University of Tennessee Basketball Best Players of All Time

Morgan Wolf

The University of Tennessee’s basketball program is one of the most storied and successful in the nation. It has produced some of the greatest players and coaches in the game, and has become synonymous with excellence and success. The Volunteers have won multiple national championships and countless conference titles, and have been to the NCAA Tournament more times than any other team in the Southeastern Conference.

From its legendary coach, Pat Summitt, to its current coach, Rick Barnes, the University of Tennessee basketball program is a powerhouse in the college basketball world. With a proud and passionate fan base, the Volunteers are sure to continue their success for years to come.

Table of Contents

1. Bernard King

Small forward

Bernard King Career

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Played For: new york knicks, small forward

2. Allan Houston

Allan Houston Career

  • 2× NBA All-Star (2000, 2001)
  • Third-team All-American – AP, UPI (1993)
  • Third-team All-American – NABC (1992)
  • 3× First-team All-SEC (1990–1993)
  • SEC All-Freshman Team (1990)
  • SEC tournament MVP (1991)
  • No. 20 retired by Tennessee Volunteers
  • McDonald's All-American (1989)
  • First-team Parade All-American (1989)
  • Kentucky Mr. Basketball (1989)

Allan Houston started his playing career with the Detroit Pistons, where he played for six seasons. In 2003, Houston was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers and spent two more years with them before being waived in 2005.

After a brief stint with the Philadelphia 76ers, Houston joined the New York Knicks as their general manager in 2007. He remained in that position until 2009 when he was fired after leading the team to its worst record ever (20-62).

Since leaving basketball behind, Allan has devoted himself to business ventures including working as an executive for Adidas and starting his own company called Playground Global Ventures which invests in sports businesses around the world.

Despite some setbacks along the way (the Knicks' 2012 bankruptcy), Allan remains confident about what he can do if given another shot at managing a professional basketball team . Allan Houston was a two-time All-Star and three-time First Team All-SEC player for the Tennessee Volunteers.

He was drafted by the Detroit Pistons in 1993 and played there until 2005, averaging over 17 points per game in his career. After leaving the NBA, he went on to play for the New York Knicks before retiring in 2006. 

Allan Houston is now an analyst with ESPN where he contributes to various shows including SportsCenter and Outside The Lines.

Also Played For: new york knights, tennessee volunteers men's basketball

3. Admiral Schofield

Admiral Schofield Career

  • High school: Zion-Benton Township, (Zion, Illinois)
  • College: Tennessee (2015–2019)
  • NBA draft 2019 / Round: 2 / Pick: 42nd overall
  • Selected by the Philadelphia 76ers
  • Playing career: 2019–present
  • 2019–2020: Washington Wizards
  • 2019–2020: →Capital City Go-Go
  • 2021: Greensboro Swarm
  • 2021: Lakeland Magic
  • 2021–present: Orlando Magic
  • 2022–present: →Lakeland Magic
  • AP Honorable Mention All-American (2019), First-team All-SEC (2019), Second-team All-SEC (2018)

Admiral Schofield is a 25-year old small forward who played college ball at Tennessee. He was drafted by the Orlando Magic in 2019, and has since been playing for them in the NBA.

Admiral Schofield is known for his Outside Shot and Defense, which have helped him become one of the best players in the league. Admiral Schofield's family originally came from London, England, but they now live in America and he loves everything about it.

Admiral Schofield is an incredibly hard worker both on and off the court - not to mention a total sports enthusiast. Admiral Schofield is a versatile player who can play both guard positions. Admiral Schofield has been playing professional basketball for over two years now and has had success in both the United States and Europe.

Admiral Schofield was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2019 and will be joining their NBA team for the 2020-21 season. Admiral Schoffield is known for his scoring ability, averaging 19 points per game throughout his career so far. 

AdmiralSchofield's versatility means that he can slot into any role on the court, whether it be as a starter or off the bench, which makes him an asset to any team he joins up with next season.

Also Played For: orlando magic

4. Kennedy Chandler

Guard

Kennedy Chandler Career

  • High school: , Briarcrest Christian School, (Eads, Tennessee), Sunrise Christian Academy, (Bel Aire, Kansas)
  • College: Tennessee (2021–2022)
  • NBA draft 2022 / Round: 2 / Pick: 38th overall
  • Selected by the San Antonio Spurs
  • 2022–present: Memphis Grizzlies
  • 2022–present: →Memphis Hustle
  • Second-team All SEC (2022), SEC All-Freshman Team (2022), SEC tournament MVP (2022), McDonald's All-American (2021), Jordan Brand Classic (2021), Nike Hoop Summit (2021), 2× Tennessee Mr. Basketball (2019, 2020)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, FIBA Under-19 World Cup, : 2021 Latvia: Team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  United States
  • FIBA Under-19 World Cup
  • : 2021 Latvia: Team

Kennedy Chandler was a standout point guard for Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA. He played college basketball for Tennessee and was drafted by the Grizzlies in 2022.

Kennedy Chandler is an exciting player who will be key to Memphis' success in the NBA. Kennedy Chandler was selected by the San Antonio Spurs in the second round of the 2018 NBA draft.

The 6'9" forward from Memphis played two seasons at Indiana University before transferring to Memphis for his final year. Chandler averaged 12 points and six rebounds per game as a senior at Indiana, earning All-SEC honors and being named SEC tournament MVP.

He has spent most of his career playing with Memphis, where he's averaged 7 points and four rebounds over 82 appearances (all starts).

Also Played For: memphis grizzlies, school basketball

5. Tobias Harris

Power forward

Tobias Harris Career

  • High school: , Half Hollow Hills West, (Dix Hills, New York), Long Island Lutheran, (Brookville, New York)
  • College: Tennessee (2010–2011)
  • NBA draft 2011 / Round: 1 / Pick: 19th overall
  • Selected by the Charlotte Bobcats
  • Playing career: 2011–present
  • 2011–2013: Milwaukee Bucks
  • 2013–2016: Orlando Magic
  • 2016–2018: Detroit Pistons
  • 2018–2019: Los Angeles Clippers
  • 2019–present: Philadelphia 76ers
  • Second-team All-SEC – Coaches (2011), SEC All-Freshman Team (2011), McDonald's All-American (2010), First-team Parade All-American (2010), Mr. New York Basketball (2010)

Harris started his career at Tennessee, where he averaged 8.6 points and 4.9 rebounds per game over two seasons. Harris was selected with the 12th overall pick in the 2011 NBA draft by the Philadelphia 76ers.

Harris made an immediate impact with Philadelphia, averaging 14.1 points and 7 rebounds per game in his rookie season, earning Rookie of the Year honors as well as being named to both the All-Rookie First Team and Second Team respectively.

In 2013–14, Harris led all NBA players in field goal percentage (minimum 200 attempts). He also finished second in scoring (22nd), first in rebounding (23rd), third in assists (tied for fourth) and sixth in steals (128). 

In 2016–17, Harris recorded a then career-high 22 double-doubles – one more than LeBron James – en route to finishing fifth amongst all players in MVP voting that year. 

becoming just the third player ever to finish fifth or higher amongst MVP voters while leading their team to 50+ wins for only these condtimein their career (theotherbeingKarl Malonetwice).Harris signed a five-year contract extension with Philadelphia on July 10th 2019.

Also Played For: philadelphia 76ers, los angeles clippers

6. C. J. Watson

Orlando Magic

C. J. Watson Career

  • High school: Bishop Gorman, (Las Vegas, Nevada)
  • College: Tennessee (2002–2006)
  • NBA draft: 2006 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2006–2019
  • Position: Point guard
  • 2006–2007: Pallacanestro Reggiana
  • 2007: PAOK Thessaloniki
  • 2007–2008: Rio Grande Valley Vipers
  • 2008–2010: Golden State Warriors
  • 2010–2012: Chicago Bulls
  • 2012–2013: Brooklyn Nets
  • 2013–2015: Indiana Pacers
  • 2015–2017: Orlando Magic
  • 2018–2019: Uşak Sportif
  • Second-team All-SEC (2006), SEC All-Freshman Team (2003), Fourth-team Parade All-American (2002)

Watson was a standout player at Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas, Nevada. He helped the team to two state championships and was named Nevada Player of the Year as a senior.

Watson went on to play for Tennessee from 2002-2006, where he averaged 11.7 points and 4.4 assists per game during his collegiate career. Watson was not drafted by any NBA teams after graduating from college but signed with the Bulls as an undrafted free agent in 2006.

He spent three seasons with Chicago before being traded to New Orleans in 2011 and then waived by the Pelicans later that year. Watson has played for numerous other teams since then, including Houston (2012), Memphis (2013), Philadelphia (2014–2015), Phoenix (2016) and Brooklyn (2018).

In 2019, he rejoined the Bulls after spending time with their G League affiliate Iowa Energy earlier that year.

Also Played For: bishop gorman

7. Grant Williams

Forward

Grant Williams Career

  • High school: Providence Day School
  • College: Tennessee (2016–2019)
  • NBA draft 2019 / Round: 1 / Pick: 22nd overall
  • Selected by the Boston Celtics
  • Playing career: 2019–present
  • 2019–present: Boston Celtics
  • Consensus first-team All-American (2019), 2× SEC Player of the Year – Coaches (2018, 2019), SEC Player of the Year – AP (2019), 2× First-team All-SEC (2018, 2019), SEC All-Freshman Team – Coaches (2017)

Grant Williams was born on November 30, 1998 in Gotham City. Grant Williams played high school basketball for Providence Day School and college basketball for Tennessee.

In 2019, Grant Williams was drafted by the Boston Celtics with the 22nd overall pick in the NBA draft. As of February 2019, Grant Williams is playing power forward for the Celtics in the NBA.

Grant Williams was selected by the Boston Celtics in the 2019 NBA Draft. Grant Williams is a consensus first-team All-American and 2x SEC Player of the Year. He has also been named First-team All-SEC twice and AP Player of the Year once.

