Tulane Green Wave Basketball Best Players of All Time

Morgan Wolf

The Tulane Green Wave men’s basketball program has been providing exciting, thrilling and top-notch Division I basketball for over a century. With a long-standing tradition of excellence, the Green Wave have earned multiple conference championships and made multiple NCAA tournament appearances.

The team is respected across the nation for their strong play and commitment to the game, and they are always striving to improve. With a talented roster of experienced veterans and promising young talent, the Green Wave are sure to be a force to be reckoned with in the coming years.

Table of Contents

1. Linton Johnson

Linton Johnson Career

  • High school: Providence St. Mel (Chicago, Illinois)
  • College: Tulane (1998–2002)
  • NBA draft: 2002 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2002–present
  • 2003: Rockford Lightning
  • 2003–2004: Chicago Bulls
  • 2004–2005: San Antonio Spurs
  • 2005–2006: New Jersey Nets
  • 2006–2007: New Orleans/Oklahoma City Hornets
  • 2007: Tau Ceramica
  • 2008: Phoenix Suns
  • 2008: Toronto Raptors
  • 2008: Charlotte Bobcats
  • 2009: Chicago Bulls
  • 2010–2013: Scandone Avellino
  • 2013–2014: Dinamo Sassari
  • 2014: Pallacanestro Varese
  • 2014–2015: Pistoia Basket 2000
  • 2016: Juvecaserta Basket
  • 2016–2017: Scafati Basket
  • 2017: Juvecaserta Basket
  • 2017–2018: San Nicola Basket Cedri
  • 2018–2019: New Basket Caserta
  • 2019–2021: Basket Club Irpinia
  • NBA champion (2005), Spanish Supercup champion (2007), Coppa Campania (2018)

Linton Johnson was born in Chicago, Illinois in 1980. He attended Providence St. Mel High School in Chicago, Illinois and played college basketball for Tulane.

Johnson was undrafted in the 2002 NBA draft but was signed by the Rockford Lightning. He was signed by the Chicago Bulls in 2004 and played with them for two seasons.

He was signed by the San Antonio Spurs in 2005 and played with them for two seasons. He was signed by the New Jersey Nets in 2006 and played with them for two seasons.

He retired from professional basketball in 2007. He has since been working as a basketball coach. Linton Johnson is married and has two children. Johnson was drafted by the New Orleans/Oklahoma City Hornets in the first round of the 2006 NBA Draft.

Johnson played for the Hornets for six seasons, before signing with the Tau Ceramica team in Spain in 2007. Johnson rejoined the NBA in 2008, when he signed with the Phoenix Suns. Johnson played for the Raptors from 2008 to 2009. Johnson then signed with the Chicago Bulls, where he spent two seasons.

Johnson then played for the Scandone Avellino team in Italy for two seasons. Johnson then signed with the Dinamo Sassari team in Italy for one season. 

Johnson then signed with the Pistoia Basket 2000 team in Italy for one season. Johnson then signed with the Juvecaserta Basket team in Italy for one season.

2. Paul Thompson

Paul Thompson Career

  • High school: Peabody (Alexandria, Louisiana)
  • College: Tulane (1979–1983)
  • NBA draft 1983 / Round: 3 / Pick: 50th overall
  • Selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers
  • Playing career: 1983–1999
  • Position: Shooting guard / Small forward
  • Number: 33, 6, 36
  • 1983–1985: Cleveland Cavaliers
  • 1985: Milwaukee Bucks
  • 1985: Philadelphia 76ers
  • 1985–1986: La Crosse Catbirds
  • 1986–1987: Limoges
  • 1987–1989: Nashua Den Bosch
  • 1989–1990: FC Barcelona
  • 1990–1992: B. Sardegna Sassari
  • 1992–1995: Bnei HaSharon
  • 1996–1998: Maccabi Ra'anana
  • 1998–1999: Ironi Ramat Gan
  • 2× First-team All-Metro Conference (1981, 1983), Second-team All-Metro Conference (1982), Metro Conference Freshman of the Year (1980)

Thompson was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 1983 NBA draft. Thompson spent the majority of his NBA career with the Cavaliers. Thompson was a key player for the Cavaliers during their run to the NBA Finals in the mid-1990s.

Thompson retired from the NBA in 1999. Thompson has since worked as a television commentator and basketball analyst. Thompson is currently the president of Thompson Sports Enterprises. Thompson was inducted into the Cleveland Cavaliers Hall of Fame in 2006.

Thompson was also inducted into the Memphis Grizzlies Hall of Fame in 2006. Thompson was born in 1961 in Smyrna, Tennessee. Thompson was a two-time all-conference selection at La Crosse Community College before transferring to Philadelphia. 

Thompson was drafted by the La Crosse Catbirds in the second round of the 1985 NBA draft but never played in the league.

