Small Forward Best Players of All Time

The small forward has become one of the most important positions in basketball. Small forwards are the versatile players who have the ability to score, create open lanes, rebound and defend for their team.

They are usually shorter and quicker than power forwards and centers, but taller and stronger than guards. Small forwards are the linchpins of a team’s success, and their strategic contributions often make the difference between victory and defeat.

1. RJ Barrett

Guard

Career

• 2019–present: New York Knicks

RJ Barrett is a Canadian shooting guard who was drafted by the New York Knicks in 2020. Barrett started his college career at Duke and helped lead the Blue Devils to an NCAA Championship in 2019.

He has been compared to two-time MVP Stephen Curry, and is considered one of the best young players in the NBA. Barrett will likely be playing for the Knicks next season and looks poised to become a star player in the league soon.

RJ Barrett is a highly touted 3rd overall pick in this year's NBA draft and he has the potential to be one of the best players in the league.

He was named consensus first-team All-American and ACC player of the year as a freshman at Duke, before going on to win national high school player of the year accolades as a senior.

 Barrett has an impressive scoring record for a young player - he averaged 23 points per game at Duke while shooting 50% from three point range and 85% from the free throw line. 

His versatility will be key if he makes it into the NBA - Barrett can play both guard positions but his main strength may lie in his ability to create for others off the dribble or shoot from long range with accuracy.

The Knicks have been linked with Barrett throughout much of this pre-draft process, so there's no doubt they're excited about landing him third overall; New York is set up well offensively and needs another talented scorer alongside Kristaps Porzingis and Kevin Knox.

Also Played For: new york knicks, shooting guard

2. Carmelo Anthony

Power forward

Career

• 10× NBA All-Star (2007, 2008, 2010–2017)
• 2× All-NBA Second Team (2010, 2013)
• 4× All-NBA Third Team (2006, 2007, 2009, 2012)
• NBA scoring champion (2013)
• NBA All-Rookie First Team (2004)
• NBA 75th Anniversary Team
• NBA Social Justice Champion Award (2021)
• NCAA champion (2003)
• NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding Player (2003)
• Consensus second-team All-American (2003)
• USBWA National Freshman of the Year (2003)
• No. 15 retired by Syracuse Orange
• 2× USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (2006, 2016)
• First-team Parade All-American (2002)
• McDonald's All-American (2002)

Carmelo Anthony is a two-time NBA MVP and six-time all-star. He was drafted by the Denver Nuggets in 2003, and has played for them, the New York Knicks, Oklahoma City Thunder, Atlanta Hawks and Toronto Raptors.

In 2017 he joined the Houston Rockets as a free agent. Anthony is married to LaLa Vasquez and they have one daughter together named Kiara. 

Carmelo's hometown is Baltimore Maryland where he attended Towson Catholic High School before going on to play college basketball at Syracuse University from 2002 until 2003.

Winning an NCAA Championship in 2004 alongside fellow Syracuse alum Dwayne Wade Carmelo Anthony is an American professional basketball player who has played his entire career with the New York Knicks.

He was drafted by Denver Nuggets in 2003 and spent six seasons there before being traded to the Knicks in 2011. In 2017, he signed with Oklahoma City Thunder where he won a championship that year. 

Anthony then moved on to Houston Rockets for two seasons before returning to Oklahoma City for another title run in 2018-19 season. Melo is considered one of the best players in league history and will likely retire as a Hall of Famer when his playing days are over.

Also Played For: nba 75th anniversary team, 2009–10 nba season

3. Bernard King

Small forward

Career

• 4× NBA All-Star (1982, 1984, 1985, 1991)
• 2× All-NBA First Team (1984, 1985)
• All-NBA Second Team (1982)
• All-NBA Third Team (1991)
• NBA Comeback Player of the Year (1981)
• NBA All-Rookie Team (1978)
• NBA scoring champion (1985)
• Consensus first-team All-American (1977)
• Consensus second-team All-American (1976)
• Third-team All-American – NABC (1975)
• 3× SEC Player of the Year (1975–1977)
• No. 53 retired by Tennessee Volunteers

Bernard King was a versatile player who excelled at both scoring and defense. He spent most of his career with the Golden State Warriors, where he won two NBA championships.

King played college basketball for Tennessee, where he led the team to the NCAA Championship in 1977. After being drafted by the New York Nets in 1977, he went on to play for the Nets, Utah Jazz, and then Golden State Warriors before retiring in 1993.

King is one of only five players ever to win an MVP award (1978), a championship (1979 with Utah Jazz), and a Finals MVP Award (1981 with Golden State Warriors). 

In 1999, Bernard was posthumously awarded an honorary degree from his alma mater Tennessee University.

King was known for his strong work ethic and dedication to fitness; as a result of these habits, he remained injury free throughout his playing career. 

In 2007, Bernard received The Presidential Medal Of Freedom from U Bernard King was an all-star player in the NBA for many years, and he is particularly remembered for his clutch play.

He played college basketball at Tennessee, where he won three conference titles and was named a third-team All-American. After several successful seasons with the New York Knicks, King was traded to Washington in 1987. 

He continued to be a valuable player on both teams until retiring in 1991 after playing with the Nets for two more seasons. 

Bernard King has been inducted into multiple Halls of Fame, including the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and the College Basketball Hall of Fame.

Also Played For: new york knights, university of tennessee basketball

4. LeBron James

Power forward

Career

• 2003–2010: Cleveland Cavaliers
• 2010–2014: Miami Heat
• 2014–2018: Cleveland Cavaliers
• 2018–present: Los Angeles Lakers

LeBron James is a two-time NBA champion and three-time MVP. He has led the Cavaliers to back-to-back championships in 2016 and 2017. In 2018, he joined the Lakers for an unprecedented move westward in the NBA's history.

His jersey number (6) was retired by both Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat organizations after his third consecutive MVP award in the 2014–2015 season. 

LeBron James also holds several other records such as the most points scored in a playoff game with 73 against Boston Celtics.

Also, the highest scoring average ever with 38 points per game over his whole career, youngest player to score 30 000 points or more and fastest player to reach 20 000 assists milestone among others LeBron James is a four-time NBA Champion, three-time MVP, and eighteen-time All-Star.

He has been named to the NBA’s all-defensive teams five times and was an AP Athlete of the Year nominee in 2013, 2016, and 2018. 

LeBron also won gold medals with Team USA at the 2002 FIBA World Championship, 2012 Olympics, and 2016 Rio Olympics respectively. 

In 2020 he became only the fourth player in history to win scoring titles in each of his first six seasons as a professional (28 points per game).

Also Played For: cleveland cavaliers, school basketball

5. Jimmy Butler

Power forward

Career

• 6× NBA All-Star (2015–2018, 2020, 2022)
• 4× All-NBA Third Team (2017, 2018, 2020, 2021)
• 5× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2014–2016, 2018, 2021)
• NBA Most Improved Player (2015)
• NBA steals leader (2021)

Butler was originally selected by the Chicago Bulls in the 2011 NBA draft. He has spent his entire playing career with the Bulls, where he is a two-time All-Star and an MVP candidate.

Butler is known for his perimeter shooting and ball-handling skills, which have made him one of the most versatile players in the league. He announced his retirement from professional basketball on May 15th, 2019 after missing most of the 2018–19 season due to injury.

Jimmy Butler is an All-Star and 5-time NBA Defensive Second Team member. As a Chicago Bull, he averaged 20 points and 10 rebounds per game while shooting 50%. He has also been named to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team five times in six seasons with the Bulls.

After being traded to Minnesota Timberwolves in 2017, Butler led his team to their first playoff berth since 2004 where they were eliminated by Cleveland Cavaliers in 6 games (1st round).

In 2018 Jimmy signed with the Philadelphia 76ers averaging 22 points and 8 assists off the bench en route to winning Rookie of The Year honors from both The Sporting News and Basketball Insiders Awards. Also, Third Team All-NBA honors from the Associated Press panel (behind Kyrie Irving & DeMar DeRozan).

On July 6th, 2019 Jimmy was traded along with Tobias Harris and two future 1sts for Kemba Walker who had just completed his fourth season with Charlotte Hornets averaging 27 PPG 7 RPG 4 APG.

It happened when he was acquired by Miami Heat making him their all-time leading scorer at 29,596 career points, not including playoff performances which would bring that total up to over 30K.

Also Played For: fantasy basketball, chicago bulls

6. 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: sacramento kings, dallas mavericks

7. Harrison Barnes

Forward

Career

• High school: Ames (Ames, Iowa)
• College: North Carolina (2010–2012)
• NBA draft 2012 / Round: 1 / Pick: 7th overall
• Selected by the Golden State Warriors
• Playing career: 2012–present
• 2012–2016: Golden State Warriors
• 2016–2019: Dallas Mavericks
• 2019–present: Sacramento Kings
• NBA champion (2015), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2013), Second-team All-American – NABC (2012), First-team All-ACC (2012), Second-team All-ACC (2011), ACC Rookie of the Year (2011), ACC All-Freshman team (2011), No. 40 honored by North Carolina Tar Heels, Mr. Basketball USA (2010), McDonald's All-American Game Co-MVP (2010), First-team Parade All-American (2010), Second-team Parade All-American (2009), Iowa Mr. Basketball (2010)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2016 Rio de Janeiro: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 2016 Rio de Janeiro: Team

Barnes was drafted seventh overall by the Golden State Warriors in 2012. Barnes played for the Golden State Warriors from 2012-2016 and then joined the Dallas Mavericks in 2016.

In 2019, Barnes signed with the Sacramento Kings. Barnes is a versatile small forward who can score inside or outside of the arc and take over games when he's on offense or defense.

As a member of both teams, Barnes has won two NBA championships (2015–16 with Golden State and 2019 with Dallas). Harrison Barnes has had a successful NBA career, winning two championships and being named an All-Star.

He was also named Mr. Basketball USA in 2010, and McDonald's All-American Game Co-MVP in 2010 with DeAndre Jordan. Harrison Barnes is a versatile player who can score inside or outside the paint, making him difficult to defend against opposing teams.

Also Played For: unc basketball, north carolina basketball

8. Rudy Gay

Small forward

Career

• 2006–2013: Memphis Grizzlies
• 2013: Toronto Raptors
• 2013–2017: Sacramento Kings
• 2017–2021: San Antonio Spurs
• 2021–present: Utah Jazz

Rudy Gay was born in New York City and attended Eastern Technical High School before playing college basketball at UConn. After being drafted by the Houston Rockets, Gay played for them from 2006 to 2014.

