High school basketball has always been a breeding ground for future stars. Fans often get roped in by the talent, athleticism, and potential of these athletes. Many go on to achieve greatness in the professional world, while others take different paths, leaving fans curious about where life has taken them. Let’s look at the stories of 15 standout high school basketball players. Swipe to find more.
LeBron James
Back in 2003, LeBron James was hailed as “The Chosen One” before he even entered the NBA. Two decades later, he’s exceeded every expectation. With four NBA championships, two Olympic gold medals, and numerous MVP awards, LeBron remains an icon of the sport.
Greg Oden
As a 7-foot giant with unmatched defensive skills, Greg Oden was a dominant force in high school, leading him to become the top overall pick in the 2007 NBA Draft. Unfortunately, injuries derailed his professional career. Oden is now using his experiences to guide young players.
Dwight Howard
Dominating the paint straight out of high school, Dwight Howard skipped college and went on to become one of the NBA’s best centers. After a stellar career that included an NBA championship, multiple All-Star appearances, and Defensive Player of the Year awards, Howard has taken his talents overseas.
Kevin Love
Kevin Love’s high school rebounding prowess was legendary, and he quickly became a star at UCLA. In the NBA, Love won a championship with the Cleveland Cavaliers and earned five All-Star nods. Beyond basketball, Love has become a vocal advocate for mental health and discusses his struggles with depression.
Andrew Wiggins
Hyped as “Maple Jordan” during his high school days, Andrew Wiggins’ athleticism put him on the fast track to the NBA. Though his early years in Minnesota were inconsistent, Wiggins found his stride with the Golden State Warriors. In 2022, he played a major role in helping the Warriors win an NBA championship.
Derrick Rose
Chicago’s very own Derrick Rose captured the city’s heart as the top-ranked player in 2007. He went on to become the youngest MVP in NBA history with the Bulls. Although injuries took a toll on his career, Rose’s perseverance has allowed him to reinvent himself as a veteran leader.
Ben Simmons
Ben Simmons’ all-around game made him a top high school prospect, and after a year at LSU, he became the first pick in the 2016 NBA Draft. Known for his elite defense and playmaking, Simmons has had a tumultuous NBA career, with mental health struggles and average shooting skills.
Jabari Parker
Once compared to LeBron James during his time at Simeon High School, Jabari Parker was a highly anticipated prospect. After being selected second overall in the 2014 NBA Draft, his career was marred by injuries. Though Parker has bounced around multiple NBA teams, he remains a free agent with hopes of finding a stable role.
Harrison Barnes
Known for his consistency and professionalism, Harrison Barnes was a standout at Ames High School and later at UNC. Drafted by the Warriors, Barnes played a key role in their 2015 championship win. Now a steady presence with the Sacramento Kings, his dependable two-way play makes him one of the most reliable veterans in the league.
DeAndre Ayton
As one of the most physically dominant players in high school, DeAndre Ayton’s move to the NBA was closely watched. After being selected first overall in 2018 by the Phoenix Suns, Ayton has cemented himself as a vital part of the Suns’ lineup, helping lead them to the 2021 NBA Finals.
R.J. Barrett
R.J. Barrett was the top high school player out of Montverde Academy, and his time at Duke added to his hype. Drafted third overall by the New York Knicks, Barrett has steadily improved each season. As a cornerstone of the Knicks’ future, he’s working hard to bring the team back to playoff contention and carve out his legacy in the Big Apple.
Michael Beasley
After being drafted second overall in 2008, Beasley showed glimpses of brilliance, but inconsistency and off-court issues kept him from reaching his full potential. His career has taken him from the NBA to China and back again, and Beasley remains one of basketball’s greatest “what ifs.”
Zion Williamson
Few high school players captured the public’s interest like Zion Williamson, with his gravity-defying dunks and viral highlights. After being selected first overall by the New Orleans Pelicans in 2019, Zion has shown superstar potential, but injuries have kept him from dominating the league as expected.
Anthony Davis
Anthony Davis was a defensive phenom in high school, and his one year at Kentucky only solidified his place as the top prospect in the nation. After being drafted first overall in 2012, Davis has enjoyed a Hall of Fame-worthy career, winning an NBA championship with the Lakers.
Jalen Green
Jalen Green made headlines by choosing the G League over college, a decision that paved the way for future top prospects. The second choice in the NBA Draft of 2021, Green has quickly become the centerpiece of the Houston Rockets’ rebuild. Known for his scoring ability, Green’s future in the NBA looks bright as he continues to grow.
High School Hoops Heroes: 15 Players and Their Current Status