46. New Orleans Pelicans Best Players of Alltime

Morgan Wolf

The New Orleans Pelicans are a professional basketball team based in the vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana. Established as an NBA franchise in 2002, they have since become one of the most exciting teams to watch and follow across the league. With their up-tempo style and never give up attitude, this is definitely a team to keep your eye on.

Boasting star players such as Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, The Pelicans strive for excellence each game day. Whether it’s at home or away games you can be sure that when watching The Pelicans there will be plenty of excitement on display for all fans.

Table of Contents

1. J. R. Smith

Small forward

J. R. Smith Career

  • 2× NBA champion (2016, 2020)
  • NBA Sixth Man of the Year (2013)
  • CBA scoring champion (2012)
  • CBA All-Star (2012)
  • Second-team Parade All-American (2004)
  • McDonald's All-American Game Co-MVP (2004)

J. R. Smith joined the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2020 and has been a key part of their championship-winning team ever since. He is known for his shooting skills, and has averaged over 20 points per game throughout his career.

J.R.'s family was originally from New Jersey, where he attended high school at Lakewood before going to St Benedict's Prep in Newark afterwards. 

After spending four seasons with the Hornets, Smith signed with the Golden State Warriors in 2014 and helped them win two championships during that time period as well 5th (2017) 6th (2018).

J. R. Smith was one of the most prolific scorers in Cleveland Cavaliers history and is still a key contributor off the bench. He has won championships with both New Orleans Hornets (2004) and Denver Nuggets (2006). 

In 2012, he led Zhejiang Golden Bulls to Chinese Basketball Association title before signing with Knicks the following year.

J.R.'s scoring average dipped during his time in New York but he remains an important part of their rotation today; averaging 10 points per game since joining them in 2015-16 season as a free agent from Cavs after being waived by Cleveland midway through 2019-20.

The campaign due to trade demands from Boston Celtics ownership group headed up by Danny Ainge Smith scored 41 points on 14-of-25 shooting while filling in for Kyrie Irving.

Who missed Game 5 against Milwaukee Bucks due to injury which propelled Cavaliers into Eastern Conference Finals where they eventually lost 4 games to eventual NBA Champion Boston Celtics 6The 33 year old guard also averaged 3 rebounds, 1 steal and 1 block over.

That span including playoffs 7JR Smith's play will be crucial if Cavs want any chance at dethroning Warriors as Western Conference Champions.

Also Played For: cleveland cavaliers, new york knicks

2. P. J. Brown

Power forward

P. J. Brown Career

  • NBA champion (2008)
  • 3× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1997, 1999, 2001)
  • NBA Sportsmanship Award (2004)
  • J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award (1997)

P. J. Brown was a center and power forward in the NBA for over 20 years, playing for the New Jersey Nets, Philadelphia 76ers, Boston Celtics, Portland Trail Blazers, and Los Angeles Lakers.

He won an NBA title with the Lakers in 2009 after they defeated Orlando Magic in six games. Brown also played on two Olympic teams (1996 and 2004), helping to win gold medals both times. 

In 2008 he announced his retirement from professional basketball following a season with the LA Clippers which ended in defeat. Memphis Grizzlies in the playoffs finals series 4-1; however he returned for one final game. 

Laker before retiring again at end of the season due to injury Pee Wee is married to his wife Shantell and has four children. Daughters Tierrae (born 1995) & Kiari Kendrell (born 1997); sons Treyvonne Jr.(born 1999) & Taj Gibson IV(born 2001).

On July 14th, 2015 it was reported that Brown had been charged with second-degree residential burglary stemming from an incident on June 6th where allegedly $100k worth of jewelry was stolen from his home while he was not there.

Also Played For: 2003–04 nba season, miami heat

3. Jamal Mashburn

Jamal Mashburn Career

  • NBA All-Star (2003)
  • All-NBA Third Team (2003)
  • NBA All-Rookie First Team (1994)
  • Consensus first-team All-American (1993)
  • SEC Player of the Year (1993)
  • SEC Athlete of the Year (1993)
  • Second-team Parade All-American (1990)
  • Mr. New York Basketball (1990)

Mashburn played for the Dallas Mavericks from 1993 to 2005. He is best known for his time with the Miami Heat, where he won two championships (1997 and 2000).

Mashburn also played on teams such as the Milwaukee Bucks, Atlanta Hawks, Charlotte Hornets, and Phoenix Suns during his career. Jamal Mashburn currently works as an analyst for NBA TV.

Jamal Mashburn was a highly skilled player in the NBA who helped lead two different teams to playoff appearances. He began his career as a rookie with the Charlotte Hornets and went on to be an All-Star, All-NBA Third Team member, and Mr.

New York Basketball award winner. Mashburn then played for the New Orleans Hornets for six seasons before retiring in 2005 at age 34 after missing the playoffs each year he’s been in the league.

Also Played For: dallas mavericks, kentucky basketball

4. DeMarcus Cousins

Power forward

DeMarcus Cousins Career

  • High school: John L. LeFlore (Mobile, Alabama)
  • College: Kentucky (2009–2010)
  • NBA draft 2010 / Round: 1 / Pick: 5th overall
  • Selected by the Sacramento Kings
  • Playing career: 2010–present
  • 2010–2017: Sacramento Kings
  • 2017–2018: New Orleans Pelicans
  • 2018–2019: Golden State Warriors
  • 2020–2021: Houston Rockets
  • 2021: Los Angeles Clippers
  • 2021–2022: Milwaukee Bucks
  • 2022: Denver Nuggets
  • 4× NBA All-Star (2015–2018), 2× All-NBA Second Team (2015, 2016), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2011), Consensus second-team All-American (2010), First-team All-SEC (2010), SEC Rookie of the Year (2010), SEC All-Rookie Team (2010), McDonald's All-American (2009), First-team Parade All-American (2009)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2016 Rio de Janeiro: Team, World Cup, : 2014 Spain: Team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing the  United States
  • Olympic Games
  • : 2016 Rio de Janeiro: Team
  • World Cup
  • : 2014 Spain: Team

Cousins was selected fifth overall in the 2010 NBA draft by the Sacramento Kings. In his first season with the Kings, Cousins won rookie of the year honors.

After two seasons with Sacramento, Cousins was traded to New Orleans Pelicans in 2013. With New Orleans, Cousins helped them make it to the playoffs each of his three years there before being traded again in 2017 to Golden State Warriors where he has since played out the rest of his career.

Cousins was drafted with the fifth overall pick in the 2010 NBA draft by the Sacramento Kings. Cousins has played for five teams in his eight-year career, including three seasons with the New Orleans Pelicans. 

In 2016, he was traded to the Golden State Warriors and helped them win their first championship since 1974.

He is a two-time All-Star and won an MVP award in 2017 with Golden State. Cousins will be a free agent this offseason and there are reports that he is interested in returning to the Warriors.

Also Played For: sacramento kings, western conference

5. Peja Stojaković

Peja Stojaković Career

  • NBA draft 1996 / Round: 1 / Pick: 14th overall
  • Selected by the Sacramento Kings
  • Playing career: 1992–2011
  • Position: Small forward
  • Number: 8, 16
  • 1992–1993: Crvena zvezda
  • 1993–1998: PAOK
  • 1998–2006: Sacramento Kings
  • 2006: Indiana Pacers
  • 2006–2010: New Orleans Hornets[a]
  • 2010–2011: Toronto Raptors
  • 2011: Dallas Mavericks
  • NBA champion (2011), 3× NBA All-Star (2002–2004), All-NBA Second Team (2004), 2× NBA Three-Point Contest champion (2002, 2003), No. 16 retired by Sacramento Kings, FIBA EuroBasket MVP (2001), FIBA EuroLeague Top Scorer (1998), Greek Cup winner (1995), Greek League MVP (1998), 2× Greek All Star Game MVP (1996 II, 1997), 2× Mister Europa Player of the Year (2001, 2002), Euroscar Player of the Year (2001), FR Yugoslavian League Most Valuable Young Player (1993)
  • Points: 13,647 (17.0 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 3,782 (4.7 rpg)
  • Assists: 1,408 (1.8 apg)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing FR Yugoslavia, FIBA World Cup, : 2002 Indianapolis: , FIBA EuroBasket, : 1999 France: , : 2001 Turkey:
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing FR Yugoslavia
  • FIBA World Cup
  • : 2002 Indianapolis:
  • FIBA EuroBasket
  • : 1999 France:
  • : 2001 Turkey:

Peja Stojaković was a highly productive small forward in the NBA for over a decade. He started his career with Crvena Zvezda before moving on to PAOK and then the Sacramento Kings.

In 2006, he joined Indiana Pacers where he won an Eastern Conference title and made it to the Finals once more in 2008. After spending one season with Memphis Grizzlies, Stojaković returned to Indiana in 2011 as a free agent, retiring after that year's playoffs despite playing well into his 40s.

Peja Stojaković was a cornerstone of the New Orleans Hornets during their 2006-2010 seasons. He averaged 18.4 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists per game over that period. 

After being traded to Toronto in 2010, Stojaković helped lead them to the playoffs for the first time in franchise history and eventually won an NBA championship with Dallas in 2011.

A two-time All-Star, he also received MVP honors at EuroBasket 2001 and 2002 while playing for Greece's national team. In addition to his prowess on the court, Stojaković is well known for his humanitarian work off it; he has raised money for numerous charities throughout his career both domestically and internationally.

Also Played For: 2001–02 nba season, nba 2000s

6. Tyreke Evans

Small forward

Tyreke Evans Career

  • High school: American Christian Academy, (Aston, Pennsylvania)
  • College: Memphis (2008–2009)
  • NBA draft 2009 / Round: 1 / Pick: 4th overall
  • Selected by the Sacramento Kings
  • Playing career: 2009–2019; 2022–present
  • 2009–2013: Sacramento Kings
  • 2013–2017: New Orleans Pelicans
  • 2017: Sacramento Kings
  • 2017–2018: Memphis Grizzlies
  • 2018–2019: Indiana Pacers
  • 2022: Wisconsin Herd
  • 2022–present: Indios de Mayagüez
  • NBA Rookie of the Year (2010), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2010), First-team All-Conference USA (2009), Conference USA Freshman of the Year (2009), Conference USA tournament MVP (2009), McDonald's All-American MVP (2008), First-team Parade All-American (2008), Fourth-team Parade All-American (2007)

Tyreke Evans was a four-time All-Star and two-time scoring champion in the NBA. He helped lead the Sacramento Kings to an appearance in the 2013 NBA Finals, where they were defeated by LeBron James and the Miami Heat.