In January 2015, he signed with the Sacramento Kings and has since been their starting small forward. Rudy Gay has averaged 18 points per game over his career and is a three-time All-Star (2010, 2012, 2013).

Rudy Gay is a veteran player in the NBA who has played for Memphis, Toronto, and Sacramento. He's known for his scoring ability and was an All-Rookie First-Team selection in 2007. In 2017, he joined San Antonio and has since been playing well for them - averaging 19 points per game this season.

Gay is married with three children and lives in Utah where he works as a radio personality with KSL Radio 97 FM.

Also Played For: fiba basketball world cup, uconn huskies

9. Adrian Dantley

Career

• High school: DeMatha Catholic, (Hyattsville, Maryland)
• College: Notre Dame (1973–1976)
• NBA draft 1976 / Round: 1 / Pick: 6th overall
• Selected by the Buffalo Braves
• Playing career: 1976–1992
• Position: Small forward
• Number: 44, 4, 45, 7
• Coaching career: 2003–2011
• 6× NBA All-Star (1980–1982, 1984–1986), 2× All-NBA Second Team (1981, 1984), NBA Comeback Player of the Year (1984), NBA Rookie of the Year (1977), NBA All-Rookie Team (1977), 2× NBA scoring champion (1981, 1984), No. 4 retired by Utah Jazz, Oscar Robertson Trophy (1976), 2× Consensus first-team All-American (1975, 1976), Mr. Basketball USA (1973), First-team Parade All-American (1973)
• Points: 23,177 (24.3 ppg)
• Rebounds: 5,455 (5.7 rpg)
• Assists: 2,830 (3.0 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, Olympic Games, : 1976 Montreal: Team competition
• Men's basketball
• Representing  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 1976 Montreal: Team competition

Adrian Dantley was a prolific scorer in the NBA for over 20 years, and is one of only two players (the other being Kareem Abdul-Jabbar) to score more than 25,000 points in his career.

Adrian Dantley began his professional basketball career with the Buffalo Braves before being traded to the Houston Rockets midway through his rookie season. 

After spending four seasons with Houston, Dantley was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks where he would spend most of his time playing for them over the next decade.

In 1992, Dantley joined forces with Michael Jordan on the Chicago Bulls and helped lead them to three consecutive championships during that period. 

Following retirement as a player, Adrian Dantley went on to become head coach of the Utah Jazz from 2003 until 2011, amassing a record of 342–269 (.553).

Also Played For: utah jazz, los angeles lakers

10. Joe Ingles

Small forward

Career

• 2005–2006: Australian Institute of Sport
• 2006–2009: South Dragons
• 2009–2010: CB Granada
• 2010–2013: FC Barcelona
• 2013–2014: Maccabi Tel Aviv
• 2014–2022: Utah Jazz
• 2022–present: Milwaukee Bucks

Joe Ingles is a small forward and power forward for the Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA. 

He was born on October 2, 1987 in Adelaide, Australia. Joe attended high school at Pasadena (Adelaide, South Australia) and Lake Ginninderra (Canberra, ACT).

In 2005 he played with the Australian Institute of Sport before being drafted by the Utah Jazz in 2009 without playing any professional games. Joe has been with the Jazz ever since and has averaged 8 points per game over his career so far. 

Joe married American actress Georgina Haig in 2018 after they had been dating for two years beforehand Joe Ingles is a versatile player who has spent his entire career playing for different teams in the NBA.

He started out with the South Dragons of the 2006–2009 season, then moved to CB Granada before joining Barcelona in 2010. In 2013, he joined Maccabi Tel Aviv and won Israeli League championships in 2014 and 2015. 

Joe was traded to Utah Jazz in 2016 where he played until 2020. After signing with Milwaukee Bucks, Ingles will continue his basketball career there until 2022.

Also Played For: nba undrafted, undrafted nba

11. Bojan Bogdanović

Forward

Career

• NBA draft 2011 / Round: 2 / Pick: 31st overall
• Selected by the Miami Heat
• Playing career: 2004–present
• 2004–2005: Zrinjski Mostar
• 2005–2009: Real Madrid
• 2005–2006:Zrinjski Mostar
• 2006–2008:Real Madrid B
• 2008–2009: Murcia
• 2009: Real Madrid B
• 2009–2011: Cibona
• 2011–2014: Fenerbahçe Ülker
• 2014–2017: Brooklyn Nets
• 2017: Washington Wizards
• 2017–2019: Indiana Pacers
• 2019–2022: Utah Jazz
• 2022–present: Detroit Pistons
• NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2015), Turkish League champion (2014), Turkish Supercup winner (2014), Turkish Cup winner (2013), All-Turkish League First Team (2014), 2× All-Turkish League Second Team (2012, 2013), Turkish League All-Star (2013), Turkish League All-Imports Team (2014), Croatian League champion (2010), Croatian Cup champion (2009), All-Croatian League First Team (2011), Croatian League All-Star (2010), Croatian League All-Domestic Players Team (2011)

Bojan Bogdanović was born on April 18, 1989, in Mostar, SR Bosnia and Herzegovina. He played college basketball at Real Madrid where he averaged 11 points and 5 rebounds per game over three seasons.

Bogdanović was drafted by the Miami Heat with the 31st overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft and has since played for several teams including Zrinjski Mostar (2004–2005), Real Madrid (2005–2006) and Detroit Pistons (2017-present).

Bojan is a versatile small forward who can score from anywhere on the court, having been labeled as one of the most skilled players in Europe during his playing days. Bojan Bogdanović was born on February 2, 1992, in Srebrenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina.

He played college basketball for the Real Madrid B team of the Spanish Liga ACB from 2006 to 2008 before joining Murcia of the same league.

After two seasons with Murcia, Bogdanović joined Fenerbahçe Ülker of the Turkish Super League in 2009 where he made an immediate impact by helping his team win back-to-back titles in his first two seasons there.

In 2011, Bojan Bogdanović signed with Croatian club Cibona but left after one season due to injury problems; he would later join fellow Turkish side Fenerbahçe again in 2014 where he played until 2017 when he moved to Brooklyn Nets and then Washington Wizards (both NBA teams). 

On July 10th 2019, Bojan Bogdanovic officially announced that he is signing with Indiana Pacers for a three-year deal starting from 2020–21 NBA Season.

Also Played For: real madrid baloncesto, eurobasket

12. Gordon Hayward

Small forward

Career

• High school: Brownsburg (Brownsburg, Indiana)
• College: Butler (2008–2010)
• NBA draft 2010 / Round: 1 / Pick: 9th overall
• Selected by the Utah Jazz
• Playing career: 2010–present
• 2010–2017: Utah Jazz
• 2017–2020: Boston Celtics
• 2020–present: Charlotte Hornets
• NBA All-Star (2017), Horizon League Player of the Year (2010), 2× First-team All-Horizon League (2009, 2010), Horizon League Newcomer of the Year (2009)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, FIBA U-19 World Cup, : 2009 Auckland: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• FIBA U-19 World Cup
• : 2009 Auckland: Team

Gordon Hayward was a standout player at Butler, and he was drafted by the Jazz in 2010. Hayward has been with Utah for six seasons, averaging 18 points per game over that time.

He has also played for the Boston Celtics and Charlotte Hornets in his career. In 2017, Hayward helped lead the Jazz to their first playoff appearance since 2016. Gordon Hayward was born on October 22nd, 1988 in Marlborough, Massachusetts.

Gordon Hayward attended Butler University where he played college basketball for the Bulldogs from 2005-2008. After graduating from Butler with a degree in communications, Hayward was selected by the Boston Celtics as the ninth overall pick of the 2008 NBA Draft.

In his rookie season (2008-2009), Gordon Hayward averaged 10 points and 5 rebounds per game while playing alongside future Hall of Famers Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce on Team USA at the FIBA U-19 World Cup. 

In his second year (2009-2010), Hayward increased his scoring average to 14 points per game as he led Butler to their first-ever NCAA Tournament appearance before losing to Florida State in overtime in the Sweet 16 stage.

In 2011-2012, Gordon Hayward's stats decreased slightly as Boston struggled early into the season but finished strong winning 47 games and making it all the way to Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Miami Heat before eventually losing 103–101 after leading by as many as 23 points midway through 3rd quarter. 

Hayward's numbers started increasing steadily again starting from 2012 onwards culminating with him becoming an All-Star starter for Boston during the 2016-2017 campaign averaging 26 points 8 assists 4 rebounds per contest which helped lead them to their fourth championship trophy since 2007.

Also Played For: nba 2k19, nba 2k18

13. Julius Erving

Career

• High school: Roosevelt (Roosevelt, New York)
• College: UMass (1969–1971)
• NBA draft 1972 / Round: 1 / Pick
• Selected by the Milwaukee Bucks
• Playing career: 1971–1987
• Position: Small forward
• Number: 32, 6
• 1971–1973: Virginia Squires
• 1973–1976: New York Nets
• 1976–1987: Philadelphia 76ers
• NBA champion (1983), 2× ABA champion (1974, 1976), 2× ABA Playoffs MVP (1974, 1976), NBA Most Valuable Player (1981), 3× ABA Most Valuable Player (1974–1976), 11× NBA All-Star (1977–1987), 5× ABA All-Star (1972–1976), 2× NBA All-Star Game MVP (1977, 1983), 5× All-NBA First Team (1978, 1980–1983), 2× All-NBA Second Team (1977, 1984), 4× All-ABA First Team (1973–1976), All-ABA Second Team (1972), ABA All-Defensive First Team (1976), ABA All-Rookie First Team (1972), 3× ABA scoring champion (1973, 1974, 1976), ABA Slam Dunk champion (1976), J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award (1983), No. 32 retired by Brooklyn Nets, No. 6 retired by Philadelphia 76ers, ABA All-Time Team, NBA anniversary team (35th, 50th, 75th), Third-team All-American – NABC, UPI (1971), No. 32 retired by UMass Minutemen
• Points: 30,026 (24.2 ppg)
• Rebounds: 10,525 (8.5 rpg)
• Assists: 5,176 (4.2 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006

Julius Erving was a dominant player in the NBA for many years and is widely considered one of the greatest players of all time. He was born in Roosevelt, New York, in 1950 and played high school basketball there before going on to play college ball at UMass.

After being drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in 1972, Erving spent most of his career with them before moving on to the Philadelphia 76ers later on. Julius Erving is currently retired from playing professional basketball but still holds an important place in NBA history as one of its legends.

Julius Erving is widely considered to be one of the greatest players in NBA history. He was a three-time MVP and 11-time All-Star, as well as an all-NBA First Team selection five times. 

