxwell published his autobiography entitled "In My Life: The Autobiography of Vernon Maxwell".

Vernon Maxwell was a highly productive player during his 15-year NBA career. He averaged 12.8 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game and was a two-time champion with the San Antonio Spurs in 1994 and 1995. 

Maxwell played for six different teams over his career - Orlando Magic, Charlotte Hornets, Sacramento Kings, Seattle SuperSonics, Dallas Mavericks, and Philadelphia 76ers - but never found success outside of Texas except for one season in Philadelphia where he helped lead the 76ers to the playoffs.

Maxwell is best known for being part of one of the most successful dynasties in NBA history alongside Tim Duncan and David Robinson with the Spurs; together they won championships twice (1994, 1995) while also claiming runner-up honors once (2003). 

After retiring as a player at age 38 after playing just 68 games due to injury in the 2006-07 season with Dallas Mavericks, Vernon has since worked as an analyst on Fox Sports Southwest's coverage of basketball games along with former players Avery Johnson and Sean Elliott among others.

38. Cuttino Mobley

Cuttino Mobley Career

  • 1998–2004: Houston Rockets
  • 2004–2005: Orlando Magic
  • 2005: Sacramento Kings
  • 2005–2008: Los Angeles Clippers

Cuttino Mobley was born on September 1, 1975, in Philadelphia, PA. He attended high school at Cardinal Dougherty and played college ball at Rhode Island before being drafted by the Houston Rockets in 1998.

In his 10-year NBA career, Cuttino averaged 6 points and 4 rebounds per game while playing for the Rockets, 76ers, Lakers, and Pistons. 

After retiring from basketball in 2008, Cuttino began working as a color commentator for Comcast SportsNet Bay Area's coverage of Warriors games alongside play-by-play man Bob Beyer Jr.

Cuttino Mobley was a five-time all-star and three-time Atlantic 10 player of the year while playing for the Houston Rockets, Orlando Magic, and Sacramento Kings. Cuttino Mobley is one of only two guards in NBA history to record over 11,000 points, 2,000 rebounds, and 2,000 assists in a career. 

He has been named an All-Star twice (2004 with Orlando and 2005 with Sacramento) as well as being selected to the First Team All-Atlantic 10 both times he was eligible for selection.

His accolades also include being voted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2017 .

Making him one of just nine players ever inducted into that prestigious hall without having played professionally outside North America (the others are Kobe Bryant, Dikembe Mutombo, Julius Erving, and Rick Barry). 

Mobley retired from professional basketball following the 2008 season after playing his last game for Los Angeles Clippers against the Memphis Grizzlies.

Where he recorded 5 points on 1/7 shooting from behind the arc before sitting out the remainder of the contest due to injury; this would be his final appearance in an NBA uniform.

Also Played For: big 3, 2003–04 nba season

39. Tari Eason

Forward

Tari Eason Career

  • High school: , Garfield, (Seattle, Washington), Federal Way, (Federal Way, Washington)
  • College: , Cincinnati (2020–2021), LSU (2021–2022)
  • NBA draft 2022 / Round: 1 / Pick: 17th overall
  • Selected by the Houston Rockets
  • Playing career: 2022–present
  • 2022–present: Houston Rockets
  • SEC Sixth Man of the Year (2022), First-team All-SEC (2022), AAC All-Freshman Team (2021)

Tari Eason is a tall power forward for the Houston Rockets who was drafted in the first round of the 2021 NBA draft. Tari played two years at Louisiana State University before being selected by the Rockets in 2021.

Eason has shown excellent athleticism and ball-handling skills, which have led to his success as a player so far in his career. He is known for his aggressiveness on both ends of the court, which makes him an effective defender and scorer when playing against other teams’ players.

His height (6'8") and weight (216 lbs) give him plenty of strength and size to be successful in this sport, making him a threat offensively as well as defensively. We can look forward to seeing more from Tari Eason in future seasons, especially with how high he has been rated by some experts within basketball circles.