Williams is averaging 21 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists per game this season with Boston Celtics

Also Played For: boston celtics

8. Wayne Chism

Manama Club

Wayne Chism Career

  • High school: Bolivar Central, (Bolivar, Tennessee)
  • College: Tennessee (2006–2010)
  • NBA draft: 2010 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2010–present
  • 2010: Antalya Büyükşehir Belediyesi
  • 2011: Fort Wayne Mad Ants
  • 2011–2012: Albacomp
  • 2012–2013: Aix Maurienne
  • 2013–2014: Kaposvári KK
  • 2014: Rain or Shine Elasto Painters
  • 2014–2015: Hapoel Gilboa Galil
  • 2015–2016: Rain or Shine Elasto Painters
  • 2016–2017: Garzas de Plata Hidalgo
  • 2017: NLEX Road Warriors
  • 2017–2019: Manama
  • 2018: Magnolia Hotshots
  • 2019: Hekmeh BC
  • 2019–2021: Al Wahda
  • Bahrain League champion (2018), All-Bahrain League First Team (2018), PBA Best Import of the Conference (2015 Commissioner's), Hungarian League Import Player of the Year (2014), First-team All-SEC (2010), SEC Freshman of the Year (2007)

Wayne Chism was born in 1987 and played college basketball at Tennessee. He signed with Antalya Büyükşehir Belediyesi of the Turkish Basketball League in 2010, but didn't play professionally until 2011 when he joined Fort Wayne Mad Ants.

In 2012, he moved to the Detroit Pistons' D-League affiliate, the Grand Rapids Drive, before returning to Turkey for one season with Beşiktaş JK. He has since returned to the United States and is currently playing for Cleveland's Canton Charge in the NBA Development League (NBDL).

Chism is a power forward/center who generally plays as a center or power forward for his teams; his tallest height was 2 meters 06 inches (6 feet 9 inches).

Which he reached during his time at Bolivar Central High School in Jackson Tennessee according to some reports while others claim it was 2 meters 08 inches (7 feet 01 inch).

Wayne Chism has had stints both internationally and domestically throughout his career; thus far this year he has been playing with Maccabi Rishon LeZion of Israel's Premier League. 

Where they are fourth place after 15 games behind first place Hapoel Jerusalem, second placed Tel Aviv Maccabi and third placed Ironi Nahariya respectively - although their last game will be played on May 28th so there can still only be four teams crowned champions from this current campaign onwards.

Also Played For: 2022 fiba asia cup

9. Tom Boerwinkle

Tom Boerwinkle Career

  • High school: Millersburg Military Institute, (Millersburg, Kentucky)
  • College: Tennessee (1965–1968)
  • NBA draft 1968 / Round: 1 / Pick: 4th overall
  • Selected by the Chicago Bulls
  • Playing career: 1968–1978
  • Position: Center
  • Number: 18
  • 1968–1978: Chicago Bulls
  • 2× First-team All-SEC (1967, 1968)
  • Points: 4,596 (7.2 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 5,745 (9.0 rpg)
  • Assists: 2,007 (3.2 apg)

Tom Boerwinkle was a versatile player who was able to play both forward and center. Boerwinkle was drafted by the Chicago Bulls in 1968 and played for the team for six seasons.

Boerwinkle is best known for his time with the Bulls, where he was a key player on their championship team in 1973. After his playing career ended, Boerwinkle worked as a color commentator for the Bulls and other teams.

Boerwinkle died on March 26, 2013 at the age of 67 after a long battle with cancer. He was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2010. Boerwinkle was a popular figure in the NBA community and was known for his good humor and sense of humor.

He is survived by his wife, Kathy, and their two children. Tom Boerwinkle was a standout center for the University of Kentucky from 1967 to 1968. Boerwinkle was drafted by the Chicago Bulls in the 1968 NBA Draft and went on to play for the team from 1968 to 1978.

Boerwinkle was a two-time First-team All-SEC selection and is one of only three players in Kentucky history to be named to the All-SEC first team twice. 

Boerwinkle was a highly productive player in the NBA, averaging over seven points and nine rebounds per game during his career.

Boerwinkle retired from the NBA in 1978 after playing for the Bulls. Boerwinkle is a two-time inductee into the University of Kentucky Athletic Hall of Fame and has been inducted into the Kentucky Basketball Hall of Fame. 

Boerwinkle currently works as an assistant coach for the Kentucky Wildcats men's basketball team. Tom Boerwinkle is one of the most decorated players in Kentucky basketball history.

Also Played For: chicago bulls

10. Dale Ellis

Dale Ellis Career

  • High school: Marietta (Marietta, Georgia)
  • College: Tennessee (1979–1983)
  • NBA draft 1983 / Round: 1 / Pick: 9th overall
  • Selected by the Dallas Mavericks
  • Playing career: 1983–2000
  • Position: Small forward / Shooting guard
  • Number: 14, 3, 9, 2
  • 1983–1986: Dallas Mavericks
  • 1986–1991: Seattle SuperSonics
  • 1991–1992: Milwaukee Bucks
  • 1992–1994: San Antonio Spurs
  • 1994–1997: Denver Nuggets
  • 1997–1999: Seattle SuperSonics
  • 1999–2000: Milwaukee Bucks
  • 2000: Charlotte Hornets
  • NBA All-Star (1989), All-NBA Third Team (1989), NBA Most Improved Player (1987), NBA Three-Point Contest champion (1989), Consensus first-team All-American (1983), Consensus second-team All-American (1982), 2× SEC Player of the Year (1982, 1983), No. 14 retired by Tennessee Volunteers, Fourth-team Parade All-American (1979)
  • Points: 19,004 (15.7 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 4,201 (3.5 rpg)
  • Assists: 1,746 (1.4 apg)

Dale Ellis played in the NBA for 14 seasons, starting with the Dallas Mavericks in 1983. Ellis is best known for his time with the Seattle SuperSonics and San Antonio Spurs, where he was an All-Star three times.

Ellis is also a two-time Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame inductee and was named one of the 50 Greatest NBA Players of All Time in 2002. Ellis has since retired from professional basketball and now works as a commentator for NBA games.

Ellis was a versatile player who was able to score inside and out. Ellis was a key player on two of the most successful teams in Nuggets history. Ellis was a three-time All-Star and won the Three-Point Contest in 1989. Ellis finished his career with 19,004 points and 4,201 rebounds.

Ellis was a key member of the Charlotte Hornets during their 2000 championship season. Ellis was inducted into the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame in 2013. 

Ellis currently works as an analyst for the NBA on TNT. Ellis was born on October 12, 1963 in Knoxville, Tennessee. Ellis is married to Rheaume and has two children.

Also Played For: seattle supersonics, oklahoma city thunder

11. Tariq Owens

Tariq Owens Career

  • High school: , St. Vincent Pallotti, (Laurel, Maryland), Mt. Zion Prep, (Baltimore, Maryland)
  • College: , Tennessee (2014–2015), St. John's (2016–2018), Texas Tech (2018–2019)
  • NBA draft: 2019 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2019–present
  • 2019–2020: Northern Arizona Suns
  • 2020: Phoenix Suns
  • 2020: →Northern Arizona Suns
  • 2021: Long Island Nets
  • 2022–present: Pallacanestro Varese
  • Big 12 All-Defensive team (2019)

Owens was born in Utica, New York on June 30, 1995. He attended high school at St. Vincent Pallotti in Laurel, Maryland and then Mt. Zion Prep in Baltimore, Maryland.

Owens played college basketball for Texas Tech and was a member of the Red Raiders' 2017-2018 NCAA Championship team. Owens has played in the Italian Lega Basket Serie A for Pallacanestro Varese since the 2018-2019 season.

Owens is a powerful forward and is currently averaging 11.0 points and 7.0 rebounds per game in the Lega Basket Serie A. Owens has international experience, having played for the U.S. National Team at the 2017 FIBA AmeriCup and the 2019 FIBA World Cup.

Owens is a key member of the Red Raiders' 2019 NCAA Championship team. Tariq Owens was born on September 26, 1999, in Memphis, Tennessee. Owens played college basketball for Tennessee and St. John's. Owens was not drafted in the 2019 NBA Draft, but he was signed by the Phoenix Suns.

Owens has played for the Northern Arizona Suns, Phoenix Suns, and Pallacanestro Varese in Italy. Owens is a two-time all-Big 12 defender and was named to the 2019 All-Defensive team. 

Owens has a career scoring average of 10.6 points per game. Owens is the son of former NBA player and Memphis Grizzlies head coach Tariq Abdul-Wahad. Owens is of Palestinian descent. Owens is a member of the USA men's national basketball team.

Also Played For: long island nets

12. Jarnell Stokes

Forward

Jarnell Stokes Career

  • High school: Southwind (Memphis, Tennessee)
  • College: Tennessee (2011–2014)
  • NBA draft 2014 / Round: 2 / Pick: 35th overall
  • Selected by the Utah Jazz
  • Playing career: 2014–2020
  • Position: Power forward / Center
  • 2014–2015: Memphis Grizzlies
  • 2014–2015: →Iowa Energy
  • 2015–2016: Miami Heat
  • 2015–2016: →Sioux Falls Skyforce
  • 2016: Sioux Falls Skyforce
  • 2016: Denver Nuggets
  • 2017: Sioux Falls Skyforce
  • 2017–2018: Zhejiang Golden Bulls
  • 2018: Sioux Falls Skyforce
  • 2019: Memphis Hustle
  • 2019–2020: Xinjiang Flying Tigers
  • NBA D-League champion (2016), NBA D-League Finals MVP (2016), NBA D-League MVP (2016), All-NBA D-League First Team (2016), NBA D-League All-Star (2016), First-team All-SEC (2014), Second-team All-SEC (2013), SEC All-Freshman team (2012)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, FIBA World U19 Championship, : 2013 Czech Republic: National team, FIBA Americas U18 Championship, : 2012 Brazil: National team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  United States
  • FIBA World U19 Championship
  • : 2013 Czech Republic: National team
  • FIBA Americas U18 Championship
  • : 2012 Brazil: National team

Stokes played college basketball for the Tennessee Volunteers. He was drafted by the Utah Jazz in the 2014 NBA Draft. He has spent the majority of his professional career with the Memphis Grizzlies, and has also played for the Iowa Energy and the Miami Heat.

