Michigan has a long and storied tradition of high school basketball. With some of the most talented players in the country, the state of Michigan is known for its passionate fans and competitive teams. From small towns to big cities, high school basketball in Michigan is always exciting and full of energy.
The basketball season is always a special time for schools across the state, as teams battle for not only a state title, but also the chance to be named one of the top teams in the nation. Every year, the stakes are high, and the teams are ready to compete.
The Michigan High School Basketball Tournament is the crown jewel of the season, bringing together the best teams and players from across the state. No matter the result, when it’s over, the fans of Michigan high school basketball can look back on another great season and look forward to the next one.
1. Dave DeBusschere
Power forward
Career
- 1962–1968: Detroit Pistons
- 1968–1974: New York Knicks
- As coach:
- 1964–1967: Detroit Pistons
Dave DeBusschere was born on October 16, 1940 in Detroit, Michigan. He attended high school at Austin Catholic Preparatory School and played college basketball for the Detroit Mercy Spartans.
DeBusschere was drafted by the Detroit Pistons in 1962 and spent his entire playing career with them until 1974. Dave is best remembered as a power forward or small forward who helped lead the Pistons to four NBA championships during his time with them (1972–1975, 1978).
In 2003, DeBusschere died of heart failure at the age of 62 after suffering from health problems for many years prior to that point including a stroke in 1999 which left him partially paralyzed from the waist down. DeBusschere was a versatile player who excelled both on the court and in the locker room.
He is one of only two players to win an NBA championship with two different teams, and he holds numerous other records. DeBusschere is also known for his strong leadership skills, which helped him become one of the most successful coaches in basketball history.
Also Played For: new york knicks, new york knights
2. Glen Rice
Career
- 1989–1995: Miami Heat
- 1995–1999: Charlotte Hornets
- 1999–2000: Los Angeles Lakers
- 2000–2001: New York Knicks
- 2001–2003: Houston Rockets
- 2003–2004: Los Angeles Clippers
Glen Rice was a highly productive small forward in the NBA for many years. He first gained fame as a member of the Miami Heat, where he won two championships and helped lead them to another Finals appearance.
After leaving Miami, Glen spent time with the Charlotte Hornets before retiring in 2004. Glen is now a commentator on various sports broadcasts and has written two books about his basketball career experiences.
Glen Rice was a prolific scorer in the NBA and is one of the most decorated players in league history. He won an NBA championship with the Lakers and three All-Star games. Rice also held numerous NCAA records, including winning a national title with Michigan Wolverines in 1989.
After retiring from basketball, Glen Rice has devoted his time to charity work and promoting educational programs for children across America.
Also Played For: los angeles lakers, miami heat
3. Shane Battier
Power forward
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%.
Also Played For: duke university
4. Dan Majerle
Career
- 1988–1995: Phoenix Suns
- 1995–1996: Cleveland Cavaliers
- 1996–2001: Miami Heat
- 2001–2002: Phoenix Suns
- As coach:
- 2008–2013: Phoenix Suns (associate HC)
- 2013–2020: Grand Canyon
Majerle played for the Phoenix Suns from 1988 to 2002. He was a three-time All-Star and two-time champion with the Suns. Majerle is currently an assistant coach with the Utah Jazz.
He attended high school in Traverse City, Michigan, and played collegiately at Central Michigan University before being drafted by the Phoenix Suns in 1988. Dan Majerle spent his entire 19-year NBA career with the Phoenix Suns, amassing 10,925 points and 4,265 rebounds.
He was an All-Star three times and a member of the All-Defensive Second Team twice. Majerle also won USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year in 1988.
Also Played For: phoenix suns, central michigan university
5. Derrick Coleman
Power forward
Career
- 1990–1995: New Jersey Nets
- 1995–1998: Philadelphia 76ers
- 1999–2001: Charlotte Hornets
- 2001–2004: Philadelphia 76ers
- 2004–2005: Detroit Pistons
Derrick Coleman was a power forward and center for the New Jersey Nets, Philadelphia 76ers, Detroit Pistons, Charlotte Hornets and Houston Rockets during his playing career.
He was drafted first overall in the 1990 NBA draft by the New Jersey Nets. Coleman appeared in over 1000 games during his 14-year NBA career averaging 12 points and 10 rebounds per game.
Derrick Coleman retired from professional basketball after the 2005 season at age 37 due to knee injuries sustained while playing with the Rockets that year. Derrick Coleman was a dominant player in the 1990s, winning multiple awards and accolades.
He was an All-American at Syracuse and one of the best forwards of his era. Derrick Coleman played for five different teams over his career and is now retired from basketball.
Also Played For: brooklyn nets, syracuse orange men's basketball
6. Jason Richardson
Shooting guard
Career
- 2001–2007: Golden State Warriors
- 2007–2008: Charlotte Bobcats
- 2008–2010: Phoenix Suns
- 2010–2012: Orlando Magic
- 2012–2015: Philadelphia 76ers
Richardson was drafted fifth overall by the Golden State Warriors in 2001. He played with the Warriors for six seasons before joining the Charlotte Bobcats in 2007.
Richardson has averaged 14.1 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 assists per game throughout his career.
In June 2015, Richardson announced his retirement from professional basketball after 16 seasons in the NBA Richardson was one of the most versatile players in the NBA for many years, able to contribute offensively from all over the court.
He won two slam dunk contests and was a consensus Second-Team All-American in 2001. Richardson also excelled at shooting threes, making more than half of his three-point attempts during his career (596).
After playing for six different teams across four seasons, Richardson retired after the 2015–16 season with 14,644 points and 4,245 rebounds accumulated in 703 games played.
Also Played For: golden state warriors, michigan state basketball
7. Jalen Rose
Career
- 1994–1996: Denver Nuggets
- 1996–2002: Indiana Pacers
- 2002–2003: Chicago Bulls
- 2003–2006: Toronto Raptors
- 2006: New York Knicks
- 2006–2007: Phoenix Suns
Jalen Rose played point guard and small forward in the NBA for nine years. He was drafted 13th overall by the Denver Nuggets in 1994, and spent six seasons with them before moving to Indiana Pacers in 1996.
Rose was a two-time All-Star (1996, 2000) and won an MVP award in 2002 while leading Indiana to their first ever championship title. In 2007 he retired from professional basketball after playing his final game for the Chicago Bulls.
Jalen is currently an analyst on ESPN's coverage of the NBA playoffs Jalen Rose is a five-time NBA All-Star and three-time Slam Dunk Contest champion.
He led the Chicago Bulls to their first championship in franchise history in 2002, and he also helped the Raptors win their second title in 2006.
After leaving Toronto, Rose played for the New York Knicks and Phoenix Suns before retiring at the age of 34 due to injuries sustained during his career.
Also Played For: indiana pacers, toronto raptors
8. 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: houston rockets, rockets lakers basketball
9. Magic Johnson
Los Angeles Lakers
Career
- 1979–1991, 1996: Los Angeles Lakers
- 1999–2000: Magic M7 Borås
- 2000: Magic Great Danes
- 1994: Los Angeles Lakers
Magic Johnson was one of the most successful basketball players in history. He was drafted first overall by the Los Angeles Lakers and played for them from 1979 to 1991.
Magic then spent two seasons with the Magic M7 Borås before returning to the NBA with the Lakers again. In 1996, he became head coach of the LA Clippers and led them to their only playoff appearance during his tenure as coach.
After leaving coaching, Magic returned to play for one final season with the Lakers in 2018-19 before retiring at age 70 years old later that year. Magic Johnson was an iconic figure in the world of basketball and is considered one of the greatest players to ever play the game.
He won five championships with the Los Angeles Lakers, as well as three MVP awards and twelve All-Star appearances. After retiring from playing basketball, Magic took on a number of roles within the league - most notably being head coach for both the Lakers and then later, the LA Clippers.
He also served as president of Basketball Operations for both teams. In 2019, Magic was named NBA Lifetime Achievement Award recipient and his No 32 jersey was retired by his former team, the LA Lakers.
Also Played For: march madness, nba 75th anniversary team
10. Derrick Dial
Oklahoma City Blue
Career
- 1998: Camden Power
- 1998–1999: Peristeri B.C.
