The Top 10 Players in UNLV Basketball History

The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) has a storied basketball program with a rich history of producing exceptional talent. Over the years, the university has been a breeding ground for top-tier basketball players who have gone on to achieve great success in both college and professional leagues, particularly in the NBA.

1. Larry Johnson (1989-1991): Larry Johnson, a 6’7″ power forward, played two seasons for the Runnin’ Rebels from 1989 to 1991. His impact on the team was immeasurable, leading UNLV to the 1990 NCAA Championship. Johnson averaged an impressive 20.6 points and 11.4 rebounds per game during his college career. Following his time at UNLV, Johnson went on to have a successful NBA career, earning the NBA Rookie of the Year award in 1992 and becoming a two-time NBA All-Star.
2. Reggie Theus (1975-1978): Reggie Theus, a dynamic 6’7″ guard, played three seasons at UNLV from 1975 to 1978. He was a scoring machine, averaging 21.3 points per game throughout his college career. Theus went on to have a productive NBA career, playing for several teams and being named an NBA All-Star in 1981.
3. Stacey Augmon (1987-1991): Stacey Augmon, known as “Plastic Man,” was a lockdown defender and a versatile forward during his time at UNLV from 1987 to 1991. Augmon’s defensive prowess was instrumental in UNLV’s success, helping the team win the 1990 NCAA Championship. He averaged 13.9 points and 7.4 rebounds per game during his college career. Augmon enjoyed a solid NBA career, known for his defensive contributions and winning an NBA Championship with the 1998-99 San Antonio Spurs.
4. Armen Gilliam (1984-1987): Armen Gilliam, a dominant power forward, played three seasons at UNLV from 1984 to 1987. Gilliam was a force in the paint, averaging 23.2 points and 9.3 rebounds per game during his college career. He went on to have a successful NBA career, playing for multiple teams and showcasing his scoring ability.
5. Greg Anthony (1988-1991): Greg Anthony, a skilled point guard, played three seasons at UNLV from 1988 to 1991. Anthony was a true leader on the court, orchestrating UNLV’s high-powered offense. He averaged 11.9 points and 6.4 assists per game during his college career. Anthony enjoyed a lengthy NBA career and became a respected television analyst following his retirement.
6. Sidney Green (1979-1983): Sidney Green, a 6’9″ forward, played four seasons at UNLV from 1979 to 1983. Green’s versatility and rebounding ability were key to UNLV’s success. He averaged 15.2 points and 9.9 rebounds per game during his college career. Green had a stint in the NBA, playing for several teams before transitioning into coaching.
7. Anderson Hunt (1988-1991): Anderson Hunt, a sharpshooting guard, played three seasons at UNLV from 1988 to 1991. Hunt was known for his scoring ability and clutch performances. He averaged 14.7 points per game during his college career and played a crucial role in UNLV’s 1990 NCAA Championship run. Hunt had a brief NBA career before transitioning to play professionally overseas.
8. Freddie Banks (1983-1987): Freddie Banks, a prolific three-point shooter, played four seasons at UNLV from 1983 to 1987. Banks’ ability to stretch the floor made him a valuable asset to the team. He averaged 16.0 points per game during his college career. After college, Banks played professionally overseas.
9. Marcus Banks (2001-2003): Marcus Banks, a speedy point guard, played two seasons at UNLV from 2001 to 2003. Banks showcased his athleticism and scoring ability during his time at UNLV, averaging 18.3 points and 5.4 assists per game. He went on to have a solid NBA career, playing for multiple teams and showcasing his skills as a floor general.
10. Keon Clark (1995-1998): Keon Clark, an athletic forward, played three seasons at UNLV from 1995 to 1998. Clark’s shot-blocking ability and rebounding prowess were integral to UNLV’s success. He averaged 15.0 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 3.3 blocks per game during his college career. Clark played in the NBA for several teams, showcasing his defensive skills and shot-blocking prowess.

The UNLV basketball program has produced an exceptional lineup of players who have made their mark in the world of basketball. From Larry Johnson’s dominance to Reggie Theus’ scoring prowess, these players have left an indelible legacy at UNLV. Their remarkable performances on the collegiate stage were only the beginning, as many went on to achieve notable success in the NBA. The contributions of these players to the UNLV basketball program have solidified their status as some of the best players to ever grace the court, leaving an enduring impact on the university’s basketball heritage.