Erving's accomplishments don't end there – he also won two ABA championships and was named the league's Most Valuable Player twice.

After retiring from basketball, Julius became a successful businessman and philanthropist, helping to create programs that benefit underprivileged youth across America.

Also Played For: brooklyn nets, big 3

14. Rick Barry

Career

• High school: Roselle Park, (Roselle Park, New Jersey)
• College: Miami (Florida) (1962–1965)
• NBA draft 1965 / Round: 1 / Pick: 2nd overall
• Selected by the San Francisco Warriors
• Playing career: 1965–1980
• Position: Small forward
• Number: 24, 2, 4
• 1965–1967: San Francisco Warriors
• 1968–1970: Oakland Oaks / Washington Caps
• 1970–1972: New York Nets
• 1972–1978: Golden State Warriors
• 1978–1980: Houston Rockets
• NBA champion (1975), NBA Finals MVP (1975), ABA champion (1969), 8× NBA All-Star (1966, 1967, 1973–1978), NBA All-Star Game MVP (1967), 5x All-NBA First Team (1966, 1967, 1974–1976), All-NBA Second Team (1973), 4× ABA All-Star (1969–1972), 4× All-ABA First Team (1969–1972), NBA Rookie of the Year (1966), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1966), NBA scoring champion (1967), NBA steals leader (1975), NBA anniversary team (50th, 75th), No. 24 retired by Golden State Warriors, Consensus first-team All-American (1965), NCAA season scoring leader (1965), No. 24 retired by Miami Hurricanes
• Points: 25,279 (24.8 ppg)
• Rebounds: 6,863 (6.7 rpg)
• Assists: 4,952 (4.9 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006

Barry was one of the most prolific scorers in NBA history, averaging over 20 points per game throughout his career. Barry played for six different teams during his 14-year professional basketball career, including San Francisco and Oakland Oaks/Washington Caps.

Barry is best known for leading the Golden State Warriors to their first championship in 1975 and being named MVP of that year's playoffs. In 1980, he retired from playing professionally due to a knee injury sustained earlier in the season. 

After retiring from playing basketball, Barry worked as a color commentator on various broadcasts across networks throughout America before becoming a television analyst in 1999 and then working as an assistant coach with the Miami Heat beginning in 2006 until his retirement in 2016.

Also Played For: miami hurricanes basketball, big3

15. T. J. Warren

Small forward

Career

• High school: Brewster Academy, (Wolfeboro, New Hampshire)
• College: NC State (2012–2014)
• NBA draft 2014 / Round: 1 / Pick: 14th overall
• Selected by the Phoenix Suns
• Playing career: 2014–present
• 2014–2019: Phoenix Suns
• 2019–2022: Indiana Pacers
• 2022–present: Brooklyn Nets
• Consensus second-team All-American (2014), ACC Player of the Year (2014), First-team All-ACC (2014), ACC All-Freshmen Team (2013), No. 24 jersey honored by NC State Wolfpack, McDonald's All-American (2012)

T. J. Warren is a small forward who was drafted 14th overall by the Phoenix Suns in the 2014 NBA Draft. Warren played college basketball at NC State, where he averaged 18 points and six rebounds per game during his final season with the Wolfpack.

The Brooklyn Nets acquired Warren from the Phoenix Suns in exchange for Derrick Favors and Dante Cunningham on February 23, 2017. In his first year with Brooklyn, Warren appeared in all 82 games and averaged 16 points and five rebounds per game.

While shooting 43% from three-point range - proving that he can play both guard positions as well as small forward effectively in the Association T.J. Warren is a versatile and athletic wing player who can score in multiple ways. Warren was named to the ACC All-Freshmen Team in 2013 and was also an All-ACC selection in 2014. 

The Phoenix Suns drafted Warren with the 23rd overall pick in the 2014 NBA draft, and he has since played for Indiana Pacers, Brooklyn Nets and Phoenix Suns Warren has averaged 18 points per game over his four seasons of play, including 21 points per game during the 2018–19 season with the Phoenix Suns.

16. Franz Wagner

Small forward

Career

• College: Michigan (2019–2021)
• NBA draft 2021 / Round: 1 / Pick: 8th overall
• Selected by the Orlando Magic
• Playing career: 2017–2019; 2021–present
• 2017–2019: Alba Berlin
• 2018–2019: →SSV Lokomotive Bernau
• 2021–present: Orlando Magic
• NBA All-Rookie First Team (2022), Second-team All-Big Ten – Coaches (2021), Third-team All-Big Ten – Media (2021), Big Ten All-Freshman Team (2020), BBL Best German Young Player (2019)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  Germany, EuroBasket, : 2022 Germany:
• Men's basketball
• Representing  Germany
• EuroBasket
• : 2022 Germany:

Franz Wagner was born in Berlin, Germany on August 27th, 2001. He is listed at 6'10" and 220 pounds which makes him one of the biggest players in the league.

He played college ball at Michigan where he averaged 10 points per game while shooting 44% from three-point range during his two seasons with the Wolverines. 

In 2017, Franz joined Alba Berlin of the German League as a 19 year old and averaged 14 points and five rebounds over 28 games before being drafted by Orlando in 2021 with 8th overall pick in draft night festivities.

His rookie season saw him average 9 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists off the bench for Orlando who reached the Eastern Conference Finals but lost to Cleveland 4-1 series despite Wagner's impressive play (23 minutes total). 

For his second season with ORL he has been given more playing time averaging 25 minutes per game resulting in an increase of averages across all categories - 17 points 7 rebounds 1 assist while shooting 50% from three point range leading many pundits to rank him among top SG prospects entering 2020 NBA Draft season.

Also Played For: orlando magic, nba best young players

17. Grant Hill

Small forward

Career

• High school: South Lakes, (Reston, Virginia)
• College: Duke (1990–1994)
• NBA draft 1994 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall
• Selected by the Detroit Pistons
• Playing career: 1994–2013
• Position: Small forward
• Number: 33
• 1994–2000: Detroit Pistons
• 2000–2007: Orlando Magic
• 2007–2012: Phoenix Suns
• 2012–2013: Los Angeles Clippers
• 7× NBA All-Star (1995–1998, 2000, 2001, 2005), All-NBA First Team (1997), 4× All-NBA Second Team (1996, 1998–2000), NBA Co-Rookie of the Year (1995), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1995), 3× NBA Sportsmanship Award (2005, 2008, 2010), IBM Award (1997), 2× NCAA champion (1991, 1992), Consensus first-team All-American (1994), Consensus second-team All-American (1993), NABC Defensive Player of the Year (1993), ACC Player of the Year (1994), 2× First-team All-ACC (1993, 1994), Second-team All-ACC (1992), No. 33 retired by Duke Blue Devils, Third-team Parade All-American (1990), McDonald's All-American (1990), Virginia Mr. Basketball (1990)
• Points: 17,137 (16.7 ppg)
• Rebounds: 6,169 (6.0 rpg)
• Assists: 4,252 (4.1 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2014
• Medals, , Men's Basketball, Representing  United States, Olympic Games, : 1996 Atlanta: National team, Pan American Games, : 1991 Havana: National team, FIBA Americas U18 Championship, : 1990 Montevideo: National team
• Men's Basketball
• Representing  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 1996 Atlanta: National team
• Pan American Games
• : 1991 Havana: National team
• FIBA Americas U18 Championship
• : 1990 Montevideo: National team

Grant Hill was born in Dallas, Texas and raised in Reston, Virginia. After playing college basketball at Duke, Hill was drafted by the Pistons with the third overall pick in 1994.

Over nine seasons with Detroit (1994–2001), Atlanta (2002–2013) and Phoenix (2007-13), Grant Hill became one of the most decorated players in NBA history. In 2001, he won his first championship with Detroit and also earned MVP honors that season.

He was named to five All-Star teams during his career and helped lead Atlanta to their only title in 2002. 

In 2013, aged 38 years old, Grant Hill announced his retirement from professional basketball after a 13-year career spent mainly with Phoenix Grant Hill is a former NBA All-Star and two-time NCAA champion.

Grant Hill was the ACC Player of the Year in 1994 and won an IBM Award in 1997. In 2000, he joined Orlando Magic where he played for seven seasons before moving to Phoenix Suns in 2012. 

After spending three years with the Clippers, he retired as a member of Los Angeles Lakers in 2013 at age 38 after 11 seasons in the league.

Also Played For: duke university, phoenix suns

18. Andre Iguodala

Small forward

Career

• High school: Lanphier (Springfield, Illinois)
• College: Arizona (2002–2004)
• NBA draft 2004 / Round: 1 / Pick: 9th overall
• Selected by the Philadelphia 76ers
• Playing career: 2004–present
• 2004–2012: Philadelphia 76ers
• 2012–2013: Denver Nuggets
• 2013–2019: Golden State Warriors
• 2020–2021: Miami Heat
• 2021–present: Golden State Warriors
• 4× NBA champion (2015, 2017, 2018, 2022), NBA Finals MVP (2015), NBA All-Star (2012), NBA All-Defensive First Team (2014), NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2011), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2005), First-team All-Pac-10 (2004), Pac-10 All-Freshman Team (2003), Second-team Parade All-American (2002)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, Olympic Games, : 2012 London: Team, FIBA World Championship, : 2010 Turkey: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 2012 London: Team
• FIBA World Championship
• : 2010 Turkey: Team

Andre Iguodala was born on January 28, 1984 in Springfield, Illinois. He attended Lanphier High School and played for the basketball team there before going to Arizona University.

After two years at Arizona, Iguodala was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers with the ninth overall pick in the 2004 NBA draft. Over his 17-year professional career, Andre has spent time with the Philadelphia 76ers (2004–2012), Denver Nuggets (2012–2013) and Golden State Warriors (2013–present).

In 2016 he won an Olympic gold medal with Team USA during their victory over Spain in Rio de Janeiro. Andre is married to Evelyn Medina and they have three children together.

Kiari Kendrell, Akilah Sarah and Aiden Jeremiah Jr. Andre Iguodala is a 6-foot-7, 215-pound shooting guard who has been a key player on the Golden State Warriors for over nine seasons.

Andre Iguodala was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers with the 17th overall pick in 2005 and played his first season with them before being traded to the Denver Nuggets in 2007. 

Andre Iguodala signed with Golden State as a free agent in 2013 and has since helped lead them to 4 championships (2015, 2017, 2018, 2022) while also earning NBA Finals MVP honors in 2015.

Andre Iguodala will be playing his 10th season with Golden State next year and looks likely to continue playing at an elite level into his late 30s or early 40s.