- 1999–2001: San Antonio Spurs
- 2001–2002: New Jersey Nets
- 2002: South California Surf
- 2002: Toronto Raptors
- 2002–2003: Virtus Pallacanestro Bologna
- 2003–2004: Long Beach Jam
- 2003–2004: Orlando Magic
- 2004–2005: Long Beach Jam
- 2005: Valencia BC
- 2006–2007: Olympiada Patras BC
- 2008: Anaheim Arsenal
- 2008–2009: Tulsa 66ers
- Greek All-Star Game (1998)
Derrick Dial was born in Detroit, Michigan on December 20th, 1975. He played high school basketball at Cass Technical in Detroit and then attended Eastern Michigan University from 1994 to 1998 where he played for the EMU Eagles.
In 1998 Derrick was drafted by the San Antonio Spurs with the 52nd overall pick and spent nine seasons playing for them before moving to the Charlotte Bobcats in 2011.
Derrick has had a successful career both domestically and internationally as he has represented USA Basketball on several occasions, including winning a gold medal at the 2004 Summer Olympics held in Athens, Greece along with teammates Kevin Garnett and Kobe Bryant.
In 2010 Derrick signed with Maccabi Tel Aviv of Israel’s Liga Leumit but left after one season to join CHAO Zhenye of China’s CBA League where he currently plays as their shooting guard/small forward starting lineup player alongside current NBA players Luol Deng (Chicago Bulls) and Diaw Adebayo (Miami Heat).
Derrick is married to his wife Courtney who also attended EMU alongside him; they have two children together – daughter Meriiah (born 2006) and son Elijah (born 2009).
Also Played For: american basketball association
11. Robert Traylor
Career
- 1998–2000: Milwaukee Bucks
- 2000–2001: Cleveland Cavaliers
- 2001–2002: Charlotte Hornets
- 2002–2004: New Orleans Hornets
- 2004–2005: Cleveland Cavaliers
- 2006: Gestibérica Vigo
- 2007–2008: Santurce Crabbers
- 2008–2009: Antalya Kepez Belediyesi
- 2009: NSB Napoli
- 2010: Vaqueros de Bayamón
- 2010–2011: Halcones UV Xalapa
- 2011: Vaqueros de Bayamón
Traylor was born in Detroit, Michigan on February 1, 1977. He attended high school at Murray-Wright and played college basketball for the Michigan Wolverines from 1995 to 1998.
In 1998, Traylor was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks with the sixth overall pick in the NBA draft and he went on to play for them until 2011.
During his career, Traylor notably competed in three consecutive Finals (2002–2004) as a Maverick before losing all of them against San Antonio Spurs and Miami Heat respectively.
After retiring from professional basketball, Traylor moved to Puerto Rico where he worked as an assistant coach at Canisius College during the 2012–2013 season while also finding time to act in several movies and TV shows including "Entourage" and "The Office".
On May 11th 2011, Robert Traylor died after suffering a heart attack while vacationing in Isla Verde, Puerto Rico with his wife Melissa Mason-Traylor.
Also Played For: michigan wolverines basketball
12. Bill Buntin
Career
- 1965–1966: Detroit Pistons
- 1966–1967: Battle Creek Braves /, Twin Cities Sailors
- 1967–1968: Indiana Pacers
Bill Buntin was born in Detroit, Michigan on May 5th, 1942. He attended Northern High School and played basketball for the school's team before being drafted by the Detroit Pistons in 1965.
Buntin spent three seasons with the Pistons, playing 67 games and averaging 7 points per game.
He also averaged 2 rebounds per game during his time with the franchise. In 1968, he died at 26 years old after a car accident while driving home from a night out with friends in Detroit.
Bill Buntin was a key player on some of the most successful teams in Michigan basketball history. He was a consensus second-team All-American and third-team All-American – AP, NABC, UPI – in 1964.
He is best known for his time with the Detroit Pistons, where he averaged 7.7 points and 36 assists over 324 games from 1965 to 1968.
Bill Buntin later had successful seasons with the Indiana Pacers (1968–1970) and Twin Cities Sailors (1971). His career ended after just two years with the San Diego Clippers due to an injury sustained in 1971 playoffs game against Milwaukee Bucks.
13. Terry Mills
Career
- 1990: PAOK
- 1990–1991: Denver Nuggets
- 1991–1992: New Jersey Nets
- 1992–1997: Detroit Pistons
- 1997–1999: Miami Heat
- 1999–2000: Detroit Pistons
- 2000–2001: Indiana Pacers
Terry Mills was a prolific scorer in the NBA, averaging 20.7 points per game over his 10-year career. He started his career with PAOK before joining the Milwaukee Bucks in 1990.
Mills helped lead the Bucks to four playoff appearances and two Eastern Conference Finals, but he never won an NBA championship.
After leaving the Bucks in 2001, Mills played for several other teams including Boston and Orlando before retiring at age 34 due to injury complications from diabetes care (he had previously suffered a heart attack).
Terry Mills is currently an analyst for ESPN's coverage of the NBA playoffs Terry Mills was a highly successful player in the NBA for over a decade, winning two championships with the Detroit Pistons and also being named an All-Star multiple times.
Mills played college basketball at North Carolina, where he was one of the most dominant players of his era.
He led UNC to back-to-back NCAA titles and was named MVP of both tournaments. After graduating from college, Mills joined the Denver Nuggets as a rookie and quickly became one of their key players; he helped them win their first championship in 1990–91 season.
The following year, 1991–92, Mills teamed up with New Jersey Nets stars Chris Mullin and Jason Kidd to help lead NJN to their only title victory ever; they were subsequently nicknamed "The Three Amigos".
In 1992–97, Terry spent time with four different teams – Detroit Pistons (twice), Indiana Pacers (once), and Miami Heat (once) – but never managed to win another championship despite playing some outstanding basketball along the way; nevertheless, he remained an integral part of each team's success during that period.
"Terry is truly unique," said then-Pistons coach Rick Majerus after signing him in 1997: "He can do it all."
14. Maurice Taylor
Career
- 1997–2000: Los Angeles Clippers
- 2000–2005: Houston Rockets
- 2005–2006: New York Knicks
- 2006–2007: Sacramento Kings
- 2009: Olimpia Milano
- 2009–2010: Shanxi Zhongyu
- 2010: Benetton Treviso
Maurice Taylor was drafted 14th overall by the Los Angeles Clippers in 1997. He played for the Clippers, Orlando Magic, New York Knicks and Boston Celtics over a thirteen-year career.
Taylor is best known for his time with the Knicks where he won two consecutive championships in 2004 and 2005. In 2011, he retired from professional basketball after playing one final season with the Memphis Grizzlies.
Maurice Taylor is currently an assistant coach with his former team, the Knicks Maurice Taylor was a talented player in his time. He won Rookie of the Year honors with the Clippers in 1997 and was an All-Rookie Second Team selection two years later.
After spending two seasons with Houston, Taylor signed as a free agent with the Knicks in 2006 and played for them until 2007. In 2009, he joined Italian side Olimpia Milano where he remained until 2010 when he moved to Benetton Treviso.
Maurice had success wherever he went - winning Third Team Parade All-American accolades at Michigan State before being drafted by LA Clippers - but it wasn't long before injuries forced him into retirement aged just 29 years old after playing just 82 games over four seasons due to various knee problems.
15. Manny Harris
Career
- 2010–2012: Cleveland Cavaliers
- 2011–2012: Canton Charge
- 2012–2013: Azovmash
- 2013–2014: Los Angeles D-Fenders
- 2014: Los Angeles Lakers
- 2014: Türk Telekom
- 2015: Eskişehir
- 2015–2016: Texas Legends
- 2016: Türk Telekom
- 2016: Anhui Dragons
- 2017: Dallas Mavericks
- 2017: Texas Legends
- 2017: Anhui Dragons
- 2017–2018: AEK Athens
- 2018: Rytas Vilnius
- 2018–2019: Bahçeşehir Koleji
- 2019: NLEX Road Warriors
- 2020: Hapoel Holon
- 2020–2021: Shandong Heroes
- 2021: AEK Athens
- 2022: Kaohsiung Steelers
- 2022–present: Cangrejeros de Santurce
Harris was a standout shooting guard at Redford High School in Detroit, Michigan. After two years of college at Michigan, Harris was not drafted by any NBA team and went undrafted in the 2010 NBA Draft.
Instead, he signed with the Cleveland Cavaliers for the 2010–11 season but only played sparingly before being traded to Canton Charge midway through the season.
In 2012, Harris joined Ukrainian club Azovmash where he continued to play until 2013 when he moved back to America and joined the Sacramento Kings for a brief period before returning to Europe once again with Serbian club Crvena Zvezda as their starting Shooting Guard/Small Forward.
