Basketball has always been a sport that captivates audiences around the world. While the NBA is often the center of attention, there is another level of basketball that deserves recognition - Division II (D2). D2 basketball has produced some incredible talent over the years, with players who may not have received the same level of attention as their D1 counterparts but have left an indelible mark on the sport. In this article, we will explore the top 10 D2 basketball players of all time.
1. Earl Monroe
Earl "The Pearl" Monroe is widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, regardless of division. He played for Winston-Salem State University in the 1960s, where he showcased his incredible scoring ability and exceptional ball-handling skills. Monroe led his team to an NCAA Division II championship in 1967 and was later drafted by the Baltimore Bullets in the NBA.
2. Scottie Pippen
Scottie Pippen, known for his time with the Chicago Bulls alongside Michael Jordan, began his college career at the University of Central Arkansas, a Division II school. Pippen's exceptional skills and versatility caught the attention of NBA scouts, leading to his eventual selection by the Bulls in the 1987 NBA Draft. Pippen went on to become one of the greatest players in NBA history, winning six championships with the Bulls.
3. Terry Porter
Terry Porter had a standout career at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, where he led his team to back-to-back NCAA Division III championships. He then transferred to the University of Portland, a Division II school, where he continued to excel. Porter played 17 seasons in the NBA and was a key contributor to the Portland Trail Blazers' success in the early 1990s.
4. Ben Wallace
Ben Wallace, known for his defensive prowess, dominated the paint during his time at Virginia Union University. Despite going undrafted, Wallace's incredible work ethic and defensive skills earned him four NBA Defensive Player of the Year awards and a championship with the Detroit Pistons in 2004. He is widely regarded as one of the best defensive players in NBA history.
5. Michael Adams
Michael Adams played college basketball at Boston College, a Division I school, before transferring to the University of Kentucky at Pineville, a Division II program. Adams' quickness and scoring ability made him a standout player in Division II, and he went on to have a successful NBA career, most notably with the Denver Nuggets.
6. Dennis Rodman
Dennis Rodman, renowned for his rebounding skills and defensive prowess, began his college career at Cooke County College, a junior college, before transferring to Southeastern Oklahoma State University, a Division II school. Rodman's relentless work on the boards and defensive tenacity earned him multiple NBA championships and a place in the Basketball Hall of Fame.
7. Joe Dumars
Joe Dumars, another player from the famed Detroit Pistons' "Bad Boys" era, played college basketball at McNeese State University, a Division II school. Dumars was known for his scoring ability and defensive skills, which earned him six NBA All-Star selections and two NBA championships.
8. George Gervin
George Gervin, also known as "The Iceman," played college basketball at Eastern Michigan University, a Division II school at the time. Gervin's incredible scoring ability and smooth style of play made him a fan favorite. He went on to have a successful NBA career, where he became one of the most prolific scorers in league history.
9. Jerry Sloan
Jerry Sloan, known for his toughness and defensive skills, played college basketball at the University of Evansville, a Division II school. Sloan's relentless work ethic and leadership qualities eventually translated into a successful coaching career, where he led the Utah Jazz to multiple NBA Finals appearances.
10. David Robinson
David Robinson, widely regarded as one of the greatest centers in NBA history, played college basketball at the United States Naval Academy, a Division I program. However, due to his commitment to military service, Robinson did not enter the NBA until a few years after graduating. His dominant play, shot-blocking ability, and leadership skills made him a force to be reckoned with, earning him two NBA championships with the San Antonio Spurs.
These ten D2 basketball players have left an indelible mark on the sport, showcasing their exceptional skills and talents both in college and the professional ranks. While they may not have received the same level of attention as their D1 counterparts, their contributions to the game cannot be overlooked. Their stories serve as a reminder that talent can be found in all divisions of basketball, and greatness knows no boundaries.
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