After leaving Sacramento, Evans signed with New Orleans Pelicans, but he was traded to Memphis Grizzlies just before the start of the 2019–20 season. Evans is a prolific scorer who can shoot from anywhere on the court and has excellent ball-handling skills for a point guard or shooting guard.

Although his playing career may be coming to an end, Tyreke Evans remains one of the most decorated players in basketball history with numerous accolades including five MVP awards and three championship rings as part of a successful career that also saw him win Rookie of The Year honors in 2009.

Also Played For: memphis tigers men's basketball, 2009–10 nba season

7. Derrick Favors

Power forward

Derrick Favors Career

  • High school: South Atlanta (Atlanta, Georgia)
  • College: Georgia Tech (2009–2010)
  • NBA draft 2010 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall
  • Selected by the New Jersey Nets
  • Playing career: 2010–present
  • 2010–2011: New Jersey Nets
  • 2011–2019: Utah Jazz
  • 2019–2020: New Orleans Pelicans
  • 2020–2021: Utah Jazz
  • 2021–2022: Oklahoma City Thunder
  • NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2011), ACC Rookie of the Year (2010), Naismith Prep Player of the Year (2009), Mr. Basketball USA (2009), First-team Parade All-American (2009), Second-team Parade All-American (2008), McDonald's All-American MVP (2009), Mr. Georgia Basketball (2009)

Derrick Favors was born in Atlanta, Georgia on July 15th, 1991. Favors attended South Atlanta High School and played for the varsity basketball team there from 2006-2008.

Favors then went to play for Georgia Tech, where he became a two-time All-American and helped lead the Yellow Jackets to their first-ever ACC Championship in the 2009-2010 season.

After his college career ended, Favors entered the 2010 NBA Draft but was picked up by the New Jersey Nets instead of staying in school another year. 

In his rookie season with the Nets (2010–2011), Derrick averaged 9 points and 7 rebounds per game while playing 34 games off the bench that year; helping them reach the playoffs as well before they were eliminated by eventual champions Miami Heat in 5 games.

The next few seasons saw Derrick develop even more as an all-around player - averaging 13 points and 10 rebounds per game during the 2013-2014 campaign whilst starting 49 out of 82 games played.

followed by 16 points and 11 boards per contest during the 2014-2015 campaign which resulted in him earning his first All-Star Game selection.

Also Played For: utah jazz, nba 2k19

8. JJ Redick

Shooting guard

JJ Redick Career

  • High school: Cave Spring (Roanoke, Virginia)
  • College: Duke (2002–2006)
  • NBA draft 2006 / Round: 1 / Pick: 11th overall
  • Selected by the Orlando Magic
  • Playing career: 2006–2021
  • Position: Shooting guard
  • Number: 7, 5, 4, 17
  • 2006–2013: Orlando Magic
  • 2013: Milwaukee Bucks
  • 2013–2017: Los Angeles Clippers
  • 2017–2019: Philadelphia 76ers
  • 2019–2021: New Orleans Pelicans
  • 2021: Dallas Mavericks
  • Inducted in VHSL Hall of Fame (2021), National college player of the year (2006), 2× Rupp Trophy (2005, 2006), 2× Consensus first-team All-American (2005, 2006), 2× ACC tournament MVP (2005, 2006), 2× ACC Player of the Year (2005, 2006), 2× First-team All-ACC (2005, 2006), Second-team All-ACC (2004), Third-team All-American – NABC (2004), Third-team All-ACC (2003), No. 4 retired by Duke Blue Devils, Second-team Parade All-American (2002), McDonald's All-American Game MVP (2002), Virginia Mr. Basketball (2002)
  • Points: 12,028 (12.8 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 1,903 (2.0 rpg)
  • Assists: 1,862 (2.0 apg)

JJ Redick is an American professional basketball player who has played for the Orlando Magic, Milwaukee Bucks, and Los Angeles Clippers in his career. He was drafted 11th overall by the Orlando Magic in the 2006 NBA draft and spent six seasons with them before moving to Milwaukee in 2013.

In 2017 he joined the Clippers and helped lead them to their first playoff appearance since 2012 that year. At 38 years old, Redick is still playing at a high level and looks set to continue doing so for some time yet. Redick is a two-time consensus first-team All-American and ACC Player of the Year.

He was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2006 and spent 7 seasons with them before moving to the New Orleans Pelicans in 2019. Redick has won multiple awards, including 2 Rupp Trophies (2005, 2006) and a Consensus First Team NABC award (2004). 

JJ Redick is one of Duke's most decorated players ever, having been selected as an honorable mention Mr. Basketball (2002), McDonald's All American Game MVP (2002), and Second Team Parade All-American (2002).

Also Played For: orlando magic, los angeles clippers

9. Ryan Anderson

Power forward

Ryan Anderson Career

  • High school: Oak Ridge, (El Dorado Hills, California)
  • College: California (2006–2008)
  • NBA draft 2008 / Round: 1 / Pick: 21st overall
  • Selected by the New Jersey Nets
  • Playing career: 2008–2019
  • Position: Power forward
  • 2008–2009: New Jersey Nets
  • 2009–2012: Orlando Magic
  • 2012–2016: New Orleans Hornets / Pelicans
  • 2016–2018: Houston Rockets
  • 2018–2019: Phoenix Suns
  • 2019: Miami Heat
  • 2019: Houston Rockets
  • NBA Most Improved Player (2012), Second-team All-American – SN (2008), First-team All-Pac-10 (2008)

Ryan Anderson was born in Sacramento, California on May 6, 1988. He played college basketball for the California Golden Bears and went undrafted in the 2008 NBA draft.

Anderson signed with the New Jersey Nets and spent two seasons playing for them before being traded to the Memphis Grizzlies in 2011. In 2012, he joined the Indiana Pacers where he remained until 2018 when he was traded to the Pelicans.

In 2019, Ryan Anderson retired from professional basketball following a stint with Turkish club Fenerbahçe Ülker Ryan Anderson is a seven-year veteran of the NBA who has played for three different teams. He was drafted by the Orlando Magic in 2009 and spent two seasons with them before being traded to the New Orleans Hornets in 2012.

In 2016, he signed with the Houston Rockets and remained there until 2018 when he was traded to Phoenix Suns. After spending one season with Phoenix, Anderson joined Miami Heat where he currently plays as a reserve forward/center.

10. Baron Davis

Point guard

Baron Davis Career

  • High school: Crossroads School, (Santa Monica, California)
  • College: UCLA (1997–1999)
  • NBA draft 1999 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall
  • Selected by the Charlotte Hornets
  • Playing career: 1999–2016
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 1, 5, 85, 24
  • 1999–2002: Charlotte Hornets
  • 2002–2005: New Orleans Hornets
  • 2005–2008: Golden State Warriors
  • 2008–2011: Los Angeles Clippers
  • 2011: Cleveland Cavaliers
  • 2011–2012: New York Knicks
  • 2016: Delaware 87ers
  • 2× NBA All-Star (2002, 2004), All-NBA Third Team (2004), 2× NBA steals leader (2004, 2007), Third-team All-American – AP (1999), First-team All-Pac-10 (1999), Pac-10 Freshman of the Year (1998), Pac-10 All-Freshman Team (1998), Gatorade Player of the Year (1997), First-team Parade All-American (1997), McDonald's All-American (1997), California Mr. Basketball (1997)
  • Points: 13,447 (16.1 ppg)
  • Assists: 6,025 (7.2 apg)
  • Steals: 1,530 (1.8 spg)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Goodwill Games, : 2001 Brisbane: National team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing the  United States
  • Goodwill Games
  • : 2001 Brisbane: National team

Baron Davis was born on April 13th, 1979 in Los Angeles, California. He attended Crossroads School where he starred as a point guard for the Lakers' youth teams before going to UCLA.

Baron was drafted 3rd overall by the Charlotte Hornets and spent six seasons with them before moving on to New Orleans Pelicans. In 2009, he signed with the Golden State Warriors and played two seasons there before retiring at age 34 in 2014 due to injury.

Baron has since become an NBA TV analyst and is currently working for TNT as well as his own clothing line called "Baron Davis Clothing". Baron Davis was a highly decorated college basketball player, earning First-team Parade All-American and California Mr.

Basketball honors in 1997 before being drafted with the 7th pick by the Golden State Warriors. Baron played for five different NBA teams over his nine seasons, amassing averages of 18 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists per game while shooting 43% from three-point range.

Baron retired from professional basketball in 2016 after playing for the Delaware 87ers of the G League where he averaged 21 points and 6 assists per game this season.

Also Played For: golden state warriors, 2006–07 nba season

11. David West

Power forward

David West Career

  • High school: , Garner, (Garner, North Carolina), Hargrave Military Academy, (Chatham, Virginia)
  • College: Xavier (1999–2003)
  • NBA draft 2003 / Round: 1 / Pick: 18th overall
  • Selected by the New Orleans Hornets
  • Playing career: 2003–2018
  • Position: Power forward
  • Number: 30, 21, 3
  • 2003–2011: New Orleans Hornets[a]
  • 2011–2015: Indiana Pacers
  • 2015–2016: San Antonio Spurs
  • 2016–2018: Golden State Warriors
  • 2× NBA champion (2017, 2018), 2× NBA All-Star (2008, 2009), AP National Player of the Year (2003), Oscar Robertson Trophy winner (2003), Consensus first-team All-American (2003), 3× Atlantic 10 Player of the Year (2001–2003), 3× First-team All-Atlantic 10 (2001–2003), No. 30 retired by Xavier Musketeers
  • Points: 14,034 (13.6 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 6,590 (6.4 rpg)
  • Assists: 2,273 (2.2 apg)

David West was born and raised in Teaneck, New Jersey. After playing college basketball at Xavier University, he was drafted by the Hornets in 2003. He started his NBA career with the Hornets before spending time with the Indiana Pacers, Memphis Grizzlies, San Antonio Spurs and Sacramento Kings.

In 2018, he signed with the Utah Jazz as a free agent. David West was a three-time NBA champion with the New Orleans Hornets in 2003, 2005 and 2006. 

David West also won an AP National Player of the Year award in 2003 and was consensus first-team All-American that year. After spending time with Indiana Pacers, San Antonio Spurs and Golden State Warriors, David West retired from professional basketball after playing 18 seasons overall.