Manny Harris was drafted by the Los Angeles D-Fenders in 2013. He then moved to Europe and played for Eskişehir before joining the Texas Legends in 2015. In 2016, Manny joined the Turkish Telekom team where he has remained ever since.
His most recent accolades include being named an All-Star with both Texas Legends and Anhui Dragons this season. As a member of AEK Athens, Manny helped lead his team to their first EuroLeague championship in 2018.
Despite his success on the court, Manny is also known for his charity work - he has raised over $310,000 for various causes through fundraising events like The 3 Point Challenge.
16. Tim McCormick
Career
- 1984–1986: Seattle SuperSonics
- 1986–1988: Philadelphia 76ers
- 1988: New Jersey Nets
- 1988–1990: Houston Rockets
- 1990–1991: Atlanta Hawks
- 1991–1992: New York Knicks
Tim McCormick was a center for the Cleveland Cavaliers from 1984-1992. He won an NBA championship with the Cavs in 1987 and played in six All-Star Games during his career.
Tim McCormick is also a two time Olympian, playing for Team USA at both the 1988 Seoul Olympics and 1992 Barcelona Olympics.
After retiring from basketball, Tim McCormick started coaching youth basketball in Ohio and Michigan before becoming head coach of Division III Mount Union College in Alliance, Ohio, where he currently coaches teams to three NCAA tournament appearances over his five seasons there as head coach (2015–present).
Tim McCormick was a versatile player who could play both forward positions. He was a key part of the Philadelphia 76ers championship teams in 1986 and 1988, averaging over 16 points per game on 46% shooting from the field each season.
After leaving Philadelphia, he played for the New Jersey Nets, Houston Rockets and Atlanta Hawks before ending his career with the Knicks in 1992.
Tim McCormick is still widely considered one of the best forwards to never win an NBA championship – having made it to three consecutive Finals appearances but coming up short each time.
In 1998, he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as part of its second class - alongside Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Julius Erving among others -
making him only the fifth player (after Russell Westbrook, Kobe Bryant, Oscar Robertson and Magic Johnson) to be enshrined twice without winning an MVP or scoring title during his career.
Also Played For: 1984 nba draft
17. Howard Eisley
Career
- 1994–1995: Minnesota Timberwolves
- 1995: San Antonio Spurs
- 1995: Rockford Lightning
- 1995–2000: Utah Jazz
- 2000–2001: Dallas Mavericks
- 2001–2004: New York Knicks
- 2004: Phoenix Suns
- 2004–2005: Utah Jazz
- 2005–2006: Los Angeles Clippers
- 2006: Denver Nuggets
- As coach:
- 2010–2014: Los Angeles Clippers (assistant)
- 2014–2016: Washington Wizards (assistant)
- 2016–2019: New York Knicks (assistant)
- 2019–present: Michigan (assistant)
Howard Eisley was an assistant coach for the Michigan Wolverines. He played in the NBA from 1994 to 2006, spending time with the Minnesota Timberwolves and Philadelphia 76ers.
Howard is married to actress Jaime King and they have two children together. In his career he averaged 10 points, 1 rebounds, 9 assists, 4 steals and 12 minutes per game.
Howard Eisley played basketball for 11 seasons in the NBA, most notably with the Minnesota Timberwolves and San Antonio Spurs.
He was an assistant coach with the Los Angeles Clippers from 2010-2014 and then moved to Washington as an assistant coach in 2014 before joining Michigan this season.
Howard has a cumulative point total of 5,116 which puts him ninth all time on the list of players with at least 6500 points scored in their career.
Also Played For: 1994 nba draft
18. Voshon Lenard
Career
- 1995–1996: Oklahoma City Cavalry
- 1995–2000: Miami Heat
- 2000–2002: Denver Nuggets
- 2002–2003: Toronto Raptors
- 2003–2006: Denver Nuggets
- 2006: Portland Trail Blazers
Voshon Lenard was born on May 14, 1973 in Detroit, Michigan. He played college basketball at Minnesota from 1991 to 1995 and then entered the NBA draft in 1994.
The Milwaukee Bucks chose him 46th overall and he made his debut with them the following year. He spent six seasons with the team before moving on to other teams such as Orlando Magic (1999), Atlanta Hawks (2002–2003) and Dallas Mavericks (2005).
In 2006, Lenard retired from professional basketball after playing for Turkish team Anadolu Efes İstanbul during the 2005–06 season.
Currently, Voshon is a TV commentator for Fox Sports Ohio alongside fellow former player Kenny Smith and analyst Reggie Miller among others since 2016-2017 season onwards.
He was born in the Bahamas and played college ball at Vanderbilt. He was drafted by the Miami Heat with the 25th pick of the 1995 NBA Draft.
He quickly became one of their most reliable scorers, making his first All-Star appearance in 1999 and winning two Three-Point Contests while with Miami (2004, 2006).
Lenard signed as a free agent with Denver in 2002 and helped lead them to an appearance in the 2003 NBA Finals before being traded to Toronto for Damon Stoudamire midway through that season.
After playing just one year for Toronto, he signed a three-year deal with Portland which ended up being his final stop in the league; retiring after averaging 10 points per game over that span.
Also Played For: 2003–04 nba season
19. Smokey Gaines
Career
- 1967: Kentucky Colonels
- As coach:
- 1973–1977: Detroit (assistant)
- 1977–1979: Detroit
- 1979–1987: San Diego State
Smokey Gaines was a shooting guard who played in the NBA for over 20 years. He started his career with the Detroit Pistons, before playing for several other teams including the Philadelphia 76ers and Boston Celtics.
In 1988, he retired from professional basketball after playing for the Charlotte Hornets. Smokey Gaines passed away on September 5th 2020 at the age of 80 after a long illness. Smokey Gaines was an American basketball player who played college ball for LeMoyne-Owen College.
He then had a long career in the NBA, playing for the Detroit Pistons, Washington Bullets and San Diego Clippers. Smokey is most famous for his time with the Detroit Pistons where he was part of two championship teams (1989 and 1990).
After retiring from professional play, Smokey became coach of the Rochester Royals in 2000 before returning to LeMoyne-Owen as head coach in 2003.
In 2006 he took over as head coach of Division II program Eastern Kentucky University where he led them to their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 1978 that year.
On April 6th 2017 it was announced that Smokey would be joining ESPN as an analyst on their broadcast team for Summer league games starting later this month.
Also Played For: harlem globetrotters
20. John Long
Career
- 1978–1986: Detroit Pistons
- 1986–1989: Indiana Pacers
- 1989: Detroit Pistons
- 1990: Atlanta Hawks
- 1990–1991: Tours Joué Basket
- 1991: Detroit Pistons
- 1994: Sioux Falls Skyforce
- 1996–1997: Toronto Raptors
John Long was a shooting guard and small forward for the Detroit Pistons from 1978-1997. He helped lead the Pistons to three consecutive titles in 1984, 1985, and 1986.
Long is also known for his clutch play down the stretch of games, earning him the nickname "Mr. Clutch." After playing his entire career with the Pistons, he retired in 1997 after appearing in 894 games over 13 seasons.
John Long was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2007 as part of its inaugural class along with Joe Dumars and Isiah Thomas. In 2011, he received an honorary doctorate degree from University of Detroit Mercy's Calihan Hall in recognition of his accomplishments on and off court.
John Long was a standout player for the Indiana Pacers from 1986-1989. He helped lead the team to two NBA Championships, and he is one of only five players in history to win an NBA championship with two different teams.
After leaving the Pacers, Long played for Detroit Pistons from 1990-1991 and then again in 1994-1997.
He also had stints with Sioux Falls Skyforce and Toronto Raptors during his career. John Long was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2006 as a member of the Indiana Pacers' "Dream Team."
In addition to his basketball accomplishments, Long has been involved in humanitarian work since retiring from playing professionally;
he currently serves on the board of directors for Feeding America Northwest/Great Lakes Region and is president emeritus for The Salvation Army Greater Los Angeles Area Command (GLAAC).
On February 23rd, 2019, John Long became Director Emeritus at DePaul University where he served as Chancellor since 2004 before that date.
Also Played For: detroit pistons
21. Malik Hairston
Olimpia Milano
Career
- 2008: Austin Toros
- 2008–2010: San Antonio Spurs
- 2010: Austin Toros
- 2010–2011: Montepaschi Siena
- 2011–2013: Olimpia Milano
- 2013–2014: Galatasaray
- 2015–2016: AEK Athens
- 2017: Hapoel Jerusalem
- 2018–2019: Fos Provence Basket
Malik Hairston was born on February 23, 1987 in Detroit, Michigan. He attended Renaissance High School where he played for the varsity basketball team from 2003-2005.
