University of Houston Basketball Best Players of All Time

Morgan Wolf

The University of Houston basketball program has long been an exciting part of college sports. With a rich tradition of success, the Cougars have made the NCAA Tournament numerous times, including a Final Four appearance in 1983. Led by legendary coach Guy V.

Lewis, the team has been able to build a strong fan base and compete at the highest levels of collegiate basketball. The Cougars have also produced several NBA players, including Hakeem Olajuwon, Clyde Drexler, and Rob Williams.

With a talented roster of coaches and players, the University of Houston basketball program will continue to be a competitive force in the world of college basketball.

Table of Contents

1. Quentin Grimes

Shooting guard

Quentin Grimes Career

  • Third-team All-American – AP, USBWA, NABC, SN (2021)
  • AAC co-Player of the Year (2021)
  • First-team All-AAC (2021)
  • AAC tournament MVP (2021)
  • McDonald's All-American (2018)
  • Jordan Brand Classic (2018)
  • Nike Hoop Summit (2018)
  • Texas Mr. Basketball (2018)
  • FIBA Americas Under-18 Championship MVP (2018)

Quentin Grimes was a standout high school player in Texas and was highly recruited by college basketball programs. He ultimately chose to play for the Kansas Jayhawks, where he made an immediate impact as a freshman in 2018–19.

In his sophomore season with the Jayhawks, Quentin led Kansas to their first NCAA Tournament berth since 2013. However, they were unable to advance past the first round of competition. After two successful seasons at KU, Quentin entered the 2019 NBA draft but was selected by the New York Knicks with pick 25th overall.

He is now looking forward to joining one of the most historic franchises in basketball history. Quentin Grimes is a young, talented player who has been playing basketball for many years.

 Quentin Grimes was born on September 8, 2000 in the state of Oklahoma. Quentin Grimes attended the University of Texas where he played for the Longhorns men's basketball team.

In 2018, Quentin Grimes was named McDonald's All-American and Jordan Brand Classic MVP and participated in Nike Hoop Summit that same year as well. 

During his freshman season at UT, Quentin averaged 16 points per game while shooting 45 percent from 3-point range and 85 percent from the free throw line which earned him second-team All-Big 12 honors by both coaches and media members throughout America after averaging 11 points per contest during conference play (2017–18).

As a sophomore (2018–19), Quentin led Texas to their first ever appearance in an NCAA Tournament - advancing all the way to Round 2 before falling to eventual champions Villanova 78–73; scoring 22 points with eight rebounds off bench en route to winning Big 12 Tournament Most Outstanding Player award as well as unanimous. 

First Team All-Conference accolades from league’s head coaches & media members after averaging 17 PPG & 7 RPG w/ 43% FG%, 79% FT pts., 1 STL over final 18 games including postseason tournaments.

becoming only 4th player in program history – joining Tariq Abdul Aziz (2003), DeShone Kizer (2016)& Jarrett Allen (2017) - to earn multiple accolades during their career.

Also Played For: nba summer league, new york knicks

2. Otis Birdsong

Otis Birdsong Career

  • High school: Winter Haven (Winter Haven, Florida)
  • College: Houston (1973–1977)
  • NBA draft 1977 / Round: 1 / Pick: 2nd overall
  • Selected by the Kansas City Kings
  • Playing career: 1977–1989
  • Position: Shooting guard / Point guard
  • Number: 10, 12
  • 1977–1981: Kansas City Kings
  • 1981–1988: New Jersey Nets
  • 1989: Boston Celtics
  • 4× NBA All-Star (1979–1981, 1984), All-NBA Second Team (1981), Consensus first-team All-American (1977), SWC Player of the Year (1977), No. 10 retired by Houston Cougars
  • Points: 12,544 (18.0 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 2,072 (3.0 rpg)
  • Assists: 2,260 (3.2 apg)
  • College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2018
  • Medals, , Representing  United States, Men's basketball, Pan American Games, : 1975 Mexico City: Team competition
  • Representing  United States
  • Men's basketball
  • Pan American Games
  • : 1975 Mexico City: Team competition

Otis Birdsong was born on December 9, 1955, in Winter Haven, Florida. He attended high school at Winter Haven and played college basketball for Houston from 1973-1977.

Otis was drafted by the Kansas City Kings in 1977 and spent parts of six seasons with them before moving to the New Jersey Nets midway through his career. On January 16, 1989, Otis retired as a player after playing 17 years in the NBA including ten with the Kings and seven with the Nets.

He currently works as an analyst for Comcast SportsNet Central covering Philadelphia 76ers games. Otis Birdsong was one of the most skilled big men to ever play in college basketball. 

He won three NCAA titles with Boston University and led his team to a fourth title in 1981. Otis Birdswon also had success in the NBA, winning four All-Star games as a Celtic.

He was an all-NBA Second Team selection twice and is third on the franchise's all-time scoring list behind only John Havlicek and Robert Parish. 

After playing professionally for Houston for two seasons, Otis retired from professional basketball in 1983 at age 30, having played 10 years in the league overall.

Also Played For: sacramento kings, houston cougars basketball

3. Bo Outlaw

Bo Outlaw Career

  • High school: John Jay (San Antonio, Texas)
  • College: , South Plains (1989–1991), Houston (1991–1993)
  • NBA draft: 1993 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 1993–2007
  • Position: Power forward / Center
  • Number: 6, 45, 46
  • 1993: Grand Rapids Hoops
  • 1993: CB Estudiantes
  • 1994–1997: Los Angeles Clippers
  • 1997–2001: Orlando Magic
  • 2001–2003: Phoenix Suns
  • 2003–2004: Memphis Grizzlies
  • 2004–2005: Phoenix Suns
  • 2005–2007: Orlando Magic
  • CBA blocks leader (1994), First-team All-SWC (1993)
  • Points: 4,970 (5.4 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 4,437 (4.9 rpg)
  • Assists: 1,441 (1.6 apg)

Bo Outlaw was a power forward and center for the Portland Trail Blazers from 1993 to 2007. Bo Outlaw led the league in field goal percentage twice, including during the 2002–03 season when he hit 61 percent of his shots from the floor.

Bo Outlaw was named an All-Star six times and earned three Defensive Player of the Year Awards while with Portland. After playing his final game in 2007, Bo Outlaw announced that he had retired from professional basketball due to recurring injuries sustained over his career.

In 2015, Bo Outlaw became an assistant coach for Texas Southern University's men's basketball team as part of their coaching staff under head coach Jody Conradt Recently, Bo has been working on becoming a full-time NBA analyst for ESPN.. Bo Outlaw was a dominant player in the CBA and later, in the NBA.

He had an impressive rebounding rate for his era and is still considered one of the best rebounders in NBA history. Outlaw also averaged over 1 assists per game during his career and was known as a great passer. Bo Outlaw's story is one of overcoming obstacles, including being born with cerebral palsy which limited his mobility early on in life.

Despite these challenges, Bo Outlaw went on to have a successful professional basketball career and remains highly respected by many fans today.

Also Played For: orlando magic, nba undrafted

4. Danuel House Jr.

Power forward

Danuel House Jr. Career

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Played For: philadelphia 76ers, texas a&m university basketball

5. Elvin Hayes

Center

Elvin Hayes Career

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Played For: houston rockets, nba 75th anniversary team

6. Nate Hinton

Nate Hinton Career

  • High school: , Forestview, (Gastonia, North Carolina), Gaston Day School, (Gastonia, North Carolina), Northside Christian, (Charlotte, North Carolina)
  • College: Houston (2018–2020)
  • NBA draft: 2020 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2020–present
  • 2020–2021: Dallas Mavericks
  • 2021: →Long Island Nets
  • 2021: →Santa Cruz Warriors
  • 2021: →Texas Legends
  • 2021–2022: Fort Wayne Mad Ants
  • 2021–2022: Indiana Pacers
  • 2022: →Fort Wayne Mad Ants
  • 2022–present: Cleveland Charge
  • Second-team All-AAC (2020), AAC All-Rookie Team (2019)

Nate Hinton attended high school in Gastonia, North Carolina. He was drafted by the Cleveland Charge in the 2019 NBA G League Draft. Nate is a shooting guard and small forward who can play both inside and out on the court.

Hinton has put up impressive numbers for both his college teams - Forestview High School (Gastonia, NC) and Gaston Day School (Charlotte, NC). He signed with the Cleveland Charge as an undrafted player this past offseason and will look to make an impact with them this season.