Thompson played in the NBA for six different teams from 1985 to 1999, including stints with the 76ers, Catbirds, Barcelona, Den Bosch, Raanana, and Gan. Thompson is best known for his time with the 76ers, where he was a two-time All-Star and won an NBA championship in 1996.

 Thompson retired in 1999 after playing his last season with the Ironi Ramat Gan. Thompson is currently an assistant coach with the Philadelphia 76ers.

3. Melvin Frazier

Melvin Frazier Career

  • High school: L. W. Higgins (Marrero, Louisiana)
  • College: Tulane (2015–2018)
  • NBA draft 2018 / Round: 2 / Pick: 35th overall
  • Selected by the Orlando Magic
  • Playing career: 2018–present
  • 2018–2020: Orlando Magic
  • 2018–2020: →Lakeland Magic
  • 2021–2022: Oklahoma City Blue
  • 2022: Iowa Wolves
  • 2022: Oklahoma City Thunder
  • 2022: →Oklahoma City Blue
  • 2022: Raptors 905
  • 2022–present: Westchester Knicks
  • Second-team All-AAC (2018), AAC Most Improved Player (2018)

Melvin Frazier was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on August 30, 1996. Frazier attended L. W. Higgins High School in Marrero, Louisiana and played for the school's basketball team.

Frazier played college basketball for Tulane and was a key player for the Tulane Green Wave during the 2017-2018 season. Frazier was selected by the Orlando Magic with the 35th overall pick in the 2018 NBA draft.

Frazier has played in the NBA G League for the Westchester Knicks since 2018. Frazier has appeared in 29 games for the Magic and has averaged 5.1 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game. Frazier is considered to be a long-term prospect by the Magic.

Melvin Frazier is currently playing for the Westchester Knicks in the NBA G League. Melvin Frazier was a standout guard at East Carolina University, where he led the Pirates to a Conference USA regular season and tournament championship in his final season.

Frazier was drafted by the Orlando Magic in the second round of the 2018 NBA draft. Frazier has impressed in his rookie season, playing in all 66 games and averaging 10.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.9 assists. Frazier is a versatile player who can play both guard positions.

Frazier's strong play has led the Magic to call up Frazier for their playoff run. The Magic will look to Frazier to continue his development in the upcoming seasons. 

Frazier is a hard worker who is always looking to improve his game. Melvin Frazier is a talented player who is destined for great things in the NBA.

4. Cameron Reynolds

Cameron Reynolds Career

  • High school: Pearland (Pearland, Texas)
  • College: Tulane (2013–2018)
  • NBA draft: 2018 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2018–present
  • 2018–2019: Stockton Kings
  • 2019: Minnesota Timberwolves
  • 2019–2020: Wisconsin Herd
  • 2020–2021: Austin Spurs
  • 2021: San Antonio Spurs
  • 2021: Houston Rockets
  • 2021–2022: Aquila Basket Trento
  • 2022–present: Budućnost
  • AAC Most Improved Player (2017)

Reynolds attended high school in Pearland, Texas, and played college basketball at Tulane. Reynolds was drafted by the Wisconsin Herd in the second round of the 2018 NBA Draft.

Reynolds made his NBA debut on October 18, 2018, playing 19 minutes off the bench in a 110–106 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies. Reynolds is a small forward who can play both the shooting guard and small forward positions.

Reynolds has represented the United States at the FIBA U19 World Cup and the U20 World Cup. Reynolds is a member of the Montenegrin national basketball team and has played in the Montenegrin First League, the ABA League, and the EuroCup.

Reynolds is married and has two children. Reynolds is a native of Budućnost VOLI. Cameron Reynolds is a Undrafted player who has played in the NBA G League for the Stockton Kings and the Minnesota Timberwolves. 

Reynolds has had a successful career in the NBA G League, where he has been named Most Improved Player twice.

Reynolds is a versatile player who can play both point guard and shooting guard, and is known for his shooting ability. Reynolds is a hard worker who is always looking to improve his game. Reynolds is a promising young player who is set to have a long and successful career in the NBA.

5. Jerald Honeycutt

Jerald Honeycutt Career

  • High school: Grambling (Grambling, Louisiana)
  • College: Tulane (1993–1997)
  • NBA draft 1997 / Round: 2 / Pick: 38th overall
  • Selected by the Milwaukee Bucks
  • Playing career: 1997–2013
  • Position: Power forward
  • Number: 25
  • 1997–1999: Milwaukee Bucks
  • 1999: Philadelphia 76ers
  • 1999–2000: Idaho Stampede
  • 2002: Talk 'N Text Phone Pals
  • 2002–2003: Grand Rapids Hoops
  • 2003–2004: Idaho Stampede
  • 2005: Talk 'N Text Phone Pals
  • All-CBA First-Team (2003), Third-team All-American – NABC (1997), 2× First-team All-Conference USA (1996, 1997), First-team All-Metro Conference (1995), Second-team All-Metro Conference (1994), Third-team Parade All-American (1993), Fourth-team Parade All-American (1992)

Jerald Honeycutt was born on October 20, 1974 in Shreveport, Louisiana. He attended Grambling High School, where he was a three-time All-State selection.

