University of Massachusetts Amherst Best Players of All Time

Morgan Wolf

Located in the beautiful town of Amherst, Massachusetts, the University of Massachusetts Amherst is a public research university and the flagship campus of the University of Massachusetts system. Established in 1863, UMass Amherst has a long history of providing students with exceptional educational experiences and opportunities.

With its excellent academic reputation, diverse student body, strong research focus, and robust student activities, UMass Amherst is an ideal place for students to pursue their educational dreams.

Table of Contents

1. Greg Landry

Quarterback

Career

  • Detroit Lions (1968–1978)
  • Baltimore Colts (1979–1981)
  • Chicago Blitz (1983)
  • Arizona Wranglers (1984)
  • Chicago Bears (1984)

Greg Landry is a former quarterback who played in the NFL for over 20 years. He was drafted by the Detroit Lions in 1968, and spent time with them before moving to Baltimore Colts and then Chicago Blitz.

He ended his career with the Chicago Bears. Greg Landry has been involved in coaching throughout his career, most recently serving as quarterbacks coach for Arizona Wranglers from 1984 to the 1985 season. 

Landry was a standout quarterback at the University of Illinois where he led his team to back-to-back conference championships.

He was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the fifth round of the 1985 NFL Draft and spent four seasons with them, winning three Pro Bowls. Landry signed with the Chicago Bears in 1988 and helped them win two more Super Bowl titles during his tenure there. 

After retiring from football, Landry went on to work as an offensive coordinator for several teams including the Detroit Lions and Illinois Fighting Illini before joining ESPN as their lead college football analyst in 2014.

Also Played For: detroit lions

2. Victor Cruz

Wide receiver

Victor Cruz Career

  • Super Bowl champion (XLVI)
  • Second-team All-Pro (2011)
  • Pro Bowl (2012)
  • 2× First-team All-CAA (2008, 2009)

Victor Cruz was drafted by the Giants in 2010 and quickly became a fan favorite. In his six seasons with the Giants, Cruz recorded over 1,000 receiving yards three times and caught at least one touchdown in all but two of them.

After being traded to Chicago midway through the 2017 season, Cruz made an immediate impact catching 11 touchdowns in 13 games for the Bears. Victor Cruz is known for his large catch radius which has helped him make some spectacular catches throughout his career.

With age now starting to catch up with him, Victor Cruz will be looking to continue playing professional football in future years Victor Cruz is a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time First-team All-CAA player. 

He was the Super Bowl champion with the New York Giants in 2012, and he also played for the Dallas Cowboys during his time in the NFL.

Victor Cruz has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including being named Second-team All-Pro in 2011 and making it to both the Pro Bowl (2012) and NFL record books as the longest receiving touchdown of 99 yards (tied).

Also Played For: new york giants

3. Marcus Camby

Power forward

Marcus Camby Career

  • NBA Defensive Player of the Year (2007)
  • 2× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2007, 2008)
  • 2× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2005, 2006)
  • 4× NBA blocks leader (1998, 2006–2008)
  • NBA All-Rookie First Team (1997)
  • National college player of the year (1996)
  • Consensus first-team All-American (1996)
  • Atlantic 10 Player of the Year (1996)
  • No. 21 retired by UMass Minutemen
  • Fourth-team Parade All-American (1993)

Marcus Camby is a 48-year-old American center who spent 19 seasons in the NBA. He was drafted by the Toronto Raptors with the second overall pick in 1996 and played for them until 2013.

Marcus is best known for his defensive abilities, as he was named to six All-Star teams and won three Defensive Player of The Year Awards during his career. 

In 2013, he retired from professional basketball after playing for Houston Rockets that season but has since returned to play amateur basketball in Europe Camby was a dominant player in the NBA for many years, and he is still considered one of the best center defenders ever.

Camby was selected to several All-Star teams and won multiple awards during his career. He played with some of the biggest names in basketball, including Michael Jordan, Carmelo Anthony, LeBron James and Dwyane Wade. 

Camby will be remembered most fondly by Knicks fans for his time spent with them between 2008 and 2010.

Also Played For: new york knicks, toronto raptors

4. Cale Makar

Colorado Avalanche

Cale Makar Career

  • NHL team: Colorado Avalanche
  • NHL Draft: 4th overall, 2017
  • Colorado Avalanche

Makar was drafted in the first round, 16th overall by the Colorado Avalanche in the 2018 NHL Entry Draft. 

Makar previously played for the Edmonton Oil Kings of the WHL and recorded 191 goals and 548 points over four seasons with them.

In his rookie season with the Avalanche, he led all rookies in scoring with 31 points (10G-21A) and finished second on the team in plus/minus (+16). 

The following year he improved upon his point total to 37 (11G-26A) but saw his plus/minus dip slightly to +13 due to injury problems late in the season which limited him to 53 games played.

In 2019-20, Makar continued where he left off from last year recording 36 points (14G-24A) while being named an alternate captain by head coach Jared Bednar at age 20 years old - a record for the youngest player ever elected as captain of an NHL franchise. 

As one of only two players under 25 years old who have scored more than 100 goals during their professional careers, Makar is widely considered one of hockey's brightest young stars and is expected to continue producing at a high level well into his 30s Makar was drafted 4th overall by the Colorado Avalanche in the 2017 NHL Draft.

He has spent most of his career with the Avalanche, appearing in over 100 games and scoring 22 goals and 53 assists. Makar is a right-shooting defenceman who is known as a physical player on the ice. 

He announced his retirement from hockey at the age of 20 after suffering a torn ACL during a playoff game against Minnesota Wild. 

Makar remains active off the ice, working to promote awareness of mental health issues among athletes through his charity Cale’s Challenge Foundation.

Also Played For: stanley cup, 2020–21 nhl season

5. Mike Flanagan

Pitcher

Mike Flanagan Career

  • All-Star (1978), World Series champion (1983), AL Cy Young Award (1979), MLB wins leader (1979), Pitched a combined no-hitter on July 13, 1991, Baltimore Orioles Hall of Fame

Flanagan was a pitcher who played in the majors from 1975 to 1992. He had an impressive career, winning 178 games and earning 12 Gold Gloves. 

Flanagan's death at 59 is still being investigated as of this writing; however, it is believed that he died from natural causes.

Flanagan was known for his control and strong pitching skills, which helped him win many games over the course of his career.

 Flanagan was an all-star pitcher in his day and led the Orioles to a World Series championship in 1983. He also won several awards, including an AL Cy Young Award, during his career.

After retiring as a player, Flanagan went on to manage various teams before being inducted into the Baltimore Orioles Hall of Fame in 2013.

Also Played For: baltimore orioles

6. Julius Erving

Julius Erving Career

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Played For: brooklyn nets, big 3

7. Milt Morin

Career

  • High school: St. Bernard's Central Catholic, (Fitchburg, Massachusetts)
  • College: UMass (1963–1965)
  • NFL Draft: 1966 / Round: 1 / Pick: 14
  • AFL Draft: 1966 / Round: 3 / Pick: 24
  • Cleveland Browns (1966–1975)
  • 2× Pro Bowl (1968, 1971), Cleveland Browns Legends, First-team Little All-American (1964)
  • Receptions: 271, Receiving yards: 4,208, Receiving touchdowns: 16
  • Receptions: 271
  • Receiving yards: 4,208
  • Receiving touchdowns: 16
  • College Football Hall of Fame

Morin was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 1966, but never played a down in the NFL. He spent four seasons with the AFL's Boston Patriots before retiring at age 30.

Morin is best known for his time with the Montreal Alouettes of Canada's National Football League (NFL). Morin finished his career with 1,018 receptions for 10,833 yards and 74 touchdowns - all CFL records at the time of their retirement in 1984.

After hanging up his cleats, he became an accomplished broadcaster and commentator on Canadian football broadcasts until his death from lung cancer in 2010 at 67 years old Milt Morin was a prolific receiver in the late 1960s and early 1970s at the University of Notre Dame.

He was selected by the Cleveland Browns with the eighth overall pick in the 1966 NFL Draft, becoming one of their most important players over that three-year span. In 1968 and 1971, he earned First Team All-Pro honors while also leading his team to back-to-back AFC Championships.