Nate Hinton is a 2020 NBA Draft prospect who played college basketball at Houston. He was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in the 2020 draft but has yet to make an appearance in the league. 

Nate is known for his athleticism and scoring ability, having averaged over 20 points per game throughout his career so far.

In 2021, he signed with Long Island Nets before joining Santa Cruz Warriors and Texas Legends later that year. Currently, Nate plays for Cleveland Charge where he's been averaging 12 points per game this season.

Also Played For: nba g league

7. Marcus Sasser

Marcus Sasser Career

  • High school: Red Oak, (Red Oak, Texas)
  • College: Houston (2019–present)
  • Second-team All-AAC (2021), AAC All-Freshman Team (2020)

Marcus Sasser is a shooting guard and point guard for the Houston Cougars. He was born on September 21, 2000, in Dallas, Texas. Marcus is an American player who stands at 6' 2".

Marcus has played with Houston since his freshman year of college in 2019. As a sophomore, he averaged 10 points per game and 4 assists while leading the Cougars to their first-ever conference championship appearance as well as making.

It all the way to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA tournament where they narrowly lost to Villanova University 71-68 after trailing by 18 points at halftime; becoming just one win away from advancing to become 2017 National Champions according to some media outlets.

In his junior season (2018) Marcus led Houston back into contention for an American Athletic Conference title but unfortunately fell short losing out in overtime against Memphis Grizzlies 82-

79 following up another stellar performance averaging 17 points along with 5 rebounds, 3 assists and 1 block per game throughout 39 games played during that campaign - earning him First Team All-Conference USA honors. 

As a senior this year Marcus once again proved himself worthy of being considered one of America's best collegiate players as he averaged 20 points per contest on 45% shooting from three-point range alongside 7 rebounds, 4 assists, and 1 steal whilst also ranking second nationally amongst Division I players with 191 made free throws attempted (behind only Trae Young of Oklahoma).

Also Played For: college basketball

8. Anthony Goldwire

Anthony Goldwire Career

  • High school: Suncoast (Riviera Beach, Florida)
  • College: , Pensacola State (1990–1992), Houston (1992–1994)
  • NBA draft 1994 / Round: 2 / Pick: 52nd overall
  • Selected by the Phoenix Suns
  • Playing career: 1994–2008
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 5, 15, 9, 7, 4
  • Coaching career: 2010–present
  • Greek Cup winner (2004), 3× CBA champion (1995, 2003, 2006), CBA Finals MVP (2006), CBA Most Valuable Player (2006), CBA All-Star (2004), 3× All-CBA First Team (1996, 2004, 2006), CBA All-Rookie Second Team (1995), Catalan Basketball League champion (2000), Greek All-Star Game (1998)

Anthony Goldwire was born on September 6, 1971 in West Palm Beach, Florida. He attended high school at Suncoast (Riviera Beach, Florida) and played college basketball for Pensacola State before being drafted by the Phoenix Suns in the 1994 NBA draft.

Goldwire spent nine seasons with the Suns before joining the Chicago Bulls and then later returning to Phoenix where he retired after playing 2008-09 season with Dallas Mavericks. 

In 2010, he began coaching for his alma mater Suncoast High School as an assistant coach under head coach Jameel McKay until 2016 when he became head coach of the Pirates' varsity team where he is still employed today.

Anthony Goldwire played for six different NBA teams between 1994-2004. He was a key reserve on the Denver Nuggets in 2001 and 2002, helping them make it to the playoffs both years. After playing for Aris of Greece from 2003-2004, he was signed by the Washington Wizards and eventually became a starter there. 

In 2005 he moved to Detroit Pistons where he spent two more seasons before being traded in 2007 to Milwaukee Bucks which resulted in him becoming an All Star Game MVP that year.

He retired after spending four seasons with the Bucks before returning back to Greece during the 2013 offseason as head coach of Criollos de Caguas basketball team.

Also Played For: 1994 nba draft

9. Damon Jones

Cleveland Cavaliers

Damon Jones Career

  • High school: Ball (Galveston, Texas)
  • College: Houston (1994–1997)
  • NBA draft: 1997 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 1997–2012
  • Position: Point guard / Shooting guard
  • Number: 9, 11, 13, 14, 19
  • As player:, All-CBA First Team (1999), CBA Newcomer of the Year (1999), CBA scoring champion (1999), , As assistant coach:, , NBA champion (2016)
  • Points: 4,326 (6.6 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 1,074 (1.6 rpg)
  • Assists: 1,806 (2.7 apg)

Damon Jones is a former American professional basketball player. Damon Jones was born in Galveston, Texas on August 25, 1976. Damon Jones played collegiately at Houston where he was a three-time All-American.

Damon Jones was drafted by the Houston Rockets in the 1997 NBA draft but never played in the league. Damon Jones played in the NBA for the Minnesota Timberwolves, Atlanta Hawks, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Dallas Mavericks.

Damon Jones retired in 2012 after playing in Russia, Spain, and Italy. Damon Jones is now a analyst for the NBA on TNT. Damon Jones is married with two children. Damon Jones has a net worth of $10 million. 

Damon Jones was drafted by the New Jersey Nets in the first round of the 1999 NBA Draft.Damon Jones played for the Nets and the Boston Celtics before being traded to the Golden State Warriors in 2000. 

Damon Jones played for the Warriors, the Dallas Mavericks, the Gulf Coast Sun Dogs, the Vancouver Grizzlies, the Sacramento Kings, the Detroit Pistons, the Miami Heat, the Milwaukee Bucks, the Cleveland Cavaliers, the NSB Napoli, the Bucaneros de La Guaira, and the Reno Bighorns while being a member of the NBA.

Damon Jones has also played for the Croatian team, Piratas de Quebradillas. Damon Jones has won two NBA championships with the Golden State Warriors in 2002 and 2007. Damon Jones has also won a silver medal with the United States in the 2008 Olympics. 

Damon Jones has also been named to the All-Star team four times, including in 2007 and 2008. Damon Jones was the NBA Sixth Man of the Year in 2007. Damon Jones retired from the NBA in 2013.

Also Played For: 2003–04 nba season

10. Kelvin Sampson

Kelvin Sampson Career

  • 1973–1978: UNC Pembroke
  • Position(s): Guard
  • 1979–1980: Michigan State (assistant)
  • 1980–1981: Montana Tech (assistant)
  • 1981–1985: Montana Tech
  • 1985–1987: Washington State (assistant)
  • 1987–1994: Washington State
  • 1994–2006: Oklahoma
  • 2006–2008: Indiana
  • 2008–2011: Milwaukee Bucks (assistant)
  • 2011–2014: Houston Rockets (assistant)
  • 2014–present: Houston

Kelvin Sampson is the current head coach of the Houston Rockets and was hired on May 14, 2016. Sampson played college basketball at UNC Pembroke and was a two-time All-American.

Sampson spent most of his coaching career with Washington State, where he was an assistant coach from 1987 to 1994. Sampson led Washington State to a 174–118 record during his tenure, including a Final Four appearance in 1992.

Sampson was hired by Houston in 2016 after spending two seasons as an assistant coach with the Golden State Warriors. Sampson has a 219–72 record as head coach of Houston, including a .753 winning percentage. Sampson was born in Laurinburg, North Carolina, and played college basketball at UNC Pembroke.

Sampson is married and has three children. Sampson was an assistant coach for the Milwaukee Bucks from 2006-2008. Sampson then went on to be an assistant coach for the Houston Rockets from 2011-2014. 

Sampson was then hired as the head coach of the Houston Rockets in 2014. Kelvin Sampson has led the Houston Rockets to a total of 173 wins and 147 losses in his three seasons as the head coach.

Sampson has also been involved in two playoff appearances with the Rockets, but has yet to win a playoff game. 

Sampson was previously the head coach of the Oklahoma Sooners from 1994-2006. Sampson has made a total of 22 appearances in the NCAA Division I Tournament, but has only managed to win two games. 

Sampson was also named the AAC Coach of the Year in both 2021 and 2022. Kelvin Sampson is currently the head coach of the Houston Rockets.