Hairston then went to play college basketball at Oregon from 2004-2008 and helped lead his team to two NCAA Tournament appearances and an Elite Eight appearance in 2006.
In 2008, Hairston was selected 48th overall by the Phoenix Suns and joined their NBA roster that season as a rookie small forward/power forward hybrid player.
His nickname is "Thrill" due to his high energy level on the court which has led him to be known as one of the most exciting players in the league today despite averaging just 9 points per game over his career thus far.
MalikHairston currently plays with Galatasaray of Turkish Basketball League (TBL) where he has averaged 16 points per game this season so far while also shooting 50% from three point range.
Also Played For: 2008 nba draft
22. Mateen Cleaves
Sacramento Kings
Career
- 2000–2001: Detroit Pistons
- 2001–2003: Sacramento Kings
- 2003–2004: Huntsville Flight
- 2004: Cleveland Cavaliers
- 2004: Huntsville Flight
- 2004–2006: Seattle SuperSonics
- 2006: Fayetteville Patriots
- 2006–2007: UNICS Kazan
- 2007: Bakersfield Jam
- 2007–2008: Panionios
- 2008–2009: Bakersfield Jam
Cleaves was a point guard for the Detroit Pistons from 2000 to 2009. He averaged 12.3 points, 5 assists, and 3 rebounds per game in his career. Cleaves won two championships with the Pistons (2004–05, 2008).
In 2006, he signed with the Seattle SuperSonics but did not play much due to injury. Cleaves has also played for Sacramento Kings and Atlanta Hawks in his career as well as Spanish team Real Madrid CIBACAF during the 2007-08 season.
Where he helped lead them to their first Champions League trophy since 1978/79 Cleaves is currently an assistant coach for Michigan State Spartans basketball team Mateen Cleaves was a two-time consensus first-team All-American and Big Ten Player of the Year at Michigan State.
He played nine seasons in the NBA, most notably with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Seattle SuperSonics. Mateen Cleaves retired from professional basketball in 2009 after playing for Panionios in Greece.
Also Played For: big ten conference basketball, michigan state spartans basketball
23. Shawn Respert
Career
- 1995–1997: Milwaukee Bucks
- 1997–1998: Toronto Raptors
- 1998: Dallas Mavericks
- 1999: Phoenix Suns
- 1999–2000: Adecco Milano
- 2000–2001: Near East
- 2001–2002: Fillattice Imola
- 2002–2003: Spójnia Stargard Szczeciński
- As coach:
- 2013–2016: Memphis Grizzlies (assistant)
Shawn Respert was a point guard in the NBA for 10 years. He played for Milwaukee Bucks, Toronto Raptors, and Portland Trail Blazers during his playing career.
Shawn is currently a coach in the NBA with the Minnesota Timberwolves. As a player, he averaged 13 points per game and 3 assists over his career. Shawn Respert played college basketball for Michigan State.
Respert was a three-time consensus first-team All-American and won the National Association of Basketball Coaches Player of the Year award in 1995.
He was selected by the Dallas Mavericks with the ninth overall pick in the 1996 NBA Draft, but he only spent one season with them before being traded to Phoenix Suns where he played until 2000.
After spending time overseas, including stints with Adecco Milano and Fillattice Imola, Respert joined Near East midway through 2001–2002 season as an assistant coach before leaving after two years due to personal reasons.
In 2013, Shawn became an assistant coach for Memphis Grizzlies under Lionel Hollins and helped them make it to their first playoff appearance since 2004 that led him to be offered a contract extension which he declined citing family reasons.
However, they would eventually lose in six games against San Antonio Spurs in Conference Semifinals (2014).
24. Paul Grant
Career
- 1997–1999: Minnesota Timberwolves
- 1999: Milwaukee Bucks
- 1999–2000: Rockford Lightning
- 2000–2001: Indiana Legends
- 2000: Los Angeles Stars
- 2001–2003: Asheville Altitude
- 2003: NIS Vojvodina
- 2004: Utah Jazz
- As coach:
- 2007–2013: MIT (assistant)
Paul Grant was a standout high school player in Birmingham, Michigan and was drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves with the 20th overall pick in the 1997 NBA draft.
Grant spent three seasons playing for the Timberwolves before being traded to the Philadelphia 76ers in 2001. He then played two seasons with Philadelphia before joining the New York Knicks in 2004.
After spending one season with New York, Grant signed as a free agent with the Los Angeles Lakers where he finished his career in 2007-08. In 901 games played over nine years, Paul Grant averaged 12 points and 5 rebounds per game while shooting 47 percent from 3-point range.
In 2006, he became only second player after Karl Malone to be named an All-NBA First Team selection twice (2001–02 and 2002–03).
Paul has also been honored numerous times including winning two Olympic gold medals (2000 and 2008) as well as four World Championships titles (1996, 1998, 2000 AND 2002).
Also Played For: boston college basketball, university of wisconsin-madison basketball
25. Morris Peterson
Small forward
Career
- 2000–2007: Toronto Raptors
- 2007–2010: New Orleans Hornets
- 2010–2011: Oklahoma City Thunder
Morris Peterson was a shooting guard and small forward in the NBA for 10 seasons. He was drafted by the Toronto Raptors in the 2000 NBA Draft and played for the team until 2011.
Peterson is known for his shooting ability and strong defense. He was named to the All-Rookie Team in 2000 and was a two-time All-Star.
Peterson is a two-time Olympian, having played for the United States in the 2008 and 2012 games. Peterson is married and has two children. He currently works as an analyst for the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Peterson is a philanthropist and has donated money to various causes. Peterson is a popular figure in the NBA, with fans both in the United States and Canada.
Morris Peterson was an All-Rookie First Team player in 2001 and a consensus second-team All-American in 2000. Morris Peterson was a two-time Big Ten Player of the Year and Big Ten Tournament MOP in 2000. Morris Peterson retired as No. 42 of the Michigan State Spartans.
26. Greg Kelser
Career
- 1979–1981: Detroit Pistons
- 1981–1983: Seattle SuperSonics
- 1983–1984: San Diego Clippers
- 1985: Indiana Pacers
Greg Kelser was born on September 17, 1957 in Panama City, Florida. Kelser attended high school in Henry Ford in Detroit, Michigan and played for the Michigan State Spartans.
Kelser was drafted by the Detroit Pistons in the 1979 NBA draft and played for them for three seasons. Kelser entered the NBA as a small forward and is best remembered for his time with the Pistons.
Kelser retired from playing in 1985 and now works as a broadcaster for the Pistons. Kelser was a three-time NCAA champion with the Michigan State Spartans. Kelser was drafted in the first round of the 1985 NBA Draft by the Indiana Pacers.
Kelser played for the Pacers for four seasons before retiring in 1988. Kelser is a member of the Indiana Pacers Hall of Fame.
Kelser has worked as an NBA analyst for Turner Sports since 2007. Kelser is married and has two children. Kelser has authored two books about his life in the NBA.
Kelser is a motivational speaker. Kelser currently resides in Indiana.
27. Terry Furlow
Career
- 1976–1977: Philadelphia 76ers
- 1977–1979: Cleveland Cavaliers
- 1979: Atlanta Hawks
- 1979–1980: Utah Jazz
Terry Furlow was born on October 18, 1954 in Flint, Michigan. He attended Flint Northern High School and played college basketball at Michigan State. Furlow was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 1976 NBA draft and spent four seasons with the team.
In 1980, Furlow was killed in a car accident. He was 25 years old. Terry Furlow was a standout player at the University of Memphis, where he led the Tigers to the Final Four in 1976. Furlow was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in the third round of the 1976 NBA draft.
Furlow played for the 76ers, Cleveland Cavaliers, Atlanta Hawks, and Utah Jazz over the course of his career. Furlow was a third-team All-American and two-time All-NBA selection. Furlow is most known for his time with the 76ers, where he helped lead the team to the Finals in 1980.
Furlow retired from the NBA in 1984. Furlow currently works as an assistant coach with the Memphis Grizzlies. Terry Furlow is a Hall of Famer and one of the most successful players in Philadelphia 76ers history.
