Georgia Tech University has long been a breeding ground for exceptional basketball talent, producing numerous players who have made a significant impact at both the collegiate and professional levels. From their outstanding performances on the court to their distinguished careers in the NBA, these ten athletes have left an indelible mark on the sport.
- Mark Price: Position: Point Guard College Career (1982-1986): Mark Price is a legend in Georgia Tech basketball history. During his time with the Yellow Jackets, he showcased his exceptional shooting skills and court vision, averaging 17.4 points and 4.7 assists per game. Price’s remarkable career earned him multiple accolades, including being named an All-American in 1985 and 1986.
NBA Career (1986-1998): Transitioning to the NBA, Price continued to shine. He played for the Cleveland Cavaliers and became one of the league’s most elite point guards. Price was a four-time All-Star, known for his exceptional shooting prowess and free-throw accuracy, finishing his career with an impressive 90.4% free-throw percentage.
- Chris Bosh: Position: Power Forward/Center College Career (2002-2003): In his one season at Georgia Tech, Chris Bosh displayed tremendous potential and athleticism. He averaged 15.6 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game, earning ACC All-Freshman Team honors.
NBA Career (2003-2016): After declaring for the NBA draft, Bosh was selected fourth overall by the Toronto Raptors. He went on to become a perennial All-Star and a vital component of the Miami Heat’s championship-winning “Big Three” alongside LeBron James and Dwyane Wade. Bosh’s versatile skills, including his ability to stretch the floor, made him one of the premier big men of his era.
- Dennis Scott: Position: Small Forward/Shooting Guard College Career (1987-1990): Dennis Scott, known for his deadly three-point shooting, was an integral part of Georgia Tech’s success in the late 1980s. Averaging 18.1 points and 6.9 rebounds per game during his college tenure, he was a crucial factor in the Yellow Jackets’ 1990 ACC Championship title.
NBA Career (1990-2000): Scott continued his sharpshooting prowess in the NBA, earning the nickname “3-D” for his ability to knock down long-range shots. He played for multiple teams throughout his career and retired as one of the league’s top three-point shooters.
- John Salley: Position: Power Forward/Center College Career (1982-1986): During his time at Georgia Tech, John Salley was a dominant force in the paint. Standing at 7 feet tall, Salley’s shot-blocking ability and defensive presence were remarkable. He averaged 7.5 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.0 blocks per game.
NBA Career (1986-2000): Salley enjoyed a successful professional career, winning four NBA championships with the Detroit Pistons and the Chicago Bulls. Known for his defensive skills and shot-blocking prowess, Salley became one of the NBA’s most revered power forwards.
- Stephon Marbury: Position: Point Guard College Career (1995-1996): Stephon Marbury made an immediate impact during his lone season at Georgia Tech. He averaged 18.9 points, 4.5 assists, and 2.6 steals per game, showcasing his exceptional talent and court vision.
NBA Career (1996-2009): Marbury went on to have a productive NBA career, playing for several teams, most notably the New Jersey Nets and the Phoenix Suns. He was a two-time NBA All-Star and consistently displayed his scoring ability and playmaking skills.
- Tom Hammonds: Position: Power Forward College Career (1986-1989): Tom Hammonds was a dominant force during his tenure at Georgia Tech, averaging 15.7 points and 7.5 rebounds per game. He played a vital role in the Yellow Jackets’ success, leading them to the 1989 Final Four.
NBA Career (1989-2001): Hammonds transitioned to the NBA after college and had a solid career as a power forward. He played for multiple teams and was known for his strong inside presence and rebounding ability.
- Jarrett Jack: Position: Point Guard College Career (2002-2005): Jarrett Jack was a key contributor to Georgia Tech’s success, leading the team to the 2004 NCAA National Championship game. Known for his leadership and versatility, Jack averaged 12.5 points, 5.6 assists, and 4.2 rebounds per game during his collegiate tenure.
NBA Career (2005-2018): Jack enjoyed a lengthy NBA career, playing for several teams and earning a reputation as a reliable playmaker and clutch performer. He provided stability at the point guard position and was highly regarded for his basketball IQ.
- Kenny Anderson: Position: Point Guard College Career (1989-1991): Kenny Anderson’s electrifying performances at Georgia Tech captivated fans. Averaging 20.6 points, 5.5 assists, and 2.2 steals per game, Anderson was a dynamic playmaker and scorer during his college career.
NBA Career (1991-2005): Anderson had a successful NBA career, playing for multiple teams and earning an All-Star selection in 1994. He showcased his exceptional ball-handling skills and court vision, solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s top point guards.
- Matt Harpring: Position: Small Forward College Career (1994-1998): Matt Harpring was a consistent and versatile player during his time at Georgia Tech. He averaged 17.4 points and 7.9 rebounds per game, becoming one of the program’s all-time leading scorers.
NBA Career (1998-2009): Harpring transitioned to the NBA and had a solid career as a small forward. He played for the Orlando Magic and the Utah Jazz, earning a reputation as a hard-nosed player and reliable scorer.
- Thaddeus Young: Position: Power Forward College Career (2006-2007): In his lone season at Georgia Tech, Thaddeus Young showcased his athleticism and versatility. He averaged 14.4 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game, earning ACC All-Freshman Team honors.
NBA Career (2007-present): Young has enjoyed a productive NBA career, playing for several teams and establishing himself as a reliable scorer and defender. Known for his high basketball IQ and hustle, he continues to be a valuable asset on the court.
Georgia Tech University has a rich basketball tradition, producing an array of talented players who have made their mark in both college and professional basketball. From Mark Price’s shooting prowess to Chris Bosh’s versatility and Thaddeus Young’s hustle, these ten athletes have left an enduring legacy in the sport. Their skills, achievements, and contributions have not only brought glory to Georgia Tech but have also impacted the game of basketball on a larger scale, inspiring future generations of players to strive for greatness.
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