After playing his final season with Cleveland in 1975, Morin went on to have an illustrious career as a head coach, serving stints with both Ohio State and Illinois before retiring after 26 seasons at Northwestern in 2008.

8. Jeff Reardon

Jeff Reardon Career

  • 4× All-Star (1985, 1986, 1988, 1991), World Series champion (1987), NL Rolaids Relief Man Award (1985), NL saves leader (1985)

Jeff Reardon was a successful pitcher in the Major Leagues for over 20 years. He won 73 games and lost 77, but had an earned run average of 3.16 which shows that he wasn't always consistent.

Jeff Reardon is best known for his time with the New York Yankees where he helped lead them to four World Series titles (1981-84). After leaving the Yankees, Jeff Reardon played two seasons with the Mets before retiring at age 36.

In 1994, Jeff Reardon returned to baseball as a coach with the Pittsburgh Pirates organization. Since retirement from professional baseball, Jeff Reardon has remained active in coaching and working in business ventures outside of baseball .

A relief pitcher for most of his career, Reardon was known as one of the best in baseball. He won four All-Star games and two World Series titles during his time with the New York Yankees. After playing for five teams over a 19-year career, he retired in 1994.

Also Played For: montreal expos, cape cod baseball league

9. Jeremy Cain

Jacksonville Jaguars

Jeremy Cain Career

  • High school: St. Thomas Aquinas, (Fort Lauderdale, Florida)
  • College: Massachusetts
  • Undrafted: 2004
  • Chicago Bears (2004–2005), Amsterdam Admirals (2006), Philadelphia Eagles (2007)*, Tennessee Titans (2007), Washington Redskins (2009)*, Jacksonville Jaguars (2009–2012), Chicago Bears (2013), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2014)*, Chicago Bears (2014)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Games played: 99, Tackles: 56, Fumble recoveries: 0
  • Games played: 99
  • Tackles: 56
  • Fumble recoveries: 0

Jeremy Cain was originally drafted by the Chicago Bears in the 2004 NFL Draft but did not sign with the team. He then played for the Bears' rivals, the Green Bay Packers, in 2005.

In 2006, Cain signed with the Minnesota Vikings and played there until 2009. He then played for the Oakland Raiders from 2009 to 2011 and then signed with the Bears in 2012. Cain has played in 98 NFL games and has registered 114 tackles, five sacks, and one interception.

He has also been a long snapper for the Bears since 2012. Cain is a two-time Pro Bowler and has been a part of two Super Bowl teams, in 2006 and 2012. He was also an All-Pro in 2006. 

Cain is married and has two children. Jeremy Cain is a versatile player who has played linebacker, cornerback, and safety in the NFL.

Cain has 56 tackles and 0 fumble recoveries in 99 career NFL games. The Amsterdam Admirals selected Cain in the seventh round of the 2006 NFL draft. 

Cain played for the Philadelphia Eagles (2007), Tennessee Titans (2007), Washington Redskins (2009), and Jacksonville Jaguars (2009-2012). Cain was signed by the Chicago Bears in 2013.

Cain has started 14 of the 66 games he has played in the NFL. Cain was released by the Chicago Bears in August of 2014. Cain signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in October of 2014. 

Cain has not yet played in a game for the Buccaneers. Cain is a versatile player who can play linebacker, cornerback, and safety, and has experience playing in both the NFC and the AFC.

Cain has been a reliable player for his teams, and is a good addition to any team. Cain is a hard worker, and has a good attitude on and off the field. 

Cain is a physical player, and has the ability to play in all three phases of the game. Cain is a smart player, and has good instincts. Cain is a leader on and off the field, and is a good example for other players.

Also Played For: 2005 chicago bears season

10. Gary DiSarcina

Gary DiSarcina Career

  • All-Star (1995)

Gary DiSarcina played shortstop and bench coach for the Washington Nationals from 2000-2002. DiSarcina was born in Malden, Massachusetts in 1967. He made his MLB debut with the California Angels in 1989 and last played with the Anaheim Angels in 2000.

DiSarcina had a .267 batting average with 63 RBI in 672 MLB games. DiSarcina is currently the hitting coach for the Single-A Hagerstown Suns. He has also coached for the Tampa Bay Rays and the Mets. DiSarcina is a graduate of Northeastern University. He and his wife, Lori, have two children.

DiSarcina played nine seasons with the California Angels, culminating in a 1995 All-Star appearance. DiSarcina batted .258 with 28 home runs and 355 RBIs in his career. 

After retiring as a player, DiSarcina became a coach with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. In 2018, DiSarcina was hired as the new hitting coach for the Boston Red Sox.

He has also served as the hitting coach for the New York Mets and Washington Nationals. DiSarcina is a two-time Gold Glove winner, and he was inducted into the Angels Hall of Fame in 2019. Gary DiSarcina is married to the former Lisa Knepper. They have three children.

Also Played For: california angels best player

11. Lou Roe

Lou Roe Career

  • High school: Atlantic City, (Atlantic City, New Jersey)
  • College: UMass (1991–1995)
  • NBA draft 1995 / Round: 2 / Pick: 30th overall
  • Selected by the Detroit Pistons
  • Playing career: 1995–2012
  • Position: Power forward
  • Number: 3, 21
  • 1995–1996: Detroit Pistons
  • 1996–1997: Golden State Warriors
  • 1997–1998: Málaga
  • 1998: Rockford Lightning
  • 1998–1999: Cantù
  • 1999–2000: Quad City Thunder
  • 2000: Inca
  • 2000–2002: Gijón
  • 2002–2004: Lucentum Alicante
  • 2004–2006: Caja San Fernando
  • 2006–2007: Seoul Knights
  • 2007: Palma
  • 2007: Baskonia
  • 2007–2008: Palma
  • 2008: Murcia
  • 2008–2009: Gipuzkoa
  • 2009–2010: Tenerife
  • 2010–2011: Halcones Xalapa
  • 2011–2012: Regatas Corrientes
  • 2× Spanish League Top Scorer (2004, 2006), Spanish League MVP (2001), All-Spanish League Team (2004), Consensus second-team All-American (1995), Third-team All-American – NABC (1994), Atlantic 10 Player of the Year (1995), 3× First-team All-Atlantic 10 (1993–1995), No. 15 retired by UMass Minutemen
  • Medals, , Men’s basketball, Representing  United States, Goodwill Games, : 1994 St. Petersburg: National team
  • Men’s basketball
  • Representing  United States
  • Goodwill Games
  • : 1994 St. Petersburg: National team

Lou Roe was a power forward who played in the NBA from 1995 to 2012. Roe was drafted by the Detroit Pistons in the 1995 NBA draft and played for them until 2002.

After leaving the Pistons, Roe played for the Golden State Warriors and the Málaga Baloncesto Club in Spain. Roe was a two-time All-Star and won a championship with the Detroit Pistons in 2004.

Roe retired from the NBA in 2012. Roe is now a basketball coach and works with youth players in his home state of New Jersey. Roe is married and has two children. Roe is a American citizen. Roe's height is listed as 6ft 7in (2.01m) and his weight is 220lb (100kg).

Lou Roe played professional basketball for over a decade, including stints in Spain, Italy, and Korea. 

Roe was a two-time Spanish League top scorer and MVP, and was also named to the Spanish League All-Decade team. Roe was also a key player on several championship teams, most notably the Rockford Lightning, Cantù, and Gijón squads.

Roe retired in 2011 after playing for Regatas Corrientes in Argentina.