Stokes is a power forward and center. He has averaged 7.8 points and 4.5 rebounds per game in his career. 

Stokes has been a mainstay in the D-League for several years now and has consistently put up good numbers. He was a two-time D-League champion with the Sioux Falls Skyforce in 2016 and 2017.

He has also been an All-NBA D-League First Team selection in 2016 and 2017. He has also been a runner-up for the D-League MVP Award in 2016. Stokes is coming off a season in which he played for the Denver Nuggets. 

He is expected to play for the Memphis Hustle in the upcoming season. Stokes is a versatile player who can play both forward positions.

He is a hard worker and is always looking to improve his game. Stokes is a high-energy player who loves to play in the open court.

13. Scotty Hopson

Shooting guard

Scotty Hopson Career

  • High school: University Heights Academy, (Hopkinsville, Kentucky)
  • College: Tennessee (2008–2011)
  • NBA draft: 2011 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2011–present
  • 2011–2012: Kolossos Rodou
  • 2012–2013: Hapoel Eilat
  • 2013–2014: Anadolu Efes
  • 2014: Cleveland Cavaliers
  • 2014: →Canton Charge
  • 2014–2015: Sioux Falls Skyforce
  • 2015: Laboral Kutxa
  • 2015: Foshan Long Lions
  • 2016–2017: Cedevita
  • 2017: Ironi Nahariya
  • 2017–2018: Galatasaray
  • 2018: Dallas Mavericks
  • 2018–2019: Oklahoma City Blue
  • 2019: Hapoel Holon
  • 2019–2020: New Zealand Breakers
  • 2020: Oklahoma City Blue
  • 2020–2021: Melbourne United
  • 2021–2022: Oklahoma City Blue
  • 2021–2022: Oklahoma City Thunder
  • 2022: Dynamo Lebanon
  • 2022–present: Oklahoma City Blue
  • NBL champion (2021), All-NBL Second Team (2020), First-team All-SEC (2011), Second-team Parade All-American (2008), McDonald's All-American (2008)

Hopson played college basketball for the Tennessee Volunteers from 2008-2011. He was undrafted but signed with the Oklahoma City Blue of the NBA G League in February 2012.

In his first season with the Blue, Hopson averaged 14.3 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game. In 2013, he signed with the Israeli Kolossos Rodou. In 2014, he joined the Hapoel Eilat team in the Israeli Premier League.

In 2017, he signed with the Memphis Grizzlies. He has appeared in 131 games in the NBA G League and scored a total of 1,416 points. Hopson was named to the NBA G League All-Star team in 2018. He is married and has two children. Hopson played college basketball at the University of Akron.

Hopson was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2014 NBA Draft. Hopson was traded to the Canton Charge in the offseason. 

Hopson has spent time with the Sioux Falls Skyforce, Foshan Long Lions, and Cedevita in the Israeli league. Hopson has also played for the Cleveland Cavaliers, Canton Charge, and Sioux Falls Skyforce in the NBA.

Hopson has won two Israeli championships with Cedevita and one with the Foshan Long Lions. Hopson has also played for the Australian National Team. Hopson is currently with the Oklahoma City Blue. Hopson is a restricted free agent this offseason.

14. Jaden Springer

Guard

Jaden Springer Career

  • High school: , Rocky River, (Mint Hill, North Carolina), IMG Academy, (Bradenton, Florida)
  • College: Tennessee (2020–2021)
  • NBA draft 2021 / Round: 1 / Pick: 28th overall
  • Selected by the Philadelphia 76ers
  • Playing career: 2021–present
  • 2021–present: Philadelphia 76ers
  • 2021–2022: →Delaware Blue Coats
  • SEC All-Freshman Team (2021), McDonald's All-American (2020)

Jaden Springer was born on September 25, 2002, in Charlotte, North Carolina. He attended high school in Rocky River, North Carolina, and played for the school's basketball team.

In 2017, Springer played for the IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida. Springer was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in the first round of the 2017 NBA draft. Springer has played for the 76ers in the 2017-2018 season, and he is currently their starting shooting guard.

Springer has a height of 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m) and a weight of 202 lb (92 kg). Springer is a very talented player, and he is currently one of the best shooting guards in the NBA. 

Springer is a very hard worker, and he is always trying to improve his skills. Springer has a bright future, and he is sure to become one of the best players in the NBA.

15. Jordan McRae

Guard

Jordan McRae Career

  • High school: Liberty County (Hinesville, Georgia)
  • College: Tennessee (2010–2014)
  • NBA draft 2014 / Round: 2 / Pick: 58th overall
  • Selected by the San Antonio Spurs
  • Playing career: 2014–present
  • 2014–2015: Melbourne United
  • 2015–2016: Delaware 87ers
  • 2016: Phoenix Suns
  • 2016–2017: Cleveland Cavaliers
  • 2016: →Canton Charge
  • 2017–2018: Baskonia
  • 2018–2020: Washington Wizards
  • 2018–2019: →Capital City Go-Go
  • 2020: Denver Nuggets
  • 2020: Detroit Pistons
  • 2020–2021: Beijing Ducks
  • 2021–2022: Metropolitans 92
  • 2022–present: Hapoel Tel Aviv
  • NBA champion (2016), NBA D-League All-Star (2016), All-NBL Second Team (2015), 2× First-team All-SEC (2013, 2014)

Jordan McRae is a American Shooting Guard who was drafted by the San Antonio Spurs in the 2014 NBA draft. McRae played college basketball for the Tennessee Volunteers and was a Second Team All-American in 2014.

McRae has played in the Israeli Basketball Premier League, EuroCup, and the NBA. McRae has been a part of the Spurs, Portland Trail Blazers, and Washington Wizards. Jordan McRae is currently a member of Hapoel Tel Aviv.

Jordan McRae was drafted in the second round of the 2016 NBA Draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers. McRae played for the Delaware 87ers in the NBA Development League in 2016-2017 before being traded to the Phoenix Suns. 

McRae then played for the Canton Charge in the NBA G-League in 2017-2018 before being traded to Baskonia.

McRae has since played for the Washington Wizards, Capital City Go-Go, and Baskonia in Europe. McRae has also played for the Melbourne United in the Australian National Basketball League. 

McRae was named to the All-NBL Second Team in 2015 and won the NBA Development League Championship with the Delaware 87ers in 2016. McRae was drafted in the second round of the 2016 NBA Draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers.

McRae played for the Delaware 87ers in the NBA Development League in 2016-2017 before being traded to the Phoenix Suns. McRae then played for the Canton Charge in the NBA G-League in 2017-2018 before being traded to Baskonia.

16. Ernie Grunfeld

Ernie Grunfeld Career

  • High school: Forest Hills (Queens, New York)
  • College: Tennessee (1973–1977)
  • NBA draft 1977 / Round: 1 / Pick: 11th overall
  • Selected by the Milwaukee Bucks
  • Playing career: 1977–1986
  • Position: Shooting guard / Small forward
  • Number: 20, 18
  • 1977–1979: Milwaukee Bucks
  • 1979–1982: Kansas City Kings
  • 1982–1986: New York Knicks
  • Consensus second-team All-American (1977), Third-team All-American – NABC, UPI (1976), SEC Player of the Year (1977), No. 22 retired by Tennessee Volunteers, Third-team Parade All-American (1973)
  • Points: 5,124 (7.4 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 1,815 (2.6 rpg)
  • Assists: 1,419 (2.0 apg)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, Olympic Games, : 1976 Montreal: Team competition, Pan American Games, : 1975 Mexico City: Team competition, Maccabiah Games, : 1973 Ramat Gan: Men's basketball, : 1977 Israel: Men's basketball
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  United States
  • Olympic Games
  • : 1976 Montreal: Team competition
  • Pan American Games
  • : 1975 Mexico City: Team competition
  • Maccabiah Games
  • : 1973 Ramat Gan: Men's basketball
  • : 1977 Israel: Men's basketball

Ernie Grunfeld was born in Satu Mare, Romania in 1955. He attended high school in Forest Hills, Queens, New York and played college basketball for Tennessee.

He was drafted in the first round by the Milwaukee Bucks in 1977 and played for them for six seasons. He then moved to the Kansas City Kings and the New York Knicks for two more seasons.

He retired in 1986 after playing professional basketball for 10 years. Ernie Grunfeld is now a basketball executive and agent. He has worked for the Milwaukee Bucks, the Kansas City Kings, and the New York Knicks, among other teams.

He is also a television analyst and has worked for ESPN, Turner Sports, and NBC Sports. Ernie Grunfeld has two sons, one of which, Isaac, also played basketball in college. Ernie Grunfeld is 67 years old and has spent more than 30 years in the basketball industry.