Also Played For: golden state warriors

19. Paul Arizin

Small forward

Career

• High school: La Salle (Wyndmoor, Pennsylvania)
• College: Villanova (1947–1950)
• NBA draft 1950 / Pick: Territorial
• Selected by the Philadelphia Warriors
• Playing career: 1950–1965
• Position: Small forward
• Number: 11
• 1950–1952,, 1954–1962: Philadelphia Warriors
• 1962–1965: Camden Bullets
• NBA champion (1956), 10× NBA All-Star (1951, 1952, 1955–1962), NBA All-Star Game MVP (1952), 3× All-NBA First Team (1952, 1956, 1957), All-NBA Second Team (1959), 2× NBA scoring champion (1952, 1957), NBA anniversary team (25th, 50th, 75th), EBA Most Valuable Player (1963), EBA champion (1964), Helms Foundation Player of the Year (1950), Sporting News Player of the Year (1950), Consensus first-team All-American (1950), NCAA season scoring leader (1950), No. 11 retired by Villanova Wildcats
• Points: 16,266 (22.8 ppg)
• Rebounds: 6,129 (8.6 rpg)
• Assists: 1,665 (2.3 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006

Arizin was a highly successful small forward in the NBA for many years. He led the Philadelphia Warriors to two championships, and also won a championship with the San Francisco Warriors.

Arizin is considered one of the most prolific scorers in league history, averaging over 20 points per game throughout his career. After retiring from playing basketball, Arizin became a television commentator and analyst for games involving his former team, the Philadelphia 76ers.

Arizin was one of the most successful shooting guards in NBA history. He won 10 championship rings with the Philadelphia Warriors and was an 11-time All-Star who was twice named MVP.

 Arizin is also a two-time scoring champion and three time all-NBA first team selection. After leaving the NBA, Arizin played for several European teams before retiring in 1971 at age 34 due to injury.

20. Andrew Wiggins

Small forward

Career

• High school: , Vaughan (Vaughan, Ontario), Huntington Prep, (Huntington, West Virginia)
• College: Kansas (2013–2014)
• NBA draft 2014 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
• Selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers
• Playing career: 2014–present
• 2014–2020: Minnesota Timberwolves
• 2020–present: Golden State Warriors
• NBA champion (2022), NBA All-Star (2022), NBA Rookie of the Year (2015), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2015), Consensus second-team All-American (2014), First-team All-Big 12 (2014), Big 12 Freshman of the Year (2014), Gatorade National Player of the Year (2013), Mr. Basketball USA (2013), Naismith Prep Player of the Year (2013), McDonald's All-American (2013), First-team Parade All-American (2013)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  Canada, FIBA AmeriCup, : 2015 Mexico City: National team, FIBA World U17 Cup, : 2010 Hamburg: National team, FIBA Americas U18 Championship, : 2012 São Sebastião do Paraíso: National team
• Men's basketball
• Representing  Canada
• FIBA AmeriCup
• : 2015 Mexico City: National team
• FIBA World U17 Cup
• : 2010 Hamburg: National team
• FIBA Americas U18 Championship
• : 2012 São Sebastião do Paraíso: National team

Andrew Wiggins was born in Toronto, Canada on February 23, 1995. He attended high school at Vaughan (Vaughan, Ontario) and then Huntington Prep (Huntington, West Virginia).

In May 2014, he became the first player in history to be chosen with the first overall pick in the NBA draft. Andrew Wiggins has played for the Cleveland Cavaliers and Minnesota Timberwolves during his career so far.

He is currently a small forward for the Golden State Warriors Andrew Wiggins, who recently signed with the Golden State Warriors, is a three-time NBA All-Rookie First Team selection and has accumulated numerous accolades during his short career.

Andrew Wiggins was born in 1998 in Toronto, Canada and played college basketball for Kansas University where he averaged 27 points per game as a freshman before being drafted 2nd overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2014. 

In 2016-2017, Andrew Wiggins led the Minnesota Timberwolves to their first playoff appearance since 2004 while also averaging 25 points per game (the highest scoring average of his career).

After signing with the Golden State Warriors this offseason, Andrew Wiggins will be looking to help them win an NBA title for the first time in 40 years.

Also Played For: minnesota timberwolves, nba 2k22 defensive

21. Jonathan Kuminga

Forward

Career

• High school: , Huntington Prep, (Huntington, West Virginia), Our Savior New American, (Centereach, New York), The Patrick School, (Hillside, New Jersey)
• NBA draft 2021 / Round: 1 / Pick: 7th overall
• Selected by the Golden State Warriors
• Playing career: 2020–present
• Number: 0, 00
• 2020–2021: NBA G League Ignite
• 2021–present: Golden State Warriors
• 2021: →Santa Cruz Warriors
• NBA champion (2022)

Jonathan Kuminga played for Our Savior New American in 2018, helping lead the team to a 22-11 record. Jonathan was born on October 6th, 2002 in Goma, DR Congo.

He is listed at 6'7" and 225 lbs. making him one of the larger players in the NBA. Jonathan attended Huntington Prep before transferring to Our Savior New American where he averaged 12 points and 7 rebounds per game as a sophomore during his freshman year of college basketball.

In December 2018, Jonathan signed with the Golden State Warriors where he will be playing small forward or power forward under head coach Steve Kerr alongside fellow international player DeMarcus Cousins and Kevin Durant.

Jonathan Kuminga is a promising young basketball player who has been playing in the NBA G League since 2021. Jonathan was born on May 3, 2020, and he grew up in Hillside, New Jersey. Jonathan played high school basketball at Patrick School where he averaged 19 points and nine rebounds per game as a senior. 

After graduating from high school, Jonathan attended Syracuse University where he played for the SU Orange men's team from 2019 to 2020 before transferring to the Golden State Warriors' development program - Ignite - in 2021.

Jonathan made his professional debut with the Golden State Warriors of the NBA in their season opener against Dallas Mavericks on October 17th, 2021 scoring four points off the bench en route to 15 minutes of play time over six games that season.

Also Played For: nba summer league

22. Paul George

Small forward

Career

• High school: Knight (Palmdale, California)
• College: Fresno State (2008–2010)
• NBA draft 2010 / Round: 1 / Pick: 10th overall
• Selected by the Indiana Pacers
• Playing career: 2010–present
• 2010–2017: Indiana Pacers
• 2017–2019: Oklahoma City Thunder
• 2019–present: Los Angeles Clippers
• 7× NBA All-Star (2013, 2014, 2016–2019, 2021), All-NBA First Team (2019), 5× All-NBA Third Team (2013, 2014, 2016, 2018, 2021), 2× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2014, 2019), 2× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2013, 2016), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2011), NBA Most Improved Player (2013), NBA steals leader (2019), Second-team All-WAC (2010), No. 24 retired by Fresno State Bulldogs
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2016 Rio de Janeiro: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 2016 Rio de Janeiro: Team

Paul George was born on May 2, 1990 in Palmdale, California. He attended Knight High School and played college basketball for Fresno State before being drafted 10th overall by the Indiana Pacers in the 2010 NBA draft.

In his five seasons with the Pacers he has averaged 20 points per game, 4 rebounds per game and 3 assists per game while playing all 82 games each season. 

On July 12th of this year Paul George signed a three-year contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder worth $137 million dollars including an annual salary of $27 million over that period of time.

Paul George is one of only two players (the other being Kobe Bryant) to score at least 25,000 points and grab 5,000 rebounds in their career; achieving both feats whilst playing for the Indiana Pacers between 2010-2017 Paul George is a two-time All-Star and five-time All-NBA Third Team player. 

He was selected to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team in 2011, and went on to become one of the best players in the league over time.

In 2019, he became just the fourth player in history with 1,000 points, 500 rebounds, 100 assists and 40 steals in a season - joining Oscar Robertson (1960–1961), LeBron James (2004–2007) and Kevin Durant (2012–2015). 

George has retired from Fresno State as their second all-time leading scorer with 2,336 points. With his new team - Los Angeles Clippers - he looks to take his game even further next season.

Also Played For: indiana pacers, los angeles clippers

23. Khris Middleton

Small forward

Career

• High school: Porter-Gaud, (Charleston, South Carolina)
• College: Texas A&M (2009–2012)
• NBA draft 2012 / Round: 2 / Pick: 39th overall
• Selected by the Detroit Pistons
• Playing career: 2012–present
• 2012–2013: Detroit Pistons
• 2012: →Fort Wayne Mad Ants
• 2013–present: Milwaukee Bucks
• NBA champion (2021), 3× NBA All-Star (2019, 2020, 2022), Second-team All-Big 12 (2011)
• 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

Khris Middleton was drafted by the Detroit Pistons in 2012. He has played for the Milwaukee Bucks since then and is currently their small forward/shooting guard.

Khris is a two-time All-Star and ranks fifth all time in points scored for the Milwaukee Bucks (16,278). In 2018 he won his first championship with the Milwaukee Bucks after they beat the Golden State Warriors in seven games.

Khris Middleton is a two-time NBA All-Star and Olympic gold medalist. Khris Middleton has spent his entire professional career with the Milwaukee Bucks, where he's led them to three playoff appearances. 

Khris Middleton was born in Louisiana but played high school basketball at DePaul University in Illinois before being drafted by the Detroit Pistons in 2012.

In April 2019, Khris Middleton announced that he would be retiring from the NBA following the 2020 season after 20 years of playing professionally.

Also Played For: milwaukee bucks, bleacher report nba

24. Alex English

Small forward

Career

• High school: Dreher (Columbia, South Carolina)
• College: South Carolina (1972–1976)
• NBA draft 1976 / Round: 2 / Pick: 23rd overall
• Selected by the Milwaukee Bucks
• Playing career: 1976–1992
• Position: Small forward
• Number: 23, 22, 2
• Coaching career: 2002–2013
• 8× NBA All-Star (1982–1989), 3× All-NBA Second Team (1982, 1983, 1986), NBA scoring champion (1983), No. 2 retired by Denver Nuggets, No. 22 retired by South Carolina Gamecocks
• Points: 25,613 (21.5 ppg)
• Rebounds: 6,538 (5.5 rpg)
• Assists: 4,351 (3.6 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006

Alex English was a talented small forward who played in the NBA for many years. He attended Dreher High School in Columbia, South Carolina and then went on to play college ball at South Carolina.

In 1976, English was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks and spent most of his career with them before retiring in 1992. After retirement, he started coaching and has been doing so since 2002 with various teams around the world including Montevideo Wanderers of Uruguay's Liga Nacional de Básquet (LNB).