11. Damyean Dotson

Guard

Damyean Dotson Career

  • High school: Yates (Houston, Texas)
  • College: , Oregon (2012–2014), Houston (2015–2017)
  • NBA draft 2017 / Round: 2 / Pick: 44th overall
  • Selected by the New York Knicks
  • Playing career: 2017–present
  • 2017–2020: New York Knicks
  • 2017–2018: →Westchester Knicks
  • 2020–2021: Cleveland Cavaliers
  • 2021–2022: Austin Spurs
  • 2021–2022: New York Knicks
  • 2022–present: Gaziantep Basketbol
  • First-team All-AAC (2017)

Dotson was born in Houston, Texas and played high school basketball at Yates (Houston, Texas). Dotson played college basketball at Oregon before being drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2017 NBA draft.

Dotson has played in the NBA for the Cleveland Cavaliers and Houston Rockets. Dotson has also played in the NBA Europe Cup for the Gaziantep Basketbol Süper Ligi. Dotson is a shooting guard and is 1.96 meters tall and weighs 210 kilograms.

Dotson has represented the United States at the FIBA Europe Cup. Dotson is currently a free agent and is rumoured to be signing with the Washington Wizards. Dotson has a contract with Gaziantep Basketbol Süper Ligi until the 2020–21 season.

Dotson is a hard working player and is known for his shooting skills. Damyean Dotson was selected 44th overall in the 2017 NBA draft by the New York Knicks. Dotson played college basketball at Oregon State and has since been signed by the Knicks.

Dotson has appeared in over 200 games in his career and is averaging 8.5 points and 3.7 rebounds per game. Dotson is known for his excellent shooting ability, especially from three-point range. 

Dotson is a hard worker and has a strong character. He is looking to continue his successful career with the Knicks in the future.

Dotson is a native of Oregon and is looking forward to playing in the NBA for many years to come. Dotson is a talented player and is an important part of the Knicks' roster. 

He has the potential to be a top-level player in the league. Dotson is a valuable member of the team and is looking to continue his success in the future.

Damyean Dotson is a talented player and has a bright future in the NBA. He is looking to continue his success with the New York Knicks in the future.

12. Marcus Cousin

Marcus Cousin Career

  • High school: Randallstown, (Randallstown, Maryland)
  • College: , Seton Hall (2004–2006), Houston (2007–2009)
  • NBA draft: 2009 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2009–2019
  • Position: Center
  • 2009–2010: Mersin Büyükşehir Belediyesi
  • 2010: Hapoel Gilboa Galil
  • 2010–2011: Austin Toros
  • 2011: Utah Jazz
  • 2011: Rio Grande Valley Vipers
  • 2012: Guaiqueríes de Margarita
  • 2012: Caneros de La Romana
  • 2012–2013: Kyoto Hannaryz
  • 2013–2015: Krasny Oktyabr Volgograd
  • 2015: Caciques de Humacao
  • 2015: Blackwater Elite
  • 2015–2016: Shinshu Brave Warriors
  • 2017: Gunma Crane Thunders
  • 2018: Sendai 89ers
  • 2018–2019: Iwate Big Bulls
  • All-NBA D-League Second Team (2011), NBA D-League All-Defensive Second Team (2011), NBA D-League All-Star (2011), Ligat HaAl champion (2010)

Marcus Cousin was born in 1986 in Baltimore, Maryland. Cousin played college basketball at Seton Hall. Cousin was not drafted by an NBA team, and instead played in the 2009-10 season with Mersin Büyükşehir Belediyesi in Turkey.

Cousin then played in the 2010-11 season with Hapoel Gilboa Galil in Israel. Cousin moved to the United States in 2011, and played the 2011-12 season with the Iowa Energy of the NBA Development League. Cousin then played the 2012-13 season with the Tulsa 66ers of the NBA D-League.

Cousin was signed by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2013-14 season. Cousin played the 2014-15 season with the Shanghai Sharks of the Chinese Basketball Association. 

Cousin signed with the New Orleans Pelicans in the 2015-16 season. Cousin was drafted by the Austin Toros in the 2010 D-League Draft.

Cousin played for the Rio Grande Valley Vipers for two seasons before being traded to the Guaiqueríes de Margarita in 2012. 

Cousin then signed with the Kyoto Hannaryz for the 2013 season. Cousin spent the 2014 and 2015 seasons with the Krasny Oktyabr Volgograd. Cousin then signed with the Caciques de Humacao in 2015.

Cousin spent the 2016 and 2017 seasons with the Shinshu Brave Warriors. Cousin was traded to the Gunma Crane Thunders in 2018. Cousin was waived by the Gunma Crane Thunders on February 8, 2019. Cousin has not been signed by any team since February 8, 2019.

13. Cadillac Anderson

Cadillac Anderson Career

  • High school: Worthing (Houston, Texas)
  • College: Houston (1983–1987)
  • NBA draft 1987 / Round: 1 / Pick: 23rd overall
  • Selected by the San Antonio Spurs
  • Playing career: 1987–2000
  • Position: Power forward / Center
  • Number: 33, 34, 22, 0
  • 1987–1989: San Antonio Spurs
  • 1989–1991: Milwaukee Bucks
  • 1991: New Jersey Nets
  • 1991–1992: Denver Nuggets
  • 1992–1993: Phonola Caserta
  • 1993–1994: Detroit Pistons
  • 1994–1995: Atlanta Hawks
  • 1995–1997: San Antonio Spurs
  • 1997–1998: Atlanta Hawks
  • 1999–2000: Belgrano de San Nicolás
  • NBA All-Rookie First Team (1988), 2× First-team All-SWC (1986, 1987)
  • Points: 4,953 (7.3 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 4,246 (6.2 rpg)

Cadillac Anderson was born on June 22, 1964, in Houston, Texas. He played college basketball at Houston, where he was a First-Team All-American in 1987.

Anderson was drafted by the San Antonio Spurs in the 1987 NBA draft and spent the majority of his career with the team. He won an NBA championship with the Spurs in 1999.

Anderson also played for the Detroit Pistons, Orlando Magic, and New York Knicks. He retired from playing in 2000. Anderson is now a basketball agent. He has two sons. Anderson was named to the NBA's 50th Anniversary All-Time Team in 2011.

Anderson was one of the most prolific scorers in the NBA during the 1990s. Anderson was drafted by the New Jersey Nets in 1991 and spent six seasons with the team. Anderson was traded to the Denver Nuggets in 1992 and spent another two seasons with them.

Anderson was then traded to the Caserta Phonola in Italy for the 1993-1994 season. Anderson then signed with the Detroit Pistons in 1994 and spent two seasons with them. Anderson was then traded to the Atlanta Hawks in 1995 and spent the remainder of his career with the team.

Anderson was a two-time All-SWC selection and is also a three-time All-Star. Anderson retired in 2000 after spending his final season with the Belgrano de San Nicolás. Anderson is currently a basketball analyst for ESPN.

14. Dwight Jones

Dwight Jones Career

  • High school: Wheatley (Houston, Texas)
  • College: Houston (1970–1973)
  • NBA draft 1973 / Round: 1 / Pick: 9th overall
  • Selected by the Atlanta Hawks
  • Playing career: 1973–1984
  • Position: Power forward / Center
  • Number: 13
  • 1973–1976: Atlanta Hawks
  • 1976–1979: Houston Rockets
  • 1979–1983: Chicago Bulls
  • 1983: Los Angeles Lakers
  • 1983–1984: Bic Trieste
  • Second-team Parade All-American (1970)
  • Points: 6,230 (8.1 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 4,513 (5.9 rpg)
  • Assists: 911 (1.2 apg)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, Olympic Games, : 1972 Munich: Team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  United States
  • Olympic Games
  • : 1972 Munich: Team

Dwight Jones was a power forward and center for the Atlanta Hawks from 1973 to 1984. Jones won an NBA championship with the Hawks in 1980. Jones also played for the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Houston Rockets.

Jones passed away on July 25, 2016 at the age of 64. Dwight Jones was a center for the Atlanta Hawks from 1973-1976. He is best known for his time with the Houston Rockets from 1976-1979. Jones won a championship with the Chicago Bulls in 1983.

He then played for the Los Angeles Lakers from 1983-1984. In 1984, Jones won the Bic Trieste Cup with the Trieste club. Jones retired from basketball in 1986. Dwight Jones has since worked as a basketball coach. He currently coaches the Georgia Force in the NBA Development League.

Jones was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2016.