12. Stéphane Lasme

UMass Minutemen men's basketball

Stéphane Lasme Career

  • High school: Léon M'ba (Libreville, Gabon)
  • College: , UMass (2003–2007)
  • NBA draft 2007 / Round: 2 / Pick: 46th overall
  • Selected by the Golden State Warriors
  • Playing career: 2002–2019
  • 2002: Capo Libreville
  • 2007: Golden State Warriors
  • 2007–2008: Los Angeles D-Fenders
  • 2008: Miami Heat
  • 2008–2009: Partizan
  • 2009–2010: Maccabi Tel Aviv
  • 2010: Spartak Saint Petersburg
  • 2010–2011: Maine Red Claws
  • 2011–2012: Obradoiro
  • 2012–2014: Panathinaikos
  • 2014–2015: Anadolu Efes
  • 2015–2016: Galatasaray
  • 2017: Texas Legends
  • 2017–2018: UNICS
  • 2018–2019: Panathinaikos
  • 2022–present: Espoir
  • EuroLeague Best Defender (2013), All-EuroLeague Second Team (2014), EuroCup champion (2016), EuroCup Finals MVP (2016), All-EuroCup Second Team (2016), 2× Greek League champion (2013, 2014), 2× Greek Cup winner (2013, 2014), Greek League MVP (2013), Greek League Finals MVP (2013), 2× Greek League Best Defender (2013, 2014), 2× All-Greek League Team (2013, 2014), Adriatic League champion (2009), Israeli Super League champion (2010), Israeli State Cup winner (2010), Turkish Cup winner (2015), Serbian League champion (2009), Serbian Cup winner (2009), NBA D-League Co-Defensive Player of the Year (2008), Atlantic 10 Player of the Year (2007), All-Atlantic 10 First Team (2007)

Lasme was born in 1982 in Port-Gentil, Gabon. He attended high school in Libreville, Gabon and played college basketball for UMass. Lasme was drafted 46th overall by the Golden State Warriors in the 2007 NBA draft.

He has played in the NBA for the Warriors, Atlanta Hawks, and the Sacramento Kings. Lasme is a center who is known for his strong defense and his ability to score in the post. Lasme is a member of the Gabonese national team and competed in the 2012 Olympic Games.

He is currently a free agent and is considering offers from the Atlanta Hawks and the Sacramento Kings. Lasme is married and has two children. Lasme is a active member of the Gabonese community and volunteers with various charities. 

Lasme has spent the last nine years playing in the EuroLeague, where he has been a key member of several clubs. 

He has won a number of awards during his career, including the EuroLeague Best Defender Award in 2013. Lasme is a veteran player and is likely to continue playing at a high level for some time to come.

13. Ed Connolly

Ed Connolly was a left-handed pitcher who played in Major League Baseball for the Detroit Tigers and the Baltimore Orioles. Connolly was drafted in the first round of the 1958 MLB Draft by the Detroit Tigers and made his MLB debut with them in 1959.

He spent the next four seasons with the Tigers, developing into one of the best pitchers in the league. Connolly was traded to the Baltimore Orioles in 1964 and spent the next six seasons with them, becoming one of the most reliable pitchers in the league.

He retired from baseball in 1971 after a season with the Houston Astros. Connolly later became a pitching coach for the Tigers and the Orioles. 

Ed Connolly died from a heart attack on July 1, 1998 at the age of 58. Ed Connolly was a starting pitcher for the Boston Red Sox from 1964-1967.

Connolly was a very successful pitcher for the Red Sox, winning six games and losing twelve. Connolly was known for his strong strikeout ability, as he struck out 118 batters in 130 innings pitched. Connolly was traded to the Cleveland Indians in 1967, but he did not have the same success there.

He was released after only two seasons. Connolly is now a successful coach and manager in the minor leagues. Connolly is a member of the Boston Red Sox Hall of Fame. 

Connolly is currently the pitching coach for the Greenville Drive of the Class A South Atlantic League. Connolly was born in Boston in 1944.

Connolly is a very successful baseball coach and manager.

14. Al Skinner

Al Skinner Career

  • High school: Malverne (Malverne, New York)
  • College: UMass (1971–1974)
  • NBA draft 1974 / Round: 9 / Pick: 160th overall
  • Selected by the Boston Celtics
  • Playing career: 1974–1981
  • Position: Shooting guard
  • Number: 30, 35
  • Coaching career: 1982–present
  • As player:, ABA champion (1976), 3× First-team All-Yankee (1972–1974), , As coach:, , 2× Big East regular season champion (2001, 2005), Big East tournament champion (2001), Henry Iba Award (2001), 2× Big East Coach of the Year (2001, 2005), Atlantic 10 Coach of the Year (1992)

Al Skinner was one of the most popular players in Celtics history. He was known for his shooting guard skills and was a key part of the team's success in the 1970s.

Al Skinner retired from the NBA in 1981 and has since been a successful coach. Skinner was a key assistant coach for the Boston Celtics during the team's glory years in the 1980s.

He also coached at Bryant University for a few years before joining Kennesaw State. Skinner is well-known for his work with players such as John Havlicek, Larry Bird, and Robert Parish.

He has been nominated for many awards, including two Big East regular season championships with Rhode Island. Skinner is a two-time ABA champion with the New York/New Jersey Nets. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2006.

Skinner was born in 1949 in Newark, New Jersey. He died in 2019 at the age of 73.

15. Chick Davies

Chick Davies Career

  • Led NL in saves and games finished, 1926

Chick Davies was a pitcher and outfielder who played for the Philadelphia Athletics and Boston Red Sox in the early 20th century. He was born in Peabody, Massachusetts, in 1892 and died in 1973 in Middletown, Connecticut.

Davies was a left-handed hitter and threw left-handed. He made his MLB debut with the Athletics in 1914 and played for them until 1923. 

He then played for the Red Sox from 1923 to 1929, and again in 1931. Davies led the American League in home runs in 1924, and was also an All-Star that year.

He finished his MLB career with the St. Louis Browns in 1930. Davies was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1954. Davies was a colorful and popular player in his day, known for his home runs and flashy style of play. 

Davies was a dominant relief pitcher in the early years of the MLB. He was a four-time All-Star and won two World Series with the New York Giants in 1925 and 1926. Davies was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1951.

16. Mark Brown

Brown was a starting pitcher for most of his career and finished with a record of 251-264. Brown was a part of the Orioles' 1983 World Series championship team and was a part of the rotation that season.

Brown was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1998 and retired after the 2000 season. Brown was a member of the United States national baseball team and won a silver medal at the 1988 Olympics. Brown is currently a pitching coach for the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Brown was signed by the Twins as an amateur free agent in 1977. Brown made his MLB debut with the Twins in 1985 and went on to play for the Orioles in 1984 and the Mariners in 1989. Mark Brown was a consistent starter for the Twins and Orioles throughout his career.

Brown finished his career with a 1-2 record and an ERA of 5.12. Brown also played in the World Series twice, with the Orioles in 1983 and with the Mariners in 1989. 

Brown is a member of the Twins Hall of Fame and the Orioles Hall of Fame. Brown was a very durable starter and was able to stay on the mound for a long period of time.

Brown was a very consistent pitcher throughout his career and was able to win many games. Brown is a very popular player among Twins and Orioles fans.

17. Doc Curley

Doc Curley was a second baseman who played for the Boston Americans and the Philadelphia Phillies in the early 1900s. He was a good fielder and had a strong batting average.

He died in 1920 from tuberculosis. He was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1936. He was a popular player and was often referred to as "the all-around second baseman." He is remembered for his batting and fielding abilities.

Curley was one of the most successful players in the early years of the Baseball Hall of Fame. He played for the Chicago Orphans from 1899 to 1899, and had a batting average of .108 and two runs batted in. Curley was born in 1867 in Massachusetts and died in 1949.

He played in the major leagues for over twenty years and had a batting average of .248. Curley was known for his powerful hitting and was one of the first players to use a slide. 

Curley was a part of the first team to win the World Series in 1903. Curley was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1939.

18. Chad Paronto

Chad Paronto

Chad Paronto is a relief pitcher for the Atlanta Braves. He made his MLB debut in 2007. Paronto is a right-handed pitcher. He has a career record of 10 wins and 14 losses.

Paronto was drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in the 6th round of the 1996 MLB Draft. He made his major league debut with the Orioles in 2001. Paronto was traded to the Braves in 2006.

He has appeared in over 450 games in the MLB. Paronto has also played in the Majors for the Philadelphia Phillies, Cincinnati Reds, and Cleveland Indians. Paronto is a member of the USA national baseball team.

Chad Paronto is a veteran player in the MLB who has experienced a lot in his career. He has played for four different teams in his career and has had some success and some failure. He is known for his ability to hit for a high batting average and for his strong defense at first base.

He has been a part of a few successful teams in his career, but has also been part of some struggling teams. Overall, Paronto has had a mixed career, but he is still respected by many in the MLB. He is currently a free agent and is likely to be playing in the MLB in the near future.