Also Played For: indiana pacers, xavier musketeers

12. Jrue Holiday

Point guard

Jrue Holiday Career

  • High school: Campbell Hall (Los Angeles, California)
  • College: UCLA (2008–2009)
  • NBA draft 2009 / Round: 1 / Pick: 17th overall
  • Selected by the Philadelphia 76ers
  • Playing career: 2009–present
  • Number: 21, 11
  • 2009–2013: Philadelphia 76ers
  • 2013–2020: New Orleans Pelicans
  • 2020–present: Milwaukee Bucks
  • NBA champion (2021), NBA All-Star (2013), 2× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2018, 2021), 2× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2019, 2022), NBA Sportsmanship Award (2021), 2× NBA Teammate of the Year (2020, 2022), Pac-10 All-Freshman Team (2009), Gatorade National Player of the Year (2008), First-team Parade All-American (2008), Third-team Parade All-American (2007), McDonald's All-American (2008), California Mr. Basketball (2008)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2020 Tokyo: Team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing the  United States
  • Olympic Games
  • : 2020 Tokyo: Team

Jrue Holiday is a point guard for the Milwaukee Bucks. He was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2009 and has since played for them, as well as the New Orleans Pelicans and Utah Jazz.

Jrue Holiday is known for his playmaking abilities and can score both inside and out. In 2017, he led the team in assists with 8 per game—the first time he had done so in his career. 

Jrue Holiday will be 32 years old at the end of 2021, which makes him one of the older players on this list Jrue Holiday was a four-year college player at UCLA.

After graduating from UCLA, Jrue signed with the New Orleans Pelicans in 2013 and started playing for them right away. He soon became an important part of their team and helped them reach the playoffs several times over the next few years. 

In 2018, he won his first NBA championship with the Milwaukee Bucks, becoming one of only two players to win a title with different teams (the other being Shaquille O'Neal).

Jrue is also known for his excellent play on defense, which has made him one of the best defenders in the league over time.

Also Played For: milwaukee bucks, fantasy basketball

13. Jonas Valančiūnas

Center

Jonas Valančiūnas Career

  • NBA draft 2011 / Round: 1 / Pick: 5th overall
  • Selected by the Toronto Raptors
  • Playing career: 2008–present
  • 2008–2010: Perlas Vilnius
  • 2010–2012: Lietuvos rytas Vilnius
  • 2012–2019: Toronto Raptors
  • 2019–2021: Memphis Grizzlies
  • 2021–present: New Orleans Pelicans
  • NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2013), LKL champion (2010), 2× LKL Most Improved Player (2011, 2012), LKL MVP (2012), LKL Player of the Year (2012), 2× LKL blocks leader (2011, 2012), VTB United League rebounding leader (2012), 3x LKL All-Defensive Team (2010–2012), LKF Cup winner (2010), 3× LKL All-Star (2010–2012), 2× LKL All-Star Game MVP (2011, 2012), 5× Lithuanian Player of the Year (2011, 2012, 2014, 2017, 2021), 2× FIBA Young Player of the Year (2011, 2012), All-EuroCup First Team (2012), EuroCup Rising Star (2012), FIBA Under-19 World Cup MVP (2011)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  Lithuania, EuroBasket, : 2013 Slovenia: , : 2015 France: , World U-19 Cup, : 2011 Latvia: Team, European U-18 Championship, : 2010 Lithuania: Team, European U-16 Championship, : 2008 Italy: Team, : 2007 Greece: Team, European Youth Olympic Festival, : 2007 Serbia:
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  Lithuania
  • EuroBasket
  • : 2013 Slovenia:
  • : 2015 France:
  • World U-19 Cup
  • : 2011 Latvia: Team
  • European U-18 Championship
  • : 2010 Lithuania: Team
  • European U-16 Championship
  • : 2008 Italy: Team
  • : 2007 Greece: Team
  • European Youth Olympic Festival
  • : 2007 Serbia:

Jonas Valančiūnas is a center for the New Orleans Pelicans in the NBA. He was drafted fifth overall by the Toronto Raptors in 2011 and has since played for Memphis Grizzlies, Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius, and Toronto Raptors.

Valančiūnas is one of only two players (the other being DeMarcus Cousins) to record at least 20 points, 10 rebounds, five assists, and three blocks in an individual game twice during his career.

 In 2019 he signed with Memphis Grizzlies until 2021 after spending time with Toronto last season where he averaged 11 points and eight rebounds per game before having surgery on his right ankle which sidelined him for six weeks.

Despite this setback, he finished fourth in voting for the Most Improved Player Award behind James Harden (Houston Rockets), Klay Thompson (Golden State Warriors), and Joel Embiid (Philadelphia 76ers).

Also Played For: memphis grizzlies, center basketball

14. James Posey

James Posey Career

  • High school: R. B. Chamberlain, (Twinsburg, Ohio)
  • College: Xavier (1996–1999)
  • NBA draft 1999 / Round: 1 / Pick: 18th overall
  • Selected by the Denver Nuggets
  • Playing career: 1999–2011
  • Position: Small forward
  • Number: 41, 55, 42
  • Coaching career: 2013–present
  • As player:, 2× NBA champion (2006, 2008), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2000), First-team All-Atlantic 10 (1999), , As assistant coach:, , NBA champion (2016)
  • Points: 4,214 (8.6 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 4,532 (4.7 rpg)
  • Assists: 903 (1.6 apg)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, Goodwill Games, : 1998 New York: Team competition
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  United States
  • Goodwill Games
  • : 1998 New York: Team competition

Posey was an assistant coach with the Washington Wizards. Posey played for the Denver Nuggets from 1999-2011, averaging 10.0 points and 3.4 rebounds per game in his career.

Posey has also been a head coach at Xavier University where he led the squad to two NCAA tournament appearances (2008, 2009). In 2011, Posey became an assistant coach with the New Orleans Hornets under Monta Ellis and Dell Demps who were both assistants. 

Tom Thibodeau's staff with the Chicago Bulls when they won back-to-back championships in 2010 and 2011 James Posey is a coach in the NBA and has been since 2013.

He played for several teams, most notably the Boston Celtics and Miami Heat, before becoming a coach. Posey won two championships as a player with the 2006 Cleveland Cavaliers and 2008 Miami Heat, respectively. 

As a coach, he has helped guide the Washington Wizards to multiple playoff appearances during his tenure so far.

15. Willie Green

Willie Green Career

  • High school: Cooley (Detroit, Michigan)
  • College: Detroit Mercy (1999–2003)
  • NBA draft 2003 / Round: 2 / Pick: 41st overall
  • Selected by the Seattle SuperSonics
  • Playing career: 2003–2015
  • Position: Shooting guard
  • Number: 33, 34
  • Coaching career: 2016–present
  • As player:, Horizon League Player of the Year (2003), First-team All-Horizon League (2003), Second-team All-Horizon League (2001), No. 34 retired by Detroit Mercy Titans, , As assistant coach:, , 2× NBA champion (2017, 2018)

Willie Green played for the Seattle SuperSonics from 2003 to 2015. In 2016, he was hired as the new head coach of the New Orleans Pelicans. Green is a shooting guard who played collegiately at Detroit Mercy.

He has led his team to two playoff appearances in his three seasons as head coach so far Willie Green is a retired player who spent most of his career playing for the Philadelphia 76ers. In 2010, he was traded to the New Orleans Hornets and played there until 2012.

He then signed with the Atlanta Hawks, where he stayed for two more seasons before moving to Los Angeles Clippers in 2014. 

After one year with them, Green joined Orlando Magic and remained there until 2015 when he was fired after coaching just 33 games due to health concerns stemming from Lyme disease diagnosis.

Also Played For: philadelphia 76ers

16. 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: houston rockets, indiana hoosiers men's basketball

17. Emeka Okafor

Power forward

Emeka Okafor Career

  • 2004–2009: Charlotte Bobcats
  • 2009–2012: New Orleans Hornets
  • 2012–2013: Washington Wizards
  • 2017–2018: Delaware 87ers
  • 2018: New Orleans Pelicans
  • 2019–2020: Ulsan Hyundai Mobis Phoebus

Emeka Okafor was originally selected by the Charlotte Bobcats in the 2004 NBA draft. He spent four seasons with the team before being traded to New Orleans Hornets in 2009.

Okafor continued his career with the Hornets until 2013, when he signed with Washington Wizards. He played for them for two more seasons before retiring in 2017. Emeka Okafor is a two-time All Star and recipient of two MVP Awards during his professional basketball career.

His impressive stats include averaging 18 points and 11 rebounds per game over his 17-year career. Emeka Okafor has also philanthropically supported various organizations throughout his life, most notably Habitat for Humanity where he has built homes several times himself.

Okafor was a two-time NCAA champion with the Georgetown Hoyas and an All-American honoree. Okafor was drafted No. 2 by Washington in the 2005 NBA Draft, but had a lackluster rookie season due to injury. 

Okafor's breakout year came in 2007–08 when he averaged 17 points, 11 rebounds and one block per game while helping lead Washington to the Eastern Conference Finals before falling to Orlando Magic in six games.

After another strong campaign (16 points, 10 rebounds, three blocks) in 2008–09, Okafor signed with New Orleans as a free agent for the 2009–10 season where he helped them reach the 2010 playoffs before being swept by Miami Heat in four games.

Also Played For: charlotte hornets, uconn huskies

18. David Wesley

David Wesley Career

  • High school: Longview (Longview, Texas)
  • College: , Temple JC (1988–1989), Baylor (1989–1992)
  • NBA draft: 1992 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 1992–2007
  • Position: Point guard / Shooting guard
  • 1992–1993: Wichita Falls Texans
  • 1993–1994: New Jersey Nets
  • 1994–1997: Boston Celtics
  • 1997–2002: Charlotte Hornets
  • 2002–2003: New Orleans Hornets
  • 2004–2006: Houston Rockets
  • 2006–2007: Cleveland Cavaliers
  • First-team All-SWC (1992)
  • Points: 11,842 (12.5 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 2,405 (2.5 rpg)
  • Assists: 4,159 (4.4 apg)

David Wesley was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 1992 NBA draft but did not play in the league. David Wesley played for five different teams during his playing career, most notably with the Indiana Pacers and Houston Rockets.

In 2006, Wesley retired from professional basketball after 17 seasons. David Wesley is a two-time All-Star and holds several records as a player, including most games played (1,831) and minutes played (37,186). 

After retirement from basketball, David Wesley became an analyst for ESPN's coverage of the NBA playoffs David Wesley was a versatile player who could play both point guard and shooting guard.

He played for the Wichita Falls Texans, New Jersey Nets, Boston Celtics, Charlotte Hornets, and Houston Rockets in his career. Wesley won two SWC titles with the Texans (1992) and one with the Hornets (1997). 

He also reached the NBA Finals twice with the Celtics (1994 and 1997) but failed to win an championship overall. After playing 11 seasons in the NBA he retired in 2007 after stints with Cleveland Cavaliers and New Orleans Pelicans.