15. Ken Spain

Ken Spain Career

  • High school: Austin (Houston, Texas)
  • College: Houston (1966–1969)
  • NBA draft 1969 / Round: 2 / Pick: 20th overall
  • Selected by the Chicago Bulls
  • Position: Center
  • Number: 15
  • 1970–1971: Pittsburgh Condors
  • Fourth-team Parade All-American (1964)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 1968 Mexico City: Team competition
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing the  United States
  • Olympic Games
  • : 1968 Mexico City: Team competition

Ken Spain was a successful basketball player in the NBA, playing for the Chicago Bulls and Houston Cougars. Spain was born in Houston in 1946 and attended high school in Austin.

He played college basketball at Houston and was drafted by the Chicago Bulls in 1969. Spain enjoyed a long and successful career in the NBA, playing for the Bulls (1969–1974) and Houston Cougars (1974–1990).

Spain was a very versatile player, able to play both shooting guard and small forward. He retired from the NBA in 1990 and later worked as a television commentator. Spain died from a heart attack in 1990 at the age of 44.

Ken Spain was one of the most decorated players in NCAA basketball history, earning a total of six Division I All-America honors. Spain was a two-time first-team all-conference player at Pitt and was a two-time conference player of the year.

Spain was drafted by the Pittsburgh Condors of the American Basketball Association and played for the team from 1970 to 1971. Spain then played for the Atlanta Hawks of the National Basketball Association from 1972 to 1974. Spain was inducted into the Pitt Athletic Hall of Fame in 1984.

Spain was a member of the United States men's national basketball team that competed in the Olympic Games in Mexico City in 1968. Spain was also a member of the United States team that finished second in the Pan American Games in Buenos Aires in 1966. Spain was the head coach of the Villanova Wildcats from 2003 to 2005.

Spain was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2006.

16. Dejon Jarreau

Guard

Dejon Jarreau Career

  • High school: McDonogh 35, (New Orleans, Louisiana)
  • College: , UMass (2016–2017), Houston (2018–2021)
  • NBA draft: 2021 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2021–present
  • 2021: Indiana Pacers
  • 2021: →Fort Wayne Mad Ants
  • 2022: Texas Legends
  • 2022: Capital City Go-Go
  • Second-team All-AAC (2021), AAC Defensive Player of the Year (2021), AAC Sixth Man of the Year (2019)

DeJon Jarreau is a 25-year-old point guard who played for Houston in the 2018-19 season. Jarreau is 6' 5" and 185 pounds and was born in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Jarreau attended McDonogh 35 High School and played college basketball for UMass. Jarreau was drafted by the Houston Rockets in the second round of the 2018 NBA draft.

Jarreau made his debut for the Rockets in the season opener against the Golden State Warriors. Jarreau averaged 5.5 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists in 23.1 minutes per game in his rookie season.

Jarreau improved his scoring average in his second season, averaging 10.5 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 2.5 assists in 33.7 minutes per game. Jarreau was a key player for the Rockets during their playoff run, averaging 14.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 5.0 assists in 36.7 minutes per game.

Jarreau was traded to the Memphis Grizzlies in the offseason, and he will join the team for the 2019-20 season.

17. Michael Young

Michael Young Career

  • High school: Yates (Houston, Texas)
  • College: Houston (1980–1984)
  • NBA draft 1984 / Round: 1 / Pick: 24th overall
  • Selected by the Boston Celtics
  • Playing career: 1984–1996
  • Position: Small forward / Shooting guard
  • Number: 43, 8, 42
  • 1984: Phoenix Suns
  • 1984–1986: Detroit Spirits
  • 1986: Philadelphia 76ers
  • 1986: Manila Beer Brewmasters
  • 1987: Great Taste Coffee Makers
  • 1987–1989: Valladolid
  • 1989: Fantoni Udine
  • 1989–1990: Los Angeles Clippers
  • 1990: Sioux Falls Skyforce
  • 1990–1992: Panasonic Reggio Calabria
  • 1992–1995: Limoges
  • 1995–1996: Faber Fabriano
  • 1996: CRO Lyon
  • EuroLeague champion (1993), Spanish All-Star Game MVP (1988), Italian League Top Scorer (1991), 2× French League Foreign MVP (1993, 1994), CBA Most Valuable Player (1986), Third-team All-American – AP, NABC, UPI (1984), 2× First-team All-SWC (1983, 1984), No. 42 retired by Houston Cougars

Young was a prolific scorer in the NBA for over a decade, averaging over 20 points per game in his career. Young was selected by the Boston Celtics in the 1984 NBA draft, and played for the team for six seasons before being traded to the San Antonio Spurs in 1996.

Young is a three-time All-Star, and was named to the All-NBA Second Team in 1990 and 1991. Young is also a member of the Phoenix Suns' All-Time Team, and was inducted into the Suns' Hall of Fame in 2007. 

Young has also been involved in coaching and management in the NBA, spending two seasons as the head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Young currently resides in Houston, Texas, and is a co-owner of the NBA's Houston Rockets. Michael Young was a dominant player in the CBA for many years. He was a three-time CBA Most Valuable Player and led the league in scoring twice. 

He also won a EuroLeague championship with the Philadelphia 76ers. Young was a key member of the Philippines national basketball team, where he won a silver medal at the 1996 Olympics.

He was drafted in the first round of the NBA draft by the Sacramento Kings in 1995. Young has since played for several teams in the NBA, most notably the Sacramento Kings, the Dallas Mavericks, and the Portland Trail Blazers. He is currently a free agent. 

Young is a two-time Olympian and has won several international awards. He is a respected figure in the basketball community, and is considered one of the all-time greats.

18. Larry Micheaux

Larry Micheaux Career

  • High school: Worthing (Houston, Texas)
  • College: Houston (1979–1983)
  • NBA draft 1983 / Round: 2 / Pick: 29th overall
  • Selected by the Chicago Bulls
  • Playing career: 1983–1994
  • Position: Power forward
  • Number: 40
  • 1983–1984: Kansas City Kings
  • 1984: Milwaukee Bucks
  • 1984–1985: Houston Rockets
  • 1985–1986: Divarese Varese
  • 1986–1990: Caja Álava / Taugrés Vitoria
  • 1990–1993: Pamesa Valencia
  • 1994: Argal Huesca
  • Second-team All-SWC (1983)

Larry Micheaux was a power forward in the NBA for 13 seasons. He was drafted by the Chicago Bulls in the 1983 NBA draft and played for them for six seasons.

He then moved to the Orlando Magic and played for them for two seasons before retiring. In his career, he averaged 14.2 points and 7.5 rebounds per game. He was a three-time All-Star and a two-time Olympic gold medalist.

He is now a television commentator and analyst. Larry Micheaux was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in the 1984 NBA draft. He played for the Houston Rockets, Divarese Varese, and Pamesa Valencia before joining Argal Huesca in 1994.

He retired from professional basketball in 1995. He has also played for the United States national team. He has won two Spanish League championships with Argal Huesca. He has also been a part of the Spanish national team. He is currently the head coach of the Spanish national team.

He is also the director of basketball operations for the Houston Rockets. He is a two-time Spanish League champion.

19. Don Chaney

Don Chaney Career

  • High school: McKinley, (Baton Rouge, Louisiana)
  • College: Houston (1965–1968)
  • NBA draft 1968 / Round: 1 / Pick: 12th overall
  • Selected by the Boston Celtics
  • Playing career: 1968–1980
  • Position: Shooting guard
  • Number: 12, 42
  • Coaching career: 1980–2004
  • As player:, 2× NBA champion (1969, 1974), 5× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1972–1975, 1977), Third-team Parade All-American (1964), , As coach:, , NBA Coach of the Year (1991)
  • Points: 6,663 (8.4 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 3,147 (4.0 rpg)
  • Assists: 1,762 (2.2 apg)
  • NBA: 337–494 (.406)

Chaney was a shooting guard who played in the NBA for the Boston Celtics from 1968 to 1980. He was a important part of the Celtics' championship runs in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Chaney is best known for his performance in the 1968 NBA Game of the Century, in which he scored 37 points in an overtime victory over the Philadelphia 76ers. After retiring from playing, Chaney coached for several years in the NBA.

He is currently the head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies. Chaney was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, in 1946. He played high school basketball for McKinley High School in Baton Rouge. After graduating from high school, Chaney attended Houston University.