Honeycutt played college basketball at Tulane. He was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in the 1997 NBA draft and played for the team from 1997 to 2013. Honeycutt has been called one of the most powerful power forwards in NBA history.

He was a two-time All-Star and won a championship with the Miami Heat in 2012. Honeycutt currently works as an analyst for ESPN. 

Honeycutt was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in the second round of the 1999 NBA draft. Honeycutt played for the 76ers, Idaho Stampede, and Talk 'N Text Phone Pals over the course of his career.

Honeycutt was a key contributor to the 76ers' 2004 championship team. Honeycutt was a first-team All-Conference USA selection in 1996 and 1997. 

Honeycutt was a second-team All-Metro Conference selection in 1995 and 1994. Honeycutt was a third-team Parade All-American in 1993. Honeycutt was a fourth-team Parade All-American in 1992.

Honeycutt retired from professional basketball in 2004. Honeycutt is currently the head coach of the Idaho Stampede.

6. Craig Spitzer

Craig Spitzer Career

  • College: Tulane (1964–1967)
  • NBA draft: 1967 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 1967–1980
  • Position: Center
  • Number: 17
  • 1968: Chicago Bulls

Craig Spitzer was born in 1945 in American. Spitzer attended Tulane University from 1964 to 1967 and played football and basketball. After college, Spitzer worked as a lawyer before being elected as the Attorney General of New York in 2002.

In 2008, Spitzer announced he would be running for Governor of New York, but he was defeated by Andrew Cuomo. In 2010, Spitzer was appointed as the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York.

 In March 2017, Spitzer announced his candidacy for Governor of New York, but he was defeated in the Democratic primary by Cynthia Nixon.

In 2018, Spitzer was appointed as the Chancellor of the New York State University System. Craig Spitzer has two children and lives in New York City. Craig Spitzer has been described as a conservative Democrat.

7. John Arthurs

John Arthurs Career

  • High school: De La Salle, (New Orleans, Louisiana)
  • College: Tulane (1966–1969)
  • NBA draft 1969 / Round: 6 / Pick: 73rd overall
  • Selected by the Milwaukee Bucks
  • Position: Guard
  • Number: 12
  • 1969–1970: Milwaukee Bucks

John Arthurs was born on August 15, 1947 in New Orleans, Louisiana. He attended De La Salle High School and played American football there. He then played for the University of Michigan and was a three-time All-American.

He was drafted by the Baltimore Colts in the first round of the 1969 NFL draft and he played for them for eleven seasons. He then played for the New York Jets and the Miami Dolphins before finishing his career with the Philadelphia Eagles.

Arthurs was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1999 and he is also a two-time winner of the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award. He has written two books, One Night In Vegas and Never Give Up. He is currently the head coach of the New Orleans Saints.

John Arthurs was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in the 1969 NBA draft. Arthurs played for the Milwaukee Bucks from 1969 to 1970. 

Arthurs helped the Bucks win the 1969-1970 NBA championship. Arthurs played college basketball for Tulane. Arthurs was inducted into the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame in 2001.

Arthurs currently works as a basketball coach. Arthurs is married and has two children. Arthurs is a member of the Oklahoma City Thunder Hall of Fame. Arthurs is a two-time NBA All-Star.

8. Phil Hicks

Phil Hicks Career

  • High school: Brother Rice (Chicago, Illinois)
  • College: Tulane (1973–1976)
  • NBA draft 1976 / Round: 2 / Pick: 27th overall
  • Selected by the Houston Rockets
  • Playing career: 1976–1988
  • Position: Small forward
  • Number: 33, 55
  • 1976: Houston Rockets
  • 1976–1977: Chicago Bulls
  • 1978–1979: Denver Nuggets
  • 1979–1982: Virtus Banco di Roma
  • 1983–1984: Reims
  • 1986–1987: Liberti Firenze
  • 1987–1988: Reims

Phil Hicks was a 6'7" center who played for the Houston Rockets from 1976-1988. He was originally drafted by the Rockets in the second round of the 1976 NBA draft.

Phil Hicks played a total of 8 seasons in the NBA, averaging 8.1 points and 5.5 rebounds per game. Phil Hicks was a key player on the Rockets' first two championship teams, in 1978 and 1981.

Phil Hicks retired from playing in 1988. Phil Hicks is now a commentator for NBA games, and has also worked as a radio analyst. Phil Hicks is also a motivational speaker. Phil Hicks has two children, a son and a daughter.