Also Played For: nba undrafted, undrafted nba

19. Devonte' Graham

Point guard

Devonte Career

  • High school: , Broughton, (Raleigh, North Carolina), Brewster Academy, (Wolfeboro, New Hampshire)
  • College: Kansas (2014–2018)
  • NBA draft 2018 / Round: 2 / Pick: 34th overall
  • Selected by the Atlanta Hawks
  • Playing career: 2018–present
  • 2018–2021: Charlotte Hornets
  • 2018–2019: →Greensboro Swarm
  • 2021–present: New Orleans Pelicans
  • Consensus first-team All-American (2018), Big 12 Player of the Year (2018), First-team All-Big 12 (2018), Second-team All-Big 12 (2017), Big 12 All-Defensive Team (2016), Big 12 tournament MVP (2016)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, Summer Universiade, : 2015 Gwangju: Team competition
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  United States
  • Summer Universiade
  • : 2015 Gwangju: Team competition

Devonte' Graham was born in Raleigh, North Carolina on February 22nd 1995. He attended high school at Broughton before going to Brewster Academy for his college years.

Devonte' Graham played one season of basketball at Kansas and he was drafted by the Charlotte Hornets in 2018 with a second round pick. Devonte's main role is as a point guard but he can also play shooting guard or small forward if needed.

In 2017, Devonte won the prestigious John R. Wooden Award which is given to the best player in NCAA Division I men’s basketball every year. 

Graham has represented Team USA internationally several times and finished fourth overall in the FIBA U19 World Cup tournament back in 2015 where he averaged 16 points per game including three triple-doubles.

Devonte' Graham is a versatile forward who can play both inside and out. He was an All-American in 2018, and he led the Hornet team to the playoffs that year. Graham spent two seasons with Charlotte before being traded to Greensboro Swarm in 2019. 

In 2021, he signed with New Orleans Pelicans where he has continued his success on the court and in the classroom off of it as well. 

He’s been named First-team All-Big 12 twice, Big 12 player of the Year and Second Team All-Defensive Team all while averaging over 16 points per game.

20. Elden Campbell

Elden Campbell Career

  • High school: Morningside (Inglewood, California)
  • College: Clemson (1986–1990)
  • NBA draft 1990 / Round: 1 / Pick: 27th overall
  • Selected by the Los Angeles Lakers
  • Playing career: 1990–2005
  • Position: Power forward / Center
  • Number: 41, 5
  • 1990–1999: Los Angeles Lakers
  • 1999–2002: Charlotte Hornets
  • 2002–2003: New Orleans Hornets
  • 2003: Seattle SuperSonics
  • 2003–2005: Detroit Pistons
  • 2005: New Jersey Nets
  • 2005: Detroit Pistons
  • NBA champion (2004), First-team All-ACC (1990), Second-team All-ACC (1989)
  • Points: 10,805 (10.3 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 6,116 (5.9 rpg)
  • Blocks: 1,602 (1.5 bpg)

Elden Campbell was born on July 23, 1968 in Los Angeles, California. He attended high school at Morningside (Inglewood, California). He then played college basketball for Clemson and was drafted by the Lakers in 1990.

His NBA career spanned from 1990 to 2005 with the Lakers and Philadelphia 76ers respectively. Elden is now retired from professional basketball but continues to play professionally in Europe where he currently plays for Filas Varese of Italy's Serie A1 league as a power forward/center.

Elden Campbell was a key player on the Charlotte Hornets from 1999-2002 and 2002-2003. He led the team in rebounding both seasons and helped them reach the playoffs both years. 

In 2003, he was traded to Seattle and won his only championship with them that year. After playing one season with New Jersey, Elden spent four more seasons with Detroit before retiring in 2005 due to injuries sustained during play.

Also Played For: los angeles lakers

21. Josh Hart

Shooting guard

Josh Hart Career

  • High school: , Wheaton, (Silver Spring, Maryland), Sidwell Friends School, (Washington, D.C.)
  • College: Villanova (2013–2017)
  • NBA draft 2017 / Round: 1 / Pick: 30th overall
  • Selected by the Utah Jazz
  • Playing career: 2017–present
  • 2017–2019: Los Angeles Lakers
  • 2017: →South Bay Lakers
  • 2019–2022: New Orleans Pelicans
  • 2022–present: Portland Trail Blazers
  • NCAA champion (2016), Consensus first-team All-American (2017), Third-team All-American – NABC (2016), Senior CLASS Award (2017), Julius Erving Award (2017), Big East Player of the Year (2017), Big East Co-Defensive Player of the Year (2017), 2× First-team All-Big East (2016, 2017), Big East Sixth Man of the Year (2015), Big East All-Freshman Team (2014), 2× Big East tournament MOP (2015, 2017), Robert V. Geasey Trophy (2017), No. 3 retired by Villanova Wildcats

Hart was born in 1995 and spent his early years in Silver Spring, Maryland. Hart attended Wheaton High School before attending Sidwell Friends School for college.

Hart played four seasons of college basketball at Villanova and helped the Wildcats to two Final Four appearances (2015 & 2016). After graduating from Villanova, Hart was drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers with the 30th overall pick in the 2017 NBA draft.

In his rookie season, Hart averaged 10 points per game on 46% shooting from three-point range en route to being named an All-Rookie Second Team selection. Hart's sophomore campaign saw him improve offensively statistically as he averaged 16 points per game on 51% shooting from

 three-point range while also adding 4 rebounds and 2 assists per contest into the mix; however, he struggled defensively where he ranked 111th out of 122 players who qualified for ESPN’s Defensive Real PlusMinus statistic (-1 DBPM).

In 2018–19 season, Hart once again improved offensively averaging 18 points per game on 50% shooting from beyond the arc along with 5 rebounds and 3 assists; however, this time around he saw a significant decrease in defensive stats ranking 95th out of 119 players who met that criteria (-0 DBPM). 

His struggles defending against opponents' top perimeter scorers may have led to some regression in his third year whereby it is hoped that next season will see him regain lost ground defensively whilst maintaining or even improving upon his already impressive offensive output.

Also Played For: villanova wildcats

22. Dante Cunningham

Dante Cunningham Career

  • High school: , St. John's (Washington D.C.), Potomac (Oxon Hill, Maryland)
  • College: Villanova (2005–2009)
  • NBA draft 2009 / Round: 2 / Pick: 33rd overall
  • Selected by the Portland Trail Blazers
  • Playing career: 2009–present
  • 2009–2011: Portland Trail Blazers
  • 2011: Charlotte Bobcats
  • 2011–2012: Memphis Grizzlies
  • 2012–2014: Minnesota Timberwolves
  • 2014–2018: New Orleans Pelicans
  • 2018: Brooklyn Nets
  • 2018–2019: San Antonio Spurs
  • 2019–2020: Fujian Sturgeons
  • 2021: Cangrejeros de Santurce
  • 2021–2022: Le Mans Sarthe Basket

Cunningham was drafted in the second round of the 2005 NBA draft by the Philadelphia 76ers. He spent four seasons with the Sixers before being traded to the Brooklyn Nets in February of 2018.

Cunningham has appeared in 532 games during his career, averaging 8.1 points and 3 rebounds per game while shooting 48% from the field and 33% from three-point range. 

In addition to playing professional basketball, Cunningham also played for Team USA at both the 2009 FIBA World Championship and 2012 Olympic Games where he averaged 10 points per game en route to a Silver Medal finish at each competition respectively Cunningham was drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers in 2009 and has played for them since.

Cunningham had a successful career with the Trail Blazers, averaging over 10 points per game in four of his five seasons there. He moved to Charlotte in 2011 where he averaged 9 points and 5 rebounds per game before joining Memphis the following year. 

Cunningham then joined Minnesota, where he averaged 11 points and 6 rebounds per game over two seasons before moving on to New Orleans in 2014. In 2018, Cunningham signed with Brooklyn Nets but only stayed there for one season before signing with San Antonio Spurs mid-season the next year.

Dante is now an unrestricted free agent and is likely to join another team this offseason.

23. CJ McCollum

Shooting guard

CJ McCollum Career

  • High school: GlenOak (Canton, Ohio)
  • College: Lehigh (2009–2013)
  • NBA draft 2013 / Round: 1 / Pick: 10th overall
  • Selected by the Portland Trail Blazers
  • Playing career: 2013–present
  • 2013–2022: Portland Trail Blazers
  • 2014: →Idaho Stampede
  • 2022–present: New Orleans Pelicans
  • NBA Most Improved Player (2016), 2× AP Honorable Mention All-American (2010, 2012), 2× Patriot League Player of the Year (2010, 2012), 3× First-team All-Patriot League (2010–2012), Patriot League tournament MVP (2012), Patriot League Rookie of the Year (2010), No. 3 retired by Lehigh Mountain Hawks

CJ McCollum was drafted 10th overall by the Portland Trail Blazers in 2013. He has since played for the Minnesota Timberwolves, New Orleans Pelicans, and Atlanta Hawks during his NBA career.

McCollum is a two-time All-Star and averaged 23 points per game over the course of his career to date. In 2018, he joined Golden State Warriors as an unrestricted free agent and helped them win their first championship in 40 years.

McCollum is a two-time All-American and Patriot League Player of the Year who was drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers in 2013.

McCollum has played for the New Orleans Pelicans since 2016 and is one of their leading scorers. McCollum's most notable accomplishment to date is his 2016 Most Improved Player award which he won after averaging 23 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists per game that season.

Also Played For: portland trail blazers, shooting guard

24. Zion Williamson

Duke Blue Devils men's basketball

Zion Williamson Career

  • 2019–present: New Orleans Pelicans

Zion Williamson is a very talented player and he has shown that throughout his career. He was drafted first overall in the 2019 NBA draft by the New Orleans Pelicans and has since started playing for them.

Zion Williamson is known for being one of the best young players in the NBA, and he will continue to be successful long into his career.

 He is 6'6'' tall and weighs 284 pounds, which makes him incredibly strong and able to play at an extremely high level.

Zion Williamson's skills are simply incredible; he can do things with a basketball that most people cannot even dream of doing. His height combined with his strength make him a force to be reckoned with on the court, both offensively and defensively. 

There is no doubt that Zion Williamson will have a very successful professional basketball career - he already seems like a true superstar.

Thanks go out to him for proving himself time after time as one of the greatest young players in history.

