Wake Forest Best Basketball Players of All Time

Morgan Wolf

Wake Forest is a great basketball school, with a long history of success. Throughout the years, the Demon Deacons have produced an impressive list of talented players that have gone on to become stars in the NBA.

From Hall of Famers like Tim Duncan and Chris Paul, to current stars such as John Collins and Bryant Crawford, Wake Forest has had a long tradition of producing top-tier basketball talent. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best basketball players to ever come out of Wake Forest.

Table of Contents

1. Alondes Williams

Alondes Williams Career

  • High school: Riverside, (Milwaukee, Wisconsin)
  • College: , Triton (2017–2019), Oklahoma (2019–2021), Wake Forest (2021–2022)
  • NBA draft: 2022 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2022–present
  • 2022–present: Brooklyn Nets
  • 2022–present: →Long Island Nets
  • ACC Player of the Year (2022), First-team All-ACC (2022), N4C Player of the Year (2019), 2× First-team All-N4C (2018, 2019)

Williams played collegiately for Triton. Williams was drafted by the Brooklyn Nets in the 2021 NBA Draft. Williams has stated his desire to play professionally in Europe after completing his college career.

Williams is known for his scoring ability and athleticism at point guard and shooting guard positions, respectively, on both sides of the ball Alondes Williams is a professional basketball player who currently plays for the Brooklyn Nets.

He was named an All-ACC performer in his final season at Wake Forest, and he has also been nominated for N4C Player of the Year honors. Williams played two seasons with Long Island before joining the Brooklyn Nets as a free agent in 2020. In his first year with the team, he led them to their first playoff appearance since 2015.

Williams is known for his scoring ability from beyond the arc, and he has averaged over 20 points per game throughout his career thus far. He will likely be playing professionally until at least 2030, given that he is still only 26 years old.

Also Played For: brooklyn nets, atlantic coast conference

2. Ish Smith

Ish Smith Career

  • High school: Central Cabarrus, (Concord, North Carolina)
  • College: Wake Forest (2006–2010)
  • NBA draft: 2010 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2010–present
  • 2010–2011: Houston Rockets
  • 2011: →Rio Grande Valley Vipers
  • 2011: Memphis Grizzlies
  • 2011–2012: Golden State Warriors
  • 2012–2013: Orlando Magic
  • 2013: Milwaukee Bucks
  • 2013–2014: Phoenix Suns
  • 2014–2015: Oklahoma City Thunder
  • 2015: Philadelphia 76ers
  • 2015: New Orleans Pelicans
  • 2015–2016: Philadelphia 76ers
  • 2016–2019: Detroit Pistons
  • 2019–2021: Washington Wizards
  • 2021–2022: Charlotte Hornets
  • 2022: Washington Wizards
  • 2022–present: Denver Nuggets
  • Second-team All-ACC (2010)

Ish Smith was drafted by the Houston Rockets in 2010 but never played for them. He then signed with Rio Grande Valley Vipers of the NBA Development League and helped them win a championship in 2013.

In 2014, he was traded to the Washington Wizards and has been their starting point guard since then. Ish Smith is averaging 17 points, 6 assists and 4 rebounds per game this season and is considered one of the best point guards in the league.

Ish Smith has had a successful career in the NBA, playing for six different teams over nine seasons. Ish Smith is known as an excellent passer and distributor, able to find teammates on both sides of the court. 

He led the 76ers to their first playoff appearance in eight years during his rookie season, and was named Rookie of the Year by several publications.

In 2016, he signed with Denver as a free agent and helped lead them to their first division title since 1997 (the same year they drafted him). He will be looking to continue this success when he joins Washington next season.

Also Played For: denver nuggets

3. John Collins

Power forward

John Collins Career

  • High school: Cardinal Newman, (West Palm Beach, Florida)
  • College: Wake Forest (2015–2017)
  • NBA draft 2017 / Round: 1 / Pick: 19th overall
  • Selected by the Atlanta Hawks
  • Playing career: 2017–present
  • 2017–present: Atlanta Hawks
  • NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2018), First-team All-ACC (2017), ACC Most Improved Player (2017)

John Collins is a 25-year-old power forward who was selected by the Atlanta Hawks in the first round of the 2017 NBA Draft. 

Collins played college basketball at Cardinal Newman High School in West Palm Beach, Florida, and was named to both All-America First Team and Naismith College Player of the Year Watch List as a senior.

Collins has appeared in 138 career games (all starts) for Atlanta, averaging 10.6 points, 5 rebounds and 1 assists per game while shooting 49% from field overall and 36% from three point range. He also averaged 2 blocks per game during his time with ATL. 

John Collins signed a four-year contract extension with Atlanta on July 15th, 2019 which will keep him with the team through 2024/25 season.

Collins was drafted 19th overall by the Atlanta Hawks in the 2017 NBA draft. Collins played his first two seasons at Wake Forest before transferring to Oregon State for his final season of college eligibility. 

Collins showed flashes of brilliance during his time at Wake Forest, averaging 16 points and 8 rebounds per game as a junior before declaring for the draft. 

Collins has continued to improve since entering the NBA, earning All-Rookie Second Team recognition in 2018 after averaging 12 points and 7 rebounds per game with Portland last season.

Collins is a versatile player who can play both inside and out on offense while also being an effective defender against opposing big men.

Also Played For: atlanta hawks, nba best young players

4. Jeff Teague

Point guard

Jeff Teague Career

  • High school: Pike (Indianapolis, Indiana)
  • College: Wake Forest (2007–2009)
  • NBA draft 2009 / Round: 1 / Pick: 19th overall
  • Selected by the Atlanta Hawks
  • Playing career: 2009–2021
  • Number: 0, 44, 00, 55, 5
  • 2009–2016: Atlanta Hawks
  • 2016–2017: Indiana Pacers
  • 2017–2020: Minnesota Timberwolves
  • 2020: Atlanta Hawks
  • 2020–2021: Boston Celtics
  • 2021: Milwaukee Bucks
  • NBA champion (2021), NBA All-Star (2015), Consensus second-team All-American (2009), Second-team All-ACC (2009), ACC All-Freshman Team (2008)
  • Points: 10,061 (12.2 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 1,989 (2.4 rpg)
  • Assists: 4,585 (5.6 apg)

Jeff Teague played for the Atlanta Hawks from 2009 to 2021. During his playing career, Jeff Teague averaged 14 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists per game.

In 2009, he was drafted 19th overall by the Atlanta Hawks and started playing professional basketball that year. He is married to LaVonne Hatcher with whom he has two children - a son named Miles and daughternamed Zuri Castle-Teague (Zuri).

Jeff currently works as a regional scout for the Atlanta Hawks Jeff Teague is a former ACC player and an NBA All-Star. He has played for the Indiana Pacers, Minnesota Timberwolves, Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics and Milwaukee Bucks in his career so far.

Jeff Teague was drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the 2009 NBA draft and he made his debut with them that season. In 2015, Teague led the Atlanta Hawks to their first ever championship win against Cleveland Cavaliers . 

The following year (2016), Jeff won his second title with Boston Celtics becoming one of only four players to do so in their rookie or sophomore seasons along with Kobe Bryant , Kevin Garnett and Tim Duncan .

In 2017, he joined forces with fellow All-Stars Karl-Anthony Towns and Andrew Wiggins to form one of the most exciting young cores in basketball history when they were traded to Minnesota Timberwolves. 

After two disappointing seasons where he failed to live up expectations set by himself and his new team mates respectively, Jeff signed a three-year contract extension with Milwaukee Bucks ahead of this upcoming 2020–21 season.

Also Played For: minnesota timberwolves, nba 2k19

5. Muggsy Bogues

Muggsy Bogues Career

  • High school: Paul Laurence Dunbar, (Baltimore, Maryland)
  • College: Wake Forest (1983–1987)
  • NBA draft 1987 / Round: 1 / Pick: 12th overall
  • Selected by the Washington Bullets
  • Playing career: 1987–2001
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 1, 14
  • Coaching career: 2005–2014
  • USBL Rookie of the Year (1987), Frances Pomeroy Naismith Award (1987), First-team All-ACC (1987), No. 14 retired by Wake Forest Demon Deacons
  • Points: 6,858 (7.7 ppg)
  • Assists: 6,726 (7.6 apg)
  • Steals: 1,369 (1.5 spg)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, FIBA World Championship, : 1986 Spain: National team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  United States
  • FIBA World Championship
  • : 1986 Spain: National team

Bogues was a five-time All-Star and two-time champion with the Washington Bullets. Bogues is perhaps best known for his creativity on the court, which led to him earning the nickname "The Muggsy Bogues Show." After playing eleven seasons in the NBA, Bogues retired in 2001.

He then coached at Florida International University until 2005. In 2014, he joined ESPN as an analyst and color commentator for basketball games and tournaments. Muggsy Bogues was a versatile player who excelled at both shooting and passing. 

Muggsy Bogues played in the NBA for 19 seasons, spending time with the Charlotte Hornets, Washington Bullets, Golden State Warriors, and Toronto Raptors.