17. Chris Lofton

Chris Lofton Career

  • High school: Mason County, (Maysville, Kentucky)
  • College: Tennessee (2004–2008)
  • NBA draft: 2008 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2008–present
  • 2008–2009: Mersin BB
  • 2009: Caja Laboral
  • 2009–2010: Asefa Estudiantes
  • 2010–2011: Iowa Energy
  • 2011–2012: Lokomotiv Kuban
  • 2012: Asefa Estudiantes
  • 2012–2013: Lagun Aro GBC
  • 2013–2015: Beşiktaş
  • 2015–2016: Le Mans Sarthe
  • 2017: Neptūnas Klaipėda
  • 2017–2018: Le Mans Sarthe
  • 2019–present: Seoul SK Knights
  • Pro A champion (2018), French Cup champion (2016), French Cup Final MVP (2016), 2× Consensus second-team All-American (2007, 2008), Second-team All-American – SN (2006), Third-team All-American – NABC (2006), SEC Player of the Year – AP (2007), 3× First-team All-SEC (2006–2008), SEC All-Freshman Team (2005), Kentucky Mr. Basketball (2004)

Chris Lofton was a standout player at Mason County High School in Maysville, Kentucky. Lofton went on to play college basketball at Tennessee, where he was a starting guard for the Volunteers from 2004 to 2008.

After going undrafted in the 2008 NBA draft, Lofton joined the Mersin BB team in Turkey. In 2012, Lofton returned to the NBA and joined the Charlotte Bobcats. He was traded to the Brooklyn Nets in 2016, and then traded to the Utah Jazz in 2017.

In 2018, Lofton signed with the Seoul SK Knights of the Korean Basketball League. Lofton has appeared in over 400 NBA games and has averaged 8.5 points and 3.7 rebounds per game. He is married and has two children. 

Lofton is a popular player in the Korean Basketball League, where he has won two KBL MVP awards.

18. Keon Johnson

Keon Johnson Career

  • High school: The Webb School, (Bell Buckle, Tennessee)
  • College: Tennessee (2020–2021)
  • NBA draft 2021 / Round: 1 / Pick: 21st overall
  • Selected by the New York Knicks
  • Playing career: 2021–present
  • 2021–2022: Los Angeles Clippers
  • 2021–2022: →Agua Caliente Clippers
  • 2022–present: Portland Trail Blazers
  • SEC All-Freshman Team (2021), 2× Tennessee Mr. Basketball (2018, 2019)

Keon Johnson was drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2021 NBA draft. Johnson played for the Tennessee Volunteers from 2020-2021. Johnson is a shooting guard and is listed at 6' 3" and 185 pounds.

Johnson has a high school from Bell Buckle, Tennessee. Johnson is projected to be a first round pick in the 2021 NBA draft. Johnson is a young player with a lot of potential. Keon Johnson is a versatile player who can play both guard positions.

Johnson was drafted by the New York Knicks in the second round of the 2021 NBA Draft. Johnson has played for the Los Angeles Clippers, Agua Caliente Clippers, and Portland Trail Blazers in his career. 

Johnson has won two Tennessee Mr. Basketball Awards and was a member of the SEC All-Freshman Team in 2021.

Johnson is a versatile player who can play both guard positions and has averaged 10.5 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists in his career. Johnson is a hard worker who is looking to improve his game every season. Johnson is looking to have a breakout season in 2021–2022 and help the Knicks win a championship.

Johnson is a natural leader who is looking to help his team win games on the court. Johnson is a player who is looking to continue to improve his game and have a successful career in the NBA.

19. Jordan Bone

Guard

Jordan Bone Career

  • High school: The Ensworth School, (Nashville, Tennessee)
  • College: Tennessee (2016–2019)
  • NBA draft 2019 / Round: 2 / Pick: 57th overall
  • Selected by the New Orleans Pelicans
  • Playing career: 2019–present
  • 2019–2020: Detroit Pistons
  • 2019–2020: →Grand Rapids Drive
  • 2020–2021: Orlando Magic
  • 2021: Delaware Blue Coats
  • 2021: Beşiktaş Icrypex
  • 2021–2022: Zaragoza
  • 2022–present: Wisconsin Herd
  • Second-team All-SEC (2019)

Jordan Bone is a point guard for the Wisconsin Herd in the NBA G League. Bone was born in Nashville, Tennessee, in 1997. He attended The Ensworth School in Nashville and played for their basketball team.

Bone played college basketball for Tennessee from 2016 to 2019. Bone was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in the 2019 NBA G League Draft, but has not yet made an appearance in the NBA. Bone is a natural point guard and has good ball handling skills.

Bone is expected to play in the NBA G League this season. Jordan Bone is a versatile player who can play both point guard and shooting guard positions. Jordan Bone is a promising young player with a bright future. Bone is a 6-foot-7 forward who played collegiately at Georgetown.

He was drafted by the Detroit Pistons in the second round of the 2019 NBA Draft. Bone made his professional debut with the Grand Rapids Drive of the NBA Development League. He signed with the Orlando Magic in February 2020. Bone was traded to the Delaware Blue Coats in February 2021.

He was waived by the Blue Coats in February 2022. Bone was signed by the Wisconsin Herd of the NBA G-League in February 2022. He was waived by the Herd in December 2022. Bone was signed by the Zaragoza of the Spanish ACB in December 2022.

20. Tony White

Tony White Career

  • High school: Independence, (Charlotte, North Carolina)
  • College: Tennessee (1983–1987)
  • NBA draft 1987 / Round: 2 / Pick: 33rd overall
  • Selected by the Chicago Bulls
  • Playing career: 1987–2000
  • Position: Shooting guard
  • Number: 11, 4
  • 1987: Chicago Bulls
  • 1987: New York Knicks
  • 1987–1988: Golden State Warriors
  • 1988: Presto Ice Cream
  • 1988–1989: La Crosse Catbirds
  • 1989: Reussbühl Rebels
  • 1989–1990: La Crosse Catbirds
  • 1990–1992: Leuven
  • 1992–1993: Castors Braine
  • 1993–1994: AEK Athens
  • 1994–1995: Aris
  • 1995–1996: Olympique Antibes
  • 1996–1998: Fórum Filatélico
  • 1998: Papagou
  • 1998–1999: Maccabi Rishon LeZion
  • 2000: TDK Manresa
  • Spanish League Top Scorer (1998), 2× Greek League All-Star (1994 I, 1994 II), Greek All-Star Game MVP (1994 I), French League All-Star (1996), French All-Star Stame MVP (1996), Third-team All-American – AP, UPI (1987), SEC Player of the Year – UPI (1987)
  • Medals, , Men’s basketball, Representing  United States, FIBA AmeriCup, : 1993 San Juan:
  • Men’s basketball
  • Representing  United States
  • FIBA AmeriCup
  • : 1993 San Juan:

Tony White was born on February 15, 1965 in Charlotte, North Carolina. White attended Independence High School in Charlotte and played basketball for the school's team.

White played collegiately for the Tennessee Volunteers. White was drafted by the Chicago Bulls in the 1987 NBA draft and played for the team for six seasons. White was traded to the New York Knicks in 1988 and played for the team until 1988-89.

White was traded to the Golden State Warriors in 1989 and played for the team for two seasons. White was traded to the Houston Rockets in 1991 and played for the team for two seasons. White was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers in 1992 and played for the team for one season.

White retired from the NBA in 2000. Tony White was a prolific scorer in the Spanish and Greek leagues, winning several awards along the way. White played for a number of clubs in Europe, including La Crosse Catbirds, Reussbühl Rebels, AEK Athens and Olympique Antibes. He retired from professional basketball in 2003.

21. Reggie Johnson

Reggie Johnson Career

  • High school: Cedar Grove (Ellenwood, Georgia)
  • College: Tennessee (1976–1980)
  • NBA draft 1980 / Round: 1 / Pick: 15th overall
  • Selected by the San Antonio Spurs
  • Playing career: 1980–1995
  • Position: Power forward / Center
  • Number: 32, 44, 33
  • 1980–1981: San Antonio Spurs
  • 1981–1982: Cleveland Cavaliers
  • 1982–1983: Kansas City Kings
  • 1983: Philadelphia 76ers
  • 1983–1984: New Jersey Nets
  • 1984–1986: Marr Rimini
  • 1986–1990: Joventut Badalona
  • 1990–1991: Birra Messina Trapani
  • 1991–1995: León
  • NBA champion (1983), 2× Spanish Supercup champion (1986, 1987)
  • Points: 2,564 (8.4 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 1,238 (4.1 rpg)
  • Assists: 262 (0.9 apg)

Reggie Johnson was a dominant power forward and center in the NBA for a decade. Johnson led the Spurs to the playoffs in each of his first three seasons with the team, but was unable to advance past the first round.

Johnson was traded to the Detroit Pistons in 1995 and helped lead the team to the playoffs that year. However, they were unable to advance past the first round. Johnson retired from the NBA in 1996. He has since worked as an analyst for the Spurs and other teams.

Johnson is currently a resident of San Antonio, Texas. Johnson was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2010. He has two children, one of which also played in the NBA. Johnson is a devout Christian and has spoken about his faith numerous times.

Johnson was a 7-time All-Star and a key player on the 1983 Philadelphia 76ers team that won the NBA championship. Johnson finished his career with 2,564 points and 1,238 rebounds. Johnson also had 262 assists over his career, which is a record for an American player. Johnson is now an NBA analyst for ESPN.

Johnson was born in Washington, D.C. and played collegiately at the University of Virginia. Johnson is a member of the Basketball Hall of Fame. 

Johnson was a member of the U.S. national team at the 1984 Olympics. Johnson currently lives in Southern California. Johnson is married and has two children.

22. Howard Wood

Howard Wood Career

  • High school: East Hampton, (East Hampton, New York)
  • College: Tennessee (1977–1981)
  • NBA draft 1981 / Round: 2 / Pick: 27th overall
  • Selected by the Utah Jazz
  • Playing career: 1981–1996
  • Position: Power forward
  • Number: 33
  • 1981–1982: Utah Jazz
  • 1982–1983: Billings Volcanos
  • 1983–1984: Wisconsin Flyers
  • 1984–1985: Cacaolat Granollers
  • 1985–1986: Tizona Burgos
  • 1986–1987: Valencia Hoja del Lunes
  • 1987–1988: Caixa Ourense
  • 1988–1989: Metro Santa Coloma
  • 1989–1992: Pamesa Valencia
  • 1992–1993: Ferrys Llíria
  • 1993–1995: Coren Ourense
  • 1995–1996: Cajacantabria

Howard Wood was a power forward in the NBA for thirteen seasons. Wood played for the Utah Jazz, Philadelphia 76ers, Boston Celtics, and Chicago Bulls during his career.

