The Georgia Institute of Technology, commonly referred to as Georgia Tech, has a rich basketball tradition that has produced numerous talented players who have gone on to successful careers in the National Basketball Association (NBA). In recent years, several Yellow Jackets have made the jump to the professional ranks, and some are still active in the league today. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the Georgia Tech players in the NBA today.
Current Georgia Tech Players in the NBA
Several Georgia Tech alumni are currently playing in the NBA, and we'll highlight a few of them below.
Trae Young
Trae Young is arguably the most successful Georgia Tech player in the NBA today. The 22-year-old point guard was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks with the fifth overall pick in the 2018 NBA draft but was traded to the Atlanta Hawks on draft night. Young has quickly become one of the top young players in the league, known for his explosive scoring ability and exceptional playmaking skills.
Josh Okogie
Josh Okogie is a 23-year-old small forward who was drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves with the 20th overall pick in the 2018 NBA draft. Okogie had a solid rookie season, averaging 7.7 points and 2.9 rebounds per game, and has continued to develop his game in his second season.
Ben Lammers
Ben Lammers is a 25-year-old center who went undrafted in the 2018 NBA draft but has managed to carve out a niche for himself in the league. Lammers played for the Atlanta Hawks' G League affiliate, the Erie BayHawks, before signing a two-way contract with the Hawks in 2020.
Georgia Tech's NBA Legacy
Georgia Tech has a rich basketball tradition that dates back to the early 20th century. The Yellow Jackets have produced numerous talented players who have gone on to successful careers in the NBA. Some notable Georgia Tech alumni include:
Dennis Scott
Dennis Scott is a former Georgia Tech shooting guard who was drafted by the Orlando Magic with the fourth overall pick in the 1990 NBA draft. Scott had a 12-year NBA career, playing for the Magic, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Phoenix Suns.
Mark Price
Mark Price is a former Georgia Tech point guard who was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks with the 25th overall pick in the 1986 NBA draft. Price had a 12-year NBA career, playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers, Washington Bullets, and Golden State Warriors.
Chris Bosh
Chris Bosh is a former Georgia Tech power forward who was drafted by the Toronto Raptors with the fourth overall pick in the 2004 NBA draft. Bosh had a 13-year NBA career, playing for the Raptors, Miami Heat, and Houston Rockets.
Why Georgia Tech Produces Successful NBA Players
So, what sets Georgia Tech apart from other colleges in terms of producing successful NBA players? Here are a few reasons:
Strong Coaching
Georgia Tech has a long history of strong coaching, dating back to the likes of Bobby Cremins and Paul Hewitt. Current head coach Josh Pastner has continued this tradition, leading the Yellow Jackets to several NCAA Tournament appearances in recent years.
Competitive Conference
Georgia Tech plays in the highly competitive Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), which has produced numerous NBA talents over the years. Playing against top-notch competition on a nightly basis helps prepare Yellow Jackets players for the NBA.
Player Development
Georgia Tech has a strong reputation for developing players and helping them reach their full potential. The program's focus on player development has helped numerous Yellow Jackets make the jump to the NBA.
Gallery of Georgia Tech Players in the NBA
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Georgia Tech players are currently in the NBA?
+There are currently three Georgia Tech players in the NBA: Trae Young, Josh Okogie, and Ben Lammers.
What is the most successful NBA team to come from Georgia Tech?
+The 2003-2004 Georgia Tech team that made it to the NCAA Championship game is arguably the most successful team to come from the program.
Who is the all-time leading scorer in Georgia Tech history?
+Jon Barry is the all-time leading scorer in Georgia Tech history with 1,950 points.
In conclusion, Georgia Tech has a rich basketball tradition that has produced numerous talented players who have gone on to successful careers in the NBA. From Trae Young to Chris Bosh, the Yellow Jackets have a long history of developing players and helping them reach their full potential. Whether you're a die-hard Georgia Tech fan or just a basketball enthusiast, there's no denying the impact that the program has had on the NBA.