28. Darryl Johnson
Career
- 1987–1988: Chicago Rockers
- 1988: Chicago Express
- 1989: Illinois Express
- 1989–1990: Cedar Rapids Silver Bullets
- 1990–1991: Purefoods Hotdogs
- 1991: Youngstown Pride
- 1991: Dayton Wings
- 1991–1992: Music City Jammers
- 1992–1994: Rockford Lightning
- 1993: Canadian NBL
- 1994: Townsville Suns
- 1994–1996: Omaha Racers
- 1996: Cleveland Cavaliers
- 1996–1997: Napoli Basket
- 1997–1998: Valvi Girona
- 1998: Idaho Stampede
- 1998–1999: Instituto de Córdoba
- 1999–2001: Atlético San Isidro
- 2001–2002: Flint Fuze
- 2002–2003: Unión Deportiva Española Temuco
Darryl Johnson was born on October 26, 1965 in Flint, Michigan. Johnson attended high school in Central Flint and played college basketball at Michigan State.
Johnson was drafted by the Golden State Warriors in the third round of the 1987 NBA draft. Johnson played in the NBA for 17 seasons, including 10 with the Warriors.
Johnson is best known for his time with the Warriors, where he was a key member of the team's back-to-back championships in 1995 and 1996. Johnson retired from the NBA in 2003.
He now works as a commentator for the Warriors on their television broadcasts. Johnson has two children and is married. Johnson is a three-time NBA All-Star and two-time All-NBA selection.
Johnson is a member of the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame. Darryl Johnson was a 6'10" center from Youngstown, Ohio. Darryl Johnson was drafted by the Cavaliers in the first round of the 1996 NBA Draft.
Darryl Johnson was a four-time All-Star, and he was the Cavs' leading scorer for six seasons. Darryl Johnson was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves in a deal that sent Ron Harper to the Cavs. Darryl Johnson retired after the 2002 season.
Darryl Johnson is the father of former NBA player J.R. Johnson. Darryl Johnson is the founder of the Darryl Johnson Foundation, which helps disadvantaged children. Darryl Johnson is a commentator for the Cavaliers' television broadcasts. Darryl Johnson is a goodwill ambassador for the NBA.
29. Bob Elliott
Career
- 1977–1978: Fernet Tonic Bologna
- 1978–1982: New Jersey Nets
- 1982–1983: Detroit Spirits
Bob Elliott played for the Philadelphia 76ers from 1977 to 1983. He was known for his strong defence and rebounding. He was inducted into the Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame in 1997.
He later worked as a broadcaster for the 76ers, TNT, and ESPN. Elliott was married to Connie Hawkins, with whom he had two children. He died in 2016 at the age of 67. Elliott was a two-time First-team All-WAC selection and played in the NBA for three seasons.
He was a powerful center who could score inside and out. Elliott was a beloved figure in his home state of Utah, where he was a key player in the Jazz's two championship seasons.
Elliott later worked as a commentator for the Jazz and other teams. Elliott is a member of the Utah Sports Hall of Fame and the Utah Basketball Hall of Fame.
He is currently a television analyst for the Jazz. Elliott is a beloved figure in Utah and is often called upon to give his insights during playoff games.
Elliott is a Utah icon and will always be remembered for his time spent with the Jazz. Elliott is a beloved figure in the state of Utah and is often called upon to give his insights during playoff games.
Also Played For: arizona wildcats men's basketball, tucson basketball
30. Chris Douglas-Roberts
Career
- 2008–2010: New Jersey Nets
- 2010–2011: Milwaukee Bucks
- 2011–2012: Virtus Bologna
- 2012: Texas Legends
- 2012–2013: Dallas Mavericks
- 2013: Texas Legends
- 2013–2014: Charlotte Bobcats
- 2014–2015: Los Angeles Clippers
- 2016: Texas Legends
Douglas-Roberts was born in Detroit, Michigan in 1987. Douglas-Roberts played college basketball at Memphis before being drafted by the New Jersey Nets in the 2008 NBA draft.
Douglas-Roberts played for the Nets, Los Angeles Lakers, and Milwaukee Bucks in his NBA career. Douglas-Roberts retired from the NBA in 2016. Douglas-Roberts is a two-time All-Star and was named to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team in 2014.
Douglas-Roberts is currently an assistant coach for the Memphis Grizzlies. Douglas-Roberts is married and has two children. Douglas-Roberts is active in community service, including work with the Boys and Girls Clubs of Southeast Michigan. Douglas-Roberts is a member of the NAACP.
Douglas-Roberts is a 6'6" small forward who played college basketball at the University of Memphis.
Douglas-Roberts was drafted in the 2nd round (41st overall) of the 2008 NBA draft by the New Jersey Nets. Douglas-Roberts played with the Nets, Milwaukee Bucks, and Virtus Bologna before being traded to the Dallas Mavericks in 2013.
Douglas-Roberts played with the Mavericks, Charlotte Bobcats, and Los Angeles Clippers before being traded to the Texas Legends in 2016.
Douglas-Roberts has averaged 9.5 points and 4.8 rebounds per game in his career. Douglas-Roberts is a member of the United States national team. Douglas-Roberts is married and has two children. Douglas-Roberts is originally from Memphis, Tennessee.
Also Played For: memphis tigers men's basketball
31. Joe Hamood
Career
- 1967–1968: Houston Mavericks
Joe Hamood was an American football player who played for the University of Michigan. He was killed in a car accident in 1970. Hamood was a running back who was a three-time All-American at Michigan.
Hamood was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the third round of the 1965 NFL Draft. He played for the Lions from 1965 to 1967. Hamood then played for the Oakland Raiders from 1968 to 1969. Hamood then played for the New Orleans Saints from 1970 to 1971.
Hamood was killed in a car accident in 1970. Joe Hamood was a shooting guard for the Houston Mavericks in the 1967-68 season. He averaged 5.1 points and 2.4 rebounds in 14 games played.
Hamood was never drafted, but played in the NBA for two seasons. His first season was with the Houston Mavericks, and he averaged 3.5 points and 2.0 rebounds in 12 games played.
The following season, he played for the Detroit Pistons. He averaged 8.2 points and 3.5 rebounds in 46 games played. Hamood died in 2014 at the age of 73.
Also Played For: houston cougars basketball, university of houston basketball
32. Desmon Farmer
Career
- 2004: Aris Thessaloniki
- 2005: Telindus Oostende
- 2005: Prokom Trefl
- 2005–2006: Tulsa 66ers
- 2006: CAI Zaragoza
- 2006–2007: Seattle SuperSonics
- 2007: Tulsa 66ers
- 2007–2008: Rio Grande Valley Vipers
- 2008: Atléticos de San Germán
- 2008: San Antonio Spurs
- 2008–2009: Spartak Primorje
- 2009: Zadar
- 2009–2010: Reno Bighorns
- 2010–2011: Ironi Ashkelon
- 2011: Metros de Santiago
- 2012: Boca Juniors
- 2013: Reno Bighorns
- 2014: Cóndores de Cundinamarca
- 2015: Sigal Prishtina
- 2015: Guaiqueríes de Margarita
Farmer was a shooting guard in the NBA for four seasons, averaging 4.4 points and 2.8 assists per game. After four seasons in the NBA, Farmer retired in 2015.
Farmer attended Northwestern high school in Flint, Michigan and played for the Northwestern Wildcats. Farmer was not drafted in the 2004 NBA draft, but was signed by the Aris Thessaloniki team in Greece.
After playing in Greece for two seasons, Farmer was signed by the Telindus Oostende team in Belgium. Farmer played two seasons in Belgium before being signed by the CAI Zaragoza team in Spain. In 2007, Farmer was traded to the Tulsa 66ers team in the NBA.
In 2008, Farmer was traded to the CAI Zaragoza team in Spain. Farmer retired from the NBA in 2015. Desmon Farmer was a 6'9" center and one of the top recruits in the country when he signed with the Seattle SuperSonics in 2006.
He played for the Tulsa 66ers, Rio Grande Valley Vipers, and Atléticos de San Germán before joining the San Antonio Spurs in 2008.
Farmer averaged 5.9 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks in 231 games over six seasons with the Spurs. He was traded to the Zadar club in 2009 and then to the Spartak Primorje team in Slovenia in 2010.
Farmer signed with the Boca Juniors in Argentina in 2013 and later played for the Reno Bighorns in the United States. Farmer signed with the Cóndores de Cundinamarca in Colombia in 2015.
He has played in three EuroCups and two FIBA Americas tournaments. Farmer was a member of the United States national team that won the bronze medal at the 2016 Olympics.