Muggsy Bogues is best known for his years as a member of the Charlotte Sting team in the 1995-1996 season. 

Muggsy Bogues has been inducted into several Hall of Fame ceremonies including those of the Basketball Association of America (BAA), National Basketball Association (NBA), and Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA).

Also Played For: charlotte hornets

6. Chris King

Chris King Career

  • High school: Hobbton, (Newton Grove, North Carolina)
  • College: Wake Forest (1988–1992)
  • NBA draft 1992 / Round: 2 / Pick: 45th overall
  • Selected by the Seattle SuperSonics
  • Playing career: 1992–2008
  • Position: Power forward / Small forward
  • Number: 35, 17, 33
  • 1992–1993: Unicaja Mayoral Málaga
  • 1993–1994: Seattle SuperSonics
  • 1994–1995: Aris
  • 1995–1996: Vancouver Grizzlies
  • 1996: Polti Cantù
  • 1996–1997: Baloncesto Fuenlabrada
  • 1997: Gordon's Gin Boars
  • 1997–1998: Rockford Lightning
  • 1998: Ortaköyspor
  • 1998: Rockford Lightning
  • 1998–1999: La Crosse Bobcats
  • 1999: Utah Jazz
  • 1998–1999: Barangay Ginebra Kings
  • 1999: SLUC Nancy
  • 1999–2000: Paris Basket Racing
  • 2000–2001: Le Mans
  • 2001: Piratas de Quebradillas
  • 2001–2002: Le Mans
  • 2002–2003: Hapoel Tel Aviv
  • 2003: Maccabi Rishon LeZion
  • 2003–2004: Gary Steelheads
  • 2005: Deportivo Español de Talca
  • 2005: Atlético Biguá
  • 2006–2007: CS Rapid București
  • 2008: Link Tochigi Brex
  • PBA champion (1997 Commissioners'), Greek All-Star Game Slam Dunk champion (1994 II)

Chris King was drafted in 1992 by the Seattle SuperSonics and played for them until 2008. He is best known for his time with the Sonics, where he was a key player on their championship teams of 2001 and 2005.

In addition to his playing career, King has also worked as an NBA analyst for TV networks such as TNT and ESPN since 2006. 

He currently resides in North Carolina with his wife and two children. Chris King is a six-time All-Star who holds numerous records within the league, including most points scored (17,787) and rebounds (11,759).

His success at both professional level and off the court has earned him several accolades including being named one of Sports Illustrated's 100 Most Influential Americans in 2003 Chris King was drafted by the Vancouver Grizzlies in 1995. 

He played for the Baloncesto Fuenlabrada and Gordon's Gin Boars before being traded to the La Crosse Bobcats in 1997.

He then joined the Utah Jazz where he would spend three seasons before moving to France to play with Paris Basket Racing and Le Mans. In 2002, Chris returned to North America as a member of Hapoel Tel Aviv and Maccabi Rishon LeZion before signing with Gary Steelheads of the CBA in 2005. 

After playing two seasons with Gary Steelheads, King retired from professional basketball following his stint with Deportivo Español de Talca in 2007-2008 season.

Also Played For: vancouver grizzlies

7. Anthony Teachey

Anthony Teachey Career

  • High school: Goldsboro, (Goldsboro, North Carolina)
  • College: Wake Forest (1980–1984)
  • NBA draft 1984 / Round: 2 / Pick: 40th overall
  • Selected by the Dallas Mavericks
  • Playing career: 1984–1990
  • Position: Power forward / Center
  • 1984–1985: Pallacanestro Livorno
  • 1985–1986: Libertas Forlì
  • 1986–1987: Pallacanestro Livorno
  • 1987: Caja de Ronda
  • 1987–1988: CEP Lorient
  • 1989–1990: La Crosse Catbirds
  • 1990: CAI Neuquén
  • Second-team All-ACC (1984)

Anthony Teachey was born in 1962 and attended high school in Goldsboro, North Carolina. He played college basketball at Wake Forest before being selected by the Dallas Mavericks with the 40th overall pick in the 1984 NBA draft.

Teachey spent five seasons with the Mavericks, averaging 9.1 points and 4.8 rebounds per game during his career. In 1990, he was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers where he played another two seasons before retiring from professional basketball.

Following his retirement from playing ball, Anthony became a coach for various youth organizations across North Carolina until 2012 when he took over as head coach of Gardner-Webb University's men's team Anthony Teachey was a power forward and center for many years in the Italian leagues.

He played for Pallacanestro Livorno from 1984 to 1985, then Libertas Forlì from 1985 to 1986 before moving on to Caja de Ronda in 1987 and La Crosse Catbirds in 1989. Teachey made an impact with both clubs, averaging 10 points and 7 rebounds per game during his time there. 

In 1990 he signed with CAI Neuquén in Argentina where he averaged 16 points and 9 rebounds over two seasons before retiring at the end of 1992-93 season due to injury problems sustained while playing professionally overseas.

After retirement, Teachey became a basketball coach working mainly within American high schools until 2006 when he took up a position as assistant head coach at Duquesne University under Rick Majerus, who had recruited him back into professional coaching back in 2004 when Majerus was head coach of Saint Joseph's College ( Pennsylvania ).

Also Played For: 1984 nba draft

8. Tim Duncan

San Antonio Spurs

Tim Duncan Career

  • High school: St. Dunstan's Episcopal, (Saint Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands)
  • College: Wake Forest (1993–1997)
  • NBA draft 1997 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
  • Selected by the San Antonio Spurs
  • Playing career: 1997–2016
  • Position: Power forward / Center
  • Number: 21
  • Coaching career: 2019–2020
  • 5× NBA champion (1999, 2003, 2005, 2007, 2014), 3× NBA Finals MVP (1999, 2003, 2005), 2× NBA Most Valuable Player (2002, 2003), 15× NBA All-Star (1998, 2000–2011, 2013, 2015), NBA All-Star Game co-MVP (2000), 10× All-NBA First Team (1998–2005, 2007, 2013), 3× All-NBA Second Team (2006, 2008, 2009), 2× All-NBA Third Team (2010, 2015), 8× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1999–2003, 2005, 2007, 2008), 7× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1998, 2004, 2006, 2009, 2010, 2013, 2015), NBA Rookie of the Year (1998), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1998), NBA Teammate of the Year (2015), No. 21 retired by San Antonio Spurs, USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (2003), Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year (2003), IBM Award (2002), NBA 75th Anniversary Team, Consensus national college player of the year (1997), 2× Consensus first-team All-American (1996, 1997), Chip Hilton Player of the Year (1997), NCAA rebounding leader (1997), 3× NABC Defensive Player of the Year (1995–1997), 2× ACC Player of the Year (1996, 1997), 3× First-team All-ACC (1995–1997), No. 21 retired by Wake Forest Demon Deacons
  • Points: 26,496 (19.0 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 15,091 (10.8 rpg)
  • Assists: 4,225 (3.0 apg)
  • Basketball Hall of Fame as player
  • College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2017
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2004 Athens: Team, FIBA Americas Championship, : 1999 San Juan: Team, : 2003 San Juan: Team, Goodwill Games, : 1994 St. Petersburg: Team, Summer Universiade, : 1995 Fukuoka: Team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing the  United States
  • Olympic Games
  • : 2004 Athens: Team
  • FIBA Americas Championship
  • : 1999 San Juan: Team
  • : 2003 San Juan: Team
  • Goodwill Games
  • : 1994 St. Petersburg: Team
  • Summer Universiade
  • : 1995 Fukuoka: Team

Tim Duncan is a two-time NBA champion and 14-time All-Star. He also won an Olympic gold medal in 2000 with the U.S. Men's National Team and a silver medal in 1996 with Spain's national team.

As of 2019, he ranks second all-time in scoring (27,387 points) and blocks (11,643). Duncan has served as head coach for the Spurs' Development League affiliate since the 2018–19 season. 

He was named to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame on September 8th, 2020 after completing his 21st year playing professional basketball Tim Duncan is one of the most decorated players in NBA history and was a five-time champion with San Antonio Spurs.

He won three MVPs, 15 All-Star appearances, 10 All-NBA First Team nods, and eight Defensive Player of the Year awards during his illustrious career. Tim Duncan's impact on the game cannot be overstated, as he is widely regarded as one of the greatest big men to play in NBA history.

Also Played For: basketball, center basketball

9. Josh Howard

Josh Howard Career

  • High school: , Glenn, (Kernersville, North Carolina), Hargrave Military Academy, (Chatham, Virginia)
  • College: Wake Forest (1999–2003)
  • NBA draft 2003 / Round: 1 / Pick: 29th overall
  • Selected by the Dallas Mavericks
  • Playing career: 2003–2014
  • Position: Small forward
  • Number: 5, 8
  • Coaching career: 2016–present
  • NBA All-Star (2007), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2004), Consensus first-team All-American (2003), ACC Player of the Year (2003), First-team All-ACC (2003), Second-team All-ACC (2001), Third-team All-ACC (2002), No. 5 retired by Wake Forest Demon Deacons
  • Points: 7,270 (14.3 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 2,886 (5.7 rpg)
  • Assists: 817 (1.6 apg)

Howard was a standout player at Wake Forest and led the Demon Deacons to the NCAA Tournament in his senior season. Howard was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in 2003 and spent eight seasons with the team.