Also Played For: basketball, bleacher report nba

25. Brandon Ingram

New Orleans Pelicans

Brandon Ingram Career

  • High school: Kinston, (Kinston, North Carolina)
  • College: Duke (2015–2016)
  • NBA draft 2016 / Round: 1 / Pick: 2nd overall
  • Selected by the Los Angeles Lakers
  • Playing career: 2016–present
  • 2016–2019: Los Angeles Lakers
  • 2019–present: New Orleans Pelicans
  • NBA All-Star (2020), NBA Most Improved Player (2020), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2017), AP Honorable Mention All-American (2016), Second-team All-ACC (2016), ACC Rookie of the Year (2016), McDonald's All-American (2015), First-team Parade All-American (2015), North Carolina Mr. Basketball (2015)

Brandon Ingram was the second overall pick in the 2016 NBA draft. Ingram spent his first two seasons with the Lakers before being traded to New Orleans in 2018.

In 2019, he led the Pelicans to their first playoff appearance since 2006. Ingram is a versatile small forward who can score inside and out or create off the dribble for teammates.

Ingram was one of the top recruits in the country and quickly made an impact at UCLA. He had a breakout year as a sophomore with averages of 19 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists per game.

Ingram has continued his play into his third season, averaging 20 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists per game this season for the Lakers. Brandon Ingram is considered to be one of the best young players in the NBA and is expected to continue making significant contributions for years to come.

Also Played For: nba, duke university

26. Lonzo Ball

Point guard

Lonzo Ball Career

  • High school: Chino Hills (Chino Hills, California)
  • College: UCLA (2016–2017)
  • NBA draft 2017 / Round: 1 / Pick: 2nd overall
  • Selected by the Los Angeles Lakers
  • Playing career: 2017–present
  • 2017–2019: Los Angeles Lakers
  • 2019–2021: New Orleans Pelicans
  • 2021–present: Chicago Bulls
  • NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2018), Consensus first-team All-American (2017), First-team All-Pac-12 (2017), NCAA season assists leader (2017), Wayman Tisdale Award (2017), NABC Freshman of the Year (2017), Pac-12 Freshman of the Year (2017), Mr. Basketball USA (2016), Naismith Prep Player of the Year (2016), McDonald's All-American (2016), California Mr. Basketball (2016)

Lonzo Ball is a point guard for the NBA's Los Angeles Lakers and was drafted with the 2nd overall pick in 2017. Lonzo led UCLA to three consecutive NCAA championships, including back-to-back titles in 2016 and 2017.

He has averaged 19 points, nine assists, and seven rebounds per game over his career so far. Lonzo has won two MVP awards (2017–2018) as well as an NBA championship (2019). 

Lonzo Ball was a consensus first-team All-American and the 2017 National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) season assists leader at UCLA.

Lonzo Ball is also one of only two players in NCAA history to average at least 10 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists per game as a freshman. Drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers with the No. 

2 pick in the 2017 NBA draft, Lonzo ball has already made an impact on his new team - averaging 16 points, nine rebounds, five assists per game during his rookie campaign.

With another year of development under his belt - and perhaps joining forces with future Hall of Fame point guard Kobe Bryant - Ball has all but guaranteed himself a spot in basketball lore alongside other greats such as Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson.

Also Played For: ucla bruins men's basketball, chicago bulls

27. Trevor Ariza

Trevor Ariza Career

  • High school: Westchester, (Los Angeles, California)
  • College: UCLA (2003–2004)
  • NBA draft 2004 / Round: 2 / Pick: 43rd overall
  • Selected by the New York Knicks
  • Playing career: 2004–present
  • 2004–2006: New York Knicks
  • 2006–2007: Orlando Magic
  • 2007–2009: Los Angeles Lakers
  • 2009–2010: Houston Rockets
  • 2010–2012: New Orleans Hornets
  • 2012–2014: Washington Wizards
  • 2014–2018: Houston Rockets
  • 2018: Phoenix Suns
  • 2018–2019: Washington Wizards
  • 2019–2020: Sacramento Kings
  • 2020: Portland Trail Blazers
  • 2021: Miami Heat
  • 2021–2022: Los Angeles Lakers
  • NBA champion (2009), Pac-10 All-Freshman Team (2004), Second-team Parade All-American (2003), California Mr. Basketball (2003)

Trevor Ariza is a talented small forward who has played in the NBA for 10 seasons. He was originally drafted by the New York Knicks and spent two years with them before moving to Orlando Magic.

He then signed with the Washington Wizards in 2013, where he has remained ever since. Ariza is known for his scoring ability, as well as his defense which makes him an important player on both sides of the ball.

He will be entering his 11th season in 2018/19 and is expected to continue providing value for whichever team he plays for next year Trevor Ariza is a talented and experienced player who has played in the NBA for nine seasons.

Trevor Ariza has won two championships with the Los Angeles Lakers and one with the Houston Rockets. 

Trevor Ariza is an excellent shooter who can score from anywhere on the court, including from behind the 3-point line. Trevor Ariza is also a strong defender who can help his team secure defensive rebounds and blocks shots.

In spite of his great shooting abilities, Trevor Ariza also possesses good passing skills which he uses to facilitate team offense as well as create scoring opportunities for himself or his teammates.

Also Played For: rockets lakers basketball

28. Rajon Rondo

Cleveland Cavaliers

Rajon Rondo Career

  • High school: , Eastern (Middletown, Kentucky), Oak Hill Academy, (Mouth of Wilson, Virginia)
  • College: Kentucky (2004–2006)
  • NBA draft 2006 / Round: 1 / Pick: 21st overall
  • Selected by the Phoenix Suns
  • Playing career: 2006–present
  • 2006–2014: Boston Celtics
  • 2014–2015: Dallas Mavericks
  • 2015–2016: Sacramento Kings
  • 2016–2017: Chicago Bulls
  • 2017–2018: New Orleans Pelicans
  • 2018–2020: Los Angeles Lakers
  • 2020–2021: Atlanta Hawks
  • 2021: Los Angeles Clippers
  • 2021–2022: Los Angeles Lakers
  • 2022: Cleveland Cavaliers
  • 2× NBA champion (2008, 2020), 4× NBA All-Star (2010–2013), All-NBA Third Team (2012), 2× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2010, 2011), 2× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2009, 2012), 3× NBA assists leader (2012, 2013, 2016), NBA steals leader (2010), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2007), SEC All-Freshman Team (2005), Second-team Parade All-American (2004), McDonald's All-American (2004)

Rajon Rondo is a former point guard who has played in the NBA for over 10 years. He was drafted by the Phoenix Suns and spent four seasons with them before moving to the Boston Celtics in 2009.

Rondo has been a key player for both teams, winning multiple championships and being named an All-Star several times. In 2017, he joined the New Orleans Pelicans on a one-year deal but later opted out of his contract to become a free agent once again.

With so much experience under his belt, there's no doubt that Rondo will be sought after by many teams this offseason - watch out. 

Rajon Rondo is a 2-time NBA champion and 4-time All-Star. Rajon Rondo led the Celtics to two championships in 2008 and 2020, as well as being an all-star every year from 2010 to 2013.

He was also named an All-NBA Third Team member in 2012 and 2016, respectively, while leading the league in assists both years. In 2009 he won his second consecutive Defensive Player of the Year award whilst also finishing third in MVP voting that season behind LeBron James and Kevin Durant. 

After spending time with Dallas (2014–2015) and Sacramento (2015–2016), Rajon returned to Boston for one final run before retiring at the end of the 2017 season.

Also Played For: 2006 nba draft, boston celtics

29. Naji Marshall

New Orleans Pelicans

Naji Marshall Career

  • High school: , Takoma Academy, (Takoma Park, Maryland), Eleanor Roosevelt, (Greenbelt, Maryland), Hargrave Military Academy, (Chatham, Virginia)
  • College: Xavier (2017–2020)
  • NBA draft: 2020 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2020–present
  • 2020–present: New Orleans Pelicans
  • 2021: →Erie BayHawks
  • 2022: →Birmingham Squadron
  • First-team All-Big East (2020), Second-team All-Big East (2019), Big East All-Freshman Team (2018)

Marshall was a highly touted recruit coming out of high school, and the Pelicans made him an offer right away. Marshall spent two years at Eleanor Roosevelt after transferring from Takoma Academy in Maryland.

He then went to Hargrave Military Academy for one year before entering the NBA draft in 2019. Marshall has had a somewhat up-and-down rookie season with the Pelicans, but is still only 24 years old so there's plenty of time for him to improve.

Marshall was a four-year starter for Xavier, and is expected to be a top pick in the 2020 NBA Draft. Marshall started all 88 games he played in at Xavier, averaging 20 points per game. Marshall has an impressive career record of 181-of-312 from three point range (.461%).

His shooting ability will make him an excellent addition to any team looking for a perimeter player. Marshall's agility and ball handling skills are also assets that could see him success in the NBA as well, where smaller defenders can be difficult to beat off the dribble.

Despite being only 6'0", 190 lbs., Marshall possesses enough strength and power to bang around inside if needed, making him versatile on both ends of the court offensively or defensively.

With his experience playing against high level competition at Xavier coupled with his scoring abilities, it's no wonder that many draft experts have projected Marshall as one of the top prospects available this year.

Also Played For: adelaide 36ers

30. Herb Jones

New Orleans Pelicans

Herb Jones Career

  • High school: , Sunshine, (Newbern, Alabama), Hale County, (Moundville, Alabama)
  • College: Alabama (2017–2021)
  • NBA draft 2021 / Round: 2 / Pick: 35th overall
  • Selected by the New Orleans Pelicans
  • Playing career: 2021–present
  • 2021–present: New Orleans Pelicans
  • NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2022), Third-team All-American – AP, SN (2021), SEC Player of the Year (2021), First-team All-SEC (2021), SEC Defensive Player of the Year (2021), 2× SEC All-Defensive Team (2020, 2021)

Herb Jones is a talented young small forward who was drafted by the New Orleans Pelicans in 2018. He has international experience, having played for Team USA at the U18 and U19 level.

Herb started his college career at Alabama before transferring to Sunshine State University (now Florida Gulf Coast). After two years with FGCU, Herb transferred again and joined Auburn for his final season of collegiate basketball.

Herbert Jones is currently playing with the Pelicans’ G-League affiliate team, the Austin Spurs, where he is averaging 14 points per game this season. Herb Jones was a two-time SEC Player of the Year and All-SEC defender for Alabama.

He was selected 35th overall in the 2021 NBA draft by the New Orleans Pelicans, and has since started his professional career. Herb Jones is averaging 10 points and 5 rebounds per game through his first three seasons in the league.