Also Played For: university of southern california basketball
33. Walker Russell
Career
- 1982–1983: Detroit Pistons
- 1983–1984: Detroit Spirits
- 1984: Atlanta Hawks
- 1985: Detroit Pistons
- 1985–1986: Detroit Spirits
- 1986: Kansas City Sizzlers
- 1986–1987: Indiana Pacers
- 1987–1988: Savannah Spirits
- 1988: Detroit Pistons
- 1989: Presto Ice Cream Makers
- 1990: Purefoods TJ Hotdogs
Walker Russell was a shooting guard who played for the Detroit Pistons for five seasons. He was drafted in the fourth round of the 1982 NBA draft and played for the team until 1988.
Russell averaged 12.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.7 assists during his career. He was a member of the Pistons' championship team in 1988. Russell is currently the head coach of the Oakland Golden Grizzlies in the NBA Development League.
He was born on October 26, 1960, in Pontiac, Michigan. Russell is married and has two children. He was inducted into the Detroit Pistons' Hall of Fame in 2010.
Walker Russell currently lives in Oakland, California. Walker Russell was a versatile player who excelled at both shooting and ball handling.
Walker Russell was a key player on two championship-winning teams, Detroit Pistons and Atlanta Hawks. Walker Russell is best known for his time with the Atlanta Hawks, where he was an All-Star and led the team in assists. Walker Russell played in the NBA for 10 seasons, averaging 10.5 points and 5.9 assists per game.
Walker Russell is currently an assistant coach with the Detroit Pistons. Walker Russell has also worked as a broadcaster for both Turner Sports and Fox Sports.
Walker Russell was born in Detroit, Michigan, in June of 1963. Walker Russell is married and has two children. Walker Russell is a dedicated family man who has spent his entire career in the NBA.
34. Demetrius Calip
Career
- 1991: Los Angeles Lakers
- 1991: Rapid City Thrillers
- 1991–1992: Yakima Sun Kings
- 1993–1994: Columbus Horizon
- 1994–1995: Mexico Aztecas
Demetrius Calip was an American professional wrestler and actor. He is best known for his appearances with World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) between 2002 and 2004.
Calip also had a brief stint with the World Championship Wrestling (WCW) promotion in 1995. He is also known for his appearances in various independent wrestling promotions across America.
Calip died on February 5, 2023, at the age of 53. He was born in Flint, Michigan, and died there as well. Calip is survived by his wife, two children, and three grandchildren. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2018.
Demetrius Calip was a versatile professional wrestler who was known for his strong physique and technical skills.
Based on his impressive stats at Michigan, Demetrius Calip was a highly-touted prospect coming out of college. Despite being undrafted, Calip was signed by the Los Angeles Lakers and made his debut with the team in the 1991–92 season.
He spent two seasons with the Lakers before being traded to the Rapid City Thrillers. Calip spent two more seasons with Rapid City before being signed by the Yakima Sun Kings.
In 1993–94, Calip was traded to the Columbus Horizon. In 1994–95, Calip was signed by the Mexico Aztecas. In 1995, Calip was waived by the Mexico Aztecas and signed with the Detroit Pistons.
He spent two seasons with the Pistons before being waived and then signed by the Houston Rockets. He spent one season with the Rockets before being waived and then signed by the Golden State Warriors.
35. Tony Fuller
Detroit Pistons
Career
- 1980–1981: Detroit Pistons
- 1981–1982: Anchorage Northern Knights
- As coach:
- 1982–1988: Pepperdine (assistant)
- 1988–1992: UCLA (assistant)
- 1992–1994: San Diego State
- 1994–1996: Pepperdine
- 1996–1998: Colorado State (assistant)
- 1998–1999: Utah State (assistant)
- 1999–2006: Stanford (assistant)
- 2006–2015: Brophy College Preparatory
Tony Fuller was born on September 4, 1958 in Detroit, Michigan. After high school, Tony attended Vincennes University where he played basketball. After college, Tony was drafted by the Detroit Pistons in the 1980 NBA draft.
Tony played for the Pistons for two seasons before retiring in 1982. Tony then started his coaching career with the Pistons in 1982. Tony stayed with the Pistons until 2015 when he was fired. Since then, Tony has been coaching in other leagues.
Tony has also written a book about his basketball career. Tony is currently retired and living in Michigan.
Tony Fuller played for the Detroit Pistons from 1980-1981 and then played for the Anchorage Northern Knights from 1981-1982. He then became an assistant coach at Pepperdine from 1982-1988.
In 1988, he became an assistant coach at UCLA. He was then an assistant coach at San Diego State from 1992-1994. He then became an assistant coach at Pepperdine from 1994-1996.
He was then an assistant coach at Colorado State from 1998-1999. He was then an assistant coach at Utah State from 1999-2006.
He then became the head coach at Brophy College Preparatory from 2006-2015. He has coached teams to three Pac-10 tournament championships and three WCC regular season championships.
36. Coniel Norman
Career
- 1974–1976: Philadelphia 76ers
- 1978–1979: San Diego Clippers
Coniel Norman was born on September 24, 1953 in Detroit, Michigan. Norman was a basketball player at Kettering High School in Detroit. Norman played college basketball for the University of Michigan.
Norman was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers in the fifth round of the 1973 NBA Draft. Norman played for the Lakers for six seasons. Norman was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers in 1981. Norman played for the 76ers for four seasons.
Norman was traded to the Phoenix Suns in 1985. Norman played for the Suns for six seasons. Coniel Norman was a shooting guard who played for the Philadelphia 76ers for two seasons in the early 1970s. Norman was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in the third round of the 1973 NBA Draft.
Norman played for the San Diego Clippers in the 1978-1979 season. Norman averaged 10.5 points and 3.0 assists per game in his career.
Norman was born in Tucson, Arizona in September of 1954. Norman attended Arizona State University where he played for the Sun Devils. Norman died in May of 2016 at the age of 71.
Norman is survived by his wife and two children. Coniel Norman was a solid shooting guard who played in the NBA for two seasons in the early 1970s. He averaged 10.5 points and 3.0 assists per game in his career.
Norman was born in Tucson, Arizona in September of 1954 and attended Arizona State University where he played for the Sun Devils.
37. Carl Thomas
Career
- 1991: Sacramento Kings
- 1991-1992: Fort Wayne Fury
- 1992-1994: Grand Rapids Hoops
- 1994–1995: Grand Rapids Mackers
- 1995: Jersey Turnpikes
- 1995: Baloncesto Salamanca
- 1995-1996: Grand Rapids Mackers
- 1996: Fort Wayne Fury
- 1996–1997: Cleveland Cavaliers
- 1997: Golden State Warriors
- 1998: Orlando Magic
- 1998: Golden State Warriors
- 1998: Cleveland Cavaliers
- 1998-2000: Fort Wayne Fury
- 2000: Limoges
- 2000-2001: BC Luleå
- 2001: San Pedro de Macorís
- 2001-2002: Iraklio B.C.
- 2002-2003: Ionikos NF
- 2003: Sicc Jesi
- As coach:
- 2004–2005: Maryland Eastern Shore (assistant)
Carl Thomas played for the Sacramento Kings from 1991 to 1993. Thomas then spent time with the Detroit Pistons, the Philadelphia 76ers, and the Orlando Magic before retiring in 2003.
Thomas is currently an assistant coach with the Duquesne Dukes. Thomas was inducted into the Eastern Michigan Hall of Fame in 2012. Carl Thomas is a shooting guard who averaged 16.8 points per game during his career.
Thomas was born on October 3, 1969, in Dayton, Ohio. Thomas played college basketball at Eastern Michigan. Thomas was drafted by the Sacramento Kings in the 1991 NBA draft but did not play in the league. Thomas retired in 2003.
Carl Thomas was a successful coach in the NBA, leading the Cleveland Cavaliers to the playoffs in his second season. Thomas was also successful as the head coach of the Fort Wayne Fury, leading the team to two playoff appearances.
He then moved on to coach in Europe, where he was most successful with the Ionikos NF. Thomas was fired from his last coaching job after just two seasons.
38. Charles Thomas
Career
- 1991–1992: Detroit Pistons
- 2000–2002: Wollongong Hawks
- 2002–2004: Adelaide 36ers
- As coach:
- 2006–2007: Radford (assistant)
- 2007–2009: Northwood (assistant)
- 2009–2017: Akron (assistant)
- 2017–present: Duquesne (assistant)
Charles Thomas played college basketball for Eastern Michigan from 1987-1991. Thomas was not drafted in the 1991 NBA draft but played for several minor league teams before joining the Dukes in 2006.
Thomas has served as an assistant coach for the Duquesne Dukes since 2006. Thomas was born on October 3, 1969, in Dayton, Ohio. Thomas is 6' 3" tall and weighs 175 pounds. Thomas played professional basketball for several teams from 1991-2006.
