The Greatest Oklahoma Sooners Basketball Players of All Time
- 1
Sooners Seasons: 2007 - 2009
A true game-changer, Blake Griffin burst onto the scene in Oklahoma Sooners basketball as a highly touted freshman and quickly set himself apart with his explosive athleticism and powerful dunks. Signed straight out of high school in 2007, Griffin immediately made an impact on the program with his relentless work ethic and aggressive play style, dominating opponents on both ends of the floor. During his tenure at Oklahoma, Griffin was awarded the prestigious John R. Wooden Award and the Naismith College Player of the Year in 2009. A testament to his greatness, Griffin left an indelible mark on the minds of Sooners fans before being selected as the first overall pick in the 2009 NBA draft.
- Birthplace: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
- Team: Boston Celtics
- Position: Power forward
- 2
Sooners Seasons: 2017 - 2018
A hometown hero, Trae Young's meteoric rise as one of the most electric players in Oklahoma Sooners basketball history was truly extraordinary. From the moment he stepped on campus in 2017, Young's dazzling ball-handling skills and preternatural passing ability made him a can't-miss talent. Often compared to NBA superstar Stephen Curry, Young's penchant for making deep, contested three-pointers provided the spark that ignited the Sooners offense. Although his time in Oklahoma was brief, Young's incredible freshman season culminated in being named a consensus first-team All-American and the National Freshman of the Year.
- Birthplace: Lubbock, Texas
- Team: Atlanta Hawks
- Position: Point guard
- 3
Sooners Seasons: 1982 - 1985
The epitome of consistency, wayman Tisdale's legendary status in Oklahoma Sooners basketball history is well deserved. Quickly becoming the focal point of the team's offense upon his arrival in 1982, Tisdale mesmerized fans and opponents alike with his smooth, ambidextrous post moves and tenacious rebounding capabilities. Over his illustrious three-year career at Oklahoma, Tisdale amassed numerous accolades, including three consecutive Big Eight Conference Player of the Year awards and a spot on the 1984 Olympic gold-winning US national team. Although he would eventually leave to embark on a successful NBA career, Tisdale left an indelible legacy on the program through his unrelenting passion for the game.
- Birthplace: Fort Worth, Texas, USA
- Position: Power forward, Center
- 4
Sooners Seasons: 2012 - 2016
Known affectionately as "Buddy Buckets" for his sweet shooting stroke, Buddy Hield proved to be one of the most electrifying players in Oklahoma Sooners basketball history. Arriving in Norman in 2012, it didn't take long for Hield to showcase his lethal scoring ability, as he quickly became one of the premier shooters in the nation. Hield's incredible range and fearlessness in taking big shots made him a fan favorite, while his tireless work ethic translated to success on the court. In 2016, Hield was honored with the Wooden Award, Naismith College Player of the Year, and became only the second player in Big 12 history to win multiple conference Player of the Year awards.
- Birthplace: Freeport, Bahamas
- Team: Indiana Pacers
- Position: Shooting guard
- 5
Sooners Seasons: 1987 - 1989
A consummate floor general, Mookie Blaylock's tenure with the Oklahoma Sooners basketball program in the late '80s was marked by his innate ability to control the tempo of the game. As a junior college transfer in 1987, Blaylock immediately made an impact with his fearless defense and pinpoint passing abilities. Often leading the team in steals and assists, Blaylock's court vision and tenacity on both sides of the ball made him an invaluable asset to the Sooners. Though a championship eluded him during his collegiate years, Blaylock would go on to enjoy a successful NBA career and remains one of the Sooners' most celebrated players.
- Birthplace: Garland, Texas
- Position: Point guard
- 6
Sooners Seasons: 1985 - 1989
A dominant force in the paint, Stacey King's imposing presence on the hardwood made him a standout player during his time with the Oklahoma Sooners basketball program. Arriving on campus in 1985, King quickly established himself as one of the best big men in college basketball, possessing an uncanny knack for scoring in the low post, as well as a fierce competitive spirit on the boards. A two-time All-Big Eight Conference selection, King's relentless pursuit of perfection garnered him numerous accolades during his collegiate career. Following his time with the Sooners, King would go on to have a fruitful career in the NBA and remains a fan favorite among the Oklahoma faithful.
