Arizona State University (ASU) boasts a rich basketball tradition, producing exceptional talent that has excelled at both the collegiate and professional levels. Throughout its storied history, ASU has been a breeding ground for outstanding players who have left an indelible mark on the game.
- Byron Scott: Years Played at ASU: 1979-1983 Position: Shooting Guard ASU Career Highlights: Scott’s tenure at ASU was marked by his exceptional scoring ability and leadership skills. A three-time All-Pac-10 selection, he averaged 18.3 points per game in his senior year.
NBA Career: Drafted by the San Diego Clippers, Scott enjoyed a successful NBA career. He won three NBA championships with the Los Angeles Lakers alongside Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
- James Harden: Years Played at ASU: 2007-2009 Position: Shooting Guard ASU Career Highlights: Harden’s two seasons at ASU saw him flourish as an offensive force. He averaged 20.1 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game during his sophomore year.
NBA Career: After declaring for the NBA Draft, Harden became one of the league’s premier scorers. He is a former NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) and has been named an All-Star multiple times.
- Eddie House: Years Played at ASU: 1996-2000 Position: Guard ASU Career Highlights: House holds the record for the most career points at ASU with 2,044. He averaged 18.6 points per game during his senior season.
NBA Career: House enjoyed a successful NBA journey, playing for multiple teams over his 11-year career. He was known for his three-point shooting prowess and clutch performances.
- Fat Lever: Years Played at ASU: 1978-1982 Position: Guard ASU Career Highlights: Lever made a significant impact at ASU, showcasing his versatility. He averaged 14.8 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game during his senior year.
NBA Career: Lever’s NBA career spanned 11 seasons, during which he established himself as one of the league’s premier guards. He was a two-time NBA All-Star and a triple-double threat on the court.
- Ike Diogu: Years Played at ASU: 2002-2005 Position: Power Forward ASU Career Highlights: Diogu’s dominance was evident throughout his college career. He averaged an impressive 22.6 points and 9.8 rebounds per game in his final season.
NBA Career: Diogu had a solid professional career, playing for multiple NBA teams. Although injuries hampered his progress, he displayed flashes of his scoring ability and tenacity.
- Lionel Hollins: Years Played at ASU: 1972-1975 Position: Point Guard ASU Career Highlights: Hollins was a key playmaker for ASU, known for his exceptional court vision and leadership. He averaged 15.9 points and 4.8 assists per game during his senior year.
NBA Career: Hollins had a successful NBA career, primarily with the Portland Trail Blazers. He won an NBA championship as a player and later became a respected head coach in the league.
- Mario Bennett: Years Played at ASU: 1991-1995 Position: Forward ASU Career Highlights: Bennett showcased his scoring prowess during his time at ASU, averaging 18.1 points per game in his junior year.
NBA Career: Injuries hindered Bennett’s NBA career, but he managed to play for a few seasons before transitioning to a successful overseas career.
- Jeff Pendergraph: Years Played at ASU: 2005-2009 Position: Power Forward ASU Career Highlights: Pendergraph made a significant impact on both ends of the court at ASU. He averaged 14.5 points and 8.4 rebounds per game during his senior year.
NBA Career: Pendergraph played for a few seasons in the NBA, known for his energy and hustle. He provided valuable contributions off the bench for various teams.
- Alton Lister: Years Played at ASU: 1976-1981 Position: Center ASU Career Highlights: Lister was a dominant force in the paint for ASU. He averaged 13.1 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 2.7 blocks per game during his senior season.
NBA Career: Lister enjoyed a long NBA career, primarily as a defensive presence. He played for multiple teams and was known for his shot-blocking abilities.
- Eddie House: Years Played at ASU: 1996-2000 Position: Guard ASU Career Highlights: House holds the record for the most career points at ASU with 2,044. He averaged 18.6 points per game during his senior season.
NBA Career: House enjoyed a successful NBA journey, playing for multiple teams over his 11-year career. He was known for his three-point shooting prowess and clutch performances.
Arizona State University has been a fertile ground for producing exceptional basketball talent. The players mentioned above are just a glimpse into the rich legacy that ASU has built. These ten athletes showcased their skills at the collegiate level, leaving an everlasting impact on the ASU basketball program. Moreover, they continued their success in the NBA, becoming prominent figures and achieving remarkable milestones. The contributions of these players have solidified their status as some of the best to ever emerge from Arizona State University.
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