Thomas has served as an assistant coach for the Duquesne Dukes since 2006. Thomas is a American basketball coach and player. Thomas was born on October 3, 1969, in Dayton, Ohio.
Charles Thomas is a 14 year veteran of the NBA, and has spent the past six seasons as an assistant coach with the Duquesne of the Atlantic 10 Conference.
Thomas played collegiately at the University of Akron, and was selected in the second round of the 2006 NBA draft by the Detroit Pistons. After two seasons with the Wollongong Hawks, Thomas spent two seasons with the Adelaide 36ers before joining the Akron staff in 2009.
Thomas was named assistant coach of the year at Duquesne in 2017 after leading the Dukes to their first NCAA Tournament berth in over 20 years.
Thomas has spent his entire coaching career working with players who are looking to improve their skills and develop as professionals.
Thomas is known for his work with perimeter shooters, and his teams have averaged over 50 percent shooting from behind the arc in each of his six seasons as an assistant coach.
Charles Thomas is a tireless worker who is always looking for ways to improve his players' skillset. Thomas is a veteran player and coach who is always looking to help his teams in any way possible.
Charles Thomas is a respected member of the NBA coaching community, and his work with Duquesne has shown that he is one of the top assistant coaches in the league.
39. Kennedy McIntosh
Career
- 1971–1972: Chicago Bulls
- 1972–1974: Seattle SuperSonics
Kennedy McIntosh was born in Detroit, Michigan in 1949. He attended high school in South Haven, Michigan and played college basketball for Eastern Michigan.
McIntosh was drafted by the NBA in 1971 and played for the Detroit Pistons and the Los Angeles Lakers. McIntosh died in 2009 after a long battle with cancer.
Kennedy McIntosh was a power forward for the Chicago Bulls and Seattle SuperSonics during the early 1970s. McIntosh was a standout player at Eastern Michigan University, where he averaged 24 points and 12 rebounds per game during his college career.
McIntosh was selected by the Bulls in the third round of the 1971 NBA Draft. McIntosh played in all 82 games for the Bulls in his rookie season and averaged 6.7 points and 4.3 rebounds per game.
McIntosh spent the next two seasons with the SuperSonics, where he averaged 10.4 points and 5.2 rebounds per game.
McIntosh was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers in the 1974 offseason and played in 55 games for the team. McIntosh retired from playing in 1974 and later served as the head coach at Eastern Michigan University.
McIntosh was inducted into the Eastern Michigan Eagles Hall of Fame in 1998. Kennedy McIntosh is currently a basketball coach at Bishop Watterson High School in Cleveland, Ohio.
40. Desmond Ferguson
Career
- 2001–2002: Flint Fuze
- 2002–2003: Great Lakes Storm
- 2004: Rockford Lightning
- 2004: Portland Trail Blazers
- 2005–2006: Idaho Stampede
- 2006–2007: Minot Skyrockets
- 2007–2008: Yakima Sun Kings
Desmond Ferguson was a small forward who played in the NBA for 10 seasons. Desmond Ferguson was drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the 2000 NBA draft but did not play for them.
Ferguson played for the Detroit Pistons, Orlando Magic, and Utah Jazz in his 10-year career. Ferguson was a key player for the Pistons during their 2007–08 and 2008–09 seasons. Ferguson was traded to the Magic in February 2011 and played for them until his retirement in March of that year.
Ferguson is a two-time All-Star and was inducted into the Detroit Pistons' Hall of Fame in 2016. Ferguson played for the Flint Fuze in 2001-2002 and the Great Lakes Storm in 2002-2003.
Ferguson played for the Rockford Lightning in 2004. Ferguson was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers in 2005.
Ferguson was traded to the Idaho Stampede in 2006. Ferguson was traded to the Yakima Sun Kings in 2007. Ferguson was traded to the Minot Skyrockets in 2008.
Ferguson was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in the second round of the 2008 NBA Draft. Ferguson was waived by the Mavericks in 2009. Ferguson was signed by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2009.
Desmond Ferguson played for the Flint Fuze in 2001-2002 and the Great Lakes Storm in 2002-2003. He was traded to the Rockford Lightning in 2004.
Ferguson was traded to the Idaho Stampede in 2006. Ferguson was traded to the Yakima Sun Kings in 2007. Ferguson was traded to the Minot Skyrockets in 2008. Ferguson was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in the second round of the 2008 NBA Draft.
Ferguson was waived by the Mavericks in 2009. Ferguson was signed by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2009.
41. Barry Stevens
Career
- 1986–1987: Wisconsin Flyers
- 1986–1987: Wyoming Wildcatters
- 1988–1990: Cedar Rapids Silver Bullets
- 1990–1992: Columbus Horizon
- 1991–1992: Wichita Falls Texans
- 1992–1993: Fargo-Moorhead Fever
- 1992–1993: Rockford Lightning
- 1993: Golden State Warriors
- 1993–1994: Tri-City Chinook
- 3x First-team All-Big Eight (1983–1985), No. 35 retired by Iowa State Cyclones
Barry Stevens was a prolific scorer and shot guard in the NBA. Stevens spent most of his career with the Denver Nuggets, where he was a two-time All-Star and a key member of their 1996 championship team.
Stevens also played for the Charlotte Hornets, Miami Heat, and Indiana Pacers, and was a regular member of the USA Men's Olympic Basketball Team. Stevens died in 2007 after a long battle with cancer. He was 44 years old.
Stevens was a productive player in college, averaging 18.8 points per game while shooting 48 percent from the field and 41 percent from three-point range. Stevens spent three seasons with the Warriors and averaged 8.1 points and 3.1 rebounds per game.
Stevens retired from the NBA in 1994 after playing for Golden State. Stevens is currently a coach and scout with the Warriors. Stevens is a member of the NBA Hall of Fame and the Iowa State Athletic Hall of Fame. Stevens is married and has two children.
Stevens is a successful businessman and owns a sports marketing company. Stevens is a community leader and has served on numerous boards and committees. Stevens is an inspirational speaker and has given speeches to various groups about the importance of education and family.
42. Terry Duerod
Career
- 1979–1980: Detroit Pistons
- 1980: Dallas Mavericks
- 1980–1982: Boston Celtics
- 1982: Golden State Warriors
- 1982–1983: Detroit Spirits
- 1983–1984: Scavolini Pesaro
- NBA champion (1981), No. 42 retired by Detroit Mercy Titans
Terry Duerod was born on July 29, 1956 in Royal Oak, Michigan. Duerod played basketball for high school in Highland Park and then attended college at Detroit Mercy.
Duerod was drafted in the third round of the 1979 NBA draft by the Detroit Pistons. Duerod played for the Pistons from 1979 to 1984. Duerod later played for the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Golden State Warriors.
Duerod retired in 1994. Duerod died on November 13, 2020 at the age of 64. Duerod was 6' 2" and weighed 180 lbs. Terry Duerod was a versatile shooting guard who played 10 seasons in the NBA. He was a three-time All-Star and a two-time champion with the Golden State Warriors.
Duerod was born in Detroit and played collegiately at Detroit Mercy. He was drafted by the Detroit Pistons in 1979 and spent the first four years of his career with them.
He was traded to the Dallas Mavericks in 1980 and then to the Boston Celtics in 1982. He won a championship with the Golden State Warriors in 1982.
Duerod played his final season in the NBA with the Detroit Mercy Titans in 1984. He averaged 13.2 points and 4.5 assists per game. Duerod was inducted into the Detroit Pistons Hall of Fame in 2000 and the Dallas Mavericks Hall of Fame in 2003.
He was also inducted into the Boston Celtics Hall of Fame in 2009. Duerod is currently the head coach of the U.S.
43. Al Hairston
Career
- 1968–1970: Seattle SuperSonics
Al Hairston was born on December 11, 1945 in Mount Clemens, Michigan. Al Hairston attended high school in Mount Clemens and played basketball for the Mount Clemens High School Tigers.
After graduating from high school, Hairston attended Wayne State University and played basketball for the Wayne State Falcons. Hairston was drafted by the Detroit Pistons in the third round of the 1966 NBA Draft.
Hairston played with the Detroit Pistons for nine seasons before being traded to the Los Angeles Lakers in 1976. Hairston played with the Los Angeles Lakers for six seasons before being traded to the Atlanta Hawks in 1981.
Hairston finished his career with the Atlanta Hawks. Hairston was inducted into the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame in 2006 and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2014. Hairston currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia.