Alex English is currently living in Florida where he continues to coach basketball as well as spend time with his family and friends Alex English was an All-Star point guard in the NBA for eight seasons. He averaged 21.5 points per game during his career and retired as the No. 2 scorer in Nuggets history.

English also won three consecutive Second Team All-NBA honors, and he holds a scoring record with 25,613 points in his career.

Also Played For: denver nuggets

25. Michael Porter Jr.

Small forward

Career

• High school: , Father Tolton, (Columbia, Missouri), Nathan Hale, (Seattle, Washington)
• College: Missouri (2017–2018)
• NBA draft 2018 / Round: 1 / Pick: 14th overall
• Selected by the Denver Nuggets
• Playing career: 2018–present
• 2018–present: Denver Nuggets
• National high school player of the year (2017), McDonald's All-American MVP (2017), Washington Mr. Basketball (2017)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, FIBA Americas U18 Championship, : 2016 Chile: National team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• FIBA Americas U18 Championship
• : 2016 Chile: National team

Porter Jr. was born in 1998 and is 24 years old as of 2019. Porter Jr. attended Missouri from 2017 to 2018, where he averaged 16 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists per game during his career there.

In the 2018 NBA draft, Porter Jr was selected 14th overall by the Denver Nuggets and has since played for them in both the preseason and regular season games. 

As a small forward with good shooting ability (41% from three-point range), Porter Jr.'s main role on the court at this stage is off ball movement and creating space for other players on offense or defense .

Which he does effectively due to his athleticism, length, instincts, and feel for the game combined with polished footwork skills under pressure.

Although he can also score inside when given an opportunity; thus far in his young career (he's only just turned 24) Porter Jr has shown that he possesses considerable potential both offensively and defensively if used correctly by coaches/team management alike,

26. Dillon Brooks

Small forward

Career

• High school: , Father Henry Carr, (Toronto, Ontario), Findlay Prep, (Henderson, Nevada)
• College: Oregon (2014–2017)
• NBA draft 2017 / Round: 2 / Pick: 45th overall
• Selected by the Houston Rockets
• Playing career: 2017–present
• 2017–present: Memphis Grizzlies
• Consensus second-team All-American (2017), Third-team All-American – SN (2016), Pac-12 Player of the Year (2017), 2× First-team All-Pac-12 (2016, 2017), Pac-12 All-Freshman team (2015)
• Medals, , Men's Basketball, Representing  Canada, Pan American Games, : 2015 Toronto: National team
• Men's Basketball
• Representing  Canada
• Pan American Games
• : 2015 Toronto: National team

Dillon Brooks was born in 1996 and is 26 years old. He played college basketball for Oregon from 2014 to 2017, where he averaged 13.4 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists per game over his career.

Dillon was drafted by the Memphis Grizzlies in the second round of the 2017 NBA Draft (45th overall). He has yet to make an appearance for the Grizzlies but is expected to join their roster soon as a shooting guard or small forward.

Dillon Brooks was a highly-touted recruit coming out of high school, and he showed why with his play at Memphis. He is an outstanding defender who can shut down opponents one-on-one or help lead a team in defense. 

His offense is versatile and able to score in multiple ways - from inside and outside the paint, as well as on the low block.

Brooks has consistently improved throughout his career, making him a key player for any team looking to make a run in the playoffs. He will be an important part of Canada's quest for gold at the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo.

Also Played For: memphis grizzlies, western conference

27. Dominique Wilkins

Small forward

Career

• High school: Washington (Washington, North Carolina)
• College: Georgia (1979–1982)
• NBA draft 1982 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall
• Selected by the Utah Jazz
• Playing career: 1982–1999
• Position: Small forward
• Number: 21, 12
• 1982–1994: Atlanta Hawks
• 1994: Los Angeles Clippers
• 1994–1995: Boston Celtics
• 1995–1996: Panathinaikos
• 1996–1997: San Antonio Spurs
• 1997–1998: Fortitudo Bologna
• 1999: Orlando Magic
• 9× NBA All Star (1986–1994), All-NBA First Team (1986), 4× All-NBA Second Team (1987, 1988, 1991, 1993), 2× All-NBA Third Team (1989, 1994), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1983), NBA scoring champion (1986), 2× NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion (1985, 1990), NBA 75th Anniversary Team, No. 21 retired by Atlanta Hawks, EuroLeague champion (1996), EuroLeague Final Four MVP (1996), Greek All-Star Game MVP (1996), Greek Cup winner (1996), Greek Cup Finals Top Scorer (1996), Greek Cup Finals MVP (1996), Italian Cup winner (1998), Italian All-Star Game (1997), Second-team All-American – NABC, UPI (1982), Third-team All-American – AP (1982), SEC Player of the Year (1981), SEC tournament MVP (1981), McDonald's All-American (1979), First-team Parade All-American (1979)
• Points: 26,668 (24.8 ppg)
• Rebounds: 7,167 (6.7 rpg)
• Assists: 2,677 (2.5 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006 & 2016
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, FIBA World Cup, : 1994 Toronto: National team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• FIBA World Cup
• : 1994 Toronto: National team

Dominique Wilkins was one of the best small forwards in NBA history and is considered one of the greatest players to ever play in the league. He started his professional career with the Utah Jazz, where he became a three-time All-Star and led them to two playoff appearances.

He then switched teams and played for the Atlanta Hawks, who made it to the playoffs six times during his tenure there. 

In 1999, Dominique retired from playing basketball after being traded to the Portland Trail Blazers midway through that season. After retiring from basketball, Dominique went on to have a successful career as a vice president of basketball operations for the Atlanta Hawks.

Dominique Wilkins was a dominant player during his time in the NBA. He won multiple scoring titles and All-Star appearances, while also being an all-around force on both sides of the ball.

 Dominique Wilkins is perhaps best known for his dunks and alley-oops, which made him one of the most exciting players to watch during his era. Dominique Wilkins had a long career that spanned over 20 years, making him one of the older players in the league at the end of it all.

After playing sparingly with Orlando Magic from 1999 to 2002, Dominique Wilkins retired from basketball altogether.

Also Played For: atlanta hawks, san antonio spurs

28. De'Andre Hunter

Small forward

Career

• High school: Friends' Central School, (Wynnewood, Pennsylvania)
• College: Virginia (2017–2019)
• NBA draft 2019 / Round: 1 / Pick: 4th overall
• Selected by the Los Angeles Lakers
• Playing career: 2019–present
• 2019–present: Atlanta Hawks
• NCAA champion (2019), Second-team All-American – NABC (2019), Third-team All-American – AP, USBWA, SN (2019), NABC Defensive Player of the Year (2019), First-team All-ACC (2019), ACC Defensive Player of the Year (2019), ACC Sixth Man of the Year (2018), ACC All-Freshman Team (2018)

De'Andre Hunter is a versatile small forward who was drafted 4th overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2019. The Philadelphia, Pennsylvania native attended Friends' Central School before going to play college basketball at Virginia for two years.

In his rookie season with the Lakers, De’Andre averaged 10 points and 5 rebounds per game while shooting 44% from the field and 31% from three-point range. 

He has continued to grow as a player during his second year in the league, averaging 12 points and 6 rebounds per game while shooting 48% from the field and 34% from three-point range.

De'Andre Hunter is a talented and versatile player who started his career at Virginia before being drafted in the first round of the 2019 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks. 

De'Andre Hunter has been an instrumental part of the Hawks' success this season, averaging 16.5 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists per game while shooting 43% from 3-point range.

De'Andre Hunter will be looking to add to his impressive list of accolades when he takes on Maryland in the NCAA Tournament next week.

Also Played For: virginia cavaliers men's basketball, university of virginia basketball

29. Gerald Wallace

Power forward

Career

• High school: Childersburg, (Childersburg, Alabama)
• College: Alabama (2000–2001)
• NBA draft 2001 / Round: 1 / Pick: 25th overall
• Selected by the Sacramento Kings
• Playing career: 2001–2015
• Position: Small forward
• Number: 45, 3
• 2001–2004: Sacramento Kings
• 2004–2011: Charlotte Bobcats
• 2011–2012: Portland Trail Blazers
• 2012–2013: New Jersey / Brooklyn Nets
• 2013–2015: Boston Celtics
• NBA All-Star (2010), NBA All-Defensive First Team (2010), NBA steals leader (2006), Naismith Prep Player of the Year (2000), First-team Parade All-American (2000), Alabama Mr. Basketball (2000), McDonald's All-American (2000)
• Points: 9,933 (11.9 ppg)
• Rebounds: 4,838 (5.8 rpg)
• Assists: 1,725 (2.1 apg)

Gerald Wallace was drafted 25th overall by the Sacramento Kings in 2001. He played for the Kings from 2001 to 2004 and then joined the New Jersey Nets in 2005.

Wallace is a two-time all-star, winning his first award with Sacramento in 2002 and again with New Jersey in 2013. Injuries have limited Wallace's career somewhat, but he has still been an effective player throughout it all.

Gerald Wallace will be turning 40 this year and retirement is not currently on his agenda - although that may change at any time. Gerald Wallace was drafted by the Charlotte Bobcats in 2004. He played for the team until 2011, when he was traded to Portland.

In 2012, he signed with the New Jersey / Brooklyn Nets and helped them reach the playoffs that year. The Celtics acquired him in 2013 and he has remained with them ever since; they reached the NBA Finals this past season. 

Gerald Wallace is a two-time All-Star and won an All-Defensive First Team award during his time in the league.

Also Played For: charlotte hornets

30. Kelly Oubre Jr.

Small forward

Career

• 2015–2018: Washington Wizards
• 2018–2020: Phoenix Suns
• 2020–2021: Golden State Warriors
• 2021–present: Charlotte Hornets

Kelly Oubre Jr. is a small forward who was drafted by the Washington Wizards in the first round of the 2018 NBA draft. Oubre spent two years at Kansas, where he averaged 10.5 points and 5 rebounds per game as a sophomore and junior.

Oubre was selected with the 12th overall pick in the 2018 NBA draft by the Charlotte Hornets, reuniting him with his former head coach at Kansas, Bill Self. 

He made his professional debut for Charlotte on October 16 against Toronto Raptors and has since averaged 7 points and 3 rebounds per game in 11 appearances for them so far this season.

In December 2017, Oubre underwent surgery to remove a benign tumor from his right adductor muscle that had been bothering him for some time. 

Kelly Oubre Jr. was selected 15th overall in the 2015 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks. Kelly Oubre Jr.'s playing career began with the Washington Wizards in 2015-16 where he averaged 4 points and 2 rebounds per game.

In 2018, Oubre joined the Phoenix Suns where he posted averages of 7 points and 3 rebounds per game over a season and a half before being traded to Golden State Warriors in 2020. 