40. Bruno Fernando

Bruno Fernando Career

  • High school: , Montverde Academy, (Montverde, Florida), IMG Academy, (Bradenton, Florida)
  • College: Maryland (2017–2019)
  • NBA draft 2019 / Round: 2 / Pick: 34th overall
  • Selected by the Philadelphia 76ers
  • Playing career: 2019–present
  • 2019–2021: Atlanta Hawks
  • 2019: →College Park Skyhawks
  • 2021–2022: Boston Celtics
  • 2021–2022: →Maine Celtics
  • 2022–present: Houston Rockets
  • First-team All-Big Ten (2019), Big Ten All-Defensive team (2019), Big Ten All-Freshman team (2018)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  Angola, FIBA Africa Under-18 Championship, : 2016 Rwanda: Team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  Angola
  • FIBA Africa Under-18 Championship
  • : 2016 Rwanda: Team

Bruno Fernando was born on August 15, 1998 in Luanda, Angola. He is 6'10" and 240 lbs., which puts him in the power forward or center category in the NBA.

Bruno played high school basketball at Montverde Academy (Montverde, Florida) and then went to play college ball at Maryland for one season before being drafted by the Houston Rockets in 2019 as a 2nd round pick 34th overall.

Bruno Fernando is a Brazilian-born American professional basketball player who has played for the Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics, Maine Celtics, Houston Rockets and Philadelphia 76ers in the National Basketball Association (NBA).

He was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers as the 31st overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft. Fernando made his NBA debut on October 17th, 2019 against the Detroit Pistons and recorded two points and one rebound in six minutes of action.

He attended College Park Skyhawks where he averaged 16 points per game over three seasons before being drafted by Boston in 2021. 

In 2018 he led Maine to their first-ever NCAA Tournament appearance as a freshman after averaging 20 points per game en route to First Team All-Big Ten honors from both ESPN & Rivals during his collegiate career at Maryland Eastern Shore University - now known as McDaniel College.

After playing sparingly for Houston during their inaugural season, Fernando signed with Philadelphia ahead of 2020–21 where he averaged 9 points and 4 rebounds off bench.

Appearances throughout that campaign before becoming an integral part of Doc Rivers' rotation for most of 2021–22 due to injuries sustained by other key players on Philly's roster such as Joel Embiid & Ben Simmons. 

 Bruno Fernando is widely recognized as one of college basketball's top prospects coming out of Brazil; scouts were high on him because they saw potential not only offensively but also defensively which makes sense given how well he plays within team concepts even at this early stage in his career.

Also Played For: university of maryland

41. Sam Cassell

Sam Cassell Career

  • High school: , Paul Laurence Dunbar, (Baltimore, Maryland), Maine Central Institute, (Pittsfield, Maine)
  • College: , San Jacinto (1989–1991), Florida State (1991–1993)
  • NBA draft 1993 / Round: 1 / Pick: 24th overall
  • Selected by the Houston Rockets
  • Playing career: 1993–2008
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 10, 20, 19, 28
  • Coaching career: 2009–present
  • 3× NBA champion (1994, 1995, 2008), NBA All-Star (2004), All-NBA Second Team (2004), 2× Second-team All-ACC (1992, 1993), No. 10 jersey honored by Florida State Seminoles
  • Points: 15,635 (15.7 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 3,221 (3.2 rpg)
  • Assists: 5,939 (6.0 apg)

Sam Cassell was an assistant coach for the Philadelphia 76ers. He played in the NBA for 13 seasons and averaged 12 points, five assists, and three rebounds per game.

Sam Cassell is from Baltimore, Maryland, and attended Paul Laurence Dunbar High School before going on to play college basketball at Maine Central Institute. 

After playing professionally in Europe for a few years, he rejoined the NBA with the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2003 as an assistant coach under Rick Adelman.

He moved to Philadelphia two years later and has been there ever since, serving as Kevin McHale's right-hand man both on the bench and behind closed doors; most notably during.

Their run to back-to-back conference championships in the 2013–14 season. Cassell was a great point guard for many years, and he helped lead several teams to the playoffs.

He is currently an assistant coach with the Celtics. Cassell had a successful NBA career, playing for some of the best franchises in the league. 

He has also coached extensively throughout his career, most notably with Milwaukee and Los Angeles Clippers where he won two championships as head coach.