Howard was traded to the Indiana Pacers in 2013 and then to the Atlanta Hawks in 2015. Howard was named head coach of the UNT Dallas Trailblazers in 2016. Howard led the Trailblazers to the NAIA National Championship in 2018.

Howard is a two-time All-American and was named the NAIA National Coach of the Year in 2018. Howard is married and has two children. Howard is a native of Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Howard is a passionate coach and is constantly seeking new ways to improve his team.

Josh Howard was a five-time NBA All-Star and two-time All-NBA Second Team player with the Dallas Mavericks. 

Howard was drafted by the Mavericks with the 29th overall pick in the 2003 NBA draft. Howard played his first five seasons with the Mavericks before being traded to the Washington Wizards in 2010.

Howard played two seasons with the Jazz before joining the Timberwolves in 2012. Howard played two seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves before joining the Austin Toros of the Development League in 2013. 

Howard signed with the Mavericks as a free agent in 2014 and retired at the end of the season. Howard began his coaching career with UNT Dallas in 2016. Howard is currently the head coach of Piedmont International.

Also Played For: dallas mavericks

10. Al-Farouq Aminu

Power forward

Al-Farouq Aminu Career

  • High school: Norcross (Norcross, Georgia)
  • College: Wake Forest (2008–2010)
  • NBA draft 2010 / Round: 1 / Pick: 8th overall
  • Selected by the Los Angeles Clippers
  • Playing career: 2010–present
  • 2010–2011: Los Angeles Clippers
  • 2011–2014: New Orleans Hornets/Pelicans
  • 2014–2015: Dallas Mavericks
  • 2015–2019: Portland Trail Blazers
  • 2019–2021: Orlando Magic
  • 2021: Chicago Bulls
  • Second-team All-ACC (2010), ACC All-Freshman team (2009), McDonald's All-American (2008), First-team Parade All-American (2008), Mr. Georgia Basketball (2008)
  • Medals, , Men's Basketball, Representing  Nigeria, FIBA Africa Championship, : 2015 Tunisia: Team
  • Men's Basketball
  • Representing  Nigeria
  • FIBA Africa Championship
  • : 2015 Tunisia: Team

Aminu was drafted eighth overall by the Los Angeles Clippers in the 2010 NBA draft. Aminu has spent most of his career with the New Orleans Hornets and Pelicans.

Aminu has averaged 10.6 points and 5.8 rebounds per game in his career. Aminu was named to the All-Rookie First Team in 2010. Aminu is a versatile player who can play both small forward and power forward.

Aminu is an American citizen, but he was born in Nigeria. Aminu is a two-time All-Star and has been named to the All-NBA Second Team twice. Aminu is averaging 18.2 points and 7.2 rebounds per game this season.

Aminu is scheduled to become a free agent at the end of the 2019 season. Al-Farouq Aminu is a Nigerian-American professional basketball player for the Dallas Mavericks of the National Basketball Association (NBA).

Aminu was drafted by the Mavericks with the 23rd overall pick in the 2011 NBA draft. Aminu played college basketball for the Portland Trail Blazers. Aminu was a part of the Nigerian team that won a gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics.

Aminu is a versatile player who can play both forward positions. Aminu has been known for his shooting ability, averaging over 16 points per game in his career. Aminu is a player that is often compared to former Mavs player Jason Kidd. 

Aminu is a two-time All-Star and has been a part of the Mavericks playoff runs in each of his four seasons with the team. Aminu is married and has two children.

Also Played For: new orleans pelicans

11. Loren Woods

Loren Woods Career

  • High school: Cardinal Ritter College Prep, (St. Louis, Missouri)
  • College: , Wake Forest (1996–1998), Arizona (1999–2001)
  • NBA draft 2001 / Round: 2 / Pick: 46th overall
  • Selected by the Minnesota Timberwolves
  • Playing career: 2001–2018
  • Position: Center
  • Number: 3, 1, 33
  • 2001–2003: Minnesota Timberwolves
  • 2003–2004: Miami Heat
  • 2004–2006: Toronto Raptors
  • 2007: Austin Toros
  • 2007: Žalgiris Kaunas
  • 2007–2008: Efes Pilsen
  • 2008: Houston Rockets
  • 2008–2009: Žalgiris Kaunas
  • 2009: CAI Zaragoza
  • 2009–2010: Mahram Tehran
  • 2010–2011: Al Riyadi Beirut
  • 2011–2012: Zob Ahan Isfahan
  • 2012–2014: Al Riyadi Beirut
  • 2016–2018: Al Hala
  • 2018: Al Ahli
  • 2× West Asian Basketball Cup champion (2010, 2011), Third-team Parade All-American (1996)
  • Medals, , Men’s Basketball, Representing  United States, Summer Universiade, : 1997 Trapani: Team competition
  • Men’s Basketball
  • Representing  United States
  • Summer Universiade
  • : 1997 Trapani: Team competition

Loren Woods was drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2001. Woods played for the Timberwolves for six seasons before being traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2014.

Woods spent two seasons with the Cavaliers before being traded to the Chicago Bulls in 2017. Woods retired from the NBA in 2018. Loren Woods is a two-time All-Star and three-time All-NBA selection.

Woods is the son of NBA player Rick Woods. Loren Woods was born in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1978. Woods attended Cardinal Ritter College Prep in St. 

Louis before attending Wake Forest University. Woods was drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2001 and played for the team for six seasons before being traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2014.

Woods spent two seasons with the Cavaliers before being traded to the Chicago Bulls in 2017. Woods retired from the NBA in 2018.

Also Played For: arizona wildcats men's basketball

12. Dickie Hemric

Dickie Hemric Career

  • High school: Jonesville, (Jonesville, North Carolina)
  • College: Wake Forest (1951–1955)
  • NBA draft 1955 / Round: 2 / Pick: 10th overall
  • Selected by the Boston Celtics
  • Playing career: 1955–1957
  • Position: Power forward
  • Number: 20
  • 1955–1957: Boston Celtics
  • NBA champion (1957), Consensus second-team All-American (1955), Third-team All-American – AP (1954), 2× ACC Player of the Year (1954, 1955), 2× First-team All-ACC (1954, 1955), No. 24 retired by Wake Forest Demon Deacons
  • Points: 863 (6.3 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 703 (5.1 rpg)
  • Assists: 102 (0.7 apg)

Dickie Hemric was born on August 29, 1933 in Jonesville, North Carolina. Hemric attended high school in Jonesville and played college basketball for Wake Forest.

Hemric was drafted by the Boston Celtics in the 1955 NBA draft and played for the team from 1955 to 1957. Hemric was a power forward and is primarily remembered for his time with the Celtics.

Hemric later played for the Cincinnati Royals and the Philadelphia 76ers. Hemric retired from basketball in 1977 and later worked in the insurance industry. Hemric died on August 3, 2017 at the age of 83.

Hemric was inducted into the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame in 1984 and the Wake Forest Sports Hall of Fame in 2005. Hemric was a member of the United States national team and competed in the 1960 Summer Olympics.

13. Len Chappell

Len Chappell Career

  • High school: Portage (Portage, Pennsylvania)
  • College: Wake Forest (1959–1962)
  • NBA draft 1962 / Round: 1 / Pick: 4th overall
  • Selected by the Syracuse Nationals
  • Playing career: 1962–1972
  • Position: Power forward / Center
  • Number: 23, 24, 17, 19, 50, 25, 40
  • 1962–1963: Syracuse Nationals / Philadelphia 76ers
  • 1963–1966: New York Knicks
  • 1966: Chicago Bulls
  • 1966–1967: Cincinnati Royals
  • 1967–1968: Detroit Pistons
  • 1968–1970: Milwaukee Bucks
  • 1970: Cleveland Cavaliers
  • 1970–1971: Atlanta Hawks
  • 1971–1972: Dallas Chaparrals
  • NBA All-Star (1964), Consensus first-team All-American (1962), 2× ACC Player of the Year (1961, 1962), ACC Athlete of the Year (1962), 3× First-team All-ACC (1960–1962), No. 50 retired by Wake Forest Demon Deacons

Len Chappell was born in 1941 in Portage, Pennsylvania. He attended Wake Forest University, where he played basketball for the Demon Deacons. Chappell was drafted by the Syracuse Nationals in the 1962 NBA draft.

He played in the NBA for over a decade, with teams including the Syracuse Nationals, Philadelphia 76ers, and Milwaukee Bucks. Chappell retired from basketball in 1972. He later worked as a basketball coach at Wake Forest and Wisconsin-Oconomowoc.

Chappell died on July 12, 2018 at the age of 77. He was inducted into the Wisconsin-Oconomowoc High School Sports Hall of Fame in 2007. 

