When it comes to the NBA, the conversation often centers around the superstars — those that were drafted in the first round, or even the lottery. With the spotlight on these players, it’s easy to forget about the undrafted players whose hard work and determination has allowed them to make a name for themselves in the league.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the best undrafted NBA player of all time. We’ll be exploring their career stats, highlights, and their impact on the game.
Udonis Haslem
Udonis Haslem is one of the most successful undrafted players in the NBA. The Florida native spent the entirety of his 17-year career with the Miami Heat, making him the longest tenured player in team history.
In his first season with the Heat, Haslem averaged 6.3 points and 6.2 rebounds per game. He proved to be a valuable asset on the court and quickly became a fan favorite. Over the course of his career, Haslem averaged 7.8 points and 7.3 rebounds per game.
Highlights
Haslem was key to the Heat’s success in their championship runs. He played an important role in their three championships and was a vocal leader in the locker room. He also had a knack for making big-time shots in clutch moments.
Haslem was also an All-Star in 2005 and was named to the All-Defensive Second Team in 2006. He was also a four-time NBA Champion, with three of those titles coming with the Heat.
Ben Wallace
Ben Wallace is another undrafted player who made a name for himself in the NBA. The Virginia native played for six different teams throughout his 16-year career and was a four-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year.
Wallace was named to the All-Star team four times, and was named to the All-Defensive First Team five times. He is also a four-time NBA champion, with one of those titles coming with the Detroit Pistons in 2004.
Stats
In his 16-year career, Wallace averaged 5.7 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks per game. He holds the record for most rebounds in a single season with 1,486 in 2002. He also holds the record for the most blocks in a single season with 303 in 2001.
Highlights
Wallace was one of the most intimidating defenders in the league. He was known for his tenacious defense and his ability to shut down even the best offensive players. He also had a knack for blocking shots and was one of the best rebounders in the league.
He was also an integral part of the Pistons team that won the NBA Championship in 2004. He was named the NBA Defensive Player of the Year in 2002, 2003, 2005, and 2006 — an impressive feat that has yet to be matched.
John Stockton
John Stockton is widely considered to be one of the best point guards of all time, and he was also an undrafted player. The Utah native played his entire 19-year career with the Utah Jazz and is the all-time leader in assists and steals.
Stockton was an NBA All-Star 10 times and was named to the All-NBA First Team nine times. He was also a two-time Olympic gold medalist and a five-time NBA All-Defensive First team selection.
Stats
In his 19-year career, Stockton averaged 13.1 points, 10.5 assists, and 2.2 steals per game. He is the all-time leader in assists (15,806) and steals (3,265). He also holds the record for most assists in a single season with 1,164 in 1994.
Highlights
Stockton was one of the most well-rounded point guards in the league. He was an elite passer, a savvy defender, and had a knack for making clutch shots. His ability to read the game and make the right pass at the right time was legendary.
Stockton was also the leader of the Jazz teams that made back-to-back NBA Finals appearances in 1997 and 1998. He was also a two-time Olympic gold medalist, winning gold with the Dream Team in 1992 and 1996.
Conclusion
When it comes to the best undrafted NBA player of all time, it’s difficult to choose just one. Udonis Haslem, Ben Wallace, and John Stockton all have impressive resumes that make them worthy candidates for the title. Haslem is the longest tenured player in Heat history, Wallace is a four-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year, and Stockton is the all-time leader in assists and steals.
Ultimately, all of these players have made an indelible mark on the game and their contributions should not be overlooked. Their hard work and determination have allowed them to carve out successful careers in the NBA, even without being drafted.
FAQs
Who is the best undrafted NBA player of all time?
The best undrafted NBA player of all time is a difficult question to answer, as there are many players who have made a name for themselves in the league. Udonis Haslem, Ben Wallace, and John Stockton are all worthy candidates for the title.
How many NBA championships has Udonis Haslem won?
Udonis Haslem has won four NBA championships, with three of those titles coming with the Miami Heat.
How many NBA Defensive Player of the Year awards has Ben Wallace won?
Ben Wallace has won four NBA Defensive Player of the Year awards, in 2002, 2003, 2005, and 2006.
What is John Stockton’s all-time record for assists?
John Stockton is the all-time leader in assists, with 15,806 in his 19-year career.
What is John Stockton’s all-time record for steals?
John Stockton is the all-time leader in steals, with 3,265 in his 19-year career.
How many All-Star appearances has John Stockton made?
John Stockton has made 10 All-Star appearances in his 19-year career.
Conclusion
The best undrafted NBA player of all time is a difficult question to answer, as there are many players who have made a name for themselves in the league. Udonis Haslem, Ben Wallace, and John Stockton have all had successful careers in the NBA, and have made a lasting impact on the game.
Their hard work and determination has allowed them to carve out successful careers in the NBA, even without being drafted. They are all worthy candidates for the title of best undrafted NBA player of all time.