Wood was a member of the gold medal-winning USA Men's Olympic Team in 1984. Wood was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2003. Wood currently works as a commentator for NBA games.

Howard Wood was born on December 3, 1962 in Chicago, Illinois. He was drafted by the Utah Jazz in the 2nd round of the 1981 NBA Draft. Wood played for the Utah Jazz from 1981-1982, the Billings Volcanos from 1982-1983, the Wisconsin Flyers from 1983-1984, and the Cacaolat Granollers from 1984-1985.

He was then signed by the Valencia Hoja del Lunes of the Spanish League in 1985. Wood played for the Valencia Hoja del Lunes from 1985-1987. He was then signed by the Caixa Ourense of the Spanish League in 1987. 

Wood played for the Caixa Ourense from 1987-1988. He was then signed by the Metro Santa Coloma of the Spanish League in 1988. Wood played for the Metro Santa Coloma from 1988-1989.

23. Ron Widby

Ron Widby Career

  • High school: Fulton (Knoxville, Tennessee)
  • College: Tennessee
  • NFL Draft: 1967 / Round: 4 / Pick: 81
  • New Orleans Saints (1967)*, New Orleans Buccaneers (ABA) (1967), Dallas Cowboys (1967–1971), →Oklahoma City Plainsmen (1967), Green Bay Packers (1972–1973)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • 2× Basketball All-SEC (1966, 1967), Basketball second-team All-American – AP (1967), SEC Basketball Player of the Year (1967), Pro Bowl (1971), Super Bowl Champion (VI)
  • Games played: 81, Punting yards: 15,488, Punts: 368, Punt Blocks: 4
  • Games played: 81
  • Punting yards: 15,488
  • Punts: 368
  • Punt Blocks: 4

Ron Widby was one of the most prolific punters in NFL history, recording over 4,000 punts in his career. Widby was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in 1967 and enjoyed a successful 11-year career with the team, including two Super Bowl appearances.

Widby retired in 1971 and went on to have a successful career in the NFL as a coach and commentator. He died in 2020 aged 75. Widby was a two-time All-SEC basketball player at Ole Miss and was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in the 1967 NBA Draft but never played in the league.

Widby was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the 1972 NFL Draft and played for them for three seasons before being released in 1973. Widby spent the 1973 season with the Oklahoma City Plainsmen of the American Football League before retiring from professional football. 

Widby was inducted into the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame in 1998 and the Ole Miss Sports Hall of Fame in 2002. Widby is a longtime basketball coach and currently serves as the head coach at the University of Mississippi. 

Ron Widby was a two-time All-SEC basketball player at Ole Miss and was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in the 1967 NBA Draft but never played in the league. Widby was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the 1972 NFL Draft and played for them for three seasons before being released in 1973.

Widby spent the 1973 season with the Oklahoma City Plainsmen of the American Football League before retiring from professional football. 

Widby was inducted into the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame in 1998 and the Ole Miss Sports Hall of Fame in 2002. Widby is a longtime basketball coach and currently serves as the head coach at the University of Mississippi.

24. Josiah-Jordan James

Josiah-Jordan James Career

  • High school: Porter-Gaud School, (Charleston, South Carolina)
  • College: Tennessee (2019–present)
  • McDonald's All-American (2019), South Carolina Mr. Basketball (2019)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, FIBA Americas U18 Championship, : 2018 Canada: Team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing the  United States
  • FIBA Americas U18 Championship
  • : 2018 Canada: Team

Josiah-Jordan James was born on September 5, 2000 in Charleston, South Carolina. He played high school basketball at Porter-Gaud School. James was a two-time All-State selection and was named to the Associated Press All-America First Team as a senior.

James played for the Tennessee Volunteers in the SEC. He averaged 10.1 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game over his three-year career. James declared for the NBA draft following his junior season and was selected by the Utah Jazz with the 27th overall pick.

James has played for the Jazz, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Memphis Grizzlies. He was traded to the Memphis Grizzlies in February of 2019. 

James is currently a member of the Washington Wizards. Josiah-Jordan James is a young player with a lot of potential. He has shown great skills both on and off the court.

James was a McDonald's All-American, and he was also named South Carolina Mr. Basketball. He has a lot of experience playing against top competition and has shown that he is a valuable player. 

James is a versatile player who can play both inside and outside. He will be a key player for Tennessee next season.

James is a hard worker, and he is always working on his game. He is looking to continue his success at Tennessee next season. James is a player with a lot of potential, and he is looking to continue his career at the highest level. He is a valuable player for Tennessee and will be a key player for the team next season.

James is a versatile player who can play both inside and outside. He will be a key player for Tennessee next season. James is a player with a lot of potential, and he is looking to continue his career at the highest level. 

He is a valuable player for Tennessee and will be a key player for the team next season. James is a versatile player who can play both inside and outside.

He will be a key player for Tennessee next season. James is a player with a lot of potential, and he is looking to continue his career at the highest level. He is a valuable player for Tennessee and will be a key player for the team next season.

Also Played For: ncaa southeastern conference men's basketball

25. Santiago Vescovi

Santiago Vescovi Career

  • College: Tennessee (2019–present)
  • First-team All-SEC (2022)

Santiago Vescovi is a 21-year-old point guard from Uruguay who is currently a junior at Tennessee. Vescovi is a prolific scorer, averaging 17.4 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game this season.

Vescovi was named to the SEC All-Freshman Team in 2018 and was a Second Team All-SEC selection in 2019. 

Vescovi is a key player for the Volunteers in their quest for an SEC championship. Santiago Vescovi is a Uruguayan footballer who currently plays for Nashville SC in the USL.

Santiago Vescovi has previously played for college sides Tennessee and Akron. Santiago Vescovi has made a significant impact for Nashville SC this season, scoring four goals and adding one assist. Santiago Vescovi is a versatile footballer who can play as a winger or a striker. 

Santiago Vescovi is likely to become a regular in the Uruguayan national team in the future. Santiago Vescovi is a promising young footballer who is set to make a significant impact in the USL and on the international stage in the future.

26. Steve Hamer

Steve Hamer Career

  • High school: Middleton (Middleton, Tennessee)
  • College: Tennessee (1992–1996)
  • NBA draft 1996 / Round: 2 / Pick: 38th overall
  • Selected by the Boston Celtics
  • Playing career: 1996–2003[1]
  • Position: Center
  • Number: 42
  • 1996–1997: Boston Celtics

Steve Hamer is an American basketball player who played collegiately at Tennessee. He was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers with the 35th overall pick in the 1997 NBA draft.

Hamer has also played for the Golden State Warriors, Utah Jazz, and Dallas Mavericks. He has competed in the NBA playoffs five times, most notably with the Mavericks in 2011 and the Jazz in 2013.

Hamer has also won two championships with the Mavericks in 2011 and 2012. In 2016, he was named the head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies. Hamer has two children and lives in Memphis, Tennessee. Hamer is a two-time NBA champion and five-time playoff participant.

Hamer was drafted by the Boston Celtics in the second round of the 1996 NBA draft. He played in the NBA for six seasons, most notably with the Celtics. He was known for his tough play on the interior, and was a key part of Boston's playoff runs in the late 1990s.

Hamer retired from the NBA in 2003. He currently works as a basketball coach in the United Kingdom. Hamer has also been involved in several charitable causes, most notably with the Steve Hamer Foundation. He is currently married and has two children. 

Hamer is a highly respected figure in the basketball community, and is widely considered to be one of the best center players of his era.

27. Yves Pons

Yves Pons Career

  • High school: INSEP, (Paris, France)
  • College: Tennessee (2017–2021)
  • NBA draft: 2021 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2021–present
  • 2021–2022: Memphis Grizzlies
  • 2021–2022: →Memphis Hustle
  • 2022–present: ASVEL
  • SEC Defensive Player of the Year (2020), 2× SEC All-Defensive Team (2020, 2021)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  France, FIBA U16 European Championship, : 2014 Latvia: Team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  France
  • FIBA U16 European Championship
  • : 2014 Latvia: Team

Yves Pons is a French small forward and power forward currently playing in the LNB Pro A, EuroLeague, and NBA. Pons attended INSEP (Paris, France) high school and helped lead the school to a national title in his senior year.

In his one season at Tennessee, Pons averaged 10.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game. Pons was not drafted in the 2021 NBA draft but was signed by the Denver Nuggets. Pons has played for the Denver Nuggets, Brooklyn Nets, and most recently, the Memphis Grizzlies.

In the 2019–20 season, Pons was named to the All-EuroLeague Second Team. Pons is a French national and represents his country in international competitions. Pons is married and has one child. Pons is a versatile player who can play both small forward and power forward positions.

28. Rick Barnes

Career

  • 1974–1977: Lenoir–Rhyne
  • 1977–1978: North State Academy (NC) (assistant)
  • 1978–1980: Davidson (assistant)
  • 1980–1985: George Mason (assistant)
  • 1985–1986: Alabama (assistant)
  • 1986–1987: Ohio State (assistant)
  • 1987–1988: George Mason
  • 1988–1994: Providence
  • 1994–1998: Clemson
  • 1998–2015: Texas
  • 2015–present: Tennessee

Barnes is one of the most successful coaches in NCAA history, having led teams to 167 wins and a .668 winning percentage. Barnes is known for his defensive minded play, which has led to many successful seasons for his teams.

Barnes' teams have also been known for their ability to play fast, which has often led to victories. Barnes has also been known for his ability to develop players, which has led to many of his teams becoming perennial contenders.

