Arizona State University NBA Draft History and Notable Alums
Arizona State University has sent 43 players to the NBA draft across its basketball program history, according to historical archives. While its sibling institution, the University of Arizona, often commands a different level of traditional powerhouse recognition, the Sun Devils have quietly built a solid legacy of professional talent development. According to league records, this pipeline includes standout professionals such as future Hall of Famer James Harden and Byron Scott, who played a key role in the Los Angeles Lakers’ Showtime dynasty.
Byron Scott and the Showtime Lakers Legacy
Byron Scott developed his game in Tempe during the late 1970s and early 1980s before beginning an illustrious professional career, as documented in basketball archives. The Los Angeles Clippers selected Scott with the No. 4 overall pick in the 1983 NBA draft, according to league transaction records. Shortly after that draft night, he was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, where he became an indispensable piece of a championship dynasty.
Paul Stovall: From Sun Devils Star to the Lakers and ABA
Did you know? Paul Stovall averaged a dominant 19 points and 12.4 rebounds per game across his two seasons with the Arizona State Sun Devils, according to program statistics.
The Los Angeles Lakers once drafted another notable forward out of Arizona State in the second round of the 1972 draft, according to historical draft records. Prior to the start of the 1972-73 NBA season, the Lakers traded Paul Stovall to the Phoenix Suns. During that single NBA campaign, Stovall averaged three points and 2.4 rebounds in 8.4 minutes per game, according to basketball reference data. The following season, he shifted to the American Basketball Association (ABA), registering 7.7 points and 4.5 rebounds in 14.9 minutes a contest for the San Diego Conquistadors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Arizona State University players have been drafted into the NBA?
According to historical draft data, a total of 43 players have been drafted into the NBA out of Arizona State University.
Which famous players came out of Arizona State University?
According to basketball archives, notable NBA players from ASU include future Hall of Famer James Harden and Byron Scott.
What were Paul Stovall’s college statistics at ASU?
According to team records, Paul Stovall averaged 19 points and 12.4 rebounds per game during his two-year career with the Sun Devils.
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