Chappell was a basketball ambassador and mentor to younger players. Len Chappell was a dominant player during his time in the NBA, winning championships with the Knicks and Bulls.

Chappell was highly decorated during his time in college, winning several awards including ACC Athlete of the Year and First-team All-ACC. 

After playing in the NBA for several years, Chappell retired in 1971. Len Chappell was a key member of both the Syracuse Nationals and Philadelphia 76ers, and is still considered one of the greatest players in NBA history.

14. Randolph Childress

Randolph Childress Career

  • High school: Flint Hill (Oakton, Virginia)
  • College: Wake Forest (1991–1995)
  • NBA draft 1995 / Round: 1 / Pick: 19th overall
  • Selected by the Detroit Pistons
  • Playing career: 1995–2011
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 12, 3
  • Consensus second-team All-American (1995), ACC Athlete of the Year (1995), 2× First-team All-ACC (1994, 1995), Second-team All-ACC (1993), No. 22 retired by Wake Forest Demon Deacons

Randolph Childress was a standout player in high school and went on to play for Wake Forest in college. After playing for the Portland Trail Blazers and Detroit Pistons, Randolph Childress started his professional career with the Orlando Magic in 1997.

Randolph Childress was a key player for the Magic during his time there and helped them make it to the playoffs a few times. 

In 2001, Randolph Childress was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks and he played there until 2007. Randolph Childress was traded to the Phoenix Suns in 2007 and he played for them until 2011.

Randolph Childress is now retired from the NBA and he is currently working as a commentator for the NBA on TNT. Randolph Childress has three children and he is married to his wife LaToya.

 Randolph Childress is known for his excellent ball-handling and passing skills. Randolph Childress is a three-time All-Star and he was named the MVP of the 2006 NBA All-Star Game.

15. Rodney Rogers

Phoenix Suns

Rodney Rogers Career

  • High school: Hillside (Durham, North Carolina)
  • College: Wake Forest (1990–1993)
  • NBA draft 1993 / Round: 1 / Pick: 9th overall
  • Selected by the Denver Nuggets
  • Playing career: 1993–2005
  • Position: Small forward
  • Number: 54
  • 1993–1995: Denver Nuggets
  • 1995–1999: Los Angeles Clippers
  • 1999–2002: Phoenix Suns
  • 2002: Boston Celtics
  • 2002–2004: New Jersey Nets
  • 2004–2005: New Orleans Hornets
  • 2005: Philadelphia 76ers
  • NBA Sixth Man of the Year (2000), Consensus second-team All-American (1993), ACC Player of the Year (1993), 2× First-team All-ACC (1992, 1993), Second-team All-ACC (1991), ACC Rookie of the Year (1991), No. 54 retired by Wake Forest Demon Deacons, Third-team Parade All-American (1990), North Carolina Mr. Basketball (1990)
  • Points: 9,468 (10.9 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 3,881 (4.5 rpg)
  • Assists: 1,722 (2.0 apg)
  • Medals, , Men’s Basketball, Representing  United States, Summer Universiade, : 1991 Sheffield: National team
  • Men’s Basketball
  • Representing  United States
  • Summer Universiade
  • : 1991 Sheffield: National team

Rodney Rogers was a small forward who played in the NBA for 10 seasons. Rogers was drafted 9th overall by the Nuggets in the 1993 NBA draft. Rogers played for the Denver Nuggets, Clippers, Suns, and Celtics over the course of his career.

Rogers is best known for his time with the Suns, where he helped lead the team to the 2002 NBA Finals. Rogers retired from the NBA in 2005. Rogers currently works as a color commentator for the Utah Jazz. Rodney Rogers was born in 1971 in Durham, North Carolina.

Rogers attended Hillside High School in Durham. Rogers played college basketball at Wake Forest. 

Rodney Rogers was a standout player at Wake Forest and was drafted by the Nets in the second round of the 1992 NBA draft. Rogers spent most of his time with the Nets and was an important part of the team's success in the early 1990s.

In 2000, he was named Sixth Man of the Year and in 2003 he was named to the All-Star team. Rogers has since retired from the NBA and now works as a commentator for the league. 

He is also a motivational speaker and has helped many young players achieve their goals. Rodney Rogers is a respected member of the NBA community and is highly regarded for his skills on the court.

He is a role model to young players and has helped to shape the careers of many current stars. Rodney Rogers is a great ambassador for the NBA and is always willing to help out in any way possible. He is an excellent representative of the game of basketball and is loved by fans all over the world.

16. Charlie Davis

Charlie Davis Career

  • High school: , Brooklyn Tech, (New York City, New York), Laurinburg Institute, (Laurinburg, North Carolina)
  • College: Wake Forest (1968–1971)
  • NBA draft 1971 / Round: 8 / Pick: 120th overall
  • Selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers
  • Playing career: 1971–1973
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 18, 17
  • 1971–1972: Cleveland Cavaliers
  • 1972–1973: Portland Trail Blazers
  • Fourth-team All-American – NABC (1971), ACC Player of the Year (1971), 3× First-team All-ACC (1969–1971), No. 12 retired by Wake Forest Demon Deacons
  • Points: 1,287 (8.9 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 219 (1.5 rpg)
  • Assists: 319 (2.2 apg)

Davis was a 6'2" forward/center who played in the NBA for the Cavaliers from 1971 to 1976. Davis was drafted in the eighth round of the 1971 NBA draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers.

He played for the Cavs for four seasons. Davis was a key player on the Cavs teams that made it to the NBA Finals in 1972 and 1975. He was also a key player on the team that won the 1976 NBA Championship.

After playing in the NBA, Davis played in the Italian League for a number of seasons. He retired from professional basketball in 1983. Davis has been a basketball coach for many years. He has been the head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers' summer league team for the past several seasons.

Davis was inducted into the Cleveland Cavaliers Hall of Fame in 2006. He also received the Jimmy V Award in 2007, which is given to the most inspirational player in the NBA. Davis has two children, a son and a daughter. He has also been married twice.

17. Danny Young

Danny Young Career

  • High school: William G. Enloe, (Raleigh, North Carolina)
  • College: Wake Forest (1980–1984)
  • NBA draft 1984 / Round: 2 / Pick: 39th overall
  • Selected by the Seattle SuperSonics
  • Playing career: 1984–1994
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 22, 21, 20
  • 1984: Seattle SuperSonics
  • 1984–1985: Wyoming Wildcatters
  • 1985–1988: Seattle SuperSonics
  • 1988–1992: Portland Trail Blazers
  • 1992: Los Angeles Clippers
  • 1992–1993: Detroit Pistons
  • 1993–1994: Limoges
  • 1994: Milwaukee Bucks
  • French League champion (1994), French Cup champion (1994)

Danny Young was born on July 26, 1962 in Raleigh, North Carolina. Danny Young played college basketball at Wake Forest and was drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics in the 1984 NBA draft.

Danny Young played for the SuperSonics for four seasons before being traded to the Milwaukee Bucks in 1991. Danny Young played for the Milwaukee Bucks for two seasons before being traded to the New Jersey Nets in 1993.

Danny Young played for the New Jersey Nets for four seasons before retiring in 1994. Danny Young has since worked as a basketball coach at his alma mater, Wake Forest. Danny Young was inducted into the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame in 2002.

Danny Young has three children and lives in Raleigh, North Carolina. Danny Young is a 6'8" forward who has played in the NBA for 18 seasons. He was a key member of the Blazers' championship teams in 1992 and 1993. He also played for the Clippers, Pistons, and Bucks.

He is a three-time French League champion and one-time French Cup champion. Danny Young was a highly productive player, averaging 17.5 points and 7.5 rebounds per game during his career. Danny Young is a highly respected veteran player in the NBA. Danny Young is a good shooter and passer.

Danny Young is a very good defender. Danny Young is a very good team player.

18. Guy Morgan

Guy Morgan Career

  • High school: First Colonial, (Virginia Beach, Virginia)
  • College: Wake Forest (1978–1982)
  • NBA draft 1982 / Round: 2 / Pick: 40th overall
  • Selected by the Indiana Pacers
  • Position: Shooting guard
  • Number: 35
  • 1982–1983: Indiana Pacers
  • Third-team Parade All-American (1978)

Guy Morgan was born on August 23, 1960 in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Morgan played college basketball at Wake Forest and was selected by the NBA in the 1982 draft.

Morgan has had a successful NBA career, playing for the Philadelphia 76ers, Washington Bullets, and Atlanta Hawks. Morgan has also had a successful career in international basketball, playing for the United States National Team.

Morgan has been married to his wife, Lisa, for over twenty-five years. Morgan has two children, a daughter and a son. Morgan is a successful businessman and has invested in a number of businesses. Morgan is currently retired from professional basketball, but continues to play in amateur basketball leagues.

Morgan is a popular figure in the Hampton Roads area and is involved in many charitable organizations.

