Top Miami Hurricanes in NBA History

The article highlights the top eight Miami Hurricanes basketball players who achieved significant success in the NBA. It begins by acknowledging Miami’s long basketball history, starting in 1926, and notes that the program has produced numerous talented players.

1. DeQuan Jones (Rank 8) – Undrafted in 2012, Jones had a notable rookie season with the Orlando Magic and later won the NBA G League Slam Dunk Contest and Most Improved Player in 2018.
2. Davon Reed (Rank 7) – Drafted in the second round in 2017, Reed played for various teams including the Phoenix Suns and Denver Nuggets, where he spent three successful seasons.
3. Lonnie Walker (Rank 6) – Drafted 18th overall in 2018, Walker played for the San Antonio Spurs, Los Angeles Lakers, and currently the Brooklyn Nets.
4. James Jones (Rank 5) – A three-time NBA Champion, Jones had a 14-season career, winning titles alongside LeBron James with the Miami Heat and Cleveland Cavaliers. He also won the 2011 NBA Three-Point Contest.
5. Bruce Brown (Rank 4) – Drafted 42nd overall in 2018, Brown played for several teams and won an NBA Championship with the 2023 Denver Nuggets. He is currently with the Toronto Raptors.
6. Shane Larkin (Rank 3) – Drafted 18th overall in 2011, Larkin played five years in the NBA and won multiple international championships.
7. John Salmons (Rank 2) – Played 13 years in the NBA with several teams, averaging 9.26 points per game and shooting 43.1 percent from the field.
8. Rick Barry (Rank 1) – The highest-ever NBA Draft pick for a Miami Hurricane, Barry was a second overall pick in 1965. He won an NBA Championship and Finals MVP in 1975, was an eight-time NBA All-Star, and a five-time member of the All-NBA First Team. Barry’s jersey is retired both at the University of Miami and by Golden State.
   The article concludes by promoting an upcoming event where the Hurricanes will host the Razorbacks in the ACC/SEC Challenge.