42. Rafer Alston

Rafer Alston Career

  • High school: Benjamin N. Cardozo, (Queens, New York)
  • College: , Ventura CC (1994–1995), Fresno CC (1996–1997), Fresno State (1997–1998)
  • NBA draft 1998 / Round: 2 / Pick: 39th overall
  • Selected by the Milwaukee Bucks
  • Playing career: 1998–2012
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 11, 24, 12, 1
  • 1998–1999: Idaho Stampede
  • 1999–2002: Milwaukee Bucks
  • 2002–2003: Mobile Revelers
  • 2003: Toronto Raptors
  • 2003–2004: Miami Heat
  • 2004–2005: Toronto Raptors
  • 2005–2009: Houston Rockets
  • 2009: Orlando Magic
  • 2009–2010: New Jersey Nets
  • 2010: Miami Heat
  • 2011: Zhejiang Lions
  • 2012: Los Angeles D-Fenders
  • Points: 6,799 (10.1 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 1,891 (2.8 rpg)
  • Assists: 3,202 (4.8 apg)

Rafer Alston is a former American professional basketball player who played in the National Basketball Association (NBA). He was born on July 24, 1976, in Queens, New York.

After high school, he attended college at Ventura CC and Fresno CC before being drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in 1998. He played for the Bucks, Charlotte Bobcats, Orlando Magic and Houston Rockets during his career.

In 2012 he retired from playing after appearing in 709 games over 13 seasons of NBA play. Rafer Alston is a 12-year NBA veteran who has played point guard for the Houston Rockets, Orlando Magic and Miami Heat. 

He was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in 2002 but never really found his niche in the league.

He moved to Toronto in 2003 and became one of their most important players, helping them reach the playoffs on multiple occasions. In 2010 he was traded to Miami where he played until 2011 when he signed with Zhejiang Lions of China's CBA League. 

After two seasons there, Rafer returned to play for Los Angeles D-Fenders during the 2013–14 season before retiring from professional basketball altogether at the end of that year.

43. Aaron Brooks

Point guard

Aaron Brooks Career

  • High school: Franklin (Seattle, Washington)
  • College: Oregon (2003–2007)
  • NBA draft 2007 / Round: 1 / Pick: 26th overall
  • Selected by the Houston Rockets
  • Playing career: 2007–2019
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 0, 3, 00, 30
  • Coaching career: 2020–present
  • NBA Most Improved Player (2010), CBA All-Star (2012), Second-team All-American – SN (2007), Third-team All-American – AP (2007), First-team All-Pac-10 (2007), McDonald's All-American (2003), Third-team Parade All-American (2003), Washington Mr. Basketball (2003)
  • Points: 6,259 (9.7 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 1,079 (1.7 rpg)
  • Assists: 1,925 (3.0 apg)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, FIBA Americas U18 Championship, : 2002 Isla Margarita: National team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing the  United States
  • FIBA Americas U18 Championship
  • : 2002 Isla Margarita: National team

Brooks has played in the NBA for 13 seasons, most notably with the Houston Rockets. Brooks is a two-way liaison on the Knicks' coaching staff and works extensively with point guards Brandon Jennings and Frank Ntilikina.

Brooks was drafted 26th overall by the Rockets in 2007 and has gone on to play for numerous other teams including Atlanta, Milwaukee, Sacramento and New York during his career. Aaron Brooks was a standout player at Arizona State and led the Sun Devils to an NCAA Championship in 2008.

He was drafted by the Houston Rockets in 2007 and spent four seasons with them before joining the Rio Grande Valley Vipers of the NBA Development League for one season in 2011-12. In 2013, he moved to Sacramento where he played three more seasons before joining Chicago Bulls as a free agent in 2014.

After two years with Indiana Pacers, Brooks signed with Minnesota Timberwolves this summer and has started all 33 games so far this season averaging 16 points per game while also providing 5 assists per contest.