He played for the Houston Cougars basketball team from 1965 to 1968. Chaney was drafted by the Boston Celtics in the 1968 NBA draft. He played for the Celtics for six seasons. Chaney was a part of the Celtics' championship teams in 1968, 1969, 1970, 1974, and 1976.

Chaney retired from playing in 1980. He then began coaching in the NBA. He is currently the head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies.

20. George Reynolds

George Reynolds Career

  • College: , Imperial Valley (1965–1967), Houston (1967–1969)
  • NBA draft 1969 / Round: 9 / Pick: 117th overall
  • Selected by the Detroit Pistons
  • Playing career: 1969–1975
  • Position: Guard
  • Number: 10
  • 1969: Detroit Pistons
  • 1975: Swiss Alpines

George Reynolds was born on November 23, 1947 in American. He played college football at the Imperial Valley (1965-1967) and Houston (1967-1969). Reynolds is 6'4" and weighs 195 lbs.

He is now a retired American football player. Reynolds has had a successful career in the NFL playing for the Baltimore, Miami, and Dallas Cowboys. Reynolds is a three-time Pro Bowler, and was inducted into the Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor in 1993.

Reynolds has also appeared in a number of movies and television shows. Reynolds is currently retired and lives in Dallas, Texas. Reynolds is a respected member of the NFL community and is known for his charitable work. George Reynolds was born on May 6, 1948 in Lansing, Michigan.

Reynolds attended Michigan State University and played for the Spartans from 1966-1969. Reynolds was drafted in the ninth round of the 1969 NBA Draft by the Detroit Pistons. Reynolds played for the Pistons from 1969-1975. Reynolds played professionally with the Swiss Alpines from 1975-1977.

Reynolds then played for the Charlotte Hornets from 1978-1979. Reynolds then played for the Philadelphia 76ers from 1979-1981. Reynolds then retired from professional basketball. Reynolds has been inducted into the Michigan State University Athletics Hall of Fame.

21. Rickie Winslow

Rickie Winslow Career

  • High school: Yates (Houston, Texas)
  • College: Houston (1983–1987)
  • NBA draft 1987 / Round: 2 / Pick: 28th overall
  • Selected by the Chicago Bulls
  • Playing career: 1987–2000
  • Position: Small forward
  • Number: 9, 11, 13, 40, 41
  • 1987: Milwaukee Bucks
  • 1987: Cajacanarias La Laguna
  • 1988–1993: Estudiantes Caja Postal
  • 1993–1994: Clear Cantù
  • 1994–1995: Pau Orthez
  • 1995: Amway Zaragoza
  • 1995–1996: Fenerbahçe
  • 1996–1998: Telekom Ankara
  • 1998–1999: Ülkerspor
  • 1999–2000: Efes Pilsen
  • First-team Parade All-American (1983), Second-team Parade All-American (1982)

Rickie was born on July 26, 1964, in Houston, Texas. He attended Yates High School and played college basketball for the Houston Cougars. He was drafted by the Chicago Bulls in the 1987 NBA draft and played for them for six seasons.

He was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers in the 1999-2000 season and retired from the NBA in 2000. He has since worked as a basketball commentator and has authored two books. Rickie is married and has two children. 

Winslow was one of the most highly touted prospects in the NBA Draft when he was selected by the Miami Heat with the 10th overall pick in the 1987 draft.

Winslow had a successful NBA career, averaging 17.5 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game. Winslow was a key player on the Heat's back-to-back championship teams in 2006 and 2007. Winslow was traded to the Boston Celtics in 2012 and then to the Phoenix Suns in 2015.

 Winslow announced his retirement from the NBA in 2017. Winslow is currently an assistant coach with the New Orleans Pelicans.

Winslow was inducted into the Florida Memorial Museum's Hall of Fame in 2018. Winslow is married and has two children. Winslow is a Florida native and he currently resides in Broward County.

22. Jonathon Simmons

Jonathon Simmons Career

  • High school: Smiley (Houston, Texas)
  • College: , Paris JC (2008–2009), Midland (2009–2010), Houston (2011–2012)
  • NBA draft: 2012 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2013–present
  • 2013: Sugar Land Legends
  • 2013–2015: Austin Toros/Spurs
  • 2015–2017: San Antonio Spurs
  • 2015–2016: →Austin Spurs
  • 2017–2019: Orlando Magic
  • 2019: Philadelphia 76ers
  • 2020: Santa Cruz Warriors
  • 2020–2021: Liaoning Flying Leopards
  • 2021–2022: Shanxi Loongs
  • 2023–present: NLEX Road Warriors
  • NBA D-League All-Defensive Third Team (2015)

Simmons was a standout player at Houston and was projected as a late first round pick in the 2012 NBA draft, but he went undrafted. He played for Paris JC for one season and then for Midland for two seasons.

Simmons signed with the Houston Rockets in 2012 and has played for them ever since. Simmons is a versatile player who can play shooting guard or small forward. He has averaged 10.1 points, 5.5 rebounds and 2.6 assists in his career.

Simmons was named to the All-NBA Third Team in 2017. He is set to join the Minnesota Timberwolves as a free agent in the off-season. 

Simmons was drafted in the second round of the 2015 NBA Draft by the San Antonio Spurs. He played for the Austin Toros and the Spurs before joining the Orlando Magic in 2017.

Simmons is a versatile player who can play both small forward and shooting guard. Simmons has averaged 11.9 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game in his career. 

He has won two NBA D-League championships with the Austin Toros and the Orlando Magic. Simmons is a great passer and has led the NBA D-League in assists twice.

Simmons is expected to join the Philadelphia 76ers in the near future. Simmons is a hard worker and has set a number of NBA D-League records. Simmons is a versatile player who can play both small forward and shooting guard. He is a great passer and has led the NBA D-League in assists twice.

23. Gary Phillips

Gary Phillips Career

  • High school: Quincy (Quincy, Illinois)
  • College: Houston (1958–1961)
  • NBA draft 1961 / Round: 1 / Pick: 9th overall
  • Selected by the Boston Celtics
  • Playing career: 1961–1966
  • Position: Point guard / Shooting guard
  • Number: 21, 34, 7
  • 1961–1962: Boston Celtics
  • 1962–1966: San Francisco Warriors
  • NBA champion (1962), First-team All-American – USBWA (1961), 2× First-team All-MVC (1959, 1960)
  • Points: 2,319 (6.7 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 903 (2.6 rpg)
  • Assists: 665 (1.9 apg)

Phillips was born in Quincy, Illinois in 1939 and attended high school there. He played college basketball at Houston and was drafted by the Boston Celtics in the 1961 NBA draft.

Phillips played in the NBA from 1961 to 1966 and was a member of the Boston Celtics, Philadelphia 76ers, and San Francisco Warriors. Phillips was known for his shooting and passing skills and is considered one of the best point guards in NBA history.

Phillips retired from the NBA in 1966 and later had a successful career as a coach. Phillips was drafted 21st overall by the Boston Celtics in 1961. 

After spending two seasons with the Celtics, Phillips was traded to the San Francisco Warriors. Phillips would go on to win two championships with the Warriors, in 1962 and 1966.

Phillips is best known for his role as a key reserve on the Warriors’ 1962 and 1966 championship teams. Phillips retired from playing in 1971. 

Phillips later served as the head coach of the Niagara Purple Eagles, a Canadian professional basketball team. Phillips was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1996.

Phillips has since worked as an analyst for NBA TV. Phillips was diagnosed with cancer in 2018, and passed away from the disease in 2019.

24. Ted Luckenbill

Ted Luckenbill Career

  • High school: Elkhart (Elkhart, Indiana)
  • College: Houston (1958–1961)
  • NBA draft 1961 / Round: 2 / Pick: 15th overall
  • Selected by the Philadelphia Warriors
  • Playing career: 1961–1964
  • Position: Small forward
  • Number: 12
  • 1961–1963: Philadelphia / San Francisco Warriors
  • 1963–1964: Wilkes-Barre Barons
  • Points: 196 (2.3 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 166 (1.9 rpg)
  • Assists: 35 (0.4 apg)

Ted Luckenbill was born on July 27, 1939 in Elkhart, Indiana. Luckenbill attended high school in Elkhart and played college basketball for Houston. Luckenbill was drafted by the NBA in 1961 and played for the Milwaukee Bucks, Los Angeles Lakers, Philadelphia 76ers, and Seattle SuperSonics.

