20 Best NBA Draft Picks from Michigan State
By Zac Snyder
The Michigan State Basketball tradition is a rich one, and a byproduct of that is quality players who go on to the NBA. Here are the top 20 former Spartans.
Nov 29, 2013; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans mascot Sparty helps with player introductions prior to game at Jack Breslin Student Events Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports
Under the direction of Jud Heathcote and Tom Izzo, the Michigan State basketball program has built a rich tradition. Many legendary Spartans have come through the program then went on to have varying levels of success in the NBA.
Here you’ll find rankings of the top 20 former Spartans based on their NBA careers.
That means you won’t find former Spartan greats like Mateen Cleaves, but Draymond Green, who was often compared to Cleaves for his leadership, is included.
While the list focuses on the NBA career of each player, it should serve as a walk down memory lane for the Michigan State basketball fan as it features players recent and not so recent, active and retired.
Now on to the rankings!
Next: Number 20