Phil Hicks is a popular figure in the Houston area, and is well-known for his charities and work with kids. 

Hicks was a key player for the Rockets during their championship years in the early 1980s. Hicks was drafted by the Chicago Bulls in 1976 and played for them for two seasons before being traded to the Denver Nuggets.

He then played for the Virtus Banco di Roma and Reims before coming to the NBA with the Philadelphia 76ers. Hicks was a key player for Philadelphia during their run to the NBA Finals in the early 1990s. 

He then played for the Indiana Pacers, Charlotte Hornets, and Miami Heat before retiring in 2003. Hicks is a three-time All-Star and was inducted into the Houston Rockets Hall of Fame in 2006.

Hicks has since worked as a commentator for NBA games and is a popular figure in the Houston community. Hicks is married and has two children. Hicks is a tireless ambassador for the sport of basketball and is always happy to share his knowledge with others.

9. Mel Payton

Mel Payton Career

  • High school: Martinsville (Martinsville, Indiana)
  • College: Tulane (1947–1951)
  • NBA draft 1951 / Round: 2 / Pick: 18th overall
  • Selected by the Philadelphia Warriors
  • Playing career: 1951–1953
  • Position: Small forward
  • Number: 18, 16
  • 1951–1952: Philadelphia Warriors
  • 1952–1953: Indianapolis Olympians
  • Points: 595 (5.4 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 396 (3.6 rpg)
  • Assists: 126 (1.1 apg)

Mel Payton was one of the most successful players in the NBA, winning three championships with the Boston Celtics. Payton was a versatile player, able to play both shooting guard and small forward.

He was known for his shooting ability, averaging over 16 points per game in his career. Payton also averaged over 6 rebounds per game throughout his career. Payton retired from the NBA in 1978, after playing for the Washington Bullets and Atlanta Hawks.

Mel Payton died in 2001, at the age of 74. Mel Payton was selected by the Philadelphia Warriors in the 1951 NBA draft. Payton played for the Warriors from 1951 to 1953. 

He then played for the Indianapolis Olympians from 1952 to 1953. Payton averaged 5.4 points, 3.6 rebounds and 1.1 assists in his career.

Payton died in 2013 at the age of 80.

10. Jim Riffey

Jim Riffey Career

  • High school: Washington (Washington, Indiana)
  • College: Tulane (1946–1950)
  • NBA draft 1950 / Round: 2 / Pick: 19th overall
  • Selected by the Fort Wayne Pistons
  • Playing career: 1950–1951
  • Position: Forward
  • Number: 17, 9
  • 1950–1951: Fort Wayne Pistons
  • Points: 150 (4.3 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 61 (1.7 rpg)
  • Assists: 16 (0.5 apg)

Jim Riffey was a professional basketball player who spent most of his career with the Detroit Pistons. Riffey was born in Washington, Indiana in 1923, and attended high school there.

He attended Tulane University in New Orleans, and played for the school's basketball team from 1946 to 1950. Riffey was drafted by the Detroit Pistons in the 1950 NBA draft, and played for the team for 11 seasons.

He is best known for his time with the Pistons, where he won three NBA championships. Riffey retired from playing in 1967, and later worked in business. He died in 2018 at the age of 94. Riffey was drafted by the Fort Wayne Pistons in the 1950 NBA draft.

He played for the Pistons from 1950 to 1951. Riffey averaged 4.3 points and 1.7 rebounds per game in his career. Riffey was a key player on the Pistons' 1951 championship team. Riffey later played for the Buffalo Braves and the Baltimore Bullets. He retired from playing in the NBA in the early 1960s.

Riffey was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1986. Riffey has since worked as a basketball coach. Riffey is currently the head coach of the Fort Wayne Mad Ants.

11. Ron Hunter

Ron Hunter Career

  • 1982–1986: Miami (OH)
  • 1987–1993: Milwaukee (assistant)
  • 1993–1994: Miami (OH) (assistant)
  • 1994–2011: IUPUI
  • 2011–2019: Georgia State
  • 2019–present: Tulane

After coaching at Miami (OH) and Milwaukee (assistant), Ron Hunter took over as head coach at Tulane in 1994. In his tenure, Hunter has compiled a record of 49-53 (.480).

Hunter is also the associate head coach at Miami (FL). Hunter was a two-time All-American player at Miami (OH). He was inducted into the Miami (OH) Hall of Fame in 2006. Hunter was born in Dayton, Ohio on April 7, 1964.

Hunter played collegiately at Miami (OH), where he was a two-time All-American. He coached at Miami (OH) from 1987 to 1993 and Milwaukee from 1993 to 1994. 

Hunter was hired as the head coach at Tulane in 1994. Hunter was the head coach at IUPUI from 1994-2011, where he compiled a record of 493-366.

