Making a name for oneself at the college level is an excellent step toward achieving an NBA dream. However, succeeding in college doesn’t guarantee a flourishing career in the NBA. Here are ten standout college players whose professional careers didn’t meet expectations.
10. Adam Morrison
Adam Morrison shone as a key player for the Gonzaga Bulldogs, averaging 19.7 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 2.0 assists across three seasons. He led the NCAA in scoring during his final year, which resulted in the Charlotte Bobcats selecting him third overall in the 2006 NBA Draft. Unfortunately, a torn ACL during a preseason game in 2007 derailed his career. Though he primarily served as a bench player, Morrison still managed to secure two NBA championships with the Los Angeles Lakers.
9. Jahlil Okafor
Jahlil Okafor excelling in his single year at Duke, leading the team to an NCAA championship in 2015 while averaging 17.3 points and 8.5 rebounds. Selected third overall in the 2015 NBA Draft, his promising start included an All-Rookie First Team selection. However, injuries, particularly a meniscus tear, impacted his performance. By the end of his seven-season career, he averaged just 10.3 points per game, struggling to remain healthy.
8. J.J. Redick
J.J. Redick had an impressive four-year career at Duke, boasting averages of 19.9 points with a 40.6% shooting rate from three-point range. Named National College Player of the Year, he was drafted 11th overall in 2006. In the NBA, however, Redick’s role diminished to that of a supporting player, ultimately failing to secure any notable awards throughout his extensive career.
7. Christian Laettner
Christian Laettner, a celebrated Duke player, was expected to excel in the NBA, having won two NCAA championships and being named National College Player of the Year. Drafted third overall in 1992, he earned a spot on Team USA for the Olympics. Regrettably, his professional career was underwhelming, with one All-Star Game appearance overshadowed by a generally average performance.
6. Michael Beasley
Michael Beasley attracted attention with his remarkable performance at Kansas State, where he averaged 26.2 points and led in rebounds. Selected second overall by the Miami Heat in the 2008 Draft, he made the All-Rookie First Team. However, off-court issues and attitude problems hindered his development, turning him into a journeyman player before he eventually moved overseas.
5. Tyler Hansbrough
Tyler Hansbrough, a standout from North Carolina, led the NCAA in scoring and rebounding during his career and was named National College Player of the Year. He finished his college journey with an NCAA title. Despite his achievements, Hansbrough struggled to adjust to the NBA, where his physicality and offensive skills didn’t translate well, leading to a brief seven-year career.
4. Jimmer Fredette
Jimmer Fredette had a stellar college career at BYU and was named both the National College Player of the Year and the leading scorer in his final year. His proficiency in shooting led many to believe he was a potential Top 10 draft pick. Unfortunately, Fredette faced challenges in the NBA, particularly on defense and adapting to team dynamics, which led to his exit after just six seasons.
3. Hasheem Thabeet
Standing 7-foot-3, Hasheem Thabeet seemed poised to be a dominant shot-blocker during his time at UConn, where he also led the NCAA in blocks. Selected second overall in 2009 by the Memphis Grizzlies, Thabeet’s lack of a refined skill set and the presence of more talented players led to a disappointing professional career, which included a demotion to the NBA D-League.
2. Anthony Bennett
Anthony Bennett, the first overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers, is often labeled an all-time draft bust. He averaged just 4.4 points per game in his short NBA career, a significant fall from grace after performing well at UNLV, where he averaged 16.1 points and 8.1 rebounds.
1. Royce White
Royce White garnered attention after transferring to Iowa State, where he averaged 13.4 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 5.0 assists in his only season, earning him Big 12 Newcomer of the Year honors. Drafted 16th overall by the Houston Rockets in 2012, White never played for them due to his refusal to fly. His subsequent stint with the Sacramento Kings lasted only three games, marking a disappointing trajectory in the NBA.