Over his four seasons with Golden State, including two as an starter, Oubre has averaged 13 points and 6 rebounds per outing while shooting 43% from three-point range. 

He is currently signed with Charlotte Hornets for the 2021-22 season and looks to continue his success there after averaging 16 points and 5 boards last year.

31. Mikal Bridges

Guard

Career

• High school: Great Valley, (Malvern, Pennsylvania)
• College: Villanova (2015–2018)
• NBA draft 2018 / Round: 1 / Pick: 10th overall
• Selected by the Philadelphia 76ers
• Playing career: 2018–present
• 2018–present: Phoenix Suns
• NBA All-Defensive First Team (2022), 2× NCAA champion (2016, 2018), Third-team All-American – AP, SN, NABC (2018), Julius Erving Award (2018), First-team All-Big East (2018), Second-team All-Big East (2017), Big East Co-Defensive Player of the Year (2017), Big East tournament MVP (2018)

Mikal Bridges was drafted 10th overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2018 NBA Draft. He played college basketball at Villanova and was a two-time All-American.

Bridges started his professional career with the Phoenix Suns, where he has averaged 8 points and 3 rebounds per game over three seasons. In October 2019, Bridges signed a contract extension with the Suns that will keep him with the team until the 2024-25 season.

Mikal Bridges is a versatile forward who has played both shooting guard and small forward in his career. He attended college at Villanova, where he was named a two-time NCAA champion and third-team All-American as a senior in 2018. 

The Phoenix Suns selected Bridges with the 10th overall pick of the 2018 NBA draft, and he has since made an impact on their team as a rookie player.

In 22 games this season, he averages 11 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists per game while shooting 46% from the field and 34% from three-point range. As one of the most promising young players in the NBA, Mikal Bridges will continue to develop his skills over time and is sure to be an asset for any team that picks him up.

Also Played For: villanova wildcats

32. Scottie Pippen

Small forward

Career

• High school: Hamburg (Hamburg, Arkansas)
• College: Central Arkansas (1983–1987)
• NBA draft 1987 / Round: 1 / Pick: 5th overall
• Selected by the Seattle SuperSonics
• Playing career: 1987–2004, 2008
• Position: Small forward
• Number: 33
• 1987–1998: Chicago Bulls
• 1999: Houston Rockets
• 1999–2003: Portland Trail Blazers
• 2003–2004: Chicago Bulls
• 2008: Torpan Pojat
• 2008: Sundsvall Dragons
• 6× NBA champion (1991–1993, 1996–1998), 7× NBA All-Star (1990, 1992–1997), NBA All-Star Game MVP (1994), 3× All-NBA First Team (1994–1996), 2× All-NBA Second Team (1992, 1997), 2× All-NBA Third Team (1993, 1998), 8× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1992–1999), 2× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1991, 2000), NBA steals leader (1995), NBA anniversary team (50th, 75th), No. 33 retired by Chicago Bulls, USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (1996), 2× Consensus NAIA All-American (1986, 1987), No. 33 retired by Central Arkansas Bears
• Points: 18,940 (16.1 ppg)
• Rebounds: 7,494 (6.4 rpg)
• Assists: 6,135 (5.2 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 1992 Barcelona: Team competition, : 1996 Atlanta: Team competition, FIBA Americas Championship, : 1992 Portland[2]: Men's basketball
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 1992 Barcelona: Team competition
• : 1996 Atlanta: Team competition
• FIBA Americas Championship
• : 1992 Portland[2]: Men's basketball

Scottie Pippen was an All-Star basketball player for 17 seasons and is considered one of the greatest small forwards in NBA history. He played for the Chicago Bulls, Houston Rockets, and Portland Trail Blazers before retiring in 2004.

Scottie Pippen has been a vocal advocate for diversity and social justice since his retirement from professional basketball. In 2018, he was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame alongside former teammate Michael Jordan. 

Scottie Pippen married actress Sandra Bullock in 2014 and they have two children together Scottie Pippen was one of the most accomplished players in NBA history.

He won six championships with the Chicago Bulls and was an All-Star seven times. Pippen also became known for his defensive prowess, leading the league in steals twice. After retiring from basketball, Pippen went on to have a successful career as a television analyst and entrepreneur.

Also Played For: portland trail blazers, nba defensive

33. Nassir Little

Small forward

Career

• High school: , Oakleaf, (Orange Park, Florida), Orlando Christian Prep, (Orlando, Florida)
• College: North Carolina (2018–2019)
• NBA draft 2019 / Round: 1 / Pick: 25th overall
• Selected by the Portland Trail Blazers
• Playing career: 2019–present
• 2019–present: Portland Trail Blazers
• McDonald's All-American (2018), McDonald's All-American Game MVP (2018), Jordan Brand Classic (2018), Jordan Brand Classic MVP (2018)

Nassir Little was born on February 11, 2000 in Pensacola, Florida. He attended Oakleaf High School before transferring to Orlando Christian Prep after his sophomore year.

In his freshman season at OCP, Little averaged 13 points and six rebounds per game en route to being named First Team All-State by the Associated Press. As a junior at OCP, Little averaged 23 points and eight rebounds per game to help lead the Knights to their first state title in school history.

On April 10, 2018 it was announced that Little had signed with the Portland Trail Blazers as an undrafted free agent following the conclusion of the NBA Draft Combine where he recorded a standing vertical jump of 36 inches (914 millimeters) and a maximum three-point distance of 109 feet 6 inches (33 meters).

During Summer League play for Portland in July 2018, Little scored 16 points on 7-of-12 shooting from the field including 4-of-5 threes while also grabbing four rebounds and dishing out two assists against.

Milwaukee Bucks’ rookie point guard Eric Bledsoe & Sacramento Kings’ rookie forward DeMarcus Cousins respectively; this performance led all players in scoring during that weeklong stretch (.667 ppg).

On October 22nd against Philadelphia 76ers’ center Jahlil Okafor & Brooklyn Nets’ forward Caris LeVert respectively; he tallied 24 points on 11-of–20 shooting from the field along with seven boards & five assists for his second consecutive double digit scoring effort.

Which helped propel Portland past Brooklyn 116–106 as part of their home opener night festivities at Moda Center Arena ; becoming just one player since 1983–84 when Damian Lillard joined Allen Iverson (2006), Carmelo Anthony (2010), James Harden (2012), Klay Thompson(2015), Giannis Antetokounmpo(2016).

Russell Westbrook(2017) who have posted back to back 20+ point performances through their team's opening games—the others are LeBron James (#19/2009/2010) Kevin Durant (#35/2007/#07)/Kemba Walker (#1/2013/#15)—Lillard joins Oscar Robertson.

(#1 /1960/#62)/Michael Jordan #45/?1992?) as only players thru 82 Opening Games averaging 20 or more PPG--Little is currently averaging 21ppg off 78 total minutes played.

34. Jerami Grant

Career

• High school: DeMatha Catholic, (Hyattsville, Maryland)
• College: Syracuse (2012–2014)
• NBA draft 2014 / Round: 2 / Pick: 39th overall
• Selected by the Philadelphia 76ers
• Playing career: 2014–present
• 2014–2016: Philadelphia 76ers
• 2016–2019: Oklahoma City Thunder
• 2019–2020: Denver Nuggets
• 2020–2022: Detroit Pistons
• 2022–present: Portland Trail Blazers
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2020 Tokyo: Team, FIBA Americas U18 Championship, : 2012 Brazil:
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 2020 Tokyo: Team
• FIBA Americas U18 Championship
• : 2012 Brazil:

Jerami Grant was a highly rated player out of high school and Syracuse, but he only played for one season in the NBA with Philadelphia. He has spent most of his time in the NBA playing for Portland since 2016, where he is a key part of their rotation as a power forward.

Grant is averaging 10 points and 5 rebounds per game this season. Jerami Grant is a versatile forward who has played for several teams in the NBA. Grant was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2014 and spent two seasons with them before joining the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2016.

He then moved to Denver, where he won an MVP award as part of their team that made it to the playoffs in 2018. In 2020, he joined the Portland Trail Blazers and has been a key player on their title-challenging squad ever since. 

Grant is known for his strong defence and energetic play on offence, which has led to him being called one of the best players in the league.

Also Played For: oklahoma city thunder, syracuse orange men's basketball

35. Larry Bird

Boston Celtics

Career

• High school: Springs Valley, (French Lick, Indiana)
• College: Indiana State (1976–1979)
• NBA draft 1978 / Round: 1 / Pick: 6th overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 1979–1992
• Position: Small forward / Power forward
• Number: 33
• Coaching career: 1997–2000
• As player:, 3× NBA champion (1981, 1984, 1986), 2× NBA Finals MVP (1984, 1986), 3× NBA Most Valuable Player (1984–1986), 12× NBA All-Star (1980–1988, 1990–1992), NBA All-Star Game MVP (1982), 9× All-NBA First Team (1980–1988), All-NBA Second Team (1990), 3× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1982–1984), NBA Rookie of the Year (1980), NBA All-Rookie Team (1980), 3× NBA Three-Point Contest champion (1986–1988), 2× 50–40–90 club (1987, 1988), AP Athlete of the Year (1986), NBA Lifetime Achievement Award (2019), NBA anniversary team (50th, 75th), No. 33 retired by Boston Celtics, National college player of the year (1979), 2× Consensus first-team All-American (1978, 1979), Third-team All-American – NABC, UPI (1977), 2× MVC Player of the Year (1978, 1979), No. 33 retired by Indiana State Sycamores, No. 33 retired by Springs Valley High Blackhawks, , As coach:, , NBA Coach of the Year (1998), NBA All-Star Game head coach (1998), , As executive:, , NBA Executive of the Year (2012)
• Points: 21,791 (24.3 ppg)
• Rebounds: 8,974 (10.0 rpg)
• Assists: 5,695 (6.3 apg)
• NBA: 147–67 (.687)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, World University Games, : 1977 Sofia: Men's Basketball, FIBA Americas Championship, : 1992 Portland: Men's basketball, Olympic Games, : 1992 Barcelona: Men's Basketball
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• World University Games
• : 1977 Sofia: Men's Basketball
• FIBA Americas Championship
• : 1992 Portland: Men's basketball
• Olympic Games
• : 1992 Barcelona: Men's Basketball

Larry Bird is one of the most decorated players in NBA history. He was a six-time All Star, three-time MVP, and two-time champion. Bird led the Celtics to eight championships during his playing career and is still considered one of the greatest players in league history.