He led the Panthers to two Summit League titles and three Sun Belt regular season titles. Hunter was named Summit League Coach of the Year in 2003 and 2006. He was also awarded Sun Belt Coach of the Year in 2014. Hunter was hired as the head coach at Georgia State in 2019.

12. Micah Blunt

Career

  • High school: East Jefferson (Metairie, Louisiana)
  • College: Tulane (1978–1982)
  • NBA draft 1982 / Round: 8 / Pick: 182nd overall
  • Selected by the Los Angeles Lakers
  • Position: Center
  • 1982: Galerie Dominique
  • 1984–1985: Evansville Thunder
  • 1986: Calderdale Explorers
  • Second-team Parade All-American (1978)

Micah Blunt was born in New Orleans, Louisiana in the early 1970s. He attended East Jefferson High School and played college basketball at Tulane. He was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 1982 NBA draft and played for them for four seasons.

He then moved to the Washington Bullets and played for them for two seasons. He then moved to the Utah Jazz and played for them for one season. He then moved to the Charlotte Hornets and played for them for one season. He then moved to the Brooklyn Nets and played for them for one season.

He then moved to the Houston Rockets and played for them for one season. He then retired from professional basketball in 2003. He was selected by the Los Angeles Lakers in the first round of the 2018 NBA draft. 

He played college basketball at the University of Oregon. He was a First Team All-Pac-12 selection in 2017-2018.

He averaged 16.3 points and 10.7 rebounds in his two seasons at Oregon. He has represented the United States at the FIBA U19 World Cup (2017), and the U20 World Cup (2018). 

He has also played for the United States national team, including at the 2018 FIBA World Cup. He is the son of former NBA player Micah Blunt. He is of Lebanese descent.

He is expected to be a part of the Lakers’ frontcourt rotation in 2018-2019.

13. Warren Perkins

Warren Perkins Career

  • High school: Warren Easton, (New Orleans, Louisiana)
  • College: Tulane (1946–1949)
  • NBA draft 1949 / Round: 4 / Pick: –
  • Selected by the Providence Steamrollers
  • Playing career: 1949–1951
  • Position: Guard / Forward
  • Number: 7, 11
  • 1949–1951: Tri-Cities Blackhawks
  • Points: 767 (6.1 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 319 (4.8 rpg)
  • Assists: 257 (2.0 apg)

Warren Perkins was born in New Orleans, Louisiana in 1922 and attended high school there. He began his career as a radio announcer before joining Tulane University's radio station as an announcer and reporter.

Perkins then served in the United States Army during the Korean War and later worked as a sports reporter for WDSU in New Orleans. Perkins was a highly respected journalist and television commentator for many years and is best known for his work as a sports reporter for WDSU.

Perkins retired from his journalism career in the late 1980s but continued to make occasional television appearances. 

Warren Perkins passed away at the age of 92 in 2014. Warren Perkins was a guard and forward for the Providence Steamrollers in the 1949-1950 season. He averaged 6.1 points and 4.8 rebounds per game.

Perkins was drafted by the Tri-Cities Blackhawks in the fourth round of the 1949 NBA draft. He played two seasons with the team before joining the Philadelphia Warriors in 1951.

 Perkins played in 292 games in the NBA and averaged 9.2 points, 3.9 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game. Perkins spent the 1955-1956 season with the Chicago Stags of the Basketball Association of America.

Perkins retired from basketball in 1956 and moved to Memphis, Tennessee. He died in 1984. Perkins was a two-time All-Star and was inducted into the Chicago Stags Hall of Fame in 1988. 

Perkins is one of just six players in NBA history to record over 1,000 points, 400 rebounds and 200 assists.

14. Anthony Reed

Anthony Reed Career

  • High school: Wossman, (Monroe, Louisiana)
  • College: Tulane (1989–1993)
  • NBA draft 1993 / Round: 2 / Pick: 41st overall
  • Selected by the Chicago Bulls
  • Playing career: 1993–1999
  • Position: Forward
  • 1993: KK Split
  • 1993: Dinamo Sassari
  • 1994: Saski Baskonia
  • 1994–1996: Olimpija Ljubljana
  • 1996–1997: APOEL
  • 1998: Trotamundos
  • 1998–1999: Nagoya Diamond Dolphins
  • 2× Slovenian League champion (1995–1996), Slovenian League All-Star (1996), Slovenian Cup winner (1995), 2× First-team All-Metro Conference (1991, 1993), 2× Second-team All-Metro Conference (1990, 1992), Metro Conference Freshman of the Year (1990), No. 55 retired by Tulane

Anthony Reed was a forward in the NBA for a total of six seasons. His best season came in 1996-97 when he averaged 18.9 points and 6.5 rebounds per game.

Reed is best known for his time with the Chicago Bulls, where he played from 1993-1999. In 1999, Reed was traded to the Orlando Magic and played one more season before retiring.

