They’re NBA stars, for sure, but none of them experienced March Madness.
NCAA March Madness is a once-in-a-lifetime encounter. But many current NBA stars never experienced “One Shining Moment.” Here are five NBA stars who missed the Madness.
5. Paul Millsap (Louisiana Tech, 2003-06): The 47th overall pick by the Jazz in the 2006 NBA Draft, Millsap spent his 3-year college career at Louisiana Tech. He’s the only player in NCAA basketball history to lead the nation in rebounding three consecutive years, but that greatness didn’t include a March Madness experience. Following his junior season, Millsap declared for the NBA draft where stardom awaited. Millsap, a four-time All-Star at 33 years of age, is still making an impact in the NBA. Today he’s a valuable member of the Denver Nuggets.
Courtesy: deseretnews.com
4. Damian Lillard (Weber State, 2008-12): Lillard averaged 18.6 pts, 4.3 rebs, and 3.5 assists over four years with the Wildcats, but Weber State never qualified for March Madness. But that shortcoming didn’t diminish the way WSU feels about Lillard’s contributions. The school has retired his jersey number. Picked by the Portland Trailblazers, today Lillard is an NBA superstar.
3. Joel Embiid (Kansas, 2013-14): Embiid attended the University of Kansas for one year only but, during that single go-around, he was named a finalist for the Naismith College Player of the Year. Always a star player, Embiid came to KU after winning a championship at Rock School (FL). Selected by the Sixers 3rd overall, injuries slowed his progress over the first two years of his pro career. But, now, he’s producing impressive stats and is well on his way to NBA stardom.
Courtesy: bluemanhoop.com
2. Klay Thompson (Washington State, 2008-11): Known as one of the NBA’s elite shooters, Thompson led the WSU Cougars during a 3-year career, finishing his college career third all-time in Cougars’ scoring history. But Washington State wasn’t in the PAC-12 elite during Thompson’s time in Pullman. Thompson declared early for the NBA Draft and was selected 11th overall by the Warriors. From there, it was a hop, skip, and a jump shot to multiple NBA championships.
1. Paul George (Fresno State, 2008-10): George established himself as an elite two-way player at Fresno State. Declaring for the NBA Draft in 2010, he was selected 10th overall by the Pacers. That pick made him the highest NBA draft pick in Fresno State’s history. Now playing for OKC, George continues impressing players, coaches, and fans. Simply put, he’s one of the NBA’s best players.
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Data updated as of March 22. Sources: Wikipedia and Sports-Reference.com.