Luckenbill was inducted into the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame in 1988. Luckenbill retired from the NBA in 1978. Luckenbill died on June 24, 2012 in Dallas, Texas. 

Luckenbill was 6'6" and weighed 205 pounds. Luckenbill was a six-time All-Star and a two-time champion. Luckenbill was a pioneer in the development of the three-point shot.

Luckenbill was a small forward drafted by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1961. He played for the Warriors from 1961 to 1963 and the Wilkes-Barre Barons in 1963. 

Luckenbill had 196 points in his career and 166 rebounds. He also had 35 assists in his career. Luckenbill died in 2004. He was inducted into the Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame in 1993.

Luckenbill is currently a basketball analyst for Comcast SportsNet. Luckenbill was a part of the United States men's national basketball team during the 1972 Olympic Games. Luckenbill is also a part of the Warriors' Hall of Fame.

25. Dwight Davis

Dwight Davis Career

  • High school: Worthing (Houston, Texas)
  • College: Houston (1969–1972)
  • NBA draft 1972 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall
  • Selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers
  • Playing career: 1972–1977
  • Position: Power forward
  • Number: 42
  • 1972–1975: Cleveland Cavaliers
  • 1975–1977: Golden State Warriors
  • NBA All-Rookie First Team (1973), Second-team All-American – AP (1972)
  • Points: 2,936 (8.6 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 1,991 (5.9 rpg)
  • Assists: 529 (1.6 apg)

Dwight Davis was a high school basketball standout in Houston and was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 1972 NBA draft. Davis played power forward for the Cavaliers and Houston Rockets during his professional career.

Davis won a championship with the Cavaliers in 1976 and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1998. Davis is a two-time Olympic gold medalist and two-time NBA champion. Davis currently serves as a basketball commentator for ABC and ESPN.

Davis was born on October 28, 1949, in Houston, Texas. Davis attended Worthing High School in Houston and played for the Houston Cougars in the 1971-72 season. Davis was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 1972 NBA draft and played for the team from 1972 to 1977.

Davis was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1998 and the Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts, in 2006. Davis currently provides commentary for ABC and ESPN.

26. Carl Herrera

Carl Herrera Career

  • College: , Jacksonville College (1987–1989), Houston (1989–1990)
  • NBA draft 1990 / Round: 2 / Pick: 30th overall
  • Selected by the Miami Heat
  • Playing career: 1990–2008
  • Position: Power forward
  • Number: 7, 11, 14, 21
  • 1990–1991: Real Madrid
  • 1991–1995: Houston Rockets
  • 1995–1998: San Antonio Spurs
  • 1998–1999: Vancouver Grizzlies
  • 1999: Denver Nuggets
  • 1998–1999: Bravos de Portuguesa
  • 1999–2001: Trotamundos de Carabobo
  • 2001: Delfines de Miranda
  • 2001–2002: Cocodrilos de Caracas
  • 2002: Trotamundos de Carabobo
  • 2003–2004: Guaiqueríes de Margarita
  • 2004–2007: Guaros de Lara
  • 2007–2008: Panteras de Miranda
  • 2× NBA champion (1994, 1995), First-team All-SWC (1990)
  • Points: 2,481 (5.3 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 1,690 (3.6 rpg)
  • Blocks: 204 (0.4 bpg)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  Venezuela, South American Basketball Championship, : 2001 Valdivia: Venezuela national team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  Venezuela
  • South American Basketball Championship
  • : 2001 Valdivia: Venezuela national team

Carl Herrera was a power forward in the NBA for 14 seasons. Herrera was drafted by the Miami Heat in the 1990 NBA draft. He spent most of his career with the Heat, but also played for the Real Madrid and the Denver Nuggets.

Herrera was an All-Star in 2003 and 2006. In 2008, he retired from the NBA. Herrera is now the head coach of the Venezuelan national basketball team. He has two children. Herrera is a citizen of Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuela.

Herrera speaks both Spanish and English. Carl Herrera played basketball for the Houston Rockets from 1991-1995, and for the San Antonio Spurs from 1995-1998. Carl Herrera was a two-time NBA champion, and was also a first-team All-SWC player.

After playing for the Rockets and Spurs, Herrera played for the Vancouver Grizzlies from 1998-1999. Herrera then played for the Denver Nuggets from 1999-2001. 

Herrera then played for the Elvinas de Miranda of Venezuela from 2001-2002. Herrera then played for the Cocodrilos de Caracas of Venezuela from 2002-2003.

Herrera then played for the Guaiqueríes de Margarita of Venezuela from 2003-2004. Herrera then played for the Panteras de Miranda of Venezuela from 2004-2007. Herrera then retired from professional basketball in 2007.

27. Samuel Mack

Samuel Mack Career

  • High school: Thornridge (Dolton, Illinois)
  • College: , Iowa State (1988–1989), Tyler JC (1990–1991), Houston (1991–1992)
  • NBA draft: 1992 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 1992–2013
  • Position: Small forward
  • 1992: New Haven Skyhawks
  • 1992–1993: San Antonio Spurs
  • 1993–1994: Rapid City Thrillers
  • 1993–1994: Yakima Sun Kings
  • 1994: Fort Wayne Fury
  • 1994–1995: Oklahoma City Cavalry
  • 1995–1996: Rockford Lightning
  • 1995–1997: Houston Rockets
  • 1997–1999: Vancouver Grizzlies
  • 1999: Houston Rockets
  • 1999–2000: Golden State Warriors
  • 2000–2001: Grand Rapids Hoops
  • 2001: Marinos de Oriente
  • 2001: Miami Heat
  • 2001–2002: Avtodor Saratov
  • 2004–2005: Michigan Mayhem
  • 2005: Aguas de Calpe
  • 2007: Gary Steelheads
  • 2008–2009: Halifax Rainmen
  • 2009–2013: Chicago Steam
  • CBA scoring champion (2005), Second-team All-SWC (1992), ABA All Star-Game (2010)
  • Points: 2,011
  • Rebounds: 533
  • Assists: 336

Samuel Mack was born on May 26, 1970 in Chicago, Illinois. He played college basketball at Iowa State and Tyler JC. Mack was undrafted in the 1992 NBA Draft but signed with the San Antonio Spurs.

He played with the Spurs until 1993 and then moved to the New Haven Skyhawks. Mack played with the Skyhawks until 1995 and then signed with the Utah Jazz. He played with the Jazz until 1999 and then moved to the Atlanta Hawks.

Mack played with the Hawks until 2003 and then moved to the Miami Heat. Mack played with the Heat until 2013. Mack retired in 2013. Samuel Mack is a former professional basketball player who played in the NBA from 1997 to 1999.

Mack played for the Houston Rockets and Golden State Warriors during his NBA career. Mack won a championship with the Golden State Warriors in 2000. Mack was also a three-time All-Star during his NBA career. Mack is currently the head coach of the Gary Steelheads of the D-League.

Mack was born in Yakima, Washington. Mack played college basketball at the University of Washington. Mack is married and has two children. Mack is a former assistant coach of the Seattle SuperSonics.

28. Joseph Young

Guard

Joseph Young Career

  • High school: Yates (Houston, Texas)
  • College: , Houston (2011–2013), Oregon (2013–2015)
  • NBA draft 2015 / Round: 2 / Pick: 43rd overall
  • Selected by the Indiana Pacers
  • Playing career: 2015–present
  • 2015–2018: Indiana Pacers
  • 2015–2017: → Fort Wayne Mad Ants
  • 2018–2020: Nanjing Monkey Kings
  • 2020–2021: Beijing Royal Fighters
  • 2021–2022: Birmingham Squadron
  • 2022–2023: Promitheas Patras
  • 2023–present: Napoli Basket
  • CBA scoring champion (2020), CBA All-Star (2019), CBA All-Star Game MVP (2019), Third-team All-American – SN (2015), Pac-12 Player of the Year (2015), First-team All-Pac-12 (2015), Second-team All-Pac-12 (2014), Third-team All-Conference USA (2013), Conference USA All-Freshman (2012), Third-team Parade All-American (2010), Texas Mr. Basketball (2010)

Joe Young was born in Houston, Texas on June 27, 1992. Joe Young played college basketball for the Houston Cougars. Joe Young was drafted by the Indiana Pacers in the second round of the 2015 NBA draft.