19. Darius Songaila

Washington Wizards

Darius Songaila Career

  • High school: New Hampton School, (New Hampton, New Hampshire)
  • College: Wake Forest (1998–2002)
  • NBA draft 2002 / Round: 2 / Pick: 50th overall
  • Selected by the Boston Celtics
  • Playing career: 2002–2015
  • Position: Power forward / Center
  • Number: 25, 9
  • Coaching career: 2015–present
  • Russian champion (2003), Turkish Super Cup winner (2011), Lithuanian champion (2015), Lithuanian Federation Cup winner (2015), AP honorable mention All-American (2002), Second-team All-ACC (2002), Third-team All-ACC (2000), , As assistant coach:, , 2× King Mindaugas Cup winner (2017, 2018), 2× LKL champion (2017, 2018)
  • Points: 3,415 (6.9 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 1,689 (3.4 rpg)
  • Assists: 589 (1.2 apg)
  • Medals, , Men's Basketball, Representing  Lithuania, Summer Olympic Games, : 2000 Sydney: , EuroBasket, : 2003 Sweden: , : 2007 Spain:
  • Men's Basketball
  • Representing  Lithuania
  • Summer Olympic Games
  • : 2000 Sydney:
  • EuroBasket
  • : 2003 Sweden:
  • : 2007 Spain:

Darius Songaila is an assistant coach with the San Antonio Spurs. He played professional basketball for the Boston Celtics and was drafted by them in 2002.

Songaila has also played for the Atlanta Hawks and the Milwaukee Bucks in his career. He was born in Kapsukas, Lithuania, in 1978. After playing college basketball at Wake Forest, Songaila made his professional debut in 2002 with the Boston Celtics.

He played for the Atlanta Hawks and the Milwaukee Bucks before joining the Spurs in 2015. Songaila has won two championships with the Spurs, in 2014 and 2017. 

He is also a six-time All-Star. Songaila is married and has two children. Darius Songaila is a Lithuanian-born assistant coach with the San Antonio Spurs.

He played professionally in Lithuania, Russia, and Spain before starting his coaching career. Songaila has worked as an assistant coach with Žalgiris Kaunas, Lietuvos rytas Vilnius, and Žalgiris Kaunas again. 

He has also spent time with the Spurs' developmental team, the Austin Spurs. Songaila has twice been named an assistant coach of the year in his home country of Lithuania.

He is married and has two children. Darius Songaila is a native speaker of Lithuanian. He enjoys reading and spending time with family and friends. Darius Songaila is a valuable member of the Spurs coaching staff and is committed to helping his team achieve success.

20. James Johnson

Miami Heat

James Johnson Career

  • High school: Cheyenne East, (Cheyenne, Wyoming)
  • College: Wake Forest (2007–2009)
  • NBA draft 2009 / Round: 1 / Pick: 16th overall
  • Selected by the Chicago Bulls
  • Playing career: 2009–present
  • 2009–2011: Chicago Bulls
  • 2011: →Iowa Energy
  • 2011–2012: Toronto Raptors
  • 2012–2013: Sacramento Kings
  • 2013: Rio Grande Valley Vipers
  • 2013–2014: Memphis Grizzlies
  • 2014–2016: Toronto Raptors
  • 2016–2020: Miami Heat
  • 2020: Minnesota Timberwolves
  • 2020–2021: Dallas Mavericks
  • 2021: New Orleans Pelicans
  • 2021–2022: Brooklyn Nets
  • 2022–present: Indiana Pacers
  • 2× Third-team All-ACC (2008, 2009), ACC All-Freshman team (2008)

James Johnson was born on February 20, 1987 in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He played college basketball at Wake Forest. Johnson was selected by the Chicago Bulls with the 16th overall pick in the 2009 NBA draft.

Johnson has played for the Bulls, Brooklyn Nets, and Indiana Pacers in his career. Johnson is a small forward and power forward who is averaging 10.2 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game in his career.

Johnson is a veteran player who is currently playing for the Indiana Pacers. James Johnson is a versatile player who has played both forward positions in the NBA. Johnson was drafted by the Chicago Bulls in the second round of the 2009 NBA Draft.

Johnson has played for the Iowa Energy, Toronto Raptors, Sacramento Kings, Rio Grande Valley Vipers, Memphis Grizzlies, Toronto Raptors, Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, Dallas Mavericks, Brooklyn Nets, and Indiana Pacers in his career. Johnson has averaged 7.2 points, 4.9 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.1 blocks in his career.

Johnson is a good defender who has averaged 2.9 steals and 1.2 blocks in his career. Johnson has won two championships with the Miami Heat in 2013 and 2016. Johnson is a good all-around player who can score, rebound, and block shots.

Also Played For: nba 2k18

21. Dave Budd

Dave Budd Career

  • High school: Woodbury (Woodbury, New Jersey)
  • College: Wake Forest (1957–1960)
  • NBA draft 1960 / Round: 2 / Pick: 10th overall
  • Selected by the New York Knicks
  • Playing career: 1960–1966
  • Position: Small forward
  • Number: 10
  • 1960–1965: New York Knicks
  • 1965–1966: Camden Bullets
  • 2× Second-team All-ACC (1958, 1960)
  • Points: 2,505 (7.1 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 1,623 (4.6 rpg)
  • Assists: 337 (1.0 apg)

Dave Budd was born on October 28, 1938, in Woodbury, New Jersey. Budd attended Woodbury High School and played college basketball for Wake Forest. The New York Knicks drafted Budd in the 1960 NBA draft, and he played for the team from 1960 to 1966.

Budd won the NBA Championship in 1964 with the Knicks. Budd is a member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and the College Basketball Hall of Fame. Budd currently resides in Woodbury, New Jersey, and is retired from basketball. Budd has been involved in coaching and officiating.

Dave Budd has a wife and two children. Budd has been a mentor to many young players. Budd was a two-time All-ACC forward and played in the NBA from 1965-1966 with the Camden Bullets. 

Budd was a tough forward who was known for his toughness and rebounding. Budd was a veteran player when he signed with the Knicks and helped the team make it to the playoffs.

Budd had a short NBA career, but was able to leave his mark on the league. Budd is now a coach and has worked with many high school teams. Budd has been involved in coaching for over 50 years and is still actively involved in the game. 

Budd is a respected coach and has helped many players reach the NBA. Budd is a living legend in the coaching world and will be remembered for years to come. Budd is a great coach and has helped many players reach their goals.

22. Frank Johnson

Frank Johnson Career

  • High school: Lake Weir (Summerfield, Florida)
  • College: Wake Forest (1976–1981)
  • NBA draft 1981 / Round: 1 / Pick: 11th overall
  • Selected by the Washington Bullets
  • Playing career: 1981–1994
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 15, 3
  • First-team All-ACC (1981), 2× Second-team All-ACC (1978, 1979)
  • Points: 4,937 (8.3 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 1,025 (1.7 rpg)
  • Assists: 2,476 (4.2 apg)

Johnson was a standout point guard for Wake Forest, and was drafted by the Washington Bullets in the 1981 NBA draft. He played for the Bullets for six seasons before retiring in 1994.

Johnson is best known for his time with the Washington Bullets, where he won three NBA championships. He is also a two-time All-Star. Johnson is currently a television analyst for the NBA on TNT.

Johnson was born in 1958 in Weirdale, Florida. He attended Lake Weir High School in Summerfield, Florida, before going to Wake Forest University. Johnson played in the NBA for six seasons, winning three championships with the Washington Bullets.

He is also a two-time All-Star. Johnson is currently a television analyst for the NBA on TNT. Johnson was one of the most versatile players in the NBA and is still held in high regard by many analysts and coaches. 

Johnson was a key player for the Houston Rockets during the late 1980s and early 1990s and was a two-time All-ACC selection.

After spending time with the A.R. Varese and the Marr Rimini clubs in Italy, Johnson joined the Phoenix Suns in 1992 and helped lead the team to the playoffs three times. 

In 1997, Johnson was hired as an assistant coach with the Phoenix Suns and held that position until 2002. Johnson then moved to the Milwaukee Bucks in 2017 as an assistant coach and helped lead the team to their first playoff appearance in over a decade.

Johnson is currently an assistant coach with the Bucks and is expected to continue in that role for the foreseeable future. Johnson is a highly respected basketball coach and has helped guide many players to success in the NBA.

23. Delaney Rudd

Delaney Rudd Career

  • High school: Eastman (Hollister, North Carolina)
  • College: Wake Forest (1981–1985)
  • NBA draft 1985 / Round: 4 / Pick: 83rd overall
  • Selected by the Utah Jazz
  • Playing career: 1985–1999
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 4, 11
  • 1985: Westchester Golden Apples
  • 1985–1986: Bay State Bombardiers
  • 1986: Maine Windjammers
  • 1986–1988: PAOK
  • 1986: Westchester Golden Apples
  • 1989–1992: Utah Jazz
  • 1992–1993: Rapid City Thrillers
  • 1993: Portland Trail Blazers
  • 1993: Paris Basket Racing
  • 1993–1999: ASVEL Villeurbane
  • FIBA EuroStar (1996), FIBA EuroStars 3 Point Contest winner (1996), 2× French Cup winner (1996, 1997), 2× French League Foreign MVP (1996, 1997), No. 4 retired by ASVEL

Delaney Rudd was born on November 8, 1962, in Hollister, North Carolina. Rudd attended Eastman High School in Hollister, North Carolina, before going on to play college basketball at Wake Forest.

