Last week, we released the HoopsHype78 list, our ranking of the 78 greatest NBA players of all time, which was met with the usual applause and scorn that any ranking of this nature does, especially after we chose four-time league MVP LeBron James the No. 1 player of all time.
Now, we will focus on another ranking, this time one of the best basketball players of all time to never play in the NBA.
For this exercise, we’re taking into account professional performance outside of the NBA, featuring proven players with successful careers at top pro levels (excluding the NBA itself). This means streetball legends like Pee Wee Kirkland or players who sadly passed away before getting a chance to shine in the league like Len Bias don’t crack this list.
As a result, this ranking will be heavy on ABA and European legends.
Check out our ranking below of the best basketball players to never play in the NBA.