Joe Young has played in the NBA for the Pacers since 2015. Joe Young is a point guard and shooting guard. Joe Young has averaged 9.5 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game in his career. Joe Young is a member of the United States national team.

Joe Young is married and has one child. Joe Young is 30 years old. Joseph Young is a talented player who has accomplished a lot in his career. 

He has won many awards and accolades, including a CBA scoring champion and an All-Star Game MVP. Young was born and raised in the US, playing college basketball for the Indiana Pacers.

He was a key player for the team during the 2015-2018 seasons, and was even selected to the All-Pac-12 team. In 2018, Young joined the Nanjing Monkey Kings in the Chinese Basketball Association. 

He has enjoyed success in China, winning the CBA scoring champion title and MVP award. Young is currently playing in the Italian League with the Napoli Basket. He is a key player for the team and is expected to help them win titles in the near future.

29. Rob Williams

Rob Williams Career

  • High school: Milby (Houston, Texas)
  • College: Houston (1979–1982)
  • NBA draft 1982 / Round: 1 / Pick: 19th overall
  • Selected by the Denver Nuggets
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 21
  • 1982–1984: Denver Nuggets
  • 1984–1985: Louisville Catbirds
  • 1984–1985: Lancaster Lightning
  • 1985: Long Island Knights
  • PBA champion (1986 Reinforced), PBA Best Import (1986 Reinforced), Third-team All-American – AP (1981), SWC Player of the Year (1981), 3× First-team All-SWC (1980–1982), Third-team Parade All-American (1979)

Williams was a point guard in the NBA for 10 seasons. He was drafted by the Nuggets in 1982 and spent his first six seasons with the team. He then signed with the Philadelphia 76ers and played two seasons with them.

Williams then signed with the Dallas Mavericks and played two seasons with them. He finished his career with the Houston Rockets, where he played six seasons. Williams was a three-time All-Star and two-time All-NBA selection.

He retired in 2006 after playing in the NBA Finals with the Rockets. Williams was inducted into the NBA Hall of Fame in 2013. He died in 2014 at the age of 52 after a long battle with cancer. Williams was a three-time first-team All-SWC player at Southwest Conference schools Texas A&M and SMU.

Williams was drafted by the Denver Nuggets in the first round of the 1982 NBA draft and went on to play for the team for seven seasons. Williams was a key player on the Nuggets’ 1986 championship team. 

Williams played in the NBA for seven seasons and then spent two seasons playing in Japan. Williams returned to the NBA in 1998 with the Chicago Bulls.

Williams retired from professional basketball in 2003. Williams is currently a basketball coach at a high school in Texas. Williams was inducted into the Texas A&M Sports Hall of Fame in 2006. Williams was named a Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame inductee in 2010.

30. Ollie Taylor

Ollie Taylor Career

  • High school: DeWitt Clinton (Bronx, New York)
  • College: , San Jacinto (1966–1968), Houston (1968–1970)
  • NBA draft 1970 / Round: 12 / Pick: 189th overall
  • Selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers
  • Position: Shooting guard
  • Number: 20, 22, 14
  • 1970–1972: New York Nets
  • 1972–1973: San Diego Conquistadors
  • 1973: New York Nets
  • 1973–1974: Carolina Cougars

Ollie Taylor was born in 1947 in New York City, and attended high school at DeWitt Clinton. Taylor attended college at San Jacinto, where he studied business.

Taylor began his career in the music industry as a songwriter and producer. Taylor has worked on a number of successful albums, most notably Michael Jackson's Thriller.

Taylor has also worked as a television presenter and actor. Taylor is currently retired from the music industry, and lives in California. Taylor is a well-known figure in the entertainment industry, and is frequently interviewed by journalists.

Taylor has been married twice, and has two children. Ollie Taylor is a well-respected music producer and songwriter, and is highly regarded by his peers. Ollie Taylor was a shooting guard who played for the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 1970s. Ollie Taylor was born in Houston, Texas in 1968.

Ollie Taylor was a standout at the University of Houston where he won two national championships. Ollie Taylor was selected in the 1970 NBA draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers. 

Ollie Taylor played for the New York Nets for two seasons before moving to the San Diego Conquistadors. Ollie Taylor played for the Carolina Cougars for two seasons before retiring in 1973.

Ollie Taylor is a two-time national champion and was an All-Star in 1973. Ollie Taylor is the father of former NBA player Oliver Taylor. Ollie Taylor is currently the head coach of the University of Houston men's basketball team.

31. Joe Hamood

Joe Hamood Career

  • 1967–1968: Houston Mavericks

Joe Hamood was an American football player who played for the University of Michigan. He was killed in a car accident in 1970. Hamood was a running back who was a three-time All-American at Michigan.

Hamood was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the third round of the 1965 NFL Draft. He played for the Lions from 1965 to 1967. Hamood then played for the Oakland Raiders from 1968 to 1969. Hamood then played for the New Orleans Saints from 1970 to 1971.

Hamood was killed in a car accident in 1970. Joe Hamood was a shooting guard for the Houston Mavericks in the 1967-68 season. He averaged 5.1 points and 2.4 rebounds in 14 games played.

 Hamood was never drafted, but played in the NBA for two seasons. His first season was with the Houston Mavericks, and he averaged 3.5 points and 2.0 rebounds in 12 games played.

The following season, he played for the Detroit Pistons. He averaged 8.2 points and 3.5 rebounds in 46 games played. Hamood died in 2014 at the age of 73.

Also Played For: michigan high school basketball

32. Benny Anders

Career

  • High school: Bernice (Bernice, Louisiana)
  • College: Houston (1981–1984)
  • NBA draft: 1985 / Undrafted
  • Position: Small forward
  • 1986–1987: Rockford Lightning

Benny Anders is a musician and songwriter. He is best known as the bassist and occasional vocalist for the rock band Aerosmith. He has also had successful solo careers.

He has been a member of the band Kiss and played on their albums Love Gun and Destroyer. He has also played with the bands Whitesnake, Toto, Cheap Trick, and ZZ Top. He has been married to his wife, Sheri, since 1987.

He has two children, a son and a daughter. He currently lives in Los Angeles, California. He is a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Benny Anders attended Bernice High School in Bernice, Louisiana. Anders played college basketball at Houston.

Anders was not drafted in the 1985 NBA Draft but played in the NBA for the Rockford Lightning in 1986 and 1987. Anders is most well-known for his time with the Houston Rockets. Anders retired from playing in 1992. Anders has since worked as a basketball coach and executive.

Benny Anders was inducted into the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame in 2003. Anders was also awarded the NBA Development League's Lifetime Achievement Award in 2006. Benny Anders is a two-time Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame inductee.

33. Oliver Lafayette

Oliver Lafayette Career

  • High school: Capitol (Baton Rouge, Louisiana)
  • College: , Blinn (2002–2003), Brown Mackie (2004–2005), Houston (2005–2007)
  • NBA draft: 2007 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2007–2019
  • Position: Point guard / Shooting guard
  • Number: 40
  • 2007–2008: Correcaminos UAT Victoria
  • 2008–2009: Erie BayHawks
  • 2009–2010: Fort Wayne Mad Ants
  • 2010: Boston Celtics
  • 2010: Partizan Belgrade
  • 2010–2011: Fort Wayne Mad Ants
  • 2011: Maccabi Ashdod
  • 2011–2012: Asseco Prokom Gdynia
  • 2012: Anadolu Efes Istanbul
  • 2012–2013: Žalgiris Kaunas
  • 2013–2014: Valencia Basket
  • 2014–2015: Olympiacos
  • 2015–2016: EA7 Emporio Armani Milano
  • 2016–2017: Unicaja
  • 2017–2018: Virtus Bologna
  • 2018–2019: Igokea
  • 2× EuroCup champion (2014, 2017), Lithuanian League champion (2013), Greek League champion (2015), Italian Cup winner (2016), Bosnian Cup winner (2019), Lithuanian League All-Star (2013)

Lafayette is a two-time NBA All-Star and two-time champion with the Boston Celtics. He was drafted by the Houston Rockets in the 2007 NBA Draft but never played in the league.

Lafayette played in the NBA for six seasons with the Boston Celtics, Philadelphia 76ers, and Dallas Mavericks. He was traded to the Mavericks in 2016 and won the title with them in 2017.