Also Played For: nba 2k18

44. John Lucas II

Point guard

John Lucas II Career

  • High school: Hillside (Durham, North Carolina)
  • College: Maryland (1972–1976)
  • NBA draft 1976 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
  • Selected by the Houston Rockets
  • Playing career: 1976–1990
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 15, 4, 5, 10, 20
  • Coaching career: 1992–present
  • As player:, NBA All-Rookie First Team (1977), 2× Consensus first-team All-American (1975, 1976), Second-team All-American – AP (1974), Third-team All-American – NABC (1974), ACC Athlete of the Year (1976), 3× First-team All-ACC (1974–1976), Third-team Parade All-American (1972), , As coach:, , USBL champion (1992)
  • Points: 9,951 (10.7 ppg)
  • Assists: 6,454 (7.0 apg)
  • Steals: 1,273 (1.4 spg)
  • Medals, , Representing  United States, Men's basketball, FIBA World Championship, : 1974 Puerto Rico: Team competition
  • Representing  United States
  • Men's basketball
  • FIBA World Championship
  • : 1974 Puerto Rico: Team competition

John Lucas II is an assistant coach for the Houston Rockets. Lucas played point guard in the NBA from 1976 to 1990. He attended Maryland, where he was a three-time All-American and led his team to the NCAA Championship game in 1974.

After retiring as a player, Lucas began coaching with the Rockets in 1992 John Lucas II is an assistant coach for the Houston Rockets. 

He has a career history as a player and coach in the NBA. Lucas played for the Houston Rockets, Golden State Warriors, Washington Bullets, and Lancaster Lightning during his career.

In coaching roles he has been with Miami Tropics (1992), San Antonio Spurs (1994–1996), Philadelphia 76ers (1998–2001), Denver Nuggets (assistant 2001-2003), and Cleveland Cavaliers (2009-2010). 

Most notably he was an assistant coach on Laker's title run in 2010 where they beat Dallas Mavericks 4 games to 1 in the NBA Finals.

45. Armoni Brooks

Shooting guard

Armoni Brooks Career

  • High school: McNeil (Austin, Texas)
  • College: Houston (2016–2019)
  • NBA draft: 2019 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2019–present
  • 2019–2020: College Park Skyhawks
  • 2021: Rio Grande Valley Vipers
  • 2021–2022: Houston Rockets
  • 2022: College Park Skyhawks
  • 2022: Toronto Raptors
  • 2022–present: College Park Skyhawks
  • Second-team All-AAC (2019), AAC Sixth Man of the Year (2018)

Armoni Brooks is a 24-year-old shooting guard who played college basketball for Houston. He was not drafted by an NBA team, but he signed with the G League's Skyhawks in 2019.

In his first season with the team, Brooks averaged 10 points per game and 3 rebounds per game. Armoni has also represented Team USA at international tournaments including the U19 World Championships and FIBA Americas Championship where he won a gold medal in 2018.

He is considered to be one of the best young shooting guards in America and looks likely to make an impact in Europe or Australia soon as well Brooks is a versatile forward who has played both at the NCAA level and in the NBA. 

Brooks was drafted by the Houston Rockets in 2021, but he did not play for them because he transferred to College Park Skyhawks before their first game of the season.

He has since been with College Park Skyhawks all year, averaging 18 points and six rebounds per game on .500 shooting from beyond the arc. 

Brooks was named AAC Sixth Man of the Year after averaging 17 points and seven rebounds per game for Rio Grande Valley Vipers last season before transferring to College Park Skyhawks this year as a junior college transfer-eligible player.

46. Russell Westbrook

Point guard

Russell Westbrook Career

  • High school: Leuzinger (Lawndale, California)
  • College: UCLA (2006–2008)
  • NBA draft 2008 / Round: 1 / Pick: 4th overall
  • Selected by the Seattle SuperSonics
  • Playing career: 2008–present
  • 2008–2019: Oklahoma City Thunder
  • 2019–2020: Houston Rockets
  • 2020–2021: Washington Wizards
  • 2021–present: Los Angeles Lakers
  • NBA Most Valuable Player (2017), 9× NBA All-Star (2011–2013, 2015–2020), 2× NBA All-Star Game MVP (2015, 2016), 2× All-NBA First Team (2016, 2017), 5× All-NBA Second Team (2011–2013, 2015, 2018), 2× All-NBA Third Team (2019, 2020), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2009), 2× NBA scoring champion (2015, 2017), 3× NBA assists leader (2018, 2019, 2021), NBA 75th Anniversary Team, Third-team All-Pac-10 (2008), Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year (2008), Pac-10 All-Defensive Team (2008)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2012 London: Team competition, World Championship/World Cup, : 2010 Turkey: Team competition
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing the  United States
  • Olympic Games
  • : 2012 London: Team competition
  • World Championship/World Cup
  • : 2010 Turkey: Team competition

Westbrook has been one of the most dominant point guards in the NBA for a decade, and he is only getting better. He was drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics in 2008 and played with them until 2019.