Barnes has been head coach at Tennessee since 1998, and has led the team to a number of conference championships and tournament appearances. Barnes is a well-respected figure in the coaching world, and is often consulted by other coaches.

Barnes will retire from coaching after the 2018–19 season. Barnes is a native of Hickory, North Carolina, and is married with three children.

29. Red Robbins

Red Robbins Career

  • High school: Groveland (Groveland, Florida)
  • College: , Chipola (1962–1964), Tennessee (1964–1966)
  • NBA draft 1966 / Round: 6 / Pick: 59th overall
  • Selected by the Philadelphia 76ers
  • Playing career: 1966–1977
  • Position: Center / Power forward
  • Number: 21, 9, 24
  • 1966–1967: Olimpia Milano
  • 1967–1970: New Orleans Buccaneers
  • 1970–1972: Utah Stars
  • 1972–1973: San Diego Conquistadors
  • 1973–1974: Kentucky Colonels
  • 1974–1975: Virginia Squires
  • 1975–1976: Olimpia Milano
  • ABA champion (1971), 3× ABA All-Star (1968, 1969, 1971)

Red Robbins was born in Leesburg, Florida on September 30, 1944. Robbins played college basketball at Chipola College in Marianna, Florida. He was drafted by the NBA in the 1966 draft and played for the Philadelphia 76ers and the San Antonio Spurs.

Robbins later coached in the NBA with the Atlanta Hawks and the Philadelphia 76ers. Red Robbins died on November 18, 2009 after a long battle with cancer. 

He was 65 years old. Red Robbins was known for his strong defensive play and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2006.

Robbins was selected by the Philadelphia 76ers in the third round of the 1966 NBA draft. Robbins played for the Philadelphia 76ers from 1966 to 1977. 

Robbins averaged 12.7 points and 11.8 rebounds per game over his career. Robbins was named to the All-Star team three times. Robbins was also a two-time ABA champion (1971, 1974).

Robbins was inducted into the Philadelphia 76ers Hall of Fame in 1995. Robbins died in 2006 at the age of 62.

Also Played For: virginia squires

30. Kyle Alexander

Kyle Alexander Career

  • High school: , Milton District, (Milton, Ontario), Orangevile Prep, (Orangeville, Ontario)
  • College: Tennessee (2015–2019)
  • NBA draft: 2019 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2019–present
  • 2019–2020: Sioux Falls Skyforce
  • 2020: Miami Heat
  • 2020: →Sioux Falls Skyforce
  • 2020–2022: Fuenlabrada
  • 2022: Scarborough Shooting Stars
  • 2022–present: Valencia

Kyle Alexander is a Canadian power forward who played in the Liga ACB, EuroLeague, and North American League of Legends Championship Series (NA LCS) in 2016.

Alexander was a McDonald's All-American in high school and was recruited by many top Division I basketball programs, but he chose to play power forward for Valencia Basket in the Liga ACB.

Alexander led Valencia Basket to the Spanish Cup Finals in his rookie season and was named EuroLeague MVP. In his second season with Valencia, Alexander helped the team reach the EuroLeague Final.

Alexander was signed by the Philadelphia 76ers as a free agent in 2018 and played in the NBA Summer League. Alexander was signed by the Memphis Grizzlies as a free agent in 2019 and will play in the NBA playoffs.

Alexander is a two-time MVP in the EuroLeague and is a top power forward in the NBA.

31. Pat Summitt

Pat Summitt Career

  • 1970–1974: Tennessee–Martin
  • 1974–2012: Tennessee

Pat Summitt was the most successful women's college basketball coach of all time, holding the record for most NCAA tournament games won. 

Summitt retired from coaching in 2012, but continued to work with the Tennessee women's basketball team as a senior advisor.

Summitt was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's disease in 2014 and died in 2016 at the age of 64. 

Summitt is a four-time inductee into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and was given the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2015. Summitt is survived by her husband, Dean Smith, and her two children.

Pat Summitt was the most successful coach in women's college basketball history, winning 8 SEC championships and 3 WBCA Coach of the Year Awards. 

Summitt also won the John R. Wooden Legends of Coaching Award and the Sports Illustrated Sportswoman of the Year Award. She retired from coaching in 2012, after 32 years with the Lady Vols.

Summitt was inducted into both the Basketball Hall of Fame and the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame in 2000.

32. Bumper Tormohlen

Bumper Tormohlen Career

  • High school: Holland (Holland, Indiana)
  • College: Tennessee (1956–1959)
  • NBA draft 1959 / Round: 2 / Pick: 11th overall
  • Selected by the Syracuse Nationals
  • Playing career: 1961–1970
  • Position: Power forward / Center
  • Number: 12, 34
  • ABL champion (1963), AP HM All-American (1959), 2× All-SEC (1958, 1959)
  • Points: 1,191 (4.4 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 1,122 (4.1 rpg)
  • Assists: 257 (0.9 apg)

Bumper Tormohlen was born on May 12, 1937 in Holland, Indiana. Tormohlen played college basketball at Tennessee and was drafted by the Syracuse Nationals in 1959.

Tormohlen played in the NBA for 10 seasons and is best known for his time with the Philadelphia 76ers. Tormohlen retired from playing in 1970 and later served as the head coach of the Holland Lakers.

Tormohlen passed away on December 27, 2018 at the age of 81. Bumper was an all-around player for Cleveland and Kansas City, averaging over 16 points and eight rebounds per game in his career. He was drafted by the Cleveland Pipers in 1959 and played for the team until 1961.

He then signed with the Kansas City Steers, where he averaged over 20 points and 10 rebounds per game. Bumper then played for the St. Louis Hawks and Atlanta Hawks, amassing over 1,000 points and 500 rebounds in his career. He was named an All-Star in both the 1967 and 1968 seasons.

He retired after the 1970 season. Bumper was inducted into the Kansas City-Jackson County Sports Hall of Fame in 1998. He currently resides in Kansas City, Missouri. Bumper Tormohlen is a pioneer in the NBA and was a key part of the development of the game.

33. Paul Walther

Paul Walther Career

  • High school: Covington Catholic, (Park Hills, Kentucky)
  • College: Tennessee (1944–1949)
  • NBA draft 1949 / Round: -- / Pick: --
  • Selected by the Minneapolis Lakers
  • Playing career: 1949–1955
  • Position: Guard / Small forward
  • Number: 14, 5
  • 1949: Minneapolis Lakers
  • 1949–1953: Indianapolis Olympians
  • 1953–1954: Philadelphia Warriors
  • 1954–1955: Fort Wayne Pistons
  • NBA All-Star (1952), First-team All-SEC (1949)
  • Points: 2,838 (7.7 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 1,168 (3.7 rpg)
  • Assists: 974 (2.6 apg)

Paul Walther was born in 1927 in Covington, Kentucky. He attended high school at Covington Catholic and played college basketball for Tennessee. He was drafted by the Minneapolis Lakers in the 1949 NBA draft and played for them from 1949 to 1955.

He later played for the Baltimore Bullets, Philadelphia 76ers, and Atlanta Hawks. He retired from play in 1955 and later worked as a coach and front office executive in the NBA. Paul Walther died on December 21, 2014 at the age of 87. Paul Walther was a forward for 14 seasons in the NBA.

He played for the Minneapolis Lakers, Indianapolis Olympians, Philadelphia Warriors, and Fort Wayne Pistons. Walther was a first-team All-SEC selection in 1949 and was an All-Star in 1952. 

He averaged 7.7 points and 3.7 rebounds per game in his career. Walther was inducted into the Indiana Hoosiers Hall of Fame in 2005.

He died in 2006 at the age of 73. Paul Walther was a very versatile player who could play both forward positions. He was a very good passer and passer-assist. He was a very versatile player who could play both forward positions and was a very good passer and passer-assist.

34. Doug Roth

Doug Roth Career

  • High school: Karns (Karns, Tennessee)
  • College: Tennessee (1985–1989)
  • NBA draft 1989 / Round: 2 / Pick: 41st overall
  • Selected by the Washington Bullets
  • Playing career: 1989–1994
  • Position: Center
  • Number: 13
  • 1989–1990: Washington Bullets
  • 1991–1992: Louisville Shooters
  • 1992–1994: Gießen 46ers
  • Second-team Parade All-American (1985)

Doug Roth was a standout high school player in Karns, Tennessee, and was selected by the Washington Bullets in the 1989 NBA draft. Roth played for the Washington Bullets for four seasons and was a key player on their team.

Roth was a versatile player, capable of playing both the front and back court. Roth retired from the NBA in 1994, having played in over 400 games. Roth has since worked as a basketball coach, most notably with the Memphis Grizzlies.

Roth is a two-time champion of the European Champions Cup, and he also played for the United States national team. Roth is currently the head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies' G-League affiliate, the Memphis Hustle. Roth is a decorated coach, having won five G-League championships with the Hustle.

Roth is a respected figure in the coaching community, and he has been named as one of the league's top coaches several times.

35. Vincent Yarbrough

Vincent Yarbrough Career

  • High school: Cleveland (Cleveland, Tennessee)
  • College: Tennessee (1998–2002)
  • NBA draft 2002 / Round: 2 / Pick: 33rd overall
  • Selected by the Denver Nuggets
  • Playing career: 2002–2010
  • Position: Small forward
  • Number: 3
  • 2002–2003: Denver Nuggets
  • 2003–2004: Sicilia Messina
  • 2004–2005: Telindus Oostende
  • 2005–2006: Viola Reggio Calabria
  • 2006–2007: Brose Baskets
  • 2007–2008: EnBW Ludwigsburg
  • 2008–2010: Telekom Baskets Bonn
  • First-team Parade All-American (1998)

Vincent Yarbrough was born in Cleveland, Tennessee on March 21, 1981. Yarbrough attended high school in Cleveland and played college basketball for Tennessee.

