The University of Utah has a rich basketball history, producing numerous talented players who have left an indelible mark on the sport. From their college achievements to their professional careers in the NBA, these athletes have consistently showcased their skills and contributed significantly to the game.
- Andre Miller: Years Played at Utah University: 1995-1999 Position: Point Guard Career Highlights: Consensus First Team All-American (1999), USBWA National Freshman of the Year (1996) NBA Career: Drafted 8th overall in 1999 by the Cleveland Cavaliers, NBA assists leader (2002-2003), played for multiple NBA teams over a 17-year career
- Keith Van Horn: Years Played at Utah University: 1993-1997 Position: Forward Career Highlights: Consensus First Team All-American (1997), Western Athletic Conference Player of the Year (1997) NBA Career: Drafted 2nd overall in 1997 by the Philadelphia 76ers, NBA All-Rookie First Team (1998), enjoyed a successful career with multiple NBA teams
- Tom Chambers: Years Played at Utah University: 1977-1981 Position: Forward Career Highlights: Western Athletic Conference Player of the Year (1981) NBA Career: Drafted 8th overall in 1981 by the San Diego Clippers, NBA All-Star (1987, 1989), played for several NBA teams, known for his high-flying dunks
- Danny Vranes: Years Played at Utah University: 1979-1981 Position: Forward Career Highlights: Consensus First Team All-American (1981), Naismith College Player of the Year Finalist (1981) NBA Career: Drafted 5th overall in 1981 by the Seattle SuperSonics, NBA All-Rookie First Team (1982), played for the Seattle SuperSonics and Philadelphia 76ers
- Arnie Ferrin: Years Played at Utah University: 1944-1947 Position: Guard/Forward Career Highlights: NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player (1944, 1947) NBA Career: Played professionally before the NBA was established, known for his contributions to the Minneapolis Lakers’ early success
- Michael Doleac: Years Played at Utah University: 1994-1998 Position: Center Career Highlights: Consensus First Team All-American (1998), WAC Player of the Year (1998) NBA Career: Drafted 12th overall in 1998 by the Orlando Magic, NBA Champion with the Miami Heat (2006)
- Billy McGill: Years Played at Utah University: 1959-1962 Position: Forward/Center Career Highlights: Consensus First Team All-American (1962), WAC Player of the Year (1962) NBA Career: Drafted 9th overall in 1962 by the Chicago Zephyrs, played for multiple NBA teams, known for his scoring ability
- Josh Grant: Years Played at Utah University: 1986-1990 Position: Forward Career Highlights: WAC Player of the Year (1990), WAC Tournament MVP (1990) NBA Career: Drafted 20th overall in 1990 by the Denver Nuggets, played for the Denver Nuggets and the Portland Trail Blazers
- Andrew Bogut: Years Played at Utah University: 2003-2005 Position: Center Career Highlights: Naismith College Player of the Year (2005), Consensus National Player of the Year (2005), First Team All-American (2005) NBA Career: Drafted 1st overall in 2005 by the Milwaukee Bucks, NBA Champion with the Golden State Warriors (2015), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2006)
- Michael Smith: Years Played at Utah University: 1986-1989 Position: Forward Career Highlights: WAC Player of the Year (1989), WAC Tournament MVP (1989) NBA Career: Drafted 13th overall in 1989 by the Boston Celtics, played for multiple NBA teams, known for his rebounding prowess
The University of Utah has consistently produced exceptional basketball talent, and the ten players mentioned above have left an indelible mark on the sport. From Andre Miller’s playmaking wizardry to Keith Van Horn’s scoring ability, these athletes have proven their skills both in college and in the NBA. Their achievements, both on and off the court, have solidified their places in basketball history, showcasing the strong basketball tradition at Utah University. As future generations take to the hardwood, they will undoubtedly draw inspiration from the legacies established by these remarkable individuals.
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