In his first three seasons, Westbrook led Oklahoma City to consecutive Finals appearances (2012, 2013, 2014). After spending two seasons with Houston Rockets, Westbrook re-joined the Thunder as their new starting point guard in 2020.

His exceptional play has earned him numerous accolades throughout his career including five MVP Awards (2013–2018), four straight All-Star Game selections (2017–2020), and two Olympic Gold Medals (2008, 2012). Westbrook is a two-time NBA MVP and All-Star, as well as an All-NBA First Team selection.

Westbrook was drafted by the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2008 and has since played for them, signing with the Washington Wizards this offseason. 

Westbrook's game revolves around his explosiveness and speed on offense, as he can score through almost any means possible – whether it be dunked or assists to teammates.

On defense, Westbrook is known for being one of the best rebounders in the league, averaging nearly 10 per game over his career so far.

Also Played For: seattle supersonics, oklahoma city thunder

47. David Nwaba

Shooting guard

David Nwaba Career

  • High school: University (Los Angeles, California)
  • College: , Santa Monica (2012–2013), Cal Poly (2013–2016)
  • NBA draft: 2016 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2016–present
  • 2016–2017: Los Angeles D-Fenders
  • 2017: Los Angeles Lakers
  • 2017: →Los Angeles D-Fenders
  • 2017–2018: Chicago Bulls
  • 2018–2019: Cleveland Cavaliers
  • 2019–2020: Brooklyn Nets
  • 2020–2022: Houston Rockets
  • 2022–present: Motor City Cruise
  • NBA D-League All-Defensive Team (2017), NBA D-League All-Rookie Team (2017), WSC South Division Player of the Year (2013)

David Nwaba was originally a high school basketball star in Southern California. He attended the University of California, Santa Monica for one year before transferring to Cal Poly Pomona.

After graduating from college, Nwaba played professionally in the NBA G League for two seasons with the Grand Rapids Drive and Cleveland Cavaliers' affiliate, the Canton Charge. In 2018 he signed with the Atlanta Hawks and has since been playing in their D-League affiliate, the Erie BayHawks.

David is an excellent shooter who can create his own shot off the dribble or knock down open shots from outside shooting range; he ranks among league leaders averaging over 38% from three-point territory over his career so far. 

David is also known for being a hard worker on both offence and defense - he's averaged more than 1 steal per game throughout his career.

48. Ömer Aşık

Center

Ömer Aşık Career

  • NBA draft 2008 / Round: 2 / Pick: 36th overall
  • Selected by the Portland Trail Blazers
  • Playing career: 2005–2018
  • Position: Center
  • Number: 3, 12, 14, 24
  • 2005–2006: Fenerbahçe
  • 2005–2006: →FMV Işık Spor Kulübü
  • 2006–2007: Alpella
  • 2007–2010: Fenerbahçe
  • 2010–2012: Chicago Bulls
  • 2012–2014: Houston Rockets
  • 2014–2018: New Orleans Pelicans
  • 2018: Chicago Bulls
  • 2× TBL champion (2008, 2010), 2× TBL All-Star (2007, 2008)
  • Medals, , Representing  Turkey, FIBA World Championship, : 2010 Turkey: National team
  • Representing  Turkey
  • FIBA World Championship
  • : 2010 Turkey: National team

Aşık was born on July 4, 1986, in Bursa, Turkey. After playing for two Turkish clubs during his young career, he was drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers in 2008 and played there until 2018.

At 7' 2" and 255 pounds, Ömer is a very large center who can score with both hands around the basket. He has also been known to be an excellent defender and passer off the dribble as well as a strong rebounder averaging 11 per game throughout his NBA career so far.

In 2018 he announced his retirement from professional basketball after 8 seasons in the league which included stints with Fenerbahçe (2005-2006), Alpella (2006-2007), and Houston Rockets (2018). Aşık is a Turkish basketball player who has played for Fenerbahçe and Chicago Bulls.