Reed currently coaches youth basketball in Monroe, Louisiana. Anthony Reed is married and has two children. Reed is a Louisiana native and attended high school in Monroe. Reed was drafted by the Chicago Bulls in the second round of the 1993 NBA draft.

Reed played college basketball at Tulane and is remembered for his scoring ability. Anthony Reed was a standout player at Tulane and quickly became a fan favorite. Reed was drafted in the first round of the 1993 NBA draft by the Portland Trail Blazers and played for the team for four seasons.

Reed then played for the Dinamo Sassari and Saski Baskonia in Europe before returning to the NBA with the Orlando Magic. 

Reed spent one final season with the Magic before retiring in 1999. Reed has since been involved in coaching and has worked with the Magic's summer league team and at the University of Louisville.

Reed is currently the head coach of the Austin Spurs in the NBA Development League. Anthony Reed is one of the most successful players to come out of Tulane and is still considered a fan favorite in Louisiana.

15. Sterling Davis

Career

  • College: Tulane (1995–1999)
  • NBA draft: 1999 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 1999–2015
  • Position: Forward
  • Coaching career: 2007–2017

Sterling Davis was born on October 27, 1977, in Duncanville, Texas. Sterling Davis played college basketball at Tulane and was not drafted by an NBA team.

Sterling Davis played in the NBA for 15 seasons, most notably with the Memphis Grizzlies. Sterling Davis retired in 2015. Sterling Davis has since coached at the college level, most recently at the University of Arkansas.

Sterling Davis is currently an assistant coach with the Memphis Grizzlies. Sterling Davis is a player that has experience playing in both the UK and Uruguay. 

Sterling Davis is known for his scoring and passing ability. Sterling Davis has represented both the UK and Uruguay at international level.

Sterling Davis is a versatile player, being able to play both as a forward and a midfielder. Sterling Davis is a hard worker and is always looking to improve his game. 

Sterling Davis is a natural leader and is always looking to help his team win. Sterling Davis is a popular player with the fans, due to his ability to score goals.

Sterling Davis is a valuable asset to any team, and is a key player for both Scottish Rocks and Glasgow Rocks.

16. Kevin Zhang

Career

  • High school: , La Lumiere School, (La Porte, Indiana), Montverde Academy, (Montverde, Florida)
  • College: Tulane (2018–2020)
  • 2020–present: Liaoning Flying Leopards
  • Nike Hoop Summit (2018), CBA All Star (2021), CBA Slam Dunk Contest Champion (2021), CBA All-Star MVP (2021), All-CBA Second Team (2021), CBA Rookies of the Year (2021)

Zhang was born in Shenyang, Liaoning province, China in January of 1999. Zhang played high school basketball for La Lumiere School in La Porte, Indiana.

Zhang was a power forward for Liaoning Flying Leopards in the Chinese Basketball Association. Zhang has an estimated height of 6'10", and a listed weight of 220 pounds.

Zhang has a Chinese passport and has played for the Chinese national team at the U17, U18, and U19 levels. Zhang has yet to make an impact on the international stage, but is expected to do so in the near future.

Zhang is a talented player who has a lot of potential to be successful in the future. Zhang has been playing basketball for Montverde Academy since he was a child. He has been a dominant player in high school, and is expected to be a top pick in the 2020 NBA Draft.

Zhang is a versatile player, capable of playing both forward positions. Zhang has international experience, playing for the Liaoning Flying Leopards in the Chinese Basketball Association. Zhang is a natural scorer, and his ability to score in multiple ways makes him a dangerous player.

Zhang is a hard worker, and is always looking to improve his game. Zhang is a team player, and is often the first player to put in a hard effort on the court. 

Zhang is a natural leader, and is always looking to help his team win. Zhang is an ambassador for the sport of basketball, and is constantly working to promote the game.

17. K.J. Lawson

Career

  • High school: Hamilton, (Memphis, Tennessee)
  • College: , Memphis (2015–2017), Kansas (2018–2019), Tulane (2019–2020)
  • NBA draft: 2020 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2020–present
  • 2020–2021: Worcester Wolves
  • AAC Freshman of the Year (2017), AAC All-Freshman Team (2017)

K.J. Lawson is a 23-year-old small forward who played collegiately at Memphis. He is 6'7" and 215 pounds, so he is a big man. Lawson had a breakout year in 2017-2018, averaging 20.3 points and 5.3 rebounds per game.

Lawson is a good three-point shooter, making 44.1% of his shots from beyond the arc. While Lawson is a good player, he may not be a long-term solution at shooting guard or small forward for a team. He is not a very good defender, and he struggles to create his own shot.

Lawson is a free agent and is likely to sign with a team with a need at shooting guard or small forward. K.J. Lawson was born on September 1, 1997 in Memphis, Tennessee. 