In 1985, Rudd was drafted by the Utah Jazz in the fourth round of the NBA draft. Rudd played in the NBA for nine seasons, most notably with the Utah Jazz. Rudd retired from the NBA in 1999. Rudd is currently an assistant coach with the Memphis Grizzlies.

Rudd is married and has two children. Rudd is a point guard and played primarily at the point guard position. Rudd is currently an assistant coach with the Memphis Grizzlies. Rudd was selected with the No. 3 overall pick in the 1986 NBA draft by the Maine Windjammers.

In 1986-87, Rudd led the Windjammers to their only playoff appearance in franchise history. Rudd played for the PAOK team from 1986-1988 and was named the Greek League MVP in 1987.

 Rudd was drafted by the Utah Jazz in the 1988 NBA draft, but he never played for them. Rudd signed with the Rapid City Thrillers in 1992 and led them to the playoffs.

Rudd was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers in 1993 and played for them for three seasons. In 1995, Rudd was traded to the Paris Basket Racing team and won a French Cup championship.

 Rudd was drafted by the ASVEL Villeurbane team in 1998 and retired after the 1999 season. Rudd was inducted into the French Basketball Hall of Fame in 2002.

24. Gil McGregor

Gil McGregor Career

  • High school: Hoke County, (Raeford, North Carolina)
  • College: Wake Forest (1968–1971)
  • NBA draft 1971 / Round: 6 / Pick: 89th overall
  • Selected by the Cincinnati Royals
  • Position: Power forward
  • Number: 25
  • 1971–1972: Cincinnati Royals
  • 1972–1973: Wilkes-Barre Barons
  • CBA champion (1973)

Gil McGregor was born in Hoke County, North Carolina on June 14, 1949. Gil attended high school at Hoke County and played college basketball at Wake Forest.

Gil was drafted by the NBA in 1971 and played for five teams over 15 seasons. Gil is considered one of the best small forwards of his era, and is a two-time All-Star.

Gil retired in 1987 and has since worked as a basketball coach. Gil McGregor is 73 years old and lives in Raleigh, North Carolina. Gil McGregor is one of the most accomplished power forwards in Cincinnati Royals history.

McGregor was a key part of the Royals' championship run in the early 1970s. He was a powerful player with a strong rebounding and shooting ability. McGregor was inducted into the Cincinnati Royals Hall of Fame in 2003. McGregor currently works as an assistant basketball coach at the University of Cincinnati.

He is a popular figure in the city of Cincinnati, and enjoys attending Royals home games. McGregor is a valuable member of the basketball community, and he has helped young players develop their skills. 

He remains active in the game, and is a popular guest speaker at basketball clinics. Gil McGregor is a true legend in Cincinnati basketball history.

25. Paul Long

Paul Long Career

  • High school: Waggener (Louisville, Kentucky)
  • College: , Virginia Tech (1963–1964), Wake Forest (1965–1967)
  • NBA draft 1967 / Round: 5 / Pick: 45th overall
  • Selected by the Detroit Pistons
  • Playing career: 1967–1971
  • Position: Shooting guard
  • Number: 10, 34, 36, 26, 5
  • 1967–1970: Detroit Pistons
  • 1968–1969: Kentucky Colonels
  • First-team All-ACC (1967), Second-team All-ACC (1966)

Paul Long was a standout high school basketball player in Louisville, Kentucky, and was drafted by the NBA in 1967. Long played in the NBA for five seasons with the Philadelphia 76ers, Indiana Pacers, and Milwaukee Bucks.

Long later played in the ABA for the Virginia Squires and the Denver Nuggets. Long retired from professional basketball in 1981. Paul Long is currently a basketball coach and broadcaster. Long was inducted into the Kentucky Sports Hall of Fame in 2006.

Long is married and has two children. Paul Long has been involved in coaching and broadcasting for over 40 years. Paul Long was a key player on three different NBA teams, including the Detroit Pistons who selected him in the 1967 draft. He helped lead the Pistons to the playoffs in 1970 and was a valuable shooter.

Long also had a successful career in the ABA, where he was a two-time All-Star. After playing in the NBA and ABA, Long eventually became a head coach in the Continental Basketball Association. Long passed away in 2017 at the age of 79.

26. Kenny Green

Kenny Green Career

  • High school: Eustis (Eustis, Florida)
  • College: Wake Forest (1982–1985)
  • NBA draft 1985 / Round: 1 / Pick: 12th overall
  • Selected by the Washington Bullets
  • Playing career: 1985–1988
  • Position: Small forward
  • Number: 21
  • 1985–1986: Washington Bullets
  • 1986–1988: Philadelphia 76ers
  • 2× Second-team All-ACC (1984, 1985)

Kenny Green was born on October 11, 1964 in Eustis, Florida. Green played high school basketball at Eustis (Eustis, Florida) and attended Wake Forest University.

Green was drafted by the Washington Bullets in the 1985 NBA draft. He played for the Bullets and the Houston Rockets. Green was inducted into the Wake Forest Athletic Hall of Fame in 2013.

Green is currently an assistant coach with the Orlando Magic. Green has two children. Green is 6'6" and weighs 210 lbs. Green is a assistant coach with the Orlando Magic. Kenny Green was a versatile small forward who played for the Washington Bullets and Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA.

He was a Second-team All-ACC player in 1984 and 1985 and was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in the second round of the 1986 NBA Draft. 

He played a total of 351 games in the NBA and averaged 8.9 points and 3.2 rebounds per game. After playing in the NBA, he went on to play in the Continental Basketball Association and the Italian League.

He is currently the head coach of the Italian League club Rimini.

27. Jim Johnstone

Jim Johnstone Career

  • High school: Lewiston-Porter Central, (Youngstown, New York)
  • College: Wake Forest (1978–1982)
  • NBA draft 1982 / Round: 3 / Pick: 51st overall
  • Selected by the Kansas City Kings
  • Playing career: 1982–1986
  • Position: Power forward / Center
  • Number: 25, 34
  • 1982: San Antonio Spurs
  • 1982–1983: Ohio Mixers
  • 1983: Detroit Pistons
  • 1983–1984: Scaligera Verona
  • 1984–1985: Le Mans Sarthe
  • 1985–1986: Mens Sana Basket
  • Second-team All-ACC (1982)

Jim Johnstone was born in 1960 in New Canaan, Connecticut. He attended high school in Lewiston-Porter Central in Youngstown, New York. He played college basketball at Wake Forest from 1978-1982.

He was drafted in the 1982 NBA draft by the Kansas City Kings. He played for the Kings from 1982-1986. He then played for the Philadelphia 76ers from 1986-1992. He then played for the Milwaukee Bucks from 1992-1994.

He then played for the Orlando Magic from 1994-1996. He then played for the Vancouver Grizzlies from 1996-1998. Jim Johnstone was a 6'11" power forward who played in the NBA from 1982-1986. He was drafted by the Kansas City Kings in the 1982 NBA draft and played for them until 1986-1992.

He then played for the Philadelphia 76ers from 1986-1992, the Milwaukee Bucks from 1992-1994, the Orlando Magic from 1994-1996, and the Vancouver Grizzlies from 1996-1998.

28. Rusty LaRue

Rusty LaRue Career

  • High school: Northwest Guilford, (Greensboro, North Carolina)
  • College: Wake Forest (1992–1996)
  • NBA draft: 1996 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 1996–2004
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 5
  • Coaching career: 2004–present
  • NBA champion (1998), All-CBA Second Team (2000), CBA assists leader (2000)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, FIBA Americas Championship, : 1997 Montevideo: Team competition
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  United States
  • FIBA Americas Championship
  • : 1997 Montevideo: Team competition

Rusty LaRue was a point guard in the NBA for ten years. He was undrafted, but played on several teams before finding success with the Utah Jazz. He was named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team in 1996, and won two division titles with the Jazz.

He played for four other teams before retiring in 2004. LaRue has since coached in the NBA, and is currently an assistant coach with the Milwaukee Bucks. LaRue was an assistant coach for the West Forsyth High School boys' basketball team from 2015 to present.

He served as the interim head coach in January 2017 after the resignation of Tim Lewis. LaRue was the interim head coach of the Golden State Warriors during the 2015-16 season after Steve Kerr was injured. LaRue has also been an assistant coach for the Chicago Bulls, Indiana Pacers, and Atlanta Hawks.

LaRue won an NBA championship with the Carolina Cardinals in 1998. LaRue played college basketball at Forsyth Country Day School in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. LaRue is a graduate of West Forsyth High School.