After retiring from playing basketball, Bird went on to coach with Boston for two seasons before moving onto Indiana Pacers where he coached until 1997. 

In 2000, Bird became head coach at UCLA where he stayed for four years before returning to coaching with Boston again in 2006–07 season Larry Bird was one of the most beloved and successful players in NBA history.

He led the Boston Celtics to three championship titles, won multiple MVP awards, and was a 10-time All-Star. Bird's skills as an all-around player were unrivaled, as he could shoot threes well, play defense well, handle the ball well and score inside or outside.

His style of play earned him nicknames such as "The Legend" and "The Hick from French Lick." After retiring from playing in 1992, Bird served two stints as head coach with Indiana Pacers before being named president of basketball operations for the Philadelphia 76ers in 2018.

Also Played For: march madness, boston celtics

36. Kawhi Leonard

Los Angeles Clippers

Career

• High school: , Canyon Springs, (Moreno Valley, California), Martin Luther King, (Riverside, California)
• College: San Diego State (2009–2011)
• NBA draft 2011 / Round: 1 / Pick: 15th overall
• Selected by the Indiana Pacers
• Playing career: 2011–present
• 2011–2018: San Antonio Spurs
• 2018–2019: Toronto Raptors
• 2019–present: Los Angeles Clippers
• 2× NBA champion (2014, 2019), 2× NBA Finals MVP (2014, 2019), 5× NBA All-Star (2016, 2017, 2019–2021), NBA All-Star Game MVP (2020), 3× All-NBA First Team (2016, 2017, 2021), 2× All-NBA Second Team (2019, 2020), 2× NBA Defensive Player of the Year (2015, 2016), 3× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2015–2017), 4× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2014, 2019–2021), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2012), NBA steals leader (2015), NBA 75th Anniversary Team, AP Athlete of the Year (2019), Consensus second-team All-American (2011), 2× First-team All-MWC (2010, 2011), No. 15 retired by San Diego State Aztecs, California Mr. Basketball (2009)

Kawhi Leonard was born in Los Angeles, California, on June 29th, 1991. He played college basketball at San Diego State and was drafted 1st overall by the Toronto Raptors in the 2011 NBA draft.

Kawhi has been a 2-time All-Star (2013, 2017) and is currently playing for the LA Clippers in the NBA. He is known for his elite shooting ability, which has helped him accumulate over 25000 points in his career thus far.

Kawhi is married to LaLa Vasquez and they have one child together - a daughter named Sienna Rose. Leonard has been one of the most dominant players in the NBA for several years now and is likely to continue his success with the Clippers.

He was a two-time champion with the Spurs, and he's also won MVP awards in both the Finals and All-Star games. Leonard is known as an incredible defender, posting up opponents or guarding multiple positions on defense. 

His offensive game is equally as impressive, scoring at will from anywhere on the court while creating opportunities for teammates using his passing skillset.

Kawhi Leonard is a true superstar who belongs among basketball's greatest-ever players.

Also Played For: basketball, toronto raptors

37. Jayson Tatum

Boston Celtics

Career

• High school: Chaminade, (Creve Coeur, Missouri)
• College: Duke (2016–2017)
• NBA draft 2017 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 2017–present
• 2017–present: Boston Celtics
• 3× NBA All-Star (2020–2022), All-NBA First Team (2022), All-NBA Third Team (2020), NBA Eastern Conference Finals MVP (2022), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2018), Third-team All-ACC (2017), ACC All-Freshman team (2017), McDonald's All-American (2016), Gatorade National Player of the Year (2016), Mr. Show-Me Basketball (2016)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2020 Tokyo: Team, FIBA U19 World Championship, : 2015 Greece: Team, FIBA U17 World Championship, : 2014 Dubai: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 2020 Tokyo: Team
• FIBA U19 World Championship
• : 2015 Greece: Team
• FIBA U17 World Championship
• : 2014 Dubai: Team

Jayson Tatum was drafted third overall by the Boston Celtics in the 2017 NBA draft. Jayson started his career with the Celtics in the 2017-2018 season and has since played a major role for them on both sides of the court.

Jayson is known for his scoring ability, as well as his athleticism and defensive skills. He is expected to be a mainstay in Boston's lineup for years to come, and could very well become one of the league's best small forwards/power forwards Jayson Tatum is an NBA All-Star and National Player of the Year candidate.

Jayson was a McDonald's All-American, Gatorade National Player of the Year, Mr. Show-Me Basketball player of the year as well as a Third Team All-American at ACC school Clemson University in 2017.  

He has also represented USA Men’s Junior National team on multiple occasions and won a gold medal at FIBA Americas U18 Championship in 2018.

In his rookie season, he averaged 23 points per game for Boston Celtics earning him 3x NBA All-Star selections (2020, 2022 & 2023) At 21 years old Jayson is already considered one of the best players in NBA history.

Also Played For: nba playoffs best player, nba isolation

38. Jaylen Brown

Boston Celtics

Career

• High school: Wheeler, (Marietta, Georgia)
• College: California (2015–2016)
• NBA draft 2016 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 2016–present
• 2016–present: Boston Celtics
• NBA All-Star (2021), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2017), First-team All-Pac-12 (2016), Pac-12 Freshman of the Year (2016), McDonald's All-American (2015), First-team Parade All-American (2015), Mr. Georgia Basketball (2015)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, FIBA Americas U18 Championship, : 2014 United States: National team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• FIBA Americas U18 Championship
• : 2014 United States: National team

Brown was born in Atlanta, Georgia on October 24th 1996. He attended Wheeler High School and played for the varsity basketball team as a freshman before transferring to California after his sophomore season.

Brown led Cal to back-to-back Pac-12 titles while averaging 17 points, five rebounds and three assists per game during his two years with the Golden Bears. 

As a junior, he averaged 23 points, seven rebounds and four assists whilst leading Cal to their first NCAA tournament appearance since 2004.

Brown was drafted third overall by the Boston Celtics in the 2016 NBA draft and made his debut with them later that year against the Philadelphia 76ers - scoring 12 points off the bench in 21 minutes of play. 

In 2017–2018, Brown started all 82 games for Boston coming off the bench averaging 11 point 4 rebounds 2 assists 1 steal PER 36 minutes played which placed him 3rd among all rookies behind only Ben Simmons (21 PPG 8 RPG 4 APG 2 SPG) & DeMarcus Cousins (24 PPG 10 RPG 5 APG 1 BSPG).

After starting all 82 games once again in 2018–2019 JaylenBrown’s numbers dipped slightly dropping averages across most categories but still putting up 14PPG 5RPG 3APG on 46MPG over 38GP.

good enough for 13th place amongst shooting guards/small forwards according to ESPN’s RealGM player rankings at time of writing this article.

Also Played For: nba 2k21

39. Brandon Ingram

New Orleans Pelicans

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, new orleans pelicans

40. Saddiq Bey

Forward

Career

• High school: , DeMatha Catholic, (Hyattsville, Maryland), Sidwell Friends School, (Washington, D.C.)
• College: Villanova (2018–2020)
• NBA draft 2020 / Round: 1 / Pick: 19th overall
• Selected by the Brooklyn Nets
• Playing career: 2020–present
• 2020–present: Detroit Pistons
• NBA All-Rookie First Team (2021), AP honorable mention All-American (2020), Julius Erving Award (2020), First-team All-Big East (2020), Big East All-Freshman Team (2019), Robert V. Geasey Trophy (2020)

Saddiq Bey is a young, up-and-coming small forward in the NBA. He was born and raised in Charlotte, North Carolina, and attended high school at DeMatha Catholic before attending Sidwell Friends School.

Saddiq showed promise as a basketball player from an early age, impressing scouts with his athleticism and scoring ability. 

After playing college ball for two prestigious schools—DeMatha Catholic and Sidwell Friends School—Bey was drafted by the Detroit Pistons in the 2019 NBA draft.

Saddiq has made an immediate impact on the pro scene, averaging 10 points per game while shooting 50% from three-point range during his rookie season with the Pistons. 

His hard work and determination are sure to continue leading him towards stardom throughout his career in the NBA. Saddiq Bey was drafted by the Brooklyn Nets in the 2020 NBA Draft.

Saddiq Bey has played for the Detroit Pistons since 2020 and is currently an All-Star player. Saddiq Bey was named to both the NBA All-Rookie First Team and AP honorable mention All.

American list in 2021, and also won a Julius Erving Award in 2020. In 2019, he was also named first team all Big East after averaging 16 points per game as a freshman at Villanova University.

Also Played For: detroit pistons

41. Herb Jones

New Orleans Pelicans

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

42. Cedi Osman

Small forward

Career

• NBA draft 2015 / Round: 2 / Pick: 31st overall
• Selected by the Minnesota Timberwolves
• Playing career: 2011–present
• 2011–2017: Anadolu Efes
• 2011–2013: →Pertevniyal
• 2017–present: Cleveland Cavaliers
• 2017: →Canton Charge
• Turkish Cup winner (2015), Turkish Supercup winner (2015), 3× BSL All-Star (2015–2017), FIBA Europe Under-20 Championship MVP (2014), Albert Schweitzer Tournament Most Talented Player (2012)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  Turkey, European U20 Championship, : 2014 Greece: Team, European U18 Championship, : 2013 Latvia: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing  Turkey
• European U20 Championship
• : 2014 Greece: Team
• European U18 Championship
• : 2013 Latvia: Team

Cedi Osman is a Turkish-Macedonian small forward who has played in the NBA for the Cleveland Cavaliers since 2017. Osman was born on 8 April 1995, in Ohrid, Macedonia.

He attended Anadolu Efes in Istanbul before joining Pertevniyal of the Turkish Basketball League (TBL) in 2013. The Cavaliers selected Osman with their 31st overall pick at the 2015 NBA draft and he made his debut that season playing 33 minutes off the bench against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

In 2018–19, Osman averaged 9 points and 3 rebounds per game while starting all 82 games for Cleveland; helping them to make it to their first ever Finals appearance where they lost 4-1 to Golden State Warriors Osman is a versatile player who can play both the point guard and shooting guard positions.

He was an important part of Turkey's success at the European U20 Championship in 2014, where he helped lead them to victory. 

Osman has also been successful domestically with Canton Charge, having won Turkish Cup titles in 2015 and 2017 as well as being named MVP of the BSL All-Star Game three times (2015-2017).

The 21-year-old is likely to be one of Europe's top prospects for next year's NBA Draft should he decide to continue playing basketball professionally.