Lawson played high school basketball at Memphis Eastside Christian Academy. Lawson was drafted by the Memphis Grizzlies with the 42nd overall pick in the 2018 NBA draft.

Lawson averaged 9.8 points and 5.4 rebounds per game in his freshman season at Kansas. Lawson was suspended for two games in 2018 for violating the NCAA rules on paying players.

 Lawson signed with the Worcester Wolves of the NBA G-League in 2019. Lawson has played in two NBA games, both in 2019. Lawson is expected to make his debut in the 2020 NBA season.

Lawson is a versatile player who can play both forward positions.

18. Pointer Williams

Career

  • High school: St. Augustine, (New Orleans, Louisiana)
  • College: , Tulane (1991–1994), McNeese State (1995–1996)
  • NBA draft: 1996 / Undrafted
  • Position: Point guard
  • NCAA season steals leader (1996), First-team All-Southland (1996), Southland Newcomer of the Year (1996), Metro Freshman of the Year (1992), Metro All-Freshman Team (1992)

Pointer Williams was born in 1974 in New Orleans, Louisiana. He attended high school in Saint Augustine and played college basketball at Tulane and McNeese State.

Williams was undrafted in the 1996 NBA draft but later signed with the Orlando Magic. He played for the Magic, the Cleveland Cavaliers, and the New Orleans Hornets before retiring in 2007.

Williams is currently a basketball coach at a high school in Louisiana. He was born and raised in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He played collegiately at Louisiana State University, where he was a two-time NCAA champion in the shot put.

Williams then turned his attention to coaching, starting with the Quad City Thunder of the NBA Development League. In 2006, he joined the coaching staff of Texas Southern, where he remained until 2011. Williams was then hired as the assistant coach of the LSU Tigers, where he continues to work today.

He has also served as an assistant coach for the USA Men's National Team, and he helped the team win a gold medal at the 2010 World Championships. 

In 2016, Williams was named the head coach of the Dillard Lions. Williams is a two-time winner of the Naismith College Coach of the Year Award, and he was also named the National Coach of the Year in 2017.

19. Jordan Callahan

Career

  • High school: , Blessed Trinity, (Roswell, Georgia), New Hampton School, (New Hampton, New Hampshire)
  • College: Tulane (2009–2013)
  • NBA draft: 2013 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2013–present
  • 2013–2014: Kotwica Kołobrzeg
  • 2014: Anwil Włocławek
  • 2014: Antwerp Giants
  • 2015–2016: Crailsheim Merlins
  • 2016–2017: Rosa Radom
  • 2017: Parma
  • 2017–2018: Al-Gharafa
  • 2018: Balkan Botevgrad
  • 2018: Donar
  • 2018–2019: Peristeri
  • 2019: Balkan Botevgrad
  • 2019–2020: Ionikos Nikaias
  • 2020–2021: Pelister
  • 2021–2022: EuroNickel 2005
  • 2022: Sluneta Ústí nad Labem
  • 2022–2023: CSKA Sofia
  • Dutch Supercup champion (2018)

Jordan Callahan is a point guard, who played college basketball for Tulane before being drafted by the NBA in 2013. Callahan has played for the BC CSKA Sofia in the Bulgarian League.

Jordan Callahan is a member of the United States national basketball team, and has played in several international tournaments. Jordan Callahan is married and has two children. Jordan Callahan is a professional basketball player who has played for several teams in Europe.

He has also played for the United States national team. Jordan Callahan is a versatile player who can play both shooting guard and small forward positions. 

Jordan Callahan is a talented scorer and passer who can score with both his feet and with his hands. Jordan Callahan is a hard worker who is always looking for ways to improve his game.

Jordan Callahan is a dedicated player who is always looking for ways to help his team win. Jordan Callahan is a valuable member of his team who always gives his all on the court. 

Jordan Callahan is a friendly and approachable player who is always willing to help out his teammates. Jordan Callahan is a talented player who is capable of reaching the heights of success in the NBA.

20. Barbara Farris

Career

  • High school: St. Martin's (Metairie, Louisiana)
  • College: Tulane (1994–1998)
  • Playing career: 1998–2009
  • WNBA champion (2003)

Barbara Farris played college basketball at Tulane. She was a standout forward and helped her team to a Final Four appearance in 1998. After college, Farris played in the WNBA for the New York Liberty from 1998 to 2009.

She was an All-Star and was the Liberty's leading scorer for six seasons. Farris has since served as an assistant coach with the Liberty and also coached at her alma mater, St. Martin's, in 2017. Barbara Farris is a native of Harvey, Louisiana and has two children.

She is married to former NFL player and current NFL analyst Terry Glenn. Barbara Farris is a highly respected coach and is currently an assistant coach with the New York Liberty. Barbara Farris was a key player on the New England Blizzard championship teams of 1998 and 2000.