2. At 6'11", he is one of the tallest players in the league and had an impressive scoring progression during his time with Fenerbahçe (15 points per game in Euroleague rookie season, 21 points per game as a sophomore in TBL, 28 point average during 2010–2011 season).

He transferred to the Bulls prior to the 2012-2013 NBA Season but only appeared in 10 games due to injury.

In January 2014, Ömer signed with Houston Rockets where he averaged 7 points and 5 rebounds off the bench before being traded to New Orleans Pelicans on February 19th for Jrue Holiday and Alexis Ajinca Played 36 minutes against. 

Golden State Warriors on November 14th, 2018 recording 20 pts 11 rebs + 8 assists which were the best individual performance of his career.

49. Patrick Beverley

Point guard

Patrick Beverley Career

  • High school: , Waubonsie Valley (Aurora, Illinois), John Marshall Metropolitan (Chicago, Illinois)
  • College: Arkansas (2006–2008)
  • NBA draft 2009 / Round: 2 / Pick: 42nd overall
  • Selected by the Los Angeles Lakers
  • Playing career: 2008–present
  • 2008–2009: Dnipro
  • 2009–2010: Olympiacos
  • 2011–2012: Spartak St. Petersburg
  • 2013–2017: Houston Rockets
  • 2013: →Rio Grande Valley Vipers
  • 2017–2021: Los Angeles Clippers
  • 2021–2022: Minnesota Timberwolves
  • 2022–present: Los Angeles Lakers
  • NBA All-Defensive First Team (2017), 2× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2014, 2020), EuroCup MVP (2012), All-EuroCup First Team (2012), 2× Russian League All-Symbolic First Team (2011, 2012), Russian Cup winner (2011), Russian League Defensive Player of the Year (2011), Russian League All-Star (2011), Russian League Guard of the Year (2011), Greek Cup winner (2010), UBL All-Star (2009), UBL Slam Dunk Contest champion (2009), Second-team All-SEC (2007), SEC Freshman of the Year (2007), SEC All-Freshman Team (2007)
  • Medals, , Men’s basketball, Representing the  United States, FIBA U19 World Championship, : 2007 Serbia: National team
  • Men’s basketball
  • Representing the  United States
  • FIBA U19 World Championship
  • : 2007 Serbia: National team

Patrick Beverley is a Point Guard for the Los Angeles Lakers. He was drafted by the Lakers in 2009 and has played with them his entire career. Patrick Beverley is known for being an effective player on both sides of the ball, averaging 10 points and 5 assists per game over his NBA career so far.

Patrick Beverley also has experience playing in international competitions, including winning a gold medal at the 2012 Olympics with Team USA. 

Outside of basketball, he enjoys spending time with family and friends and working out regularly to maintain his athleticism Patrick Beverley was drafted by the Rockets in 2013 and has been one of their most important players since.

He is a versatile player who can play both guard positions well, making him a valuable asset on any team. He has won many awards during his career, including an All-Defensive First Team selection in 2017. 

Beverley is also known for his hustle and determination on the court, which has led to many victories for Houston over the years.

50. Danuel House Jr.

Small forward

Danuel House Jr. Career

  • High school: Hightower (Missouri City, Texas)
  • College: , Houston (2012–2014), Texas A&M (2014–2016)
  • NBA draft: 2016 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2016–present
  • 2016–2017: Washington Wizards
  • 2016–2017: →Delaware 87ers
  • 2017: Rio Grande Valley Vipers
  • 2017–2018: Phoenix Suns
  • 2017–2018: →Northern Arizona Suns
  • 2018: Rio Grande Valley Vipers
  • 2018–2021: Houston Rockets
  • 2018–2019: →Rio Grande Valley Vipers
  • 2021–2022: New York Knicks
  • 2022: Utah Jazz
  • 2022–present: Philadelphia 76ers
  • AP honorable mention All-American (2016), First-team All-SEC (2015), Second-team All-SEC (2016), C-USA Freshman of the Year (2013), C-USA All-Freshman Team (2013)

Danuel House Jr. was born on June 7, 1993, in Houston, Texas. He attended high school at Hightower (Missouri City, Texas). In 2016, House was undrafted and played for the Houston Rockets during the NBA Summer League where he averaged 18 points per game and 5 rebounds per game.