 Chad Paronto is a very valuable player to any team, and would be a great addition to any team. He is a hard worker and is always looking to improve his skills. Chad Paronto is a veteran player who has a lot to offer any team he joins.

19. Bob Hansen

Bob Hansen

Bob Hansen was a first baseman in the MLB for the Milwaukee Brewers. He made his MLB debut on May 10, 1974. He played for the Milwaukee Brewers until 1978.

He then played for the Crown Lighter Lions in the NPB from 1977 to 1978. Hansen had a total of 267 hits in the MLB, with a batting average of .211. He also had a total of 146 hits in the NPB, with a batting average of .252.

Hansen was inducted into the Milwaukee Brewers Hall of Fame in 2003. He currently resides in Waukesha, Wisconsin. Hansen is 74 years old. Bob Hansen was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in October of 1936. 

He attended the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and played college baseball for the Wisconsin Badgers. 

Hansen was drafted in the 7th round of the 1958 MLB Draft by the Philadelphia Phillies, but opted to play in the Japanese Baseball League instead. Hansen made his MLB debut with the Milwaukee Brewers in June of 1976. 

He played for the Brewers for two seasons before being traded to the Crown Lighter Lions in September of 1978. Hansen played for the Lions for four seasons before retiring in 1988. 

Hansen was a three-time All-Star and won two Gold Gloves. He was inducted into the Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame in 1998. Hansen currently works as a scout for the Brewers.

20. Ralph Lumenti

Ralph Lumenti was a pitcher in the MLB for over 20 years. He spent his entire career with the Boston Red Sox. Lumenti was a key part of the Red Sox' championship teams in the 1970s and 1980s.

He was also a part of the team that won the World Series in 1975. Lumenti was a three-time All-Star, and he was inducted into the Red Sox Hall of Fame in 2001. He retired in 1992, and he later became a broadcaster for the Red Sox.

Lumenti died on February 7, 2018 at the age of 81 after a long illness. Ralph Lumenti was a pitcher for the Washington Senators from 1957 to 1959. Lumenti was a member of the Senators' rotation, and made 33 appearances. Lumenti had a record of 1-3, and an ERA of 7.29.

Lumenti was a hard-throwing pitcher, and his strikeouts were always a highlight of his game. Lumenti's best season was in 1957, when he had a win-loss record of 2-1 and an ERA of 3.60. Lumenti retired after the 1959 season, and later worked as a pitching coach for the Montreal Expos.

Lumenti is currently a pitching analyst for the Washington Nationals.

21. Ron Villone

Ron Villone

Ron Villone was born in 1970 and is a pitcher for the Washington Nationals. Villone had a win-loss record of 61-65 in MLB. Villone had his MLB debut with the Seattle Mariners in 1995 and last played for the Washington Nationals in 2009.

Villone has a left-handed throwing style and is known for his high-intensity pitching. Villone has won several awards, including the MLB Pitcher of the Week in 2003. 

Villone has been involved in a number of high-profile incidents, including being placed on the disabled list after being hit in the head with a pitch in 2006.

Villone is married and has two children. Villone is a resident of Englewood, New Jersey. Villone was an effective reliever for most of his career. He was most productive with the Seattle Mariners, posting a 4.73 ERA and 925 strikeouts in 594 games. 

Villone also had success with the Padres and Brewers, but his best years were with the Mariners. Villone retired in 2007 after a stint with the Yankees. He is currently a pitching coach with the Marlins. Villone was born in New York City in 1964. 

He is married and has two children. Villone is a member of the Italian-American Hall of Fame. Villone is a devout Catholic.

22. Nick Gorneault

Nick Gorneault

Nick Gorneault is an outfielder for the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. Gorneault was born in Springfield, Massachusetts in 1979. He played college baseball at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

Gorneault was drafted by the Angels in the 4th round of the 2001 MLB Draft. Gorneault made his MLB debut with the Angels in 2002. He played for the Angels until 2007. Gorneault signed with the Boston Red Sox in 2007.

He played for the Red Sox until 2011. Gorneault signed with the Toronto Blue Jays in 2011. Nick Gorneault made his MLB debut with the Angels in 2007 and has been with the team ever since.

 Gorneault has never hit for much power in the majors, but he has been a consistent contributor on the basepaths.

Gorneault has a career batting average of .000 and no home runs, but he has scored one run in his career. Gorneault has played for the Angels, Athletics, and Reds in his career. 

He is currently with the Angels. Gorneault is a versatile player who can play all three outfield positions. Gorneault is a strong defensive player who has made a lot of highlight reel plays.

Gorneault is a consummate team player who is a good locker room presence. Gorneault is a hard worker who is always hustling. Gorneault is a versatile player who can play all three outfield positions and has been a valuable member of the Angels' bullpen.

23. Briana Scurry

United States women's national soccer team

Briana Scurry Career

  • 1986–1989: Anoka High School
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 1989–1993: UMass Minutewomen: :
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2001–2003: Atlanta Beat: :
  • 2009–2010: Washington Freedom: :
  • 1994–2008: United States: 175: (0)
  • 2018: Washington Spirit (assistant)

Briana Collette Scurry is a goalkeeper who has played for several teams in the United States and abroad. Briana Scurry was born on September 7, 1971, in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Briana Scurry attended Anoka High School in Minneapolis and played for the UMass Minutewomen in 1989-1993. Briana Scurry played for the Atlanta Beat in 2001-2003 and the Washington Freedom in 2009-2010.

Briana Scurry has played for the United States in several international tournaments, most notably the 1999 FIFA Women's World Cup and the 2003 FIFA Women's World Cup. Briana Scurry retired from playing in 2010.

Briana Scurry is a goalkeeper coach for the Atlanta Beat. Briana Scurry is married and has two children. Briana Scurry is a member of the United States Olympic Women's Football Team and the CONCACAF Women's Olympic Qualifying Team.

24. Harold Gore

Harold Gore

Harold Gore was a quarterback for the Massachusetts football team from 1912-1915. Gore was also a head coach at the high school level, most notably at Bedford High School in Bedford, Massachusetts.

Gore was a noted environmental activist and served as Vice President of the United States from 1993-2001. Gore died on June 4, 1969, at the age of 78. 

Gore served as the head football coach at Massachusetts from 1919 to 1927, compiling a record of 33-32-5.

Gore also served as the head basketball coach at Massachusetts from 1916 to 1917, 1919 to 1919, and 1920 to 1929. Gore was the head baseball coach at Massachusetts from 1920 to 1922.

 Gore was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1971. Gore served as the athletic director at Massachusetts from 1945 to 1959. Gore died in 1959.

25. Shannon James

Shannon James Career

  • College: Massachusetts
  • Undrafted: 2006
  • Baltimore Ravens (2006)*, Calgary Stampeders (2006–2009), Hamilton Tiger-Cats (2010)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • CFL status: Import

Shannon James was a linebacker for the University of Massachusetts during his college career. He was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the fourth round of the 2007 NFL Draft.

He has also played for the Chicago Bears, Oakland Raiders, and Indianapolis Colts. He has appeared in 114 games and has recorded 584 tackles, 21 sacks, and one interception. James was named to the All-Rookie Team in 2007 and to the Pro Bowl in 2010.

He signed a three-year contract with the Indianapolis Colts in March of 2016. James is a two-time winner of the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award (2008, 2009). He was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and attended Bishop Connolly High School. James and his wife, Aisha, have two children.

Shannon James was originally drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in 2006 but was never able to make the team. 

He then played for the Calgary Stampeders and Hamilton Tiger-Cats before signing with the Saskatchewan Roughriders in 2014. Shannon James is an import and is listed as a defensive back on the Riders' roster.

He has played in 46 games over the course of his career, with 16 starts. James has recorded 182 tackles, four interceptions, and one sack. Shannon James will be a key contributor for the Riders in their quest for a Grey Cup title this year.

26. Khari Samuel

Career

  • High school: Framingham (MA)
  • College: Massachusetts
  • NFL Draft: 1999 / Round: 5 / Pick: 144
  • Chicago Bears (1999–2001), Detroit Lions (2001), Houston Texans (2002)*
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Third team All-Yankee Conference (1996), Second-team All-A-10 (1997), First-team All-A-10 (1998), First-team All-American (1998)

Khari Samuel was born on October 14, 1976 in New York, New York. Khari Samuel was a linebacker who played for the New York Giants and the Baltimore Ravens in the NFL.