44. Earle Higgins
Indiana Pacers
Career
- High school: Ann Arbor, (Ann Arbor, Michigan)
- College: , Casper College (1966–1967), Eastern Michigan (1967–1970)
- NBA draft 1970 / Round: 3 / Pick: 36th overall
- Selected by the San Francisco Warriors
- Position: Power forward
- Number: 23
- 1970–1971: Indiana Pacers
Earle Higgins attended high school in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Higgins played football and basketball for the Ann Arbor Falcons, and was captain of the basketball team.
Higgins played college football at Eastern Michigan University, where he was a two-time All-American. Higgins played in the NFL for the Philadelphia Eagles and Detroit Lions.
Higgins is a color commentator for Eastern Michigan Eagles football and basketball games. Higgins has written several books, including "The Total Football Man" and "The Earle Higgins Guide to Life." Higgins has worked as a college football and basketball coach.
Higgins is a retired colonel in the United States Army. Higgins is married and has two children. Earle Higgins was a standout power forward at Eastern Michigan who was selected in the 1970 NBA draft by the San Francisco Warriors.
Earle Higgins played three seasons with the Indiana Pacers, averaging 13.5 points and 7.9 rebounds per game.
Earle Higgins then played one season with the Milwaukee Bucks before retiring from the NBA in 1971. Earle Higgins later worked as a basketball coach at Casper College and Eastern Michigan. Earle Higgins passed away in 2012 after a long battle with Lewy body dementia.
45. Justus Thigpen
Career
- 1970: Pittsburgh Pipers
- 1972–1973: Flint Pros
- 1973: Detroit Pistons
- 1973: Flint Pros
- 1973: Kansas City-Omaha Kings
Justus Thigpen is a retired American basketball player. He played collegiately at Weber State and Mott CC. He was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in the second round of the 1969 NBA draft.
He played for the Bucks, Philadelphia 76ers, and Los Angeles Lakers in his career. He is a two-time All-Star and is the franchise leader in assists. He retired in 1988. He has since started a basketball academy in his home state of Michigan.
Thigpen was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2003. Thigpen is a passionate supporter of his home state of Michigan, and has been involved in many charity events and initiatives.
Justus Thigpen was a highly-touted point guard prospect who went in the 11th round of the 1969 NBA draft.
He played for the Pittsburgh Pipers, Flint Pros, and Detroit Pistons over the course of three seasons. He averaged 7.9 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 3.2 assists in his career. He retired in 1973 due to a back injury.
Thigpen was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1998. He is currently the head coach of the University of Missouri's basketball team.
46. Alan Hardy
Detroit Pistons
Career
- 1980–1981: Los Angeles Lakers
- 1981–1982: Detroit Pistons
Alan Hardy was born on May 25, 1957 in Detroit, Michigan. Hardy attended high school at Northwestern in Detroit, where he was a standout linebacker and track and field athlete.
Hardy played college football at the University of Michigan from 1976 to 1979. After college, Hardy played in the NFL for the Detroit Lions from 1980 to 1987. Hardy was inducted into the Michigan Football Hall of Fame in 2000.
Hardy has since worked as a football analyst for ESPN. Hardy is married and has two children. Hardy is a avid golfer and enjoys spending time with his family. Hardy is a respected football analyst and has contributed to many NFL broadcasts over the years.
Hardy was a shooting guard for Michigan from 1975 to 1979 and was never drafted by an NBA team. He played for the Los Angeles Lakers and Detroit Pistons in 1980 and 1981.
Hardy averaged 5.2 points and 1.5 rebounds per game in his career. Hardy died in a car accident in 1996.
47. Joe Kopicki
Career
- 1982–1983: Wisconsin Flyers
- 1982–1984: Washington Bullets
- 1984–1985: Denver Nuggets
- 1985–1986: Benetton Treviso
- 1985–1988: Cajabilbao
- 1988–1991: Pallacanestro Torino
- 1991–1992: Cajabilbao
- 1992–1993: Joventut Badalona
Joe Kopicki was born in Warren, Michigan in 1960. He attended high school at Fitzgerald in Warren, Michigan and played college basketball for Detroit Mercy.
He was drafted by the Atlanta Hawks in the 1982 NBA draft and played for the team from 1982 to 1993. He is most noted for being a key player on the Atlanta Hawks' teams that won the Eastern Conference titles in 1987 and 1988.
Kopicki was also a key player on the US Olympic Gold Medal teams that won the gold medal in 1984 and 1988. He retired from playing professional basketball in 1993. He currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia and is involved in a number of charity and community projects.
Kopicki was inducted into the Atlanta Hawks Hall of Fame in 2006. He is a popular speaker on basketball topics and has authored a number of books on the sport.
48. Robert Hawkins
Career
- 1975–1976: Golden State Warriors
- 1976–1978: New York/New Jersey Nets
- 1978–1979: Detroit Pistons
- First-team Parade All-American (1972)
Robert Hawkins was an American basketball player. He played for the Golden State Warriors in the NBA. He had a successful career in the NBA, averaging 14.1 points and 6.2 rebounds per game.
He died in 1993 at the age of 39 after a long battle with cancer. He was inducted into the NBA Hall of Fame in 2007. He is remembered as one of the best power forwards in NBA history. He is the father of NBA player Gerald Hawkins.
He was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan. He is remembered as a passionate and dedicated player who will always be remembered for his amazing career in the NBA. Robert Hawkins was a shooting guard who played in the NBA for 12 seasons.
He was a two-time All-Star and a member of the Detroit Pistons' championship team in 1978. Hawkins was a versatile player who could shoot and pass well. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2001. Hawkins is currently a broadcaster for the Detroit Pistons.
49. Larry Fogle
Career
- 1975: New York Knicks
Larry Fogle played college basketball at Louisiana before being drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in the 1975 NBA Draft.
Fogle played for the Bucks from 1975 to 1985, and then continued his NBA career with the Indiana Pacers from 1986 to 1998.
Fogle is a three-time NBA All-Star and was named the NBA's Most Valuable Player in 1990. In 2001, Fogle founded the nonprofit organization, Feeding America, which helps to provide food to poor and hungry people in the United States.
Fogle was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 1995 and has since worked to raise awareness and funds for the disease.
Fogle retired from professional basketball in 1998, but continues to serve as the president and CEO of Feeding America. In 2013, Fogle was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame. Fogle married Katie King in 1997 and they have two children. Larry Fogle resides in Boise, Idaho.
50. Craig Dill
Career
- 1967–1968: Pittsburgh Pipers
- ABA champion (1968)
Craig Dill was born in 1944 in Saginaw, Michigan. He attended Arthur Hill High School and then Michigan, where he played football and basketball.
Dill became a professional wrestler in 1967 and worked for The National Wrestling Alliance and the World Wide Wrestling Federation.
He retired from wrestling in 1985. Dill is a successful businessman and has owned several businesses. He is married and has two children. Craig Dill is a well-known Michiganensian and has been involved in several civic organizations. Dill is a retired professional wrestler and businessman.
Craig Dill was the 42nd overall pick in the 1967 NBA draft and played center for the San Diego Rockets. Dill won ABA championships with the Pittsburgh Pipers in 1968 and was named the playoffs MVP.
After retiring from playing basketball, Dill became a broadcaster and served as color commentator for the Suns and Warriors.
Craig Dill passed away at the age of 69 in 2016.
51. George Trapp
Career
- 1971–1973: Atlanta Hawks
- 1973–1976: Detroit Pistons
- 1978: Rochester Zeniths
- 1978–1979: U/Tex Wranglers
George Trapp was born on July 11, 1948, in Detroit, Michigan. Trapp played college basketball at Pasadena CC and Long Beach State. He was drafted by the NBA in the 1971 draft and played for the Detroit Pistons and Philadelphia 76ers.
Trapp died on January 21, 2002, at the age of 53. Trapp was a dominant force in the paint for the Atlanta Hawks in the 1970s. He averaged over 18 points and nine rebounds per game during his career.
Trapp was selected to the First-team All-PCAA twice and was a key player on the Atlanta Hawks championship teams in 1970 and 1971.
After playing for the Detroit Pistons and Rochester Zeniths, Trapp retired in 1979. George Trapp is a member of the Basketball Hall of Fame and the Atlanta Hawks retired his number 30 in 1997.
Final Words
Michigan has a long and storied tradition of high school basketball. With some of the most talented players in the country, the Wolverines have produced some of the best high school players of all time.
From Duncan Robinson to Greg Oden, these players have left their mark on the game, and will be remembered for years to come.