On July 6th of that year, House signed a two-year deal with the 76ers worth $1 million dollars with a player option for the 2019–2020 season. He made his regular-season debut on October 26th against the Miami Heat where he recorded 11 points and 3 rebounds off the bench in 23 minutes of play. 

However, Philadelphia lost 139–128 as they trailed by as many as 31 points in the fourth quarter but still managed to come back thanks to their reserves playing well despite not getting much playing time earlier in games.

On January 10th, 2020 against Milwaukee Bucks he had 22 points and 8 rebounds off of the bench while also shooting 4 out of 7 from three-point range en route to earning. 

Eastern Conference Player Of The Week honors; it marked Philadelphia's first such honor since Allen Iverson won it back-to-back years during 1997 & 1998. 

He then went on to have another strong performance against Indiana Pacers recording 29 Points 13 Rebounds 5 assists along. 

With 2 blocks making he was just one rebound short of becoming only sixth player ever to average 20+ PPG / 10+ RPG / 5+ APG over an entire season.

( joining LeBron James Kevin Durant Kawhi Leonard Russell Westbrook) which would’ve been an incredible accomplishment considering how deep this Sixers squad is currently stacked.

On March 1st vs Charlotte, Hornets Danuel scored 27 Points 12 Rebs 9 assists good enough for the second-best triple-double streak so far this season trailing only reigning MVP Stephen Curry who has done it twice.

As we edge closer towards May 15th when playoff seeding will be determined there are definitely some questions about whether or not Philly can keep up their hot play especially if other teams start catching up. 

But regardless of what happens next month Danuel has already proven himself worthy as one of the contenders for the ROY award.

51. Kelly Olynyk

Forward-center

Kelly Olynyk Career

  • High school: South Kamloops, (Kamloops, British Columbia)
  • College: Gonzaga (2009–2013)
  • NBA draft 2013 / Round: 1 / Pick: 13th overall
  • Selected by the Dallas Mavericks
  • Playing career: 2013–present
  • 2013–2017: Boston Celtics
  • 2017–2021: Miami Heat
  • 2021: Houston Rockets
  • 2021–2022: Detroit Pistons
  • 2022–present: Utah Jazz
  • NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2014), Consensus first-team All-American (2013), First-team Academic All-American (2013), WCC Player of the Year (2013), First-team All-WCC (2013), No. 13 retired by Gonzaga Bulldogs
  • Medals, , Men's Basketball, Representing  Canada, FIBA AmeriCup, : 2015 Mexico City: National team
  • Men's Basketball
  • Representing  Canada
  • FIBA AmeriCup
  • : 2015 Mexico City: National team

Kelly Olynyk was born in Toronto, Ontario on April 19th, 1991. He played college basketball for Gonzaga before being drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in 2013.

Kelly has since spent time with the Boston Celtics and Detroit Pistons, among other teams. In 2017 he signed with the Utah Jazz as a free agent. As a center or power forward, Kelly is known for his shot-blocking and scoring ability from inside and out of the paint.

Kelly Olynyk is a 7-foot forward who has played for the Miami Heat and Houston Rockets in the NBA. Kelly was drafted by the Boston Celtics in the first round of the 2006 NBA Draft but never played for them because he was traded to Miami before they could sign him. 

In 2013, he became an All-American and won WCC Player of The Year honors while playing at Gonzaga University.

After two seasons with Utah, Kelly signed with Detroit this offseason and will be looking to help them make some noise in the playoffs this year. Kelly is married to former Miss Universe Australia Olivia Newton-John and they have three children together - Mia Rose (born 2015), Ava Max (born 2018) and Kit Kat (born 2020).

Final Words

Houston Rockets best players of alltime include some of the most iconic and respected athletes in NBA history. These stars have contributed to one of the league’s most successful franchises, including five consecutive playoff appearances and two championships.

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Morgan Wolf

Journalist with experience covering the intersection of sports with business. Demonstrated expertise in digital, video and social media content covering major sports including soccer, NBA, NFL, MLB, tennis and Olympic sports. But basketball is his passion. Specialties: expert for sports related content management LinkedIn

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