Khari Samuel was a five-time Pro Bowler and two-time Super Bowl champion. Khari Samuel was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2016. Khari Samuel is an advocate for social justice and has worked with organizations such as the NFLPA and the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Khari Samuel is married and has four children. Khari Samuel is an entrepreneur who has launched a number of businesses, including a clothing line and a football training program. 

Khari Samuel is currently the president and CEO of the Khari Samuel Foundation, which works to improve the lives of children and families in need.

Khari Samuel is a motivational speaker and has spoken at events such as the NFLPA’s Salute to Service event and the United Way of Central New York’s Fall Gathering.

27. Steve Baylark

Career

  • High school: Apopka (Apopka, Florida)
  • College: Massachusetts
  • Undrafted: 2007
  • Arizona Cardinals (2007–2008)*, Denver Broncos (2008)*, Sacramento Mountain Lions (2010–2011)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Second-team All-A-10 (2003), 3x First-team All-A-10 (2004–2006), A-10 Co-Offensive P.O.Y. (2006), Second-team I-AA All-American (2006), UMass Athletics Hall of Fame (2021)

Baylark was undrafted in 2007 and signed with the Cardinals. He played for them in 2007 and 2008. Baylark was a backup running back with the Cardinals and Broncos.

Baylark was released by the Broncos in 2008. Baylark signed with the Vikings in 2008 and played for them that year. Baylark was released by the Vikings in 2009. Baylark signed with the Seahawks in 2009 and played for them that year.

Baylark was released by the Seahawks in 2010. Baylark signed with the Giants in 2010 and played for them that year. Baylark was released by the Giants in 2011. 

Baylark spent his entire 10-year career with the Sacramento Mountain Lions of the IFL, playing in 173 games and accumulating 2,594 yards on 356 receptions with 21 touchdowns.

Baylark was a Second-team All-A-10 selection as a receiver in 2003 and 2006 and was a First-team All-A-10 selection as a punt returner in 2006. 

Baylark was also an A-10 Co-Offensive Player of the Year in 2006 and was a Second-team I-AA All-American as a receiver in 2006. Baylark was inducted into the UMass Athletics Hall of Fame in 2021.

28. Lari Ketner

Lari Ketner Career

  • High school: Roman Catholic, (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
  • College: UMass (1996–1999)
  • NBA draft 1999 / Round: 2 / Pick: 49th overall
  • Selected by the Chicago Bulls
  • Playing career: 1999–2004
  • Position: Power forward
  • Number: 6, 0, 8
  • 1999: Chicago Bulls
  • 1999–2000: Fort Wayne Fury
  • 2000: Cleveland Cavaliers
  • 2001: Indiana Pacers
  • 2003–2004: Idaho Stampede
  • First-team All-Atlantic 10 (1998)

Lari Ketner was an American basketball player who played for the Chicago Bulls and Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA. Ketner played collegiately at UMass, where he was a two-time All-American.

After graduating from UMass, Ketner was drafted by the Chicago Bulls in the 1999 NBA draft. Ketner played with the Bulls for four seasons, before being traded to the Milwaukee Bucks in 2003.

Ketner spent six seasons with the Bucks, before being traded to the Orlando Magic in 2009. Ketner played with the Magic for two seasons, before joining the Philadelphia 76ers in 2011. Ketner spent two seasons with the 76ers, before being traded to the Indiana Pacers in 2013.

Ketner played with the Pacers for one season, before retiring in 2014. Ketner died from a heart attack on October 10, 2014.

29. Marcel Shipp

Career

  • High school: Passaic County Technical Institute, (Wayne, New Jersey)
  • College: Massachusetts
  • Undrafted: 2001
  • 3× First-team All-A-10 (1998–2000), Second-team AP All-American (1998), 2× Third-team AP All-American (1999–2000), 2× UFL champion (2009, 2010)
  • Rushing attempts: 605, Rushing yards: 2,197, Rushing touchdowns: 11, Receptions: 113, Receiving yards: 937, Receiving touchdowns: 3
  • Rushing attempts: 605
  • Rushing yards: 2,197
  • Rushing touchdowns: 11
  • Receptions: 113
  • Receiving yards: 937
  • Receiving touchdowns: 3

Marcel Shipp was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in 2001 but never played for them. He spent his first four years with the Houston Texans, before being traded to the Las Vegas Locomotives in 2009.

Shipp played for the Locomotives until 2011, before retiring. Shipp is best known for his time with the Arizona Cardinals, where he was a three-time Pro Bowler. Shipp was inducted into the Arizona Cardinals Ring of Honor in 2017.

He currently works as a football analyst for ESPN. Shipp is married with two children. Marcel Shipp is 44 years old. 

Marcel Shipp was a three-time First-team All-A-10 selection at running back for the Massachusetts Minutemen. Shipp was drafted by the New York Jets in the third round of the 2015 NFL Draft.

He made his NFL debut in Week 6 of the 2015 season and went on to play in all 16 games that season. Shipp played in all 16 games in 2016 and scored his first NFL touchdown against the Cleveland Browns in Week 11. 

Shipp was released by the Jets on September 3, 2017. He was signed to the Oakland Raiders' practice squad the next day.

Shipp was waived by the Raiders on November 12, 2017. Shipp was signed to the Chicago Bears' practice squad on November 14, 2017. 

Shipp was waived by the Bears on November 28, 2017. Shipp was signed to the Baltimore Ravens' practice squad on December 5, 2017. Shipp was waived by the Ravens on December 12, 2017.

30. Ed McAleney

Career

  • Position(s): Defensive Tackle
  • College: Massachusetts
  • NFL draft 1976 / Round: 8 / Pick 237, (By the Pittsburgh Steelers)

Ed McAleney is a retired American football defensive tackle who played for the NFL's Washington Redskins. He was drafted by the Redskins in the sixth round of the 1975 NFL Draft.

McAleney played college football at Massachusetts. McAleney was a member of the Redskins' Super Bowl XVII and Super Bowl XXII championship teams. He also played in the 1981 NFC Championship Game.

McAleney was selected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2004. McAleney was diagnosed with dementia in late 2012. He remains active and outspoken on the issue of dementia. McAleney currently resides in South Portland, Maine.

McAleney was a standout running back at the University of Southern California. He was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 1976 NFL draft. McAleney spent his entire 10-year NFL career with the Steelers. He was a three-time All-Pro and leading rusher in the NFL in 1981.

McAleney also played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Calgary Stampeders in the CFL. He finished his career with the Pittsburgh Maulers in 1984. McAleney was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1998. He currently works as a football analyst for Fox Sports.

31. Bruce Kimball

Career

  • College: Massachusetts
  • NFL Draft: 1979 / Round: 7 / Pick: 192
  • Toronto Argonauts (1979–1980), New York Giants (1982), Washington Redskins (1983–1984)
  • UMASS Athletics Hall of Fame, 2000 inductee
  • NFL games played: 25, NFL games started: 1
  • NFL games played: 25
  • NFL games started: 1

Bruce Kimball played his entire professional football career with the Giants. He was a versatile guard who was able to play both tackle and guard positions.

In 1980, he was a member of the Toronto Argonauts but did not appear in a game. He was inducted into the Giants' Hall of Fame in 2002. Bruce Kimball currently resides in Beverly, Massachusetts.

Bruce Kimball was a standout linebacker for the Washington Redskins from 1983 to 1984. He was a two-time All-Pro and was named to the NFL's All-Decade Team for the 1980s. After retiring from the NFL, Bruce Kimball spent time as a commentator for NFL games on CBS and NBC.

Bruce Kimball was inducted into the UMass Athletics Hall of Fame in 2000. He currently resides in Weston, Massachusetts.

32. Liam Coen

Career

  • High school: La Salle Academy (RI)
  • College: UMass

Liam Coen is an offensive coordinator for the Kentucky Wildcats and he has been with the team since the spring of 2010. He played football at La Salle Academy in Warwick, Rhode Island and he was a two-sport star in high school.

He played college football at UMass and he was a member of the Minutemen's 2000 National Championship team. He has spent the past four seasons as an offensive coordinator at Brown and he helped the Bears to a 10-2 record in his first year at the helm.