Also Played For: alabama crimson tide men's basketball, small forward

31. Kira Lewis Jr.

New Orleans Pelicans

Kira Lewis Jr. Career

  • High school: Hazel Green, (Hazel Green, Alabama)
  • College: Alabama (2018–2020)
  • NBA draft 2020 / Round: 1 / Pick: 13th overall
  • Selected by the New Orleans Pelicans
  • Playing career: 2020–present
  • 2020–present: New Orleans Pelicans
  • 2022: →Birmingham Squadron
  • First-team All-SEC (2020), SEC All-Freshman Team (2019)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, FIBA Under-19 World Cup, : 2019 Greece: Team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  United States
  • FIBA Under-19 World Cup
  • : 2019 Greece: Team

Kira Lewis Jr. was born on April 6, 2001 in Meridianville, Alabama and played high school basketball for Hazel Green. He attended college at the University of Alabama where he played point guard for two years under head coach Avery Johnson before being drafted by the New Orleans Pelicans in 2020.

Kira Lewis Jr. has been a regular starter with the Pelicans since his rookie season and is looking to improve upon his impressive stats from last year (22 points per game). 

Kira Lewis Jr. is a versatile forward who played at both the college and professional level for the New Orleans Pelicans. Kira Lewis Jr.

was an All-SEC selection in 2020 and helped lead his team to their first ever SEC Championship appearance that year. 

In 2022, he joined the Birmingham Squadron of the NBA Development League where he averaged 18 points and six rebounds per game over two seasons before being recalled by the Pelicans in 2024. 

At 23 years old, Lewis has already established himself as one of the brightest young forwards in basketball and looks poised to continue playing at a high level for many years to come.

32. Nikola Mirotić

Power forward

Nikola Mirotić Career

  • NBA draft 2011 / Round: 1 / Pick: 23rd overall
  • Selected by the Houston Rockets
  • Playing career: 2008–present
  • 2008–2014: Real Madrid
  • 2009–2010: Palencia
  • 2014–2018: Chicago Bulls
  • 2018–2019: New Orleans Pelicans
  • 2019: Milwaukee Bucks
  • 2019–present: FC Barcelona
  • NBA All-Rookie First Team (2015), EuroLeague MVP (2022), 2× All-Euroleague First Team (2021, 2022), 2× All-Euroleague Second Team (2013, 2014), 2× Spanish League MVP (2013, 2020), 2× Spanish League winner (2013, 2021), Spanish League Finals MVP (2021), 4× Spanish Cup winner (2012, 2014, 2021, 2022), 2× Spanish Cup MVP (2014, 2022), 2× Spanish Supercup winner (2012, 2013), 4× All-ACB Team (2013, 2014, 2020, 2021), All-ACB Second Team (2022), 2× Spanish League Domestic Player of the Year (2014, 2020), Liga ACB three-point field goal percentage leader (2021), 2× Catalan League champion (2019, 2022), 2× EuroLeague Rising Star (2011, 2012), FIBA Europe Under-20 Championship MVP (2011)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  Spain, Summer Olympics, : 2016 Rio de Janeiro: Team, EuroBasket, : 2015 France: , U20 European Championship, : 2011 Spain: Team, : 2010 Croatia: Team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  Spain
  • Summer Olympics
  • 2016 Rio de Janeiro: Team
  • EuroBasket
  • 2015 France
  • U20 European Championship
  • 2011 Spain: Team
  • 2010 Croatia: Team

Nikola Mirotić is a professional basketball player who currently plays for FC Barcelona in Spain. Mirotić was born on 11 February 1991 in Titograd, SR Montenegro, Yugoslavia.

He began his career with Real Madrid before moving to Barcelona in 2014. 

In 2011, Mirotić was drafted by the Houston Rockets and has since played for several other teams around the world including Real Madrid, Olympiacos Piraeus (Greece), Valencia Basket (Spain), and most recently Elan Chalon (France).

Nikola Mirotić is one of the best power forwards playing today and he will be looking to help FC Barcelona win more trophies this season Nikola Mirotić was born in Palencia, Spain on May 12th, 1991. 

He played college basketball for the Illinois Fighting Illini before being drafted by the Chicago Bulls in 2009.

Nikola made his NBA debut with the Bulls later that year and has since played for the New Orleans Pelicans, Milwaukee Bucks, and now FC Barcelona. 

In 2018 he won his first EuroLeague title with FC Barcelona after they defeated Olympiacos in a thrilling final match. Nikola is also a two-time Spanish League MVP (2013, 2020) and Spanish League winner (2013, 2021).

In 2019 he helped lead FC Barcelona to their third straight La Liga championship title as well as their fourth European crown overall. 

Outside of basketball, Nikola is known for his charity work which focuses on helping children who are affected by cancer or other serious illnesses. 

Overall Nikola Mirotić has proven himself to be one of Europe’s top players both on and off the court - look out for him continuing this success next season with FC Barcelona.

Also Played For: real madrid baloncesto, fc barcelona basketball

33. Chris Kaman

Chris Kaman Career

  • High school: Tri-unity Christian School, (Wyoming, Michigan)
  • College: Central Michigan (2000–2003)
  • NBA draft 2003 / Round: 1 / Pick: 6th overall
  • Selected by the Los Angeles Clippers
  • Playing career: 2003–2016
  • Position: Center
  • Number: 35, 9
  • 2003–2011: Los Angeles Clippers
  • 2011–2012: New Orleans Hornets
  • 2012–2013: Dallas Mavericks
  • 2013–2014: Los Angeles Lakers
  • 2014–2016: Portland Trail Blazers
  • NBA All-Star (2010), MAC Player of the Year (2003), First-team All-MAC (2003), MAC tournament MVP (2003)

Chris Kaman was a dominant center in the NBA for many years, playing for the Clippers and other teams. He had some personal issues during his career, but he eventually overcame them.

Chris Kaman is now focusing on his coaching career. Kaman played for the Los Angeles Clippers from 2003-2011 before moving on to play for the New Orleans Hornets and Dallas Mavericks.

He was a two-time All-MAC player and an NBA All-Star in 2010. Kaman is now playing for Portland Trail Blazers, where he has averaged 7 points and 5 rebounds per game this season.

Also Played For: central michigan university

34. Willy Hernangómez

Charlotte Hornets

Willy Hernangómez Career

  • NBA draft 2015 / Round: 2 / Pick: 35th overall
  • Selected by the Philadelphia 76ers
  • Playing career: 2011–present
  • 2011–2013: Real Madrid B
  • 2013–2016: Real Madrid
  • 2013–2015: Baloncesto Sevilla
  • 2016–2018: New York Knicks
  • 2018–2020: Charlotte Hornets
  • 2020–present: New Orleans Pelicans
  • NBA All-Rookie First Team (2017), FIBA EuroBasket MVP (2022), 2× Liga ACB champion (2013, 2016), 2× ACB All-Young Players Team (2015, 2016)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  Spain, Olympic Games, : 2016 Rio de Janeiro: Team, World Cup, : 2019 China: , EuroBasket, : 2015 France: , : 2022 Germany: , : 2017 Turkey: , U20 European Championship, : 2014 Greece: Team, U18 European Championship, 2011 Poland: Team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  Spain
  • Olympic Games
  • 2016 Rio de Janeiro: Team
  • World Cup
  • 2019 China
  • EuroBasket
  • 2015 France
  • 2022 Germany
  • 2017 Turkey
  • U20 European Championship
  • 2014 Greece: Team
  • U18 European Championship
  • 2011 Poland: Team

Willy Hernangómez was born on May 27, 1994 in Madrid, Spain. He is a center for the New Orleans Pelicans in the NBA and was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2015.

In his playing career, he has played for Real Madrid B (2011-2013), Real Madrid (2013-2015), Baloncesto Sevilla (2016-2018) and the Knicks (2016-2018). 

Willy Hernangómez is a forward for the Charlotte Hornets and New Orleans Pelicans in the NBA.

He has represented Spain at various international tournaments, most notably at the Olympic Games in 2016 where they reached the quarterfinals. 

Hernangomez was drafted by Charlotte with the 8th pick of the 2017 draft and played his first professional game that season.

In 2018 he was traded to New Orleans as part of a deal involving Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins, cementing himself as one of their key players over recent seasons. 

Standing at 6'8", Willy Hernangomez can shoot from long range and also possesses good ball handling skills which allow him to create space for himself on offense or defensively help protect team mates down low.

Also Played For: eurobasket

35. Marcus Thornton

Sacramento Kings

Marcus Thornton Career

  • High school: Tara (Baton Rouge, Louisiana)
  • College: , Kilgore (2005–2007), LSU (2007–2009)
  • NBA draft 2009 / Round: 2 / Pick: 43rd overall
  • Selected by the Miami Heat
  • Playing career: 2009–2019; 2022–present
  • 2009–2011: New Orleans Hornets
  • 2011–2014: Sacramento Kings
  • 2014: Brooklyn Nets
  • 2014–2015: Boston Celtics
  • 2015: Phoenix Suns
  • 2015–2016: Houston Rockets
  • 2016–2017: Washington Wizards
  • 2017–2018: Grand Rapids Drive
  • 2018: Beijing Ducks
  • 2018–2019: Grand Rapids Drive
  • 2022: Motor City Cruise
  • NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2010), SEC Player of the Year (2009), First-team All-SEC (2009)

Marcus Thornton was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana on June 5th 1987. Marcus played college basketball at LSU before being drafted by the Miami Heat in 2009.

In his first NBA season with the Heat, Thornton averaged 3 points per game off the bench. Since then, Marcus has bounced around between various teams in the NBA and G League but is best known for his time with Washington Wizards.

Where he spent four seasons from 2016-2020 averaging 8 points per game off the bench before retiring at age 34 due to injury complications.

Marcus Thornton is a 6-foot-7 swingman who played his college ball at North Carolina. He was drafted by the New Orleans Hornets in 2009 and spent four seasons there before being traded to Sacramento in 2014. 

Marcus Thornton has had an up-and-down career, but he's shown potential as a scorer and defender over the years. In 2018, Marcus Thornton signed with the Beijing Ducks of the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA).

This will likely be his last season in professional basketball, as he'll turn 30 later that year.

Also Played For: georgia bulldogs men's basketball

36. Trey Murphy III

New Orleans Pelicans

Trey Murphy III Career

  • High school: Cary Academy, (Cary, North Carolina)
  • College: , Rice (2018–2020), Virginia (2020–2021)
  • NBA draft 2021 / Round: 1 / Pick: 17th overall
  • Selected by the Memphis Grizzlies
  • Playing career: 2021–present
  • 2021–present: New Orleans Pelicans
  • 2021–2022: →Birmingham Squadron

Trey Murphy III is a 22-year-old small forward/power forward who was drafted by the New Orleans Pelicans in the first round of the 2018 NBA Draft. Murphy attended Cary Academy in Cary, North Carolina, where he played basketball and football.

In his senior year at Cary, Murphy averaged 20.9 points, 10.7 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 1.5 blocks per game. 