29. Ron Watts

Ron Watts Career

  • High school: Woodrow Wilson (Washington, D.C.)
  • College: Wake Forest (1962–1965)
  • NBA draft 1965 / Round: 2 / Pick: 18th overall
  • Selected by the Boston Celtics
  • Playing career: 1965–1967
  • Position: Small forward
  • Number: 12
  • 1965–1967: Boston Celtics
  • NBA champion (1966)

Ronald Watts was born on May 21, 1943 in Washington, D.C. Watts attended high school at Woodrow Wilson in Washington, D.C. and then attended college at Wake Forest.

Watts began his career in the United States Navy and served in the Vietnam War. Watts began his acting career in the late 1960s and has since appeared in many television shows and movies.

Watts died on November 2, 2022 at the age of 79. Watts was drafted by the Boston Celtics in the 1965 NBA draft. Watts played for the Celtics from 1965 to 1967. Watts was a key player for the Celtics during their championship seasons in 1966 and 1967.

Watts was inducted into the Boston Celtics Hall of Fame in 1988. Watts currently works as a basketball analyst for ESPN. Watts is a retired U.S. Navy veteran. Watts has two children. Watts currently resides in Boston, Massachusetts.

30. Rod Griffin

Rod Griffin Career

  • High school: Fairmont (Fairmont, North Carolina)
  • College: Wake Forest (1974–1978)
  • NBA draft 1978 / Round: 1 / Pick: 17th overall
  • Selected by the Denver Nuggets
  • Playing career: 1978–1993
  • Position: Power forward
  • 2× Consensus second-team All-American (1977, 1978), ACC Player of the Year (1977), 2× First-team All-ACC (1977, 1978), Second-team All-ACC (1976), No. 32 retired by Wake Forest Demon Deacons

Rod Griffin played college football at Wake Forest from 1974-1978. He was a two-time All-American and was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the fifth round of the 1978 NFL Draft.

Griffin also played in the United States Football League for the San Diego Chargers and the Seattle Seahawks. Griffin was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2003. He currently serves as the senior vice president of football operations for the Atlanta Falcons.

Griffin was born in Fairmont, North Carolina and attended high school at Fairmont. After playing college football, Griffin played for the Philadelphia Eagles and San Diego Chargers in the NFL before joining the Atlanta Falcons in 2001. He has also served as the general manager for the Eagles and Seahawks.

Griffin is a multiple award-winning executive in the NFL and has been inducted into several Halls of Fame.

31. Anthony Tucker

Washington Wizards

Anthony Tucker Career

  • High school: McKinley (Washington, D.C.)
  • College: , Georgetown (1987–1988), Wake Forest (1989–1992)
  • NBA draft: 1992 / Undrafted
  • Position: Small forward
  • Number: 21
  • 1994–1995: Washington Bullets
  • 1996–1997: Florida Beachdogs
  • 1997–1998: La Crosse Bobcats
  • CBA All-Defensive Team (1997), CBA Newcomer of the Year (1997), CBA rebounding leader (1997), First-team Parade All-American (1987)

Anthony Tucker was born on April 4, 1969 in Washington, D.C. He attended McKinley High School in Washington, D.C. and played for the school's basketball team.

Tucker attended Georgetown University and played for the Georgetown Hoyas men's basketball team. He was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 1992 NBA draft but was undrafted.

Tucker played for the Philadelphia 76ers, Phoenix Suns, Seattle SuperSonics, and Washington Bullets during his professional career. He retired from professional basketball in 2000.

Tucker is currently an NBA analyst for the TNT Network. He has two children. Tucker is 6'8" and weighs 220 pounds. Tucker was a versatile forward who played for several teams in the NBA.

He was a key member of the Washington Bullets team that made it to the Eastern Conference Finals in 1994. He then played for the Florida Beachdogs and La Crosse Bobcats before joining the Atlanta Hawks in 1998.

Tucker was a key player on the Hawks team that won the 1998 NBA Finals. He retired from the NBA in 1999. Tucker is now a basketball commentator. He has also been involved in coaching and training. Tucker is a two-time CBA All-Defensive Team selection and a two-time CBA Newcomer of the Year.

He has also been named to the Parade All-American team.

32. Chaundee Brown

Los Angeles Lakers

Chaundee Brown Career

  • High school: , Dr. Phillips, (Dr. Phillips, Florida), The First Academy, (Orlando, Florida)
  • College: , Wake Forest (2017–2020), Michigan (2020–2021)
  • NBA draft: 2021 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2021–present
  • 2021: South Bay Lakers
  • 2021: Los Angeles Lakers
  • 2021: →South Bay Lakers
  • 2021–2022: Atlanta Hawks
  • 2022–present: Austin Spurs

Chaundee Brown Jr. is a shooting guard for the Austin Spurs in the NBA G League. Brown was born in Orlando, Florida in 1998. He attended high school at Dr.

Phillips in Orlando. Brown played college basketball for Michigan. Brown was drafted by the Spurs in the 2018 NBA G League Draft. Brown is 24 years old. Brown has played in 53 games for the Spurs this season, averaging 10.1 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game.

Brown is a member of the United States national team. Brown is a member of the Orlando Magic. Brown was a four-year starter at Wake Forest and averaged 17.5 points, 5.8 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game. Brown was selected by the South Bay Lakers in the 2021 NBA draft and signed with the team in early May.

Brown is currently playing for the Austin Spurs and has averaged 17.5 points, 5.8 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game. Brown is a versatile player who has been able to play both forward positions and guard positions. 

Brown is an athletic player who can shoot from outside and score in the paint. Brown is a hard worker who is always looking to improve his game.

Brown is a valuable member of the South Bay Lakers and is one of the team's leaders. Brown is committed to playing in the NBA for many years to come. Brown is a skilled player who can score in a variety of ways, making him a threat to any opponent.

33. Olivier Sarr

Wake Forest Demon Deacons men's basketball

Olivier Sarr Career

  • College: , Wake Forest (2017–2020), Kentucky (2020–2021)
  • NBA draft: 2021 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2021–present
  • 2021–2022: Oklahoma City Blue
  • 2021–2022: Oklahoma City Thunder
  • 2023–present: Oklahoma City Blue
  • Third-team All-ACC (2020)

Olivier Sarr is a young French player that was drafted by the Oklahoma City Blue in the 2017 NBA G League Draft. Olivier Sarr attended Wake Forest University and was a key player for the Demon Deacons during his two years there.

In his two years at Wake Forest, Sarr averaged 14.2 points and 7.4 rebounds per game. Sarr was drafted by the Oklahoma City Blue in the 2017 NBA G League Draft and has since played for the team in both the G League and the NBA Development League.

Olivier Sarr has a very impressive professional career so far, having played in the NBA Development League, the G League, and now in the NBA. Olivier Sarr is a very talented player that is sure to continue making waves in the NBA Development League and the NBA.

Olivier Sarr was born on July 1, 2020 in France. Olivier Sarr is a French player who plays for the Oklahoma City Blue in the NBA. 

Olivier Sarr has played for the Oklahoma City Blue and the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA. Olivier Sarr was drafted by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2021 NBA draft but he was never able to play for them.

Olivier Sarr is a French player who has played in the NBA. Olivier Sarr has played for the Oklahoma City Blue and the Oklahoma City Thunder. 

Olivier Sarr was drafted by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2021 NBA draft but he was never able to play for them. Olivier Sarr is a French player who has played in the NBA. Olivier Sarr has played for the Oklahoma City Blue and the Oklahoma City Thunder.

34. Justin Gray

ERA Basketball Nymburk

Justin Gray Career

  • High school: , West Charlotte, (Charlotte, North Carolina), Oak Hill Academy, (Mouth of Wilson, Virginia)
  • College: Wake Forest (2002–2006)
  • NBA draft: 2006 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2006–2018
  • Position: Shooting guard
  • Coaching career: 2019–present
  • First-team All-ACC (2004), 2× Second-team All-ACC (2005, 2006)

Justin Gray is currently the head coach of the Western Carolina Catamounts in the Southern Conference. Gray attended Wake Forest and played for the Demon Deacons from 2002 to 2006.

Gray was not drafted in the 2006 NBA Draft, but signed with the Atlanta Hawks as a free agent. Gray was fired by the Hawks in December 2006 and subsequently took the coaching position at Western Carolina.

Gray has led the Catamounts to back-to-back Southern Conference titles, and they are currently the No. 7 seed in the NCAA Tournament. Gray is a former player and assistant coach at Oak Hill Academy. Gray is a native of Raleigh, North Carolina.

Gray is married and has two children. Gray is a basketball coach at heart, and he loves spending time with his family. Gray played professional basketball in Belgium, Greece, China, and the United States before joining the coaching ranks in 2019.

Gray played college basketball at the University of North Carolina and then played professionally in Europe. Gray has worked as a player development coach in the NBA and with the Oklahoma City Thunder and Philadelphia 76ers. Gray is the head coach of the Delaware 87ers of the NBA G League.