He is currently the offensive coordinator for the Kentucky Wildcats and he has helped the team to a 3-2 record this season. 

He is a native of Warwick, Rhode Island and he is married to the former Caroline Murphy. He is a coach who is known for his expertise in offensive schemes and he has helped to develop some of the top quarterbacks in the NCAA.

He is a tall offensive coordinator with a muscular build and he is known for his ability to run the ball effectively. He is a coach who is known for his passion for the game and he is known for his hard work and dedication to his job.

33. Brandon Montour

Florida Panthers

Brandon Montour Career

  • NHL team: Florida Panthers
  • Former teams: Anaheim Ducks
  • Buffalo Sabres
  • National team: Canada
  • NHL Draft: 55th overall, 2014
  • Anaheim Ducks
  • Playing career: 2015–present

Brandon Montour is a defender who was drafted by the Anaheim Ducks in the 2nd round of the 2012 NHL Entry Draft. Montour made his NHL debut with the Ducks in the 2016-17 season.

In 2017-18, he played in 60 games with the Ducks and scored 10 goals and 18 assists. In 2018-19, he played in 82 games with the Ducks and scored 16 goals and 39 assists. 

On July 1, 2019, Montour was traded to the Ottawa Senators in exchange for Max Gortz and a 2020 2nd round draft pick.

In 2019-20, he played in all 82 games for the Senators and scored 14 goals and 41 assists. In 2020-21, he was named to the 2019-20 NHL All-Star Game. Montour is a two-time champion of the AHL's Calder Cup (2013, 2017). 

He is also a two-time champion of the Memorial Cup (2015, 2019). Brandon Montour was drafted by the Anaheim Ducks in the 55th overall pick in the 2014 NHL Draft.

Montour has spent his entire playing career with the Ducks thus far, appearing in over 200 games. Montour has scored over 20 goals and 50 assists in his career and is a key player on the team. 

Montour is a right-handed shooter and has represented Canada at both the World Junior Championships and the World Championships. Montour is an important part of the Ducks' future and is expected to continue playing at a high level for many years to come.

Also Played For: florida panthers

34. Rick Pitino

Rick Pitino Career

  • High school: St. Dominic, (Oyster Bay, New York)
  • College: UMass (1971–1974)
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 22
  • Coaching career: 1974–present
  • As head coach:, , ,  Championships, , NCAA Tournament champion (1996, 2013*), NCAA Regional champion – Final Four (1987, 1993, 1996, 1997, 2005, 2012*, 2013*), AAC Tournament champion (2014*), AAC regular season champion (2014*), Big East regular season champion (2009, 2013*), 3× Big East tournament champion (2009, 2012*, 2013*), 2× C-USA Tournament champion (2003, 2005), C-USA regular season champion (2005), 5× SEC Tournament champion (1992–1995, 1997), 2× SEC regular season champion (1995, 1996), America East tournament champion (1983), 2× America East regular season champion (1980, 1983), 2× Greek League champion (2019, 2020), Greek Cup winner (2019), MAAC tournament champion (2021), MAAC regular season champion (2022), ,  Accomplishments and honors, , Adolph Rupp Cup (2009), MAAC Coach of the Year (2022), C-USA Coach of the Year (2005), 3× SEC Coach of the Year (1990, 1991, 1996), John Wooden National Coach of the Year (1987), NABC Coach of the Year (1987), National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame (1999)[2], * Vacated by the NCAA[3][4]
  • Basketball Hall of Fame as coach

Rick Pitino is currently the head coach at the University of Louisville. He began his coaching career at UMass in 1974. Pitino led the Cardinals to the NCAA Tournament championship in 2012.

He is a three-time winner of the National Coach of the Year Award. Pitino was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2013. He has coached many high-profile players, including Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James.

Pitino is a native of New York City. He married his wife, Karen, in 1984. Pitino has two children. Pitino is a well-known coach, having led teams to championships with the Boston Celtics, Louisville Cardinals, and now with the Greek team Panathinaikos.

He is known for his fiery temper and for his intense coaching style. Pitino has been involved in a number of controversies, including allegations of bribery and paying players to attend his schools. 

He is a highly respected coach, and his teams consistently rank among the best in the nation.

35. James Ihedigbo

UMass Minutemen football

James Ihedigbo Career

  • High school: Amherst (MA) Regional
  • College: Massachusetts
  • Undrafted: 2007
  • New York Jets (2007–2010), New England Patriots (2011), Baltimore Ravens (2012–2013), Detroit Lions (2014–2015), Buffalo Bills (2016)
  • Super Bowl champion (XLVII), Consensus I-AA All-American (2006), First-team All-A-10 (2006), Third-team All-A-10 (2005)
  • Total tackles: 394, Sacks: 9.0, Forced fumbles: 9, Fumble recoveries: 4, Interceptions: 8
  • Total tackles: 394
  • Sacks: 9.0
  • Forced fumbles: 9
  • Fumble recoveries: 4
  • Interceptions: 8

James Ihedigbo is a safety and special teamer who has played for the New York Jets and New England Patriots. Ihedigbo was undrafted in 2007 and spent three seasons with the Jets.

He signed with the Patriots in 2011 and played for them for two seasons. Ihedigbo signed with the Ravens in 2013 and played for them for one season. Ihedigbo is currently a free agent and has not been signed by any team for the 2014 season.

James Ihedigbo is a long, rangy linebacker who has experienced success both in the collegiate and professional ranks. Ihedigbo was a consensus first-team All-American at Iowa in 2006 and was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the second round of the 2006 NFL Draft.

Ihedigbo has developed into a premier linebacker in the NFL, starting all 16 games in each of his first two seasons with the Lions. Ihedigbo has also been a consistent contributor on special teams, recording eight fumble recoveries and nine sacks in his career. 

Ihedigbo is a two-time Super Bowl champion, winning Super Bowl XLVII with the Detroit Lions in 2013.

Ihedigbo is expected to be a cornerstone of the Buffalo Bills’ defense in 2016. James Ihedigbo is a complete linebacker, excelling in both run defense and pass coverage. Ihedigbo is a model citizen off the field and is a vocal leader in the locker room. 

James Ihedigbo is one of the most complete linebackers in the NFL and is sure to be a key contributor on both the Detroit Lions and Buffalo Bills for years to come.

36. Jonathan Quick

Los Angeles Kings

Jonathan Quick Career

  • 2002–03: Avon Old Farms
  • 2003–04: Avon Old Farms
  • 2004–05: Avon Old Farms
  • 2005–06: U. of Massachusetts-Amherst
  • 2006–07: U. of Massachusetts-Amherst
  • 2007–08: Reading Royals
  • 2007–08: Manchester Monarchs
  • 2007–08: Los Angeles Kings
  • 2008–09: Manchester Monarchs
  • 2008–09: Los Angeles Kings
  • 2009–10: Los Angeles Kings

Jonathan Quick is an American goaltender who has played for the Los Angeles Kings since he was drafted in 2006. Quick has been a key part of the Kings' success over the past few years, and he has led them to the playoffs three times.

Quick is known for his athleticism and his strong goaltending skills. He has also received several awards and accolades over the years, including being named the NHL's Most Valuable Player in 2016. 

With his talent and experience, it is no wonder that Quick is considered one of the best goaltenders in the world.

He is looking to keep the Kings in the playoffs this year, and his performance will be crucial in helping them achieve this. 

Jonathan Quick is a dedicated and passionate athlete, and he will continue to be a key part of the Kings team for years to come.

Also Played For: nhl 16, 2018–19 nhl season

37. James Marcou

Career

  • 2015–2016: Milton Academy (assistant)
  • 2016–2018: UMass (assistant)
  • 2018–2019: Brown (assistant)
  • 2019–Present: Harvard (assistant)

James Marcou was born on February 19, 1988 in Huntington, NY. He played college hockey for Worcester Sharks of the AHL before being drafted by the San Jose Sharks in the 6th round of the 2010 NHL Draft.

He has played for the Sharks since 2010, and has appeared in over 200 NHL games. He is a forward, and shoots Right. He has had a lengthy and successful career in the NHL, and is currently a member of the San Jose Sharks.