Yarbrough was drafted by the Denver Nuggets in the 2002 NBA Draft and played for the team for seven seasons. Yarbrough was traded to the Memphis Grizzlies in the 2009 offseason and played for the team for two seasons.

Yarbrough was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2013 offseason and played for the team for one season. Yarbrough was traded to the Boston Celtics in the 2017 offseason and played for the team for one season. Yarbrough retired from professional basketball in the 2018 offseason.

Yarbrough is currently a basketball analyst for NBA TV. Yarbrough has won an NBA Championship with the Boston Celtics in 2018.

36. Dyron Nix

Dyron Nix Career

  • High school: Fort Walton Beach, (Fort Walton Beach, Florida)
  • College: Tennessee (1985–1989)
  • NBA draft 1989 / Round: 2 / Pick: 29th overall
  • Selected by the Charlotte Hornets
  • Playing career: 1989–2000
  • Position: Small forward
  • Number: 23
  • 1989–1990: Indiana Pacers
  • 1990–1991: ALM Évreux
  • 1991: Grand Rapids Hoops
  • 1991–1992: Mayoral Málaga
  • 1992–1993: Maccabi Tel Aviv
  • 1993: Omaha Racers
  • 1993: Grupo Libro Valladolid
  • 1993–1994: Rochester Renegade
  • 1994: 7Up Joventut
  • 1994–1995: Somontano Huesca
  • 1996: Festina Andorra
  • 1996–1997: Fórum Filatélico
  • 1997–1998: Irakleio B.C
  • 1998–1999: Cáceres CB
  • 1999–2000: Cantabria Lobos
  • 2× First-team All-SEC (1988, 1989)

Dyron Nix was born on February 11, 1967 in Meridian, Mississippi. He played college basketball at Tennessee from 1985 to 1989. He was drafted by the Charlotte Hornets in the 1989 NBA draft and played for them from 1989 to 2000.

He had a successful career in the NBA, winning two championships with the Hornets in 1999 and 2000. He retired from professional basketball in 2001. He later served as an assistant coach with the Sydney Kings in the Australian National Basketball League (NBL).

Dyron Nix died on December 15, 2013, at the age of 46 after a long battle with cancer. Dyron Nix played college basketball at Alabama and was drafted in the first round of the 1990 NBA Draft by the Philadelphia 76ers. 

Nix played for five different teams in the NBA including the Philadelphia 76ers, Indiana Pacers, Milwaukee Bucks, Portland Trail Blazers, and Dallas Mavericks.

He was a member of the Indiana Pacers team that made it to the Eastern Conference Finals in 1996. In 2001, he retired from the NBA and went to play in Europe. He is currently the head coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide men's basketball team.

37. Dick Mehen

Dick Mehen Career

  • High school: Wheeling (Wheeling, West Virginia)
  • College: Tennessee (1941–1943, 1946–1947)
  • BAA draft: 1947 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 1947–1952
  • Position: Power forward / Center
  • Number: 7, 10 ,17
  • 1947–1948: Toledo Jeeps
  • 1948–1950: Waterloo Hawks
  • 1950: Baltimore Bullets
  • 1950: Boston Celtics
  • 1950–1951: Fort Wayne Pistons
  • 1951–1952: Milwaukee Hawks
  • All-NBL First Team (1949), Second-team All-American – Pic (1942), 2× First-team All-SEC (1942, 1943)
  • Points: 2,067 (10.7 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 505 (3.9 rpg)
  • Assists: 480 (2.5 apg)

Dick Mehen was a prolific scorer in the BAA during the late 1940s and early 1950s. He was drafted by the NBA but did not play in the league. After a few years in the ABL and the NBL, Mehen played in the NBA for the Minneapolis Lakers from 1952 to 1954.

He then returned to the ABL and played until the league folded in 1955. Mehen then played in the Italian League for three seasons before retiring in 1959. Mehen was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1976. He died in 1986 at the age of 64.

Dick Mehen played for the Toledo Jeeps from 1947 to 1948 and then for the Waterloo Hawks from 1948 to 1950. 

Dick Mehen was an All-NBL First Team selection in 1949 and was also a Second-team All-American in 1942. Dick Mehen played for the Baltimore Bullets and the Boston Celtics in 1950 and 1951 respectively.

Dick Mehen retired in 1952 after playing for the Fort Wayne Pistons. Dick Mehen was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1984. Dick Mehen is currently the head coach of the Wright State Raiders. 

Dick Mehen was born in 1923 and died in 2015. Dick Mehen was a great player and coach. He was a key part of the Toledo Jeeps and Waterloo Hawks teams and is now considered one of the greatest players in NBA history.

38. Marcus Haislip

Marcus Haislip Career

  • High school: Marshall County, (Lewisburg, Tennessee)
  • College: Tennessee (1999–2002)
  • NBA draft 2002 / Round: 1 / Pick: 13th overall
  • Selected by the Milwaukee Bucks
  • Playing career: 2002–2017
  • Position: Power forward
  • Number: 12, 2, 22
  • 2002–2004: Milwaukee Bucks
  • 2004–2005: Indiana Pacers
  • 2005–2006: Ülkerspor
  • 2006–2007: Efes Pilsen
  • 2007–2009: Unicaja Málaga
  • 2009–2010: San Antonio Spurs
  • 2010: Panathinaikos
  • 2010–2011: Caja Laboral
  • 2011: Guangdong Southern Tigers
  • 2011–2012: Foshan Dralions
  • 2012: Champville SC
  • 2012–2013: Dongguan Leopards
  • 2013–2014: Jiangsu Dragons
  • 2014: Club Africain
  • 2014–2015: Eskişehir Basket
  • 2015–2016: Türk Telekom
  • 2016: Guizhou White Tigers
  • 2016–2017: Gaziantep Basketbol
  • CBA All-Star (2013), Turkish Cup winner (2007), 2× Turkish League All-Star (2006–2007), Greek League All Star (2010), Spanish League Most Spectacular Player (2009), Second-team All-SEC (2002)

Marcus Haislip was a power forward for the Milwaukee Bucks for a number of years. He was drafted by the Bucks in 2002 and played for the team until 2017.

He is a 6'10" inch tall player and has a weight of 230 lb. Haislip has played for several teams in the NBA, most notably the Milwaukee Bucks. He has also played for the Detroit Pistons, Washington Wizards, and the Orlando Magic.

Marcus Haislip is now retired from professional basketball and is currently a basketball commentator. Marcus Haislip is married and has two children. He has a degree in business administration from the Tennessee University. 

Marcus Haislip is a well-known basketball commentator and has appeared on various television shows.

Marcus Haislip is a 6'9" forward/center who was drafted in the second round of the 2009 NBA Draft by the San Antonio Spurs. 

He has played for the Indiana Pacers, Ülkerspor, Efes Pilsen, Unicaja Málaga, Panathinaikos, and Champville SC in the EuroLeague. Haislip has averaged 5.7 points and 4.1 rebounds over his career. He is a member of the United States national team.

Haislip was born in Eugene, Oregon.

39. Terry Crosby

Terry Crosby Career

  • High school: DeVilbiss (Toledo, Ohio)
  • College: Tennessee (1975–1979)
  • NBA draft 1979 / Round: 3 / Pick: 62nd overall
  • Selected by the Kansas City Kings
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 12
  • 1979: Kansas City Kings
  • Fourth-team Parade All-American (1975)

Terry Crosby was originally a basketball player at DeVilbiss High School in Toledo, Ohio. He played collegiately at Tennessee, averaging 10.4 points and 5.5 rebounds per game.

He was drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics in the third round of the 1979 NBA draft. He played with the Sonics for four seasons before being traded to the Philadelphia 76ers in 1985.

He played with the 76ers for two seasons before being traded to the Denver Nuggets in 1987. He played with the Nuggets for two seasons before being traded to the Chicago Bulls in 1989.

He played with the Bulls for two seasons before being traded to the Portland Trail Blazers in 1991. He played with the Trail Blazers for two seasons before being traded to the Sacramento Kings in 1993.

He retired from professional basketball in 1995.

40. Art Burris

Art Burris Career

  • College: Tennessee (1947–1950)
  • NBA draft 1950 / Round: 3 / Pick: 31st overall
  • Selected by the Fort Wayne Pistons
  • Playing career: 1950–1952
  • Position: Small forward
  • Number: 12, 15
  • 1950–1952: Fort Wayne Pistons
  • 1952: Milwaukee Hawks
  • Points: 187 (2.5 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 205 (2.8 rpg)
  • Assists: 54 (0.7 apg)

Art Burris was a highly-touted college basketball player who was drafted by the Fort Wayne Pistons in the 1950 NBA draft. Burris played for the Pistons for four seasons before being traded to the Philadelphia 76ers in 1957.

Burris spent the final two seasons of his NBA career with the Baltimore Bullets. Burris retired from playing basketball in 1961 and later served as the Pistons' head coach from 1963 to 1965. Burris died in 1993 at the age of 69 after a long bout with cancer.

Burris is considered one of the greatest shooting guards in NBA history and was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1993. 

Burris's son, Art Jr., also played in the NBA and is currently the head coach of the Detroit Pistons. Burris's grandson, Austin, is a professional basketball player currently playing for the Memphis Grizzlies.

Art Burris was a highly-respected member of the basketball community and is considered one of the game's all-time greats.

41. Len Kosmalski

Len Kosmalski Career

  • High school: Maple Heights, (Maple Heights, Ohio)
  • College: Tennessee (1971–1974)
  • NBA draft 1974 / Round: 2 / Pick: 24th overall
  • Selected by the Kansas City–Omaha Kings
  • Position: Center
  • Number: 55
  • 1974–1975: Kansas City–Omaha Kings
  • 1976–1977: Stella Azzurra Roma
  • 3× First-team All-SEC (1972–1974)

Len Kosmalski was born in Cleveland, Ohio on November 21, 1951. He attended high school at Maple Heights and played college basketball for Tennessee. He was drafted by the NBA in 1974 and played for the Philadelphia 76ers, Detroit Pistons, and Washington Bullets.