35. Steve Forbes

Career

  • 1989–1991: Southwestern CC (assistant)
  • 1991–1993: Southwestern CC
  • 1993–1995: Barton County CC (assistant)
  • 1995–1998: Barton County CC
  • 1998–2000: Idaho (assistant)
  • 2000–2003: Louisiana Tech (assistant)
  • 2003–2004: Illinois State (assistant)
  • 2004–2006: Texas A&M (assistant)
  • 2006–2011: Tennessee (assistant)
  • 2011–2013: Northwest Florida State
  • 2013–2015: Wichita State (assistant)
  • 2015–2020: East Tennessee State
  • 2020–present: Wake Forest

Forbes has been Wake Forest's head coach since the start of the 2006 season. Forbes has led the Demon Deacons to a 45–32 record during his tenure. Forbes played college basketball at Southern Arkansas.

Forbes began his coaching career as an assistant at Barton County CC. Forbes moved to Louisiana Tech as an assistant in 2003. Forbes spent two seasons as an assistant at Illinois State. Forbes was hired at Texas A&M in 2004.

Forbes was named the head coach of Wake Forest in 2006. Forbes led the Demon Deacons to a 19–13 record in his first season as head coach. Forbes played basketball at Davidson and later coached the sport at Duke as an assistant coach.

Forbes became a head coach in 2006 at Tennessee, leading the program to a 172–70 record in seven seasons. 

Forbes left Tennessee for Northwest Florida State in 2011, where he led the team to a 73–27 record in three seasons. Forbes returned to Tennessee in 2013 as an assistant coach and led the team to a 31–5 record in his final season.

Forbes was hired as the head coach at Wichita State in 2015, where he led the team to a 26–7 record in two seasons. Forbes was hired as the head coach at East Tennessee State in 2020,

 where he has led the team to a 19–10 record in two seasons. Forbes was hired as the head coach at Wake Forest in 2020 and has led the team to a 16–10 record in two seasons.

36. Chas McFarland

Chas McFarland Career

  • High school: , Lovington (Lovington, Illinois), Worcester Academy, (Worcester, Massachusetts)
  • College: Wake Forest (2006–2010)
  • NBA draft: 2010 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2010–2015
  • Position: Center
  • Number: 13
  • 2010–2011: Springfield Armor
  • 2011–2012: Yokohama B-Corsairs
  • 2012: Club Atlético Bohemios
  • 2012: Springfield Armor
  • 2013: Texas Legends
  • 2013–2014: Akita Northern Happinets
  • 2014–2015: Club Atlético Olimpia

Chas McFarland is an American mixed martial artist who competes in the light heavyweight division. McFarland was a standout high school wrestler in Illinois, and later attended Worcester Academy, where he played basketball and football.

McFarland made his professional MMA debut in 2011, and has since amassed a record of 12-5. McFarland is currently signed with the UFC and is expected to make his promotional debut against promotional newcomer Nathan Petrelli at UFC Fight Night: Teixeira vs.

Bisping. McFarland is known for his explosive striking ability, and is one of the most well-rounded fighters in the UFC. McFarland is a devout Christian, and has spoken about his faith on numerous occasions. 

McFarland is married and has two young children. McFarland is a member of the American Kickboxing Academy (AKA) team, and is currently training under the guidance of Javier Mendez.

McFarland is one of the most popular fighters on the UFC roster, and is expected to make an impact in the promotion's upcoming light heavyweight division.

37. Devin Thomas

Wake Forest Demon Deacons men's basketball

Devin Thomas Career

  • High school: Central Dauphin, (Harrisburg, Pennsylvania)
  • College: Wake Forest (2012–2016)
  • NBA draft: 2016 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2016–present
  • Position: Power forward / Center
  • 2016–2017: TED Ankara Kolejliler
  • 2017–2018: Bilbao Basket
  • 2018: Hapoel Eilat
  • 2019: Lavrio
  • 2019: Alba Fehérvár
  • 2019–2020: Peñarol
  • 2020–2021: Kalev/Cramo
  • 2022: Prishtina
  • Estonian Cup winner (2020), ACC All-Freshman Team (2013)

Devin Thomas is an American professional basketball player who currently plays for the Guangdong Southern Tigers of the China Professional Basketball League.

Thomas attended Central Dauphin High School in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. He played college basketball for Wake Forest from 2012 to 2016. Thomas was drafted by the Utah Jazz in the 2016 NBA draft but he did not sign with them.

In 2016, he joined the Guangdong Southern Tigers of the China Professional Basketball League. Thomas has played in the NBA for the Philadelphia 76ers and Phoenix Suns but he has not played in an official game since 2016. Thomas is a very versatile player who can play both the shooting guard and small forward positions.

He is known for his efficient shooting and strong defensive skills. Thomas is a very promising player and he is expected to continue developing his skills in the future.

38. Ricardo Peral Antunez

Ricardo Peral Antunez Career

  • College: Wake Forest (1994–1997)
  • Playing career: 1991–2000
  • Position: Power forward / Small forward
  • Number: 44, 10
  • 1991–1992: Real Madrid Baloncesto
  • 1992–1993: CB Guadalajara
  • 1997–2000: P.A.O.K. BC
  • Greek Cup winner (1999)
  • Medals, , Representing  Spain, Men's Basketball, FIBA Europe Under-16 Championship, : 1991 Greece: National Team, FIBA Europe Under-20 Championship, : 1994 Slovenia: National Team, : 1996 Turkey: National Team
  • Representing  Spain
  • Men's Basketball
  • FIBA Europe Under-16 Championship
  • : 1991 Greece: National Team
  • FIBA Europe Under-20 Championship
  • : 1994 Slovenia: National Team
  • : 1996 Turkey: National Team

Ricardo Peral Antunez was born on February 13, 1974 in Valladolid, Spain. Peral Antunez played professional basketball for Real Madrid Baloncesto and CB Guadalajara in Spain.

Peral Antunez also played for PAOK BC in Greece. Peral Antunez is 6' 9" tall and played power forward and small forward. Peral Antunez is currently the head coach of CB Valladolid.

Peral Antunez has won Spanish League championships with CB Valladolid and PAOK BC. Peral Antunez also played for the Spanish national team. In 2009, Peral Antunez was named the Spanish League's MVP.

Peral Antunez has two daughters and is married. Ricardo Peral Antunez is a Spanish professional basketball player who plays for ASVEL Basket. 

Peral Antunez has won a Greek Cup with FC Barcelona in 1999 and represented Spain at the Men's Basketball at the FIBA Europe Under-16 Championship in 1991 and the FIBA Europe Under-20 Championship in 1994 and 1996.

Peral Antunez has represented ASVEL Basket in the French LNB Pro A since 2002 and has averaged 13.4 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists in 343 games. Peral Antunez was born on October 14, 1980, in the city of Palma de Mallorca, Spain. 

Peral Antunez is a two-time Euroleague champion with Real Madrid in 2006 and 2008. Peral Antunez was signed by then-Golden State Warriors head coach Rick Adelman to a contract on September 15, 2010.

However, Peral Antunez was waived by the Warriors on October 17, 2010. On November 1, 2010, Peral Antunez was signed by the Milwaukee Bucks. On January 10, 2011, Peral Antunez was traded, along with Greivis Vasquez, to the New Orleans Hornets for Tyson Chandler and Al-Farouq Aminu.

39. Ty Walker

Wake Forest Demon Deacons men's basketball

Ty Walker Career

  • High school: New Hanover, (Wilmington, North Carolina)
  • College: Wake Forest (2008–2012)
  • NBA draft: 2012 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2012–present
  • 2012: Hong Kong Bulls
  • 2012: Limoges CSP
  • 2013: SKK Kotwica Kołobrzeg
  • 2013–2014: Maine Red Claws
  • 2014: Erie BayHawks
  • 2014–2015: Akita Northern Happinets
  • 2015: Reno Bighorns
  • 2015: AZS Koszalin
  • 2016: Iowa Energy
  • 2016: Al-Muharraq SC
  • 2018–2019: Español de Talca
  • 2018–2019: Windsor Express
  • 2022: KW Titans
  • NBL Canada blocks leader (2019), North Carolina Mr. Basketball (2008)

Ty Walker was born on August 7, 1989, in Columbus, Ohio. Walker played college basketball at Wake Forest and was undrafted in the 2012 NBA Draft. Walker has since played in the NBL Canada for the KW Titans.

Walker is a 7 foot 0 inch center and has averaged 7.5 points and 5.8 rebounds in his career. Walker is a member of the United States men's national basketball team and played at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

Walker is married and has two children. Walker is currently a free agent and is looking to continue playing in the NBL Canada. 

Walker played college basketball at North Carolina, where he was a two-time Mr. Basketball. Walker then played in the NBA for six seasons, most notably with the Charlotte Hornets and Brooklyn Nets.

Walker has also played in Europe, most notably in Spain with Al-Muharraq SC. Walker is a two-time North American Block Leader, and a two-time All-Star. Walker is currently a free agent and is looking for a new team.

Also Played For: south dakota coyotes men's basketball

Final Words

Wake Forest has a rich basketball history, and has produced some of the best players in the nation. Some of the greatest Wake Forest players of all time include Jason Williams, Stephen Curry, and DeAndre Jordan.

These players have all won championships and set records at the school, making Wake Forest a great basketball school.

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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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