Best Michigan State Basketball Players Of All-Time
When it comes to college basketball, Michigan State has a rich history of producing top-tier athletes who have gone on to find success in the NBA, the Olympics, and beyond. From Magic Johnson to Draymond Green, let's take a look at some of the best Michigan State basketball players of all time.
Magic Johnson
One of the most iconic basketball players of all time, Earvin "Magic" Johnson played for Michigan State from 1977 to 1979. He led the Spartans to a national championship in 1979 and was named the NCAA Tournament's Most Outstanding Player that same year. Johnson was later drafted first overall by the Los Angeles Lakers and went on to win five NBA championships, three NBA MVP awards, and two Olympic gold medals. He is widely regarded as one of the best point guards in the history of the game.
Draymond Green
Draymond Green played for Michigan State from 2008 to 2012 and was a key player on the team that made it to the Final Four in both 2009 and 2010. He was named the Big Ten Player of the Year in 2012 and went on to be drafted in the second round by the Golden State Warriors. Green has since become one of the most versatile players in the NBA, earning three NBA championships and three NBA All-Star selections.
Steve Smith
Steve Smith played for Michigan State from 1987 to 1991 and was a standout on the team that won the Big Ten Championship in 1990. He was named the Big Ten Player of the Year in 1991 and was then drafted fifth overall by the Miami Heat. Smith went on to play for several NBA teams and was a two-time NBA All-Star.
Greg Kelser
Greg Kelser played for Michigan State from 1975 to 1979 and was a key player on the team that won the national championship in 1979. He was named an All-American that same year and went on to be drafted fourth overall by the Detroit Pistons. Kelser played for several NBA teams over his career and later became a television analyst for the Pistons.
Shawn Respert
Shawn Respert played for Michigan State from 1990 to 1995 and was the school's all-time leading scorer until his record was broken by Denzel Valentine in 2016. He was named the Big Ten Player of the Year in both 1994 and 1995 and was then drafted eighth overall by the Portland Trail Blazers. Respert played for several NBA teams over his career and later became a college basketball analyst for ESPN.
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From Magic Johnson to Draymond Green, Michigan State has produced some of the greatest basketball players of all time. Learn more about these legendary athletes in our comprehensive guide.
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Michigan State basketball, college basketball, basketball history, Magic Johnson, Draymond Green, Steve Smith, Greg Kelser, Shawn Respert