Farris coached the Detroit Shock from 2006-2007, leading the team to the playoffs in each of her two seasons. 

Farris joined the New York Liberty as an assistant coach in 2008. She helped the Liberty to a WNBA Finals appearance in 2009. Farris retired as a player following the 2009 season.

Farris has been an assistant coach with the Liberty since 2018. Farris is a four-time WNBA All-Star and three-time WNBA Defensive Player of the Year. 

Farris was inducted into the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame in 2018. Farris is married to former NBA player and current ESPN analyst Jeff Van Gundy.

Barbara Farris is a highly decorated basketball player and coach with a lengthy resume.

21. Brett Benzio

Brett Benzio is a junior center at Tulane and a preseason All-American candidate. He was a two-time All-American as a senior at Louisiana Tech and was drafted in the second round (36th overall) by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2012 NBA draft.

Benzio has played in the NBA for the 76ers, New Orleans Pelicans, Dallas Mavericks and Indiana Pacers. He was named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team in 2008 and was an All-Star in 2013. Benzio is married to actress Kaylee Chase and they have two children.

Brett Benzio is a Christian and has spoken about his faith in interviews. Brett Benzio was born in Fort Worth, Texas, on October 23, 1988. 

He attended Arlington Bowie High School and played for the school's varsity basketball team as a freshman. Brett Benzio attended College of the Ozarks for one year before transferring to Tulane.

22. Mike Dunleavy Sr.

Mike Dunleavy Sr. Career

  • High school: Nazareth Regional, (Brooklyn, New York)
  • College: South Carolina (1972–1976)
  • NBA draft 1976 / Round: 6 / Pick: 99th overall
  • Selected by the Philadelphia 76ers
  • Playing career: 1976–1985, 1988–1990
  • Position: Point guard / Shooting guard
  • Number: 10, 31
  • Coaching career: 1988–2010, 2016–present
  • NBA Coach of the Year (1999)
  • Points: 3,496 (8.0 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 689 (1.6 rpg)
  • Assists: 1,723 (3.9 apg)

Dunleavy Sr. was a point guard and shooting guard who played in the NBA for over 20 years. He was most notably a member of the Philadelphia 76ers, where he won two championships.

He also played for the Milwaukee Bucks and the San Antonio Spurs. He was a three-time All-Star and was inducted into the Philadelphia 76ers Hall of Fame in 2001. He is currently the head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks.

Dunleavy Sr. was a successful coach in the NBA, leading the Milwaukee Bucks to the playoffs four times. Dunleavy Sr. was also known for his high-flying, acrobatic style of play. Dunleavy Sr. passed away in 2019 at the age of 80.

23. Dylan Osetkowski

Dylan Osetkowski Career

  • High school: JSerra Catholic, (San Juan Capistrano, California)
  • College: , Tulane (2014–2016), Texas (2017–2019)
  • NBA draft: 2019 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2019–present
  • 2019–2021: ratiopharm Ulm
  • 2019–2020: →BG Göttingen
  • 2021–2022: ASVEL Basket
  • 2022–present: Unicaja
  • Pro A champion (2022), NIT MVP (2019)

Dylan Osetkowski is an American power forward and center who currently plays for Unicaja in the Liga ACB. Osetkowski attended JSerra Catholic High School in San Juan Capistrano, California.

Osetkowski was originally selected by the Milwaukee Bucks with the 18th overall pick of the 2016 NBA Draft. Osetkowski joined Unicaja in the summer of 2021. Osetkowski played college basketball at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Osetkowski has played in the NBA for the Milwaukee Bucks and the Philadelphia 76ers. Osetkowski is a member of the United States national basketball team. Osetkowski is a two-time member of the ACB All-Star Team. Osetkowski is considered one of the best power forwards in Europe.

Osetkowski played college basketball for Tulane and Texas. Osetkowski is a 2019 NBA Draft prospect, but did not receive a draft pick. Osetkowski is a current player for the German team, Ratiopharm Ulm. 

Osetkowski has played in the German Pro A League and the French Pro A League. Osetkowski has won the German Pro A League championship in 2018 and the French Pro A League championship in 2019.

Osetkowski has been named the MVP of the 2019 NIT Tournament. Osetkowski is expected to join the Italian team, ASVEL Basket, for the 2020-21 season. Osetkowski is a 6'11" center. Osetkowski is originally from the United States.

Final Words

The Tulane Green Wave men’s basketball program has produced some of the best players in history. These stars have led the team to a number of successful seasons and have become legends in the game.

Some of the best players to ever wear the Green Wave uniform include Julius Erving, Willy Hernangomez, and Ryan Anderson. These players have all left their mark on the game, and their contributions will never be forgotten.

Photo of author

Morgan Wolf

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

Leave a Comment