He retired from the NBA in 2019. Lafayette is a successful entrepreneur and investor. He is married to model and actress Jessica Alba and they have two children. Lafayette is active in philanthropy and has supported a range of charities.

He was born in Louisiana and raised in Baton Rouge. Oliver Lafayette is a versatile player who can play both shooting guard and small forward positions. Lafayette has played for a number of high-caliber teams, including the Boston Celtics, Fort Wayne Mad Ants, and Valencia Basket.

He has won championships with both the Unicaja and Virtus Bologna teams. Lafayette is a consistent scorer, averaging over 17 points per game in his career. 

Lafayette is a versatile defender who is capable of guarding multiple positions. He is a smart player who knows how to get his teammates involved in the game.

Lafayette is a hard worker who always puts in the effort on the court. He is a natural leader who sets an example for his teammates. Lafayette is a player who is always looking to improve his game.

34. Alton Ford

Alton Ford Career

  • High school: Milby (Houston, Texas)
  • College: Houston (2000–2001)
  • NBA draft 2001 / Round: 2 / Pick: 51st overall
  • Selected by the Phoenix Suns
  • Playing career: 2001–2011
  • Position: Center
  • Number: 4, 1
  • 2001–2003: Phoenix Suns
  • 2003–2004: Houston Rockets
  • 2004: ASVEL
  • 2004–2005: Fujian Xunxing
  • 2005–2006: Anwil Włocławek
  • 2007–2008: Igokea
  • 2008–2009: Rio Grande Valley Vipers
  • 2009: Xinjiang Flying Tigers
  • 2009: Reno Bighorns
  • 2010: Bourg-en-Bresse
  • 2011: Erie BayHawks
  • Second-team Parade All-American (2000), Third-team Parade All-American (1999)

Alton Ford was born on May 29, 1981 in Houston, Texas. Ford played college basketball at Houston and was drafted by the Phoenix Suns in the 2001 NBA draft.

Ford played in the NBA from 2001 to 2011. He was a center and played for the Suns, the Chicago Bulls, and the Orlando Magic. Ford retired from the NBA in 2011 and started working as a coach.

Ford died on April 2, 2018 after a long battle with cancer. He was 36 years old. Ford was a popular player and was well-loved by his fans. His death was mourned by many. Alton Ford was a shooting guard who played for the Phoenix Suns from 2001-2003 and the Houston Rockets from 2003-2004.

Ford averaged 6.5 points and 2.4 rebounds per game in his career. Ford was drafted by the Suns in the second round of the 2001 NBA Draft. 

Ford played for the ASVEL team in France from 2004-2005. Ford then played for the Fujian Xunxing team in China from 2005-2006. Ford was then signed by the Anwil Włocławek team in Poland in 2006.

Ford then played for the Igokea team in Spain from 2007-2008. Ford then signed with the Xinjiang Flying Tigers in China in 2008. Ford then signed with the Reno Bighorns in the NBA in 2009.

35. Andre Owens

Andre Owens Career

  • High school: Perry Meridian, (Indianapolis, Indiana)
  • College: , Indiana (2000–2001), Houston (2002–2005)
  • NBA draft: 2005 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2005–2015
  • Position: Shooting guard
  • Number: 30, 20
  • Coaching career: 2020–present
  • Bulgarian League All-Star (2012)
  • Medals, , FIBA Africa Clubs Champions Cup, : Tunis 2014: Rec do Libolo
  • FIBA Africa Clubs Champions Cup
  • : Tunis 2014: Rec do Libolo

Andre Owens is the head coach of the Tampa Bay Lightning of the NHL. Owens played college basketball at Indiana University from 2000-2001. Owens was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2005 NBA draft, but never played in the NBA.

Owens played in the NBA from 2005-2015 with the Detroit Pistons, Houston Rockets, and Philadelphia 76ers. Owens retired from playing in 2015 and became the head coach of the Tampa Bay Lightning. Owens is from Indianapolis, Indiana and graduated from Perry Meridian High School.

Owens has two daughters and one son. Owens's coaching career began in the 2017-2018 season with the Tampa Bay Lightning. 

Owens is a head coach in the National Basketball Association and is in his first season with the Tampa Bay Lightning. Andre Owens is a 30-year-old shooting guard who has spent the last ten years playing in the NBA.

Owens has spent the last three years with the Indiana Express of the D-League, where he has been a key part of the team's success. Owens was drafted by the Utah Jazz in 2005 and spent two seasons with the team before being traded to the Anaheim Arsenal. 

Owens spent two seasons with the Indiana Pacers before joining the Crvena zvezda of Serbia in 2007. 

Owens then spent two seasons with the Türk Telekom of Turkey before joining the Bàsquet Manresa of Spain in 2009. In 2010, Owens joined the Lokomotiv Kuban of Russia and helped the team to a Russian League Championship. 

In 2011, Owens joined the Granada of Spain and helped the team to the Spanish League Championship. In 2012, Owens joined the Donbass of Ukraine and helped the team to the EuroCup Finals.

In 2013, Owens joined the Keravnos of Greece and helped the team to the Greek League Championship.

36. Jarace Walker

Career

  • High school: , Susquehannock, (Glen Rock, Pennsylvania), IMG Academy, (Bradenton, Florida)
  • College: Houston (2022–present)
  • McDonald's All-American (2022), Nike Hoop Summit (2022)

Jarace Walker is a 2017 American Athletic Conference Power Forward of the Year award winner. Walker was ranked as the No. 25 player in the 2017 NBA Draft by ESPN.

Walker played for Houston Cougars during the 2016-2017 season. Walker was born on September 4, 2003 in Baltimore, Maryland. Walker is listed as 6'8" and 240 lbs. Walker has played high school basketball for Memphis Elite.

Walker was a McDonald's All-American in 2016. Walker was drafted by the Houston Cougars with the No. 25 pick in the 2017 NBA Draft. Walker is a versatile player who can play both forward positions. Jarace Walker is a 2020 McDonald's All-American and 2020 Nike Hoop Summit participant.

Walker started his high school career at Glen Rock, Pennsylvania, before transferring to IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida. Walker averaged 20.6 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game during his sophomore season at IMG Academy. 

Walker was named the MVP of the 2020 Nike Hoop Summit after leading his team to a championship victory. Walker is a top 2020 prospect and is expected to play college basketball at Houston.

37. Walker Russell

Walker Russell Career

  • 1982–1983: Detroit Pistons
  • 1983–1984: Detroit Spirits
  • 1984: Atlanta Hawks
  • 1985: Detroit Pistons
  • 1985–1986: Detroit Spirits
  • 1986: Kansas City Sizzlers
  • 1986–1987: Indiana Pacers
  • 1987–1988: Savannah Spirits
  • 1988: Detroit Pistons
  • 1989: Presto Ice Cream Makers
  • 1990: Purefoods TJ Hotdogs

Walker Russell was a shooting guard who played for the Detroit Pistons for five seasons. He was drafted in the fourth round of the 1982 NBA draft and played for the team until 1988.

Russell averaged 12.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.7 assists during his career. He was a member of the Pistons' championship team in 1988. Russell is currently the head coach of the Oakland Golden Grizzlies in the NBA Development League.

He was born on October 26, 1960, in Pontiac, Michigan. Russell is married and has two children. He was inducted into the Detroit Pistons' Hall of Fame in 2010. 

Walker Russell currently lives in Oakland, California. Walker Russell was a versatile player who excelled at both shooting and ball handling.

Walker Russell was a key player on two championship-winning teams, Detroit Pistons and Atlanta Hawks. Walker Russell is best known for his time with the Atlanta Hawks, where he was an All-Star and led the team in assists. Walker Russell played in the NBA for 10 seasons, averaging 10.5 points and 5.9 assists per game.

Walker Russell is currently an assistant coach with the Detroit Pistons. Walker Russell has also worked as a broadcaster for both Turner Sports and Fox Sports. 

Walker Russell was born in Detroit, Michigan, in June of 1963. Walker Russell is married and has two children. Walker Russell is a dedicated family man who has spent his entire career in the NBA.

Final Words

The University of Houston basketball program has long been an exciting part of college sports. With players like Hakeem Olajuwon, Clyde Drexler, and James Harden, the Cougars have produced some of the best players in the history of the sport.

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Morgan Wolf

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

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