James Marcou is married, and has two children. He is a good role model for his children, and enjoys spending time with them. He is a hard worker, and takes pride in his performance on the ice. James Marcou is a respected member of the San Jose Sharks team, and is a popular player with his fans.

James Marcou is an assistant coach with Harvard University and has been with the team since 2019. He played hockey at UMass and was an assistant coach with the school's team from 2016-2018. 

Marcou is from Milton, MA and graduated from UMass in 2018 with a degree in business. He played professionally in the AHL for the Albany Devils and Manchester Monarchs from 2014-2018.

He was an assistant coach with the Milton Academy hockey team from 2015-2018. Marcou is a graduate of UMass.

38. Justin Braun

New York Rangers

Justin Braun

Braun has played for seven teams in his NHL career, all of which were in the San Jose Sharks organization. Braun has been a regular on the Sharks' defense since he was drafted in the third round of the 2007 NHL Entry Draft.

Braun has scored 12 goals and 59 points in his career, both of which are career highs. Braun was a member of the U.S. National Team for the 2010 Winter Olympics and the 2013 World Championships. 

Braun is a three-time Stanley Cup champion, having won with the Sharks in 2011, 2014, and 2017.

Braun is married to his wife Brooke and they have two young children. Braun is a member of the United States Hockey Hall of Fame. Braun has announced his retirement from the NHL after the 2018-19 season.

Braun was drafted in the 1st round of the 2007 NHL draft by the San Jose Sharks. Braun has played for the Philadelphia Flyers, San Jose Sharks, and New York Rangers.

Braun has represented the United States in international play. Braun has a lengthy playing career that is now coming to an end. Braun is a hard-working forward who will be missed by his former teams and the hockey community. 

Braun is a talented player who will be remembered for his many accomplishments in the NHL. Braun is a respected player in the hockey community and will be missed.

39. Brad Norton

Norton is a defenseman for the Florida Panthers. He was drafted by the Florida Panthers in the second round of the 1997 NHL Entry Draft. Norton has played in over 1000 NHL games, scoring 96 goals and 196 assists.

Norton was a member of the United States team that won the silver medal at the 2006 Winter Olympics. Norton was awarded the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy in 2009, which is given to the player who "best exemplifies sportsmanship, gentlemanly conduct and excellence in the face of adversity.

" Norton is married to actress Shannyn Sossamon, with whom he has two children. Norton is a member of the National Hockey League Players' Association. Norton is a cancer survivor. Norton is a member of the "Hockey Hall of Fame" Brad Norton was drafted by the Los Angeles Kings in the 1993 NHL Draft. 

He played for the Washington Capitals from 1998 to 2007. Brad Norton had a successful career with the Capitals, winning a Stanley Cup in 1998. Brad Norton is now retired from playing hockey, but he is still involved in the game.

Brad Norton is a member of the Edmonton Oilers organization. Brad Norton is married and has two children. Brad Norton is a hockey ambassador for Canada. Brad Norton is currently the goaltending coach for the Kamloops Blazers of the Western Hockey League. 

Brad Norton is a role model to young hockey players, and he continues to inspire others through his work.

40. Warren Norris

EC KAC

Warren Norris was born in Newfoundland in 1974. Norris began his career with the St. John's Maple Leafs in 1997. Norris is a centre who shoots left. Norris has amassed over 1,000 career points in the NHL.

Norris was named to the All-Star Team twice, and won a Stanley Cup with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2014. Norris retired in 2018 after 17 seasons in the NHL. Norris is currently an assistant coach with the St.

John's IceCaps. Norris is married with two children. Norris is a Canadian icon, and his retirement will be mourned by fans across the country. Warren Norris was drafted in the 7th round of the 1996 NHL Entry Draft by the Detroit Red Wings.

Norris played for the Griffins, K-Wings, Sheffield Steelers, and Slovan Bratislava in the AHL before making his NHL debut with the Vancouver Canucks in the 2001-02 season. Norris was traded to the Philadelphia Flyers in 2006 and played with them until he was traded to the New York Rangers in 2009.

Norris played with the Rangers until he was traded to the Minnesota Wild in 2011. Norris played in the AHL with the Iowa Wild and the Florida Panthers before retiring in 2011. 

Norris played in 902 NHL games and scored 303 goals and 563 assists for 1,033 points. Norris was a member of the United States team at the 2006 World Cup of Hockey.

Norris was named to the NHL Second All-Star Team in 2002 and the First All-Star Team in 2006. Norris was named the 2011 winner of the Lester B. Pearson Award, which is given to the best player in the NHL who is not a member of the Stanley Cup champion team.

41. Conor Sheary

Washington Capitals

Conor Sheary Career

  • 2011–12: UMass-Amherst
  • 2012–13: UMass-Amherst
  • 2013–14: UMass-Amherst
  • 2013–14: Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins
  • 2014–15: Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins
  • 2015–16: Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins
  • 2015–16: Pittsburgh Penguins

Conor Sheary was born in 1992 in Massachusetts and has been playing hockey since he was a young age. 

He played college hockey at Dexter School in Brookline, Massachusetts before being drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft.

Sheary has quickly become one of the most promising young players in the NHL and has been a regular fixture in the Penguins lineup for the past few seasons. 

He has scored a number of important goals for the Penguins, most notably in the 2016 Stanley Cup Final.

Sheary is a versatile player who can play both Center and Left Wing and is known for his speed and skill on the ice. 

He is signed to a long-term contract with the Pittsburgh Penguins and is expected to play a important role in the team's future. Sheary is married and has two children.

He is a committed Christian and is involved in a number of charitable causes. Conor Sheary is a dedicated family man and is passionate about his sport and his community.

Also Played For: massachusetts hockey, washington capitals

42. Derek Kellogg

Derek Kellogg Career

  • 1991–1995: UMass
  • Position(s): Point guard
  • 1997–1999: George Mason (assistant)
  • 1999–2000: Youngstown State (assistant)
  • 2000–2008: Memphis (assistant)
  • 2008–2017: UMass
  • 2017–2019: LIU Brooklyn
  • 2019–2022: LIU
  • 2022–present: UMass (assistant)

Derek Kellogg was an assistant coach at UMass before being hired by the Boston Celtics in the summer of 2018. As an assistant coach, Kellogg will be responsible for working with the point guard position.

Kellogg played for UMass from 1991 to 1995. During his time with the Minutemen, he was a two-time All-American and a two-time Atlantic 10 player of the year. After playing his professional basketball career, Kellogg began coaching.

He has spent the past six seasons as an assistant coach at UMass and most recently served as the team's interim head coach in the 2017-2018 season. Kellogg is a retired professional basketball player who played for the Philadelphia 76ers, Denver Nuggets, and Boston Celtics.

Derek Kellogg is an assistant coach for the UMass men's basketball team. Kellogg has been a part of the program for eight years and has been a part of three postseason appearances. 

Kellogg has helped lead UMass to a 229-211 record in that time. Kellogg was an assistant coach at Memphis for two years before coming to UMass.

Kellogg played collegiately at Memphis and Youngstown State. Kellogg was an assistant coach at Memphis for two years before coming to UMass. 

Kellogg has helped UMass reach the NEC tournament twice in his career. Kellogg is currently an assistant coach for the UMass men's basketball team.

43. Tony Barbee

Tony Barbee Career

  • 1989–1993: UMass
  • 1995–1998: UMass (GA/assistant)
  • 1998–1999: Wyoming (assistant)
  • 1999–2000: UMass (assistant)
  • 2000–2006: Memphis (assistant)
  • 2006–2010: UTEP
  • 2010–2014: Auburn
  • 2014–2021: Kentucky (assistant)
  • 2021–present: Central Michigan

Tony Barbee is the current head coach of Central Michigan, and he has a record of 14-34 (.292) over the course of four seasons. Before becoming a coach, Barbee played football at UMass from 1989-1993.

He was an assistant coach at UMass from 1995-1998 before being hired by Wyoming. After one season at Wyoming, Barbee was hired as the assistant coach at UMass. He remained in that position until he was hired by Auburn in 2010.

In 2014, Barbee was hired as the head coach of Central Michigan. Barbee was born on August 10, 1971 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Barbee played football at the collegiate level at UMass from 1989-1993, and then at Wyoming from 1998-1999.