Murphy was considered a three-star recruit by 247Sports and was ranked as the No. 41 small forward in the country. Murphy made his NBA debut with the Pelicans in 2018 and averaged 5.8 points, 3.5 rebounds and 1.1 blocks per game.

Murphy is a member of the United States U-19 national basketball team, which competed in the FIBA U19 World Cup in Spain in August 2018. Murphy is a native of Durham, North Carolina. 

Trey Murphy III was selected 17th overall in the 2021 NBA draft by the Memphis Grizzlies. Murphy has played for the New Orleans Pelicans since 2021. Murphy has recorded averages of 10.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists in his NBA career.

Murphy is a three-time All-Star and was named to the 2018-19 All-Defensive Second Team. Murphy is the son of former NBA player Trey Murphy. Murphy is a graduate of Rice University.

Also Played For: nba summer league, virginia cavaliers men's basketball

37. Dyson Daniels

New Orleans Pelicans

Dyson Daniels Career

  • NBA draft 2022 / Round: 1 / Pick: 8th overall
  • Selected by the New Orleans Pelicans
  • Playing career: 2021–present
  • Number: 3, 11
  • 2021–2022: NBA G League Ignite
  • 2022–present: New Orleans Pelicans
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  Australia, FIBA Oceania U15 Championship, : 2018 Papua New Guinea:
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  Australia
  • FIBA Oceania U15 Championship
  • : 2018 Papua New Guinea:

Dyson Daniels was born in Bendigo, Victoria, Australia in 2003. He is a point guard and was drafted by the New Orleans Pelicans in the 2022 NBA Draft. Daniels has already proven himself as a top player in the Australian National Basketball League (NBL).

He has a height of 6'7" and a weight of 199 pounds. Daniels is a skilled player who is known for his shooting and passing. 

He is a strong player who can score in various ways. Daniels is a promising player who is sure to make a big impact in the NBA. He is a hard worker who is always looking to improve his skills.

Daniels is a talented player who is sure to be a major contributor for the Pelicans in the future. Dyson Daniels is a versatile player who can play both the guard and forward positions. 

Daniels was drafted in the third round of the 2021 NBA draft by the New Orleans Pelicans. In his rookie season with the Pelicans' G League affiliate, the Ignite, Daniels averaged 16.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game.

In the 2018-19 season, Daniels led the Pelicans in scoring with 21.8 points per game. Daniels has represented Australia at the FIBA Oceania U15 Championship. Daniels is a hard worker who is constantly looking to improve his game. 

Daniels is a versatile player who can play both the guard and forward positions, making him a valuable asset on the court. Daniels is a threat from long range, making him a difficult player to defend.

38. Tyson Chandler

Center

Tyson Chandler Career

  • High school: Dominguez (Compton, California)
  • NBA draft 2001 / Round: 1 / Pick: 2nd overall
  • Selected by the Los Angeles Clippers
  • Playing career: 2001–2020
  • Position: Center
  • Number: 3, 6, 4, 5, 19
  • 2001–2006: Chicago Bulls
  • 2006–2009: New Orleans Hornets[a]
  • 2009–2010: Charlotte Bobcats
  • 2010–2011: Dallas Mavericks
  • 2011–2014: New York Knicks
  • 2014–2015: Dallas Mavericks
  • 2015–2018: Phoenix Suns
  • 2018–2019: Los Angeles Lakers
  • 2019–2020: Houston Rockets
  • NBA champion (2011), NBA All-Star (2013), All-NBA Third Team (2012), NBA Defensive Player of the Year (2012), NBA All-Defensive First Team (2013), 2× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2011, 2012), First-team Parade All-American (2001), Second-team Parade All-American (2000), McDonald's All-American (2001), 2× California Mr. Basketball (2000, 2001)
  • Points: 9,509 (8.2 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 10,467 (9.0 rpg)
  • Blocks: 1,335 (1.2 bpg)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2012 London: Team, FIBA World Championship, : 2010 Turkey: Team, FIBA Americas Championship, : 2007 Las Vegas:
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing the  United States
  • Olympic Games
  • : 2012 London: Team
  • FIBA World Championship
  • : 2010 Turkey: Team
  • FIBA Americas Championship
  • : 2007 Las Vegas:

Tyson Chandler was drafted by the Los Angeles Clippers in 2001 and played his entire career with the team. Chandler is a seven-time All-Star and was the 2011 Sixth Man of the Year.

Chandler is known for his strong defense and is one of the most durable players in the NBA. Chandler announced his retirement from the NBA in 2020. Chandler has two daughters and lives in Los Angeles.

Tyson Chandler was a two-time All-NBA selection and a five-time All-Defensive First Team honoree in the NBA. Chandler was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in the first round of the 2001 NBA draft. Chandler played for the Knicks from 2011 to 2014 and the Mavericks from 2014 to 2015.

He was traded to the Phoenix Suns in 2015 and then to the Los Angeles Lakers in 2018. Chandler is the NBA's all-time leader in blocked shots with 2,044. 

Chandler was born in Los Angeles, California, on December 17, 1981. Chandler is married to fellow American actress and model La La Vasquez.

39. Jose Alvarado

Point guard

Jose Alvarado Career

  • High school: Christ the King, (Middle Village, New York)
  • College: Georgia Tech (2017–2021)
  • NBA draft: 2021 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2021–present
  • 2021–present: New Orleans Pelicans
  • 2021: →Birmingham Squadron
  • ACC Defensive Player of the Year (2021), Second-team All-ACC (2021), Third-team All-ACC (2020)

Jose Alvarado is a 24-year-old point guard for the New Orleans Pelicans in the NBA. He was born in New York City and played high school basketball at Christ the King.

Alvarado was drafted by the Pelicans in the second round of the 2016 NBA Draft. He made his NBA debut in the 2018-19 season. Alvarado has played for the Pelicans, the Memphis Grizzlies, and the Atlanta Hawks in the NBA.

He has also played for the Mexican national team. Alvarado is a two-time NBA All-Star and a member of the Mexican national team that played in the 2019 FIBA World Cup. Alvarado has a reputation for being a good passer and defender.

He has been described as a "smart player" and a "pass-first point guard". Alvarado is married to Yara Shahidi and they have one child. Jose Alvarado is a 2021 NBA draft prospect and Undrafted player from Georgia Tech. Alvarado is a ACC Defensive Player of the Year and Third-team All-ACC selection in 2021.

Alvarado has a career history of playing for the Birmingham Squadron of the New Orleans Pelicans in 2021-present. Alvarado has had a successful career thus far, earning accolades such as ACC Defensive Player of the Year and Third-team All-ACC selection in 2021. 

Alvarado is a highly-skilled player who is capable of guarding multiple positions on the court. Alvarado is an exciting prospect who should continue to develop his skills over the next few years.

40. Jaxson Hayes

Center

Jaxson Hayes Career

  • High school: Moeller (Cincinnati, Ohio)
  • College: Texas (2018–2019)
  • NBA draft 2019 / Round: 1 / Pick: 8th overall
  • Selected by the Atlanta Hawks
  • Playing career: 2019–present
  • 2019–present: New Orleans Pelicans
  • 2021: →Birmingham Squadron
  • NIT champion (2019), Second-team All-Big 12 (2019), Big 12 Freshman of the Year (2019), Big 12 All-Defensive Team (2019)

Jaxson Hayes was selected with the eighth overall pick in the 2019 NBA draft by the New Orleans Pelicans. Hayes played college basketball for Texas, where he averaged 18.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game in his final season.

Hayes is a center/power forward who is known for his athleticism and shot-blocking ability. Hayes is expected to contribute immediately for the Pelicans, who finished the 2018–19 season with a 38–44 record. Jaxson Hayes was selected by the Atlanta Hawks in the 2019 NBA Draft.

Hayes has played for the New Orleans Pelicans and Birmingham Squadron during his career. Hayes was a Second-team All-Big 12 and Big 12 All-Defensive Team selection in 2019. Hayes is a native of Texas and played college basketball in Texas. Hayes is a versatile player who can play both forward positions.

Hayes is expected to compete for a spot on the Atlanta Hawks roster in the 2019-20 season. Hayes is a skilled player with a high basketball IQ. Hayes is a hard worker who is dedicated to his game. Hayes is a talented player with a high ceiling who is expected to improve in the future.

Also Played For: texas longhorns men's basketball, university of texas best basketball players

41. Larry Nance, Jr.

Center

Larry Nance, Jr. Career

  • High school: Revere (Richfield, Ohio)
  • College: Wyoming (2011–2015)
  • NBA draft 2015 / Round: 1 / Pick: 27th overall
  • Selected by the Los Angeles Lakers
  • Playing career: 2015–present
  • 2015–2018: Los Angeles Lakers
  • 2018–2021: Cleveland Cavaliers
  • 2021–2022: Portland Trail Blazers
  • 2022–present: New Orleans Pelicans
  • 2× First-team All-MWC (2014, 2015), MWC Defensive Player of the Year (2015), 2× MWC All-Defensive Team (2014, 2015)

Larry Nance, Jr. was born on January 1st, 1993 in Cleveland, Ohio. He attended Revere High School in Richfield, Ohio and played college basketball for Wyoming from 2011-2015.

Nance was drafted by the New Orleans Pelicans with the 27th overall pick in the 2015 NBA draft. He has since played for the Pelicans, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Portland Trail Blazers.

Nance has appeared in over 400 regular season games, averaging 10.4 points, 7.4 rebounds, 1.4 blocks, and 1.1 assists per game. He has also played in over 50 playoff games, averaging 10.8 points, 8.0 rebounds, 1.6 blocks, and 1.2 assists per game.

Nance is a versatile player who can play both power forward and center. He is known for his defensive skills and his ability to score in the low post. 

In 2019, Nance was named to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team. He is one of just two players in Pelicans history to be named to the All-Defensive Team multiple times.

Also Played For: mountain west conference, wyoming cowboys basketball

42. Garrett Temple

Small forward

Garrett Temple Career

  • High school: LSU Laboratory School, (Baton Rouge, Louisiana)
  • College: LSU (2005–2009)
  • NBA draft: 2009 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2009–present
  • 2009–2010: Rio Grande Valley Vipers
  • 2010: Houston Rockets
  • 2010: Sacramento Kings
  • 2010: San Antonio Spurs
  • 2010: Rio Grande Valley Vipers
  • 2010–2011: Erie BayHawks
  • 2011: Milwaukee Bucks
  • 2011: Erie BayHawks
  • 2011: Charlotte Bobcats
  • 2011–2012: Casale Monferrato
  • 2012: Reno Bighorns
  • 2012–2016: Washington Wizards
  • 2016–2018: Sacramento Kings
  • 2018–2019: Memphis Grizzlies
  • 2019: Los Angeles Clippers
  • 2019–2020: Brooklyn Nets
  • 2020–2021: Chicago Bulls
  • 2021–present: New Orleans Pelicans
  • NBA D-League All-Star (2011), Second-team All-SEC (2009), SEC All-Defensive Team (2009)

Garrett Temple was drafted by the Houston Rockets in 2009 but did not sign with them. He then played for the Rio Grande Valley Vipers of the NBA D-League for two seasons.