- Birthplace: Lawton, Oklahoma
- Position: Center
- 7
Sooners Seasons: 1999 - 2003
A relentless competitor with a penchant for coming up big in the clutch, Hollis Price's time with the Oklahoma Sooners basketball program is fondly remembered by fans and teammates alike. Joining the team in 1999, Price quickly made a name for himself with his sharpshooting prowess and tireless work ethic. In 2003, Price was recognized for his efforts, earning the Big 12 Player of the Year award and becoming a consensus first-team All-American. Though his professional career would not reach the same heights, Price's impact on the Oklahoma program remains undeniable.
- Birthplace: New Orleans, Louisiana
- Position: Point guard
- 8
Sooners Seasons: 1972 - 1975
A versatile big man who excelled at every facet of the game, Alvan Adams is revered as one of the most talented players in Oklahoma Sooners basketball history. Upon joining the team in 1972, Adams showcased his vast array of skills, which included an impressive shooting touch from mid-range and an uncanny ability to block shots. Adams' unique skillset made him a matchup nightmare for opponents, as he often found success both inside the paint and on the perimeter. A two-time All-American selection, Adams' storied career with the Sooners paved the way for a lengthy and successful NBA tenure while cementing his legacy as one of the program's greatest players.
- Birthplace: Lawrence, Kansas
- Team: Phoenix Suns
- Position: Power forward
- 9
Sooners Seasons: 1996 - 2000
A tenacious rebounder with a nonstop motor, Eduardo Nájera's physical style of play endeared him to Oklahoma Sooners basketball fans during his time at the university. Hailing from Mexico, Nájera arrived in Norman in 1996 and quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with on both ends of the floor. His hard-nosed approach and ability to score in traffic earned him a spot in Sooner lore. Following a successful collegiate career, which included being named to the All-Big 12 First Team in 2000, Nájera enjoyed a long and productive NBA career, becoming one of Mexico's most successful basketball players.
- Birthplace: Meoqui Municipality, Mexico
- Team: Charlotte Bobcats
- Position: Small forward, Power forward
- 10
Sooners Seasons: 1986 - 1988
A tireless worker with a smooth shooting stroke, Harvey Grant thrived on the Oklahoma Sooners basketball team during the mid-80s. Arriving in Norman in 1986, Grant showcased his versatility as a player, often excelling as both a scorer and rebounder. As a result, he quickly became a critical component of the team's success. Although individual accolades eluded him during his time with the Sooners, Grant would go on to enjoy a successful NBA career and remains an integral part of Oklahoma basketball lore.
- Birthplace: Augusta, Georgia
- Position: Power forward
- 11
Sooners Seasons: 1990 - 1992
The younger brother of NBA great Mark Price, Brent Price etched his own name into Oklahoma Sooners basketball history during his tenure with the university. Arriving on campus in 1989, Price's steady hand, sharpshooting abilities, and leadership qualities made him an integral part of the Sooners' success. A consistent scorer and floor general, Price made his mark earning All-Big Eight First Team honors in 1992. Following his time with the Sooners, Price went on to enjoy an NBA career of his own, continuing the family legacy of basketball excellence.
- Birthplace: Shawnee, Oklahoma
- Position: Point guard
- 12
Sooners Seasons: 1984 - 1986
Known for his athleticism and scoring prowess, Anthony Bowie dazzled fans and opponents alike during his time with the Oklahoma Sooners basketball team in the mid-80s. Joining the team in 1984, Bowie quickly asserted himself as one of the premier scorers in the conference, utilizing his expansive offensive skill set to great effect. A constant threat both inside and outside the arc, Bowie's scoring acumen earned him recognition as an All-Big Eight Conference performer in 1986. Following his time with the Sooners, Bowie would go on to have a solid NBA career, further solidifying his status as one of Oklahoma's all-time greats.
- Birthplace: Tulsa, Oklahoma
- Position: Shooting guard, Small forward
- 13
Sooners Seasons: 1967 - 1970
A fierce competitor and defensive stalwart, Gar Heard's time with the Oklahoma Sooners basketball program in the late '60s was marked by his relentless pursuit of excellence on the hardwood. Arriving on campus in 1967, Heard quickly established himself as a force on the defensive end, often using his size and athleticism to intimidate opposing players. Although individual awards were sparse during Heard's collegiate career, he would go on to enjoy a successful NBA tenure as both a player and a coach. Heard's impact on the Oklahoma program remains evident, setting the bar for future generations of Sooner big men.