Barbee is married with two children. Barbee's coaching career began in 1995 at UMass as an assistant coach. He has been the head coach of Central Michigan since 2014.

44. Frank Vatrano

New York Rangers

Frank Vatrano Career

  • 2007–08: Boston Jr. Bruins
  • 2008–09: Boston Jr. Bruins
  • 2009–10: Boston Jr. Bruins
  • 2010–11: U.S. NTDP Juniors
  • 2010–11: U.S. NTDP U17
  • 2011–12: U.S. NTDP Juniors
  • 2011–12: U.S. NTDP U18
  • 2012–13: U.S. NTDP Juniors
  • 2012–13: U.S. NTDP U18

Frank Vatrano is a 28-year old right winger with the Boston Bruins. He was drafted by the Bruins in the 3rd round, 75th overall, in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft.

Vatrano has played in 244 NHL games, scoring 54 goals and adding 54 assists for 106 points. He has also played in 45 AHL games, scoring 14 goals and adding 14 assists for 28 points.

Vatrano has represented the United States at the World Championships, the World Junior Championships, and the Olympics. He has also represented Italy at the World Championships. 

Vatrano has a reputation of being a physical player. He has been fined several times for hits to the head. Vatrano has a contract with the Bruins until the 2020-21 season. 

Frank Vatrano was born March 14, 1994 in Springfield, Massachusetts. He is 5'11" and weighs 201 lbs. Frank Vatrano is a right winger and was drafted by the Boston Bruins in the 3rd round, 75th overall, in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft.

Vatrano has played in 244 NHL games and has scored 54 goals and added 54 assists for 106 points. He has also played in 45 AHL games and has scored 14 goals and added 14 assists for 28 points. 

Vatrano has represented the United States at the World Championships, the World Junior Championships, and the Olympics. He has also represented Italy at the World Championships.

Also Played For: providence bruins, youth hockey

45. Greg Mauldin

Binghamton Senators

Greg Mauldin

Greg Mauldin is a forward for the Lake Erie Monsters of the American Hockey League. He has played in over 300 regular season games and scored over 100 points.

Mauldin was drafted by the Florida Panthers in the second round of the 2000 NHL Entry Draft. However, he never played for them and spent most of his career in the AHL.

He signed with the Monsters in the off-season and has been a key player for them. He has scored 11 goals and added 21 assists in 43 games this season. Mauldin is a hard-working player who is always looking for the open net.

He is a powerful forward who can score goals in a variety of ways. Mauldin is a long-time resident of Holliston, Massachusetts. He is married and has two children. Mauldin is a native of the United States and is of Irish and French descent.

Mauldin is a member of the United States national team. He has played in two World Championships and two Olympics. Mauldin has made a significant contribution to the AHL and is looking to make a contribution to the National Team in the future.

46. James Life

James Life was born on October 19, 1983 in Fort Myers, Florida. He played college basketball at the University of Arkansas. Life has played in the NBA for the Memphis Grizzlies and the Milwaukee Bucks, and in Europe for the Spanish League club Real Madrid.

He has also played for the Atlanta Hawks and the Brooklyn Nets in the NBA Development League. He joined the Worcester Wolves in the British Basketball League in 2017. 

Life has appeared in two FIBA World Cup games for the United States, in 2006 and 2010. He is a member of the United States men's national basketball team.

He has two sons, Jaden and Jaxon. James Life is a six-time All-Star and two-time All-NBA Team selection. James was born on October 25th, 1995 in the USA. James has two brothers and one sister. James is a student at Central High School in Kentucky. 

James is a member of the track and field team and the soccer team. James enjoys playing video games and spending time with his family.

James is looking forward to continuing his education and becoming a successful professional. James is a hard worker and is always looking for ways to improve his skills. James is a friendly person and enjoys making new friends. James is enthusiastic about life and enjoys spending time with family and friends.

47. Jeffrey Viggiano

Mens Sana 1871 Basket

Jeffrey Viggiano Career

  • High school: Suffield (West Suffield, Connecticut)
  • College: UMass (2002–2006)
  • NBA draft: 2006 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2006–2017
  • Position: Small forward
  • 2006–2007: Norrköping Dolphins
  • 2007–2008: Soproni Sördögök
  • 2008–2009: Nuova Pallacanestro Pavia
  • 2009–2010: Armani Jeans Milano
  • 2010–2011: Angelico Biella
  • 2011: Emporio Armani Milano
  • 2011–2012: Benetton Treviso
  • 2012–2013: Enel Brindisi
  • 2013–2014: Montepaschi Siena
  • 2014–2017: Umana Reyer Venezia
  • Italian League champion (2017), Italian Supercup winner (2013)

Jeffrey Viggiano was born on July 24, 1984 in Hartford, Connecticut. Viggiano attended high school at Suffield (West Suffield, Connecticut). Viggiano played college basketball at UMass.

Viggiano was not drafted by an NBA team, but he played in the league for six years. Viggiano last played in the NBA in 2017. Viggiano has Italian and American citizenship. Viggiano is listed at 6'6" and 217 pounds.

Viggiano has played for the Denver Nuggets, Orlando Magic, Detroit Pistons, Philadelphia 76ers, and Boston Celtics. Viggiano is a small forward. Jeffrey Viggiano is a professional basketball player who has played in the Italian League and the EuroLeague.

Jeffrey Viggiano has played for the Norrköping Dolphins, Soproni Sördögök, Nuova Pallacanestro Pavia, Armani Jeans Milano, Angelico Biella, Emporio Armani Milano, Benetton Treviso, Enel Brindisi, Montepaschi Siena, and Umana Reyer Venezia.

Jeffrey Viggiano has won the Italian League championship with Montepaschi Siena in 2017. Jeffrey Viggiano was also a member of the Italian national basketball team that won the EuroBasket in 2009. Jeffrey Viggiano was born in the United States but grew up in Italy. 

Jeffrey Viggiano is a 6'10" center who plays with an aggressive style of play. Jeffrey Viggiano is a versatile player who can play both the center and power forward positions.

Jeffrey Viggiano is a skilled shooter who can score in the low and high post areas. Jeffrey Viggiano is a respected member of the Italian basketball community and is often considered one of the best centers in Europe.

48. Vladimir Ducasse

New York Jets

Vladimir Ducasse Career

  • High school: Stamford, (Stamford, Connecticut)
  • College: Massachusetts
  • NFL Draft: 2010 / Round: 2 / Pick: 61
  • New York Jets (2010–2013), Minnesota Vikings (2014), Chicago Bears (2015), Baltimore Ravens (2016), Buffalo Bills (2017–2018)
  • 2009 FCS All-American First Team (Associated Press), 2009 CAA All-Conference First Team, 2009 New England Football Writers All-Star, 2008 CAA All-Conference First Team
  • Games played: 111, Games started: 51
  • Games played: 111
  • Games started: 51

Ducasse was originally drafted by the Jets in the 2010 NFL Draft, but was waived before the season began. Ducasse was then signed by the Browns, but was released before the season started.

Ducasse then signed with the Bills and played for them for four seasons. Ducasse was named to the Pro Bowl in 2013 and 2014. Ducasse was released by the Bills in 2018. Ducasse is now a free agent.

Ducasse has played in 128 games in the NFL, including 128 starts. Ducasse has played both guard and center in the NFL. Ducasse is a three-time Pro Bowler and was named to the All-Rookie Team in 2010.

Ducasse started his career at Division III Augustana College before transferring to Minnesota to play for the Vikings in 2014. Ducasse played in all 16 games for the Vikings in his rookie season, recording 7 tackles and 1 sack.

Ducasse made the switch to defensive end in his second year with the Vikings and had a breakout year, recording 16 tackles, 5 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles. 

Ducasse signed with the Chicago Bears in 2015 and had a similar season, recording 14 tackles, 2 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles.

Ducasse was traded to the Baltimore Ravens in 2016 and had a career year, registering 56 tackles, 10 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles. Ducasse was traded to the Buffalo Bills in 2018 and had a strong season, registering 56 tackles, 14 sacks, and 1 forced fumble.

Final Words

The University of Massachusetts Amherst has produced some of the best players in NCAA history. Some of the best players to ever play for the Amherst team include Rick Majerus, Bill Walton, and Ray Allen.

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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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