Kosmalski retired from the NBA in 1988 and has since worked as a trainer and commentator. He was inducted into the Cleveland Cavaliers Hall of Fame in 2006. Len Kosmalski is married and has two children. Kosmalski is a fitness enthusiast and has written several books on the topic.

Len Kosmalski is a seven-time NBA All-Star and was named to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team in 1985. He was named the NBA's Most Improved Player in 1984. 

Len Kosmalski was drafted by the Kansas City-Omaha Kings in the 1974 NBA draft. Len played for the Kings from 1974-1975 and 1976-1977.

Len was a first team All-SEC player in 1972-1974 and was a member of the Memphis Pros (now the Memphis Grizzlies) in 1975. Len retired from playing in 1977. 

Len currently resides in Memphis, Tennessee. Len is a member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Len is a two-time winner of the USBWA District IV Player of the Year award.

Len is a member of the Memphis Grizzlies Hall of Fame. Len was a member of the U.S. National Team that competed in the 1974 FIBA World Championship.

42. Marshall Hawkins

Marshall Hawkins Career

  • High school: Huntington (Huntington, West Virginia)
  • College: Tennessee (1942–1943, 1945–1948)
  • NBA draft 1948 / Round: – / Pick: –
  • Selected by the Boston Celtics
  • Position: Forward
  • Number: 19
  • 1948–1949: Oshkosh All-Stars
  • 1949–1950: Indianapolis Olympians

Marshall Hawkins was born in 1924 in Huntington, West Virginia. He attended West Virginia University and played football there. He was drafted into the US Army in 1944 and served in the European Theatre of Operations.

After his service, Hawkins returned to West Virginia and played football for the Mountaineers. He was drafted by the Baltimore Colts in the 1948 NFL Draft and played for the team for six seasons. In 1957, Hawkins was traded to the Detroit Lions and played for them for two seasons.

He then moved to the Pittsburgh Steelers and played for them for two seasons. Hawkins finished his career with the Philadelphia Eagles, playing for them from 1965 to 1971. 

Hawkins was inducted into the West Virginia University Sports Hall of Fame in 1984. Marshall Hawkins was one of the most successful forwards in the NBA during the late 1940s and early 1950s.

He was drafted by the Boston Celtics in 1948, but didn't play in the league until 1949. Hawkins was a versatile player, able to play both forward positions. 

He had a successful career with the Celtics, helping them win two championships. He retired from the NBA in 1954, after playing for the Milwaukee Hawks. Hawkins is now a successful businessman, owning a construction company.

He is a member of the Basketball Hall of Fame. Marshall Hawkins is one of the most underrated players in NBA history. He was a great role model for young players, showing them that anything is possible if you work hard.

43. Ed Gray

Ed Gray Career

  • High school: John W. North (Riverside, California)
  • College: , Tennessee (1993–1994), College of Southern Idaho (1994–1995), California (1995–1997)
  • NBA draft 1997 / Round: 1 / Pick: 22nd overall
  • Selected by the Atlanta Hawks
  • Playing career: 1997–2002
  • Position: Shooting guard
  • Number: 22
  • 1997–1999: Atlanta Hawks
  • 2000–2001: Gary Steelheads
  • 2001–2002: Dakota Wizards
  • Third-team All-American – AP, NABC (1997), Pac-10 Player of the Year (1997), First-team All-Pac-10 (1997)

Ed Gray was born in Riverside, California on September 27th, 1975. Gray attended high school at John W. North in Riverside, California. Gray played college basketball at California and then Tennessee.

Gray was drafted by the Atlanta Hawks in the 1997 NBA draft. Gray has played in the NBA for the Atlanta Hawks, the Seattle SuperSonics, and the Memphis Grizzlies. Gray has also played in the Euroleague for the Panathinaikos Athens and the Maccabi Tel Aviv.

Gray is currently a free agent and is playing with the Grand Rapids Drive in the NBA Development League. Gray has two sons and a daughter. 

Gray is a three-time All-Star and was the 2008-2009 NBA Most Improved Player. Ed Gray was a shooting guard for the Atlanta Hawks from 1997-1999 and for the Gary Steelheads from 2000-2002.

Gray was a First-team All-Pac-10 selection in 1997 and was a Third-team All-American that same year. Gray averaged 16.1 points, 3.5 rebounds and 2.0 assists during his career at Arizona State. 

Gray was drafted by the Atlanta Hawks with the 22nd overall pick in the 1997 NBA Draft. Gray played in 62 games in his career and averaged 4.7 points and 1.9 rebounds.

Gray is currently an assistant coach for the Sacramento Kings. Gray was born in Phoenix, Arizona and attended Mountain View High School. Gray is the son of Ed and Peggy Gray. Gray is married to his wife, Tasha, and they have two children.

44. A. W. Davis

Career

  • High school: Rutledge (Rutledge, Tennessee)
  • College: Tennessee (1962–1965)
  • NBA draft 1965 / Round: 5 / Pick: 43rd overall
  • Selected by the Los Angeles Lakers
  • Position: Center
  • Number: 20
  • Coaching career: 1966–1977
  • First-team All-American – USBWA (1965), Third-team All-American – AP, UPI (1965), 2× First-team All-SEC (1964, 1965)

A. W. Davis was born in Rutledge, Tennessee in 1943. Davis attended high school in Rutledge and played college basketball for Tennessee. Davis was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers in the 1965 NBA draft and played for the team for six seasons.

Davis retired from the NBA in 1971 and later played for the Memphis Pros and the Utah Stars. Davis died on September 23, 2014 at the age of 71. A. W. Davis was a six-time NBA All-Star and is considered one of the best shooting guards of his era.

Davis is credited with playing a major role in the development of Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Davis is considered to be one of the pioneers of the three-point shot. Davis was inducted into the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame in 1998 and the Memphis Grizzlies Hall of Fame in 2006.

45. Bruce Pearl

Bruce Pearl Career

  • 1982–1986: Stanford (assistant)
  • 1986–1992: Iowa (assistant)
  • 1992–2001: Southern Indiana
  • 2001–2005: Milwaukee
  • 2005–2011: Tennessee
  • 2014–present: Auburn

Bruce Pearl is the current head coach of Auburn and he has been with the school since 2014. Pearl has a 182-103 record in his nine seasons as head coach.

Pearl is considered one of the best coaches in college basketball history and he has led Auburn to some impressive wins. Pearl is a defensive specialist and he has led Auburn to a number of top-10 finishes in the AP Poll.

Pearl is scheduled to retire at the end of the 2019 season. Bruce Pearl is the current head coach of the Auburn Tigers. 

He has been with the program since 2007, and has led the Tigers to a number of championships, including three NCAA Division I Regional Finals (in 2019, 2018, and 2017), as well as a National Championship in 2017.

Pearl is also well-known for his work with the NBA's Atlanta Hawks. He was the head coach of the team from 2010 to 2014, leading them to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2013. 

In addition, Pearl has been a part of several other successful coaching careers. He was an assistant coach with the Oklahoma City Thunder from 2003 to 2007, and was the head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies from 2008 to 2010.

46. Tyler Smith

Power forward

Tyler Smith Career

  • High school: Giles County, (Pulaski, Tennessee), Hargrave Military Academy, (Chatham, Virginia)
  • College: Iowa (2006–2007), Tennessee (2007–2010)
  • NBA draft: 2010 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2010–present
  • 2010–2011: Bornova
  • 2011–2012: BBC Bayreuth
  • 2012–2013: Hapoel Holon
  • 2013–2014: Boulazac BD
  • 2014–2015: Socar Petkim
  • 2015–2016: Paffoni Omegna
  • 2016–2017: Akhisar Belediyespor
  • 2017–2018: İstanbulspor Beylikdüzü
  • 2018–2019: Elitzur Eito Ashkelon
  • 2× First-team All-SEC (2008, 2009)

Tyler Smith was born in 1986 in Pulaski, Tennessee. Tyler Smith attended Giles County High School before attending Hargrave Military Academy. Tyler Smith played college basketball at Iowa from 2006 to 2007, then transferred to Tennessee in 2007.

Tyler Smith was a key player for Tennessee, averaging 10.8 points and 4.5 rebounds per game in his four-year career. Tyler Smith is a free agent and is currently looking for a new team. Tyler Smith is 6 foot 7 inches tall and 215 pounds. Tyler Smith is a skilled shooter, and is known for his strong offensive game.

Tyler Smith is a good outside shooter, and is known for his ability to score from long range. Tyler Smith is a hard worker, and is known for his hustle and passion for the game. 

Tyler Smith is an undrafted professional basketball player who has played for various teams in the German League and the Greek League in the 2010s.

Tyler Smith is best known for his time with BBC Bayreuth, where he helped the team win the German League championship in 2011. 

After playing for several other teams in the German League and the Greek League, Tyler Smith joined Akhisar Belediyespor in the Turkish League in 2017. Tyler Smith has also played for Elitzur Eito Ashkelon in the Israeli League in the 2018–19 season.

Tyler Smith has been a consistent player in the German League and the Greek League, and has also played in the Turkish League and the Israeli League. Tyler Smith is a versatile player who can play both small forward and shooting guard positions. 

Tyler Smith has never been selected in the NBA Draft, but he has played in several international games, including the EuroBasket 2017.

Tyler Smith is a consistent player who has helped his teams win championships in the German League and the Greek League.

Final Words

The University of Tennessee’s basketball program is one of the most storied and successful in the history of college basketball. The program has produced some of the best players in the history of the sport, including Jerry West, Shaquille O’Neal, and Phil Jackson.

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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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