43. Paul Pierce

Small forward

Career

• High school: Inglewood (Inglewood, California)
• College: Kansas (1995–1998)
• NBA draft 1998 / Round: 1 / Pick: 10th overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 1998–2017
• Position: Small forward
• Number: 34
• 1998–2013: Boston Celtics
• 2013–2014: Brooklyn Nets
• 2014–2015: Washington Wizards
• 2015–2017: Los Angeles Clippers
• NBA champion (2008), NBA Finals MVP (2008), 10× NBA All-Star (2002–2006, 2008–2012), All-NBA Second Team (2009), 3× All-NBA Third Team (2002, 2003, 2008), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1999), NBA Three-Point Contest champion (2010), NBA 75th Anniversary Team, No. 34 retired by Boston Celtics, Consensus first-team All-American (1998), First-team All-Big 12 (1998), Third-team All-Big 12 (1997), 2× Big 12 tournament MVP (1997, 1998), No. 34 jersey retired by Kansas Jayhawks, McDonald's All-American (1995), Second-team Parade All-American (1995), California Mr. Basketball (1995)
• Points: 26,397 (19.7 ppg)
• Rebounds: 7,527 (5.6 rpg)
• Assists: 4,708 (3.5 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2021

Paul Pierce is a retired American professional basketball player. He played for the Boston Celtics from 1998 to 2017 and was a six-time All-Star. Pierce was born in Oakland, California on October 13th, 1977.

After graduating from high school in Inglewood, CA he attended Kansas University where he won two NCAA championships with the Jayhawks before being drafted by the Boston Celtics in 1998.

 In his 17 seasons with the Celtics, Pierce averaged 22 points per game and 5 rebounds per game while shooting 47% from the field overall and 36% from three point range.

On July 9th, 2013 Paul Pierce announced his retirement after playing 20 seasons in the NBA (including playoffs). Since retiring as a player; Paul has started coaching at Baltimore’s famed.

House of Hoops including working alongside current Celtic Kyrie Irving during his rookie season of 2016/17 Pierce married R&B singer Aaliyah back in 2001 but they divorced four years later.

in 2005 after having one child together – son Kiari Dunbar-Pierce who also became an accomplished basketball player himself following father’s footsteps.

In early 2018 it was reported that Paul had been romantically linked to TV personality LaLa Anthony however these reports have since been denied by both parties.

Also Played For: nba 2000s

44. John Havlicek

Small forward

Career

• High school: Bridgeport (Bridgeport, Ohio)
• College: Ohio State (1959–1962)
• NBA draft 1962 / Round: 1 / Pick: 7th overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 1962–1978
• Position: Small forward
• Number: 17
• 1962–1978: Boston Celtics
• 8× NBA champion (1963–1966, 1968, 1969, 1974, 1976), NBA Finals MVP (1974), 13× NBA All-Star (1966–1978), 4× All-NBA First Team (1971–1974), 7× All-NBA Second Team (1964, 1966, 1968–1970, 1975, 1976), 5× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1972–1976), 3× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1969–1971), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1963), NBA anniversary team (35th, 50th, 75th), No. 17 retired by Boston Celtics, NCAA champion (1960), Consensus second-team All-American (1962), Third-team All-American – AP (1961), No. 5 retired by Ohio State Buckeyes
• Points: 26,395 (20.8 ppg)
• Rebounds: 8,007 (6.3 rpg)
• Assists: 6,114 (4.8 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006

Havlicek was a six-foot-five inch small forward who played 19 seasons in the NBA for the Boston Celtics. Known for his smooth shooting and efficient play, Havlicek is considered one of the greatest players in league history.

He led Boston to five championships during his career and retired as the all-time leading scorer in Celtics history. 

After retiring from playing professionally, Havlicek served as president of basketball operations for the Cleveland Cavaliers before joining the Miami Heat as their vice president of player personnel in 2016.

On April 25th 2019, John Havlicek passed away at 79 years old after a long battle with cancer.. John Havlicek was a 7-time NBA All-Star and 3-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year. 

He is one of only four players to win an NCAA championship with two different schools, Ohio State Buckeyes in 1960 and Boston Celtics in 1976. John Havlicek was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1978, his first year of eligibility.

Also Played For: nba 70s

45. Norman Powell

Shooting guard

Career

• High school: Lincoln (San Diego, California)
• College: UCLA (2011–2015)
• NBA draft 2015 / Round: 2 / Pick: 46th overall
• Selected by the Milwaukee Bucks
• Playing career: 2015–present
• 2015–2021: Toronto Raptors
• 2015–2016: →Raptors 905
• 2021–2022: Portland Trail Blazers
• 2022–present: Los Angeles Clippers
• NBA champion (2019), First-team All-Pac-12 (2015)

Norman Powell was born in San Diego, California and played college basketball at UCLA. He was drafted by the Los Angeles Clippers in 2015 and has since appeared in over 100 games for them.

Norman Powell is a versatile shooting guard who can play off the ball or as a starter. In 2017 he signed with the Toronto Raptors and had an impressive season, averaging 18 points per game on 44% from behind the three-point line.

Norman Powell was selected by the Milwaukee Bucks in the 2015 NBA draft. Norman Powell has played for both the Toronto Raptors and Portland Trail Blazers over his career thus far. In 2019, Norman Powell helped lead the Milwaukee Bucks to their first championship since 1957.

Norman Powell is a versatile player that can play both guard positions well. He has been named to two All-Pac-12 teams, including First Team in 2015. Norman Powell is entering his ninth season in the NBA and looks poised to continue his success with another team this upcoming year.

46. Keldon Johnson

San Antonio Spurs

Career

• High school: , Park View, (South Hill, Virginia), Oak Hill Academy, (Mouth of Wilson, Virginia)
• College: Kentucky (2018–2019)
• NBA draft 2019 / Round: 1 / Pick: 29th overall
• Selected by the San Antonio Spurs
• Playing career: 2019–present
• 2019–present: San Antonio Spurs
• 2019–2020: →Austin Spurs
• SEC Freshman of the Year – Coaches (2019), McDonald's All-American (2018)
• 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

Keldon Johnson is a small forward who was drafted by the San Antonio Spurs in the 2019 NBA draft. Johnson played college basketball for Kentucky and was named to the All-American First Team in 2018.

Johnson has great size for a small forward and is a deadly scorer. He is also a good passer and defender. Johnson is expected to make an impact with the Spurs this season. 

Keldon Johnson was one of the top high school basketball players in the country and was selected by the San Antonio Spurs in the 2019 NBA Draft.

Johnson has had a successful career in the NBA, playing for the San Antonio Spurs and Austin Spurs. He was named to the 2019 NBA All-Rookie Second Team and is averaging 14.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game this season. 

Johnson is an athletic and versatile player who can play both the forward and center positions.

He is a natural scorer and passer and is a strong defender. Johnson is a valuable member of the Spurs' roster and is a key part of their future. He is a talented player who is poised for continued success in the NBA.

47. James Worthy

Small forward

Career

• High school: Ashbrook (Gastonia, North Carolina)
• College: North Carolina (1979–1982)
• NBA draft 1982 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
• Selected by the Los Angeles Lakers
• Playing career: 1982–1994
• Position: Small forward
• Number: 42
• 1982–1994: Los Angeles Lakers
• 3× NBA champion (1985, 1987, 1988), NBA Finals MVP (1988), 7× NBA All-Star (1986–1992), 2× All-NBA Third Team (1990, 1991), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1983), NBA anniversary team (50th, 75th), No. 42 retired by Los Angeles Lakers, NCAA champion (1982), NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding Player (1982), Consensus first-team All-American (1982), First-team All-ACC (1982), Second-team All-ACC (1981), ACC tournament MVP (1982), No. 52 retired by North Carolina Tar Heels, First-team Parade All-American (1979), Second-team Parade All-American (1978), McDonald's All-American (1979)
• Points: 16,320 (17.6 ppg)
• Rebounds: 4,708 (5.1 rpg)
• Assists: 2,791 (3.0 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, FIBA U19 World Championship, : 1979 Salvador: National team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• FIBA U19 World Championship
• : 1979 Salvador: National team

James Worthy was a two-time NBA MVP and a six-time All-Star. He was drafted first overall in the 1982 NBA draft by the Los Angeles Lakers. Worthy played for the Lakers for eight seasons, winning three NBA Championships.

He was also named an All-Star for six consecutive seasons. Worthy retired from the NBA in 1994. Since retirement, Worthy has worked as an analyst for NBA TV. He has also written a book about his life and career. James Worthy is currently married and has three children.

James Worthy is an ambassador for the Special Olympics. James Worthy was a three-time NBA champion with the Lakers and was an all-star for seven seasons. He was also an All-NBA Third Team selection and was a two-time All-Rookie First Team selection. 

Worthy was a two-time NCAA champion with the Tar Heels and was also a consensus first-team All-American.

He was also a two-time ACC champion and was the MVP of the ACC Tournament. Worthy was also a Parade All-American and was inducted into the North Carolina Hall of Fame in 2002.

He was retired by the Lakers in 1992 and he currently has a number 42 retired by the Lakers. James Worthy is currently an analyst for the Lakers on their television broadcasts.

48. OG Anunoby

Small forward

Career

• High school: Jefferson City, (Jefferson City, Missouri)
• College: Indiana (2015–2017)
• NBA draft 2017 / Round: 1 / Pick: 23rd overall
• Selected by the Toronto Raptors
• Playing career: 2017–present
• 2017–present: Toronto Raptors
• NBA champion (2019)

OG Anunoby is a young, talented small forward for the Toronto Raptors. He was born in London, England, in 1997 and raised in Jefferson City, Missouri. He played high school basketball for Jefferson City and was highly rated.

He was drafted by the Toronto Raptors with the ninth overall pick in the 2017 NBA draft. He made his NBA debut in the 2017-2018 season and has since played in over 50 games. He is a versatile player who can play multiple positions on the court.

He is a hard worker who is always looking to improve his game. He is a talented player with a bright future in the NBA. OG Anunoby is an up-and-coming small forward in the NBA. OG Anunoby is a 2017 NBA draft pick by the Toronto Raptors. He played college basketball at Indiana.

OG Anunoby has played in the NBA for the past two seasons. His first season was with the Indiana Pacers. In his second season, he was traded to the Toronto Raptors. OG Anunoby has won two NBA championships with the Toronto Raptors. He is a versatile player who can play multiple positions.

OG Anunoby is a strong defender. He is a projected starter for the Toronto Raptors in the upcoming season.

Also Played For: indiana hoosiers men's basketball

Final Words

The best small forwards of all time have the ability to score in a variety of ways, and they are typically athletic and versatile players. These players often lead their teams in scoring, and are often relied on to provide a spark off the bench.