He was then signed by the New Orleans Pelicans in 2013. He has played for the Pelicans, Washington Wizards, Memphis Grizzlies, and Minnesota Timberwolves in the NBA. Temple is a three-time All-Star and two-time Sixth Man of the Year.

He has also won a championship with the Memphis Grizzlies in 2017. Temple is a versatile player who can play shooting guard or small forward. He has averaged 13.7 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.0 assists in his career. Temple is considered one of the best shooting guards in the NBA.

Garrett Temple is a professional basketball player who has played for the Sacramento Kings, San Antonio Spurs, Rio Grande Valley Vipers, Erie BayHawks, Milwaukee Bucks, Charlotte Bobcats, and Reno Bighorns in the NBA and the Memphis Grizzlies, Washington Wizards, Casale Monferrato, and Milwaukee Bucks in the D-League.

Temple was drafted by the Memphis Grizzlies with the 44th pick of the 2009 NBA draft and spent two seasons with the team before being waived in 2011. 

He was then signed by the Washington Wizards, where he played for two seasons before being waived in 2016. He was then signed by the Sacramento Kings and has played for them since 2016.

Temple has also played for the Chicago Bulls, Brooklyn Nets, and New Orleans Pelicans in the NBA and the Cantù Basket and Chieti Basket in the Italian League. Temple has averaged 5.5 points and 2.8 rebounds per game in his career.

43. Dereon Seabron

Dereon Seabron Career

  • High school: , Lake Taylor, (Norfolk, Virginia), Massanutten Military Academy, (Woodstock, Virginia)
  • College: NC State (2020–2022)
  • NBA draft: 2022 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2022–present
  • 2022–present: New Orleans Pelicans
  • 2022–present: →Birmingham Squadron
  • ACC Most Improved Player (2022), Second-team All-ACC (2022)

Dereon Seabron is a shooting guard for the New Orleans Pelicans in the NBA. He was born on May 26, 2000 in Norfolk, Virginia, and raised in Lake Taylor, Virginia.

At high school, Seabron attended Lake Taylor. He then played two years of college basketball at Massanutten Military Academy. Seabron was drafted by the Pelicans in the first round of the 2018 NBA draft.

Seabron has played for the Pelicans in their first two seasons in the NBA. He has averaged 6.6 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game. Seabron is signed through the 2022-23 NBA season. Dereon Seabron is a 2020 NC State College basketball player who is projected to be drafted in the 2022 NBA Draft.

Seabron has a career history of playing for the New Orleans Pelicans and Birmingham Squadron. Seabron was named Second-team All-ACC in 2022 and Most Improved Player in 2022. 

Seabron is a hard worker and is known for his defensive skills. Seabron is a versatile player who can play multiple positions. Seabron is a high-character player and is a team player. Seabron will be a valuable asset to any team. Seabron is a rising star in the NBA and is poised for continued success.

44. Jamaal Magloire

Jamaal Magloire Career

  • High school: Eastern Commerce, (Toronto, Ontario)
  • College: Kentucky (1996–2000)
  • NBA draft 2000 / Round: 1 / Pick: 19th overall
  • Selected by the Charlotte Hornets
  • Playing career: 2000–2012
  • Position: Center
  • Number: 21, 20
  • Coaching career: 2013–present
  • 2000–2002: Charlotte Hornets
  • 2002–2005: New Orleans Hornets
  • 2005–2006: Milwaukee Bucks
  • 2006–2007: Portland Trail Blazers
  • 2007–2008: New Jersey Nets
  • 2008: Dallas Mavericks
  • 2008–2011: Miami Heat
  • 2011–2012: Toronto Raptors
  • NBA All-Star (2004), NCAA champion (1998), First-team All-SEC (2000), SEC All-Freshman Team (1997), Roundball classic (1996)
  • Points: 4,917 (7.2 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 4,408 (6.5 rpg)
  • Blocks: 603 (0.9 bpg)

Jamaal Magloire was a highly-touted center prospect out of high school and went on to play for the Kentucky Wildcats. Magloire was selected with the 19th overall pick in the 2000 NBA draft by the Charlotte Hornets.

He played for the Hornets, Memphis Grizzlies, Toronto Raptors, and Brooklyn Nets over the course of his 14-year NBA career. Magloire is most remembered for his time with the Raptors, where he helped lead the team to the playoffs six times and the Eastern Conference Finals once.

Magloire retired in 2012 after playing his final season with the Brooklyn Nets. He now works as a basketball development consultant for the Toronto Raptors. Jamaal Magloire was drafted by the Charlotte Hornets in the second round of the 2000 NBA Draft. He played for the Hornets from 2000 to 2002.

Magloire then spent two seasons with the New Orleans Hornets. Magloire was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks in 2006. Magloire spent two seasons with the Milwaukee Bucks. 

Magloire was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers in 2007. Magloire spent one season with the Portland Trail Blazers. Magloire was traded to the New Jersey Nets in 2008.

Magloire spent one season with the New Jersey Nets. Magloire was traded to the Dallas Mavericks in 2008. Magloire spent two seasons with the Dallas Mavericks. Magloire was traded to the Miami Heat in 2011. Magloire spent one season with the Miami Heat. 

Magloire was traded to the Toronto Raptors in 2012. Magloire spent one season with the Toronto Raptors.

Magloire was traded to the Memphis Grizzlies in 2013. Magloire spent one season with the Memphis Grizzlies. Magloire was traded to the Orlando Magic in 2014.

Magloire spent one season with the Orlando Magic. Magloire was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans in 2016. Magloire has been with the New Orleans Pelicans since 2016.

45. Didi Louzada

Guard

Didi Louzada Career

  • NBA draft 2019 / Round: 2 / Pick: 35th overall
  • Selected by the Atlanta Hawks
  • Playing career: 2017–present
  • 2017–2019: Franca
  • 2019–2021: Sydney Kings
  • 2021–2022: New Orleans Pelicans
  • 2022: →Birmingham Squadron
  • 2022: Portland Trail Blazers
  • 2022–present: Cleveland Charge
  • NBB Most Improved Player (2019), NBB Revelation Player (2019), NBB All-Star (2019), South American League champion (2018), LDB champion (2016)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  Brazil, FIBA AmeriCup, : 2022 Brazil: , FIBA South America U15 Championship, : 2014 Venezuela:
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  Brazil
  • FIBA AmeriCup
  • : 2022 Brazil:
  • FIBA South America U15 Championship
  • : 2014 Venezuela:

Didi Louzada is a Brazilian shooting guard and small forward who was drafted by the Atlanta Hawks in the 2019 NBA Draft. He has played for the Sydney Kings and New Orleans Pelicans in the NBA G League, and the Cleveland Charge in the NBA.

In 2019, he averaged 16.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game for the Charge. He is a natural scorer and rebounder who has excellent ball-handling skills. 

In 2020, he was named to the All-G League First Team, and in 2021 he was named to the All-G League Second Team.

He is a promising young player who is still developing his skills. Didi Louzada was born in Brazil and raised in Venezuela. In 2018, he won the LDB championship with the South American League's Flamengo. 

In 2019, he was named NBB Most Improved Player and NBB Revelation Player. Louzada was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2019 NBA draft.

He is the son of former NBA player Didi Manu. Louzada is eligible to play for Brazil in the 2020 Olympics. Louzada is a skilled shooter and passer.

46. Al-Farouq Aminu

Power forward

Al-Farouq Aminu Career

  • High school: Norcross (Norcross, Georgia)
  • College: Wake Forest (2008–2010)
  • NBA draft 2010 / Round: 1 / Pick: 8th overall
  • Selected by the Los Angeles Clippers
  • Playing career: 2010–present
  • 2010–2011: Los Angeles Clippers
  • 2011–2014: New Orleans Hornets/Pelicans
  • 2014–2015: Dallas Mavericks
  • 2015–2019: Portland Trail Blazers
  • 2019–2021: Orlando Magic
  • 2021: Chicago Bulls
  • Second-team All-ACC (2010), ACC All-Freshman team (2009), McDonald's All-American (2008), First-team Parade All-American (2008), Mr. Georgia Basketball (2008)
  • Medals, , Men's Basketball, Representing  Nigeria, FIBA Africa Championship, : 2015 Tunisia: Team
  • Men's Basketball
  • Representing  Nigeria
  • FIBA Africa Championship
  • : 2015 Tunisia: Team

Aminu was drafted eighth overall by the Los Angeles Clippers in the 2010 NBA draft. Aminu has spent most of his career with the New Orleans Hornets and Pelicans.

Aminu has averaged 10.6 points and 5.8 rebounds per game in his career. Aminu was named to the All-Rookie First Team in 2010. Aminu is a versatile player who can play both small forward and power forward.

Aminu is an American citizen, but he was born in Nigeria. Aminu is a two-time All-Star and has been named to the All-NBA Second Team twice. Aminu is averaging 18.2 points and 7.2 rebounds per game this season.

Aminu is scheduled to become a free agent at the end of the 2019 season. Al-Farouq Aminu is a Nigerian-American professional basketball player for the Dallas Mavericks of the National Basketball Association (NBA).

Aminu was drafted by the Mavericks with the 23rd overall pick in the 2011 NBA draft. Aminu played college basketball for the Portland Trail Blazers. Aminu was a part of the Nigerian team that won a gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics.

Aminu is a versatile player who can play both forward positions. Aminu has been known for his shooting ability, averaging over 16 points per game in his career. Aminu is a player that is often compared to former Mavs player Jason Kidd. 

Aminu is a two-time All-Star and has been a part of the Mavericks playoff runs in each of his four seasons with the team. Aminu is married and has two children.

Also Played For: wake forest best basketball players

Final Words

The New Orleans Pelicans are a professional basketball team that has had some great players over the years. Some of the best players to ever play for the Pelicans include Shaquille O’Neal, Hakeem Olajuwon, and David Robinson.

These three men were all Hall of Famers and helped lead the Pelicans to several championships during their time with the team. Other great players who have played for New Orleans include Darius Miller, Tony Parker, Jr., Eric Gordon, Jr., Tyreke Evans, Anthony Davis, and DeMarcus Cousins

Photo of author

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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