- Birthplace: Hogansville, Georgia
- Position: Power forward
- 14
Ryan Spangler
Age: 33Sooners Seasons: 2013 - 2016
A blue-collar athlete with an unquenchable work ethic, Ryan Spangler endeared himself to Oklahoma Sooners basketball fans with his tenacious play during his time in Norman. Transferring from Gonzaga University in 2012, Spangler quickly cemented his role as one of the team's go-to players with his relentless rebounding and gritty defense. A fan favorite for his hustle and heart, Spangler played a crucial role on the Sooners' 2016 Final Four team, earning All-Big 12 Honorable Mention honors in the process. Though his professional career has taken him overseas, Spangler's impact on the Oklahoma program remains undeniable.
- Team: Gonzaga Bulldogs men's basketball
- Position: Power forward, Center
- 15
Skeeter Henry
Age: 57Sooners Seasons: 1988 - 1990
An electrifying talent with a flair for the dramatic, Skeeter Henry left an indelible mark on the Oklahoma Sooners basketball program during his tenure in the late '80s. Arriving in Norman in 1988 following a standout career at San Jacinto College, Henry quickly established himself as a versatile weapon, excelling as a scorer, rebounder, and defender. His high-flying dunks and acrobatic layups made him a fan favorite while his tenacious play on both ends of the court earned him All-Big Eight Conference recognition in 1990. Though his professional career never quite took off, Henry's contributions to the Sooners can't be overlooked.
- Birthplace: Dallas, Texas
- Position: Guard
- 16
Sooners Seasons: 1997 - 1999
A blue-collar athlete with an unquenchable work ethic, Ryan Spangler endeared himself to Oklahoma Sooners basketball fans with his tenacious play during his time in Norman. Transferring from Gonzaga University in 2012, Spangler quickly cemented his role as one of the team's go-to players with his relentless rebounding and gritty defense. A fan favorite for his hustle and heart, Spangler played a crucial role on the Sooners' 2016 Final Four team, earning All-Big 12 Honorable Mention honors in the process. Though his professional career has taken him overseas, Spangler's impact on the Oklahoma program remains undeniable.
- Birthplace: Tulsa, Oklahoma
- Team: Tulsa 66ers
- Position: Forward
- 17
Sooners Seasons: 2001 - 2003
A fearless competitor with a smooth shooting touch, Ebi Ere was a fan favorite during his brief time with the Oklahoma Sooners basketball program in the early 2000s. Arriving on campus in 2001, Ere quickly established a reputation as a deadly scorer and relentless worker. Often playing with a chip on his shoulder, Ere's passionate play and remarkable offensive skills earned him All-Big 12 Second Team honors in 2003. Despite not achieving significant success at the professional level, Ere's impact on the Sooners' program remains evident.
- Birthplace: Tulsa, Oklahoma
- Position: Shooting guard, Small forward
- 18
Sooners Seasons: 2005 - 2009
The older brother of superstar Blake Griffin, Taylor Griffin carved out his own niche within the Oklahoma Sooners basketball program with his heady play and relentless work ethic. Joining the team in 2005, Griffin steadily improved throughout his collegiate career, developing his game on both the offensive and defensive ends. A reliable role player who could be counted on to make timely contributions, Griffin played a key role on the Sooners' 2009 Elite Eight team. Though his professional career never quite reached the heights of his younger brother's, Taylor Griffin remains an integral part of Oklahoma basketball history.
- Birthplace: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
- Position: Forward, Power forward
- 19
Willie Warren
Age: 35Sooners Seasons: 2008 - 2010
An explosive scorer with limitless potential, Willie Warren's time with the Oklahoma Sooners basketball program was marked by flashes of brilliance. Joining the team in 2008, Warren displayed a natural ability to get buckets, often showcasing an array of offensive moves that left defenders grasping at air. Though his collegiate career was marred by inconsistency, Warren's undeniable talent earned him a spot on the Big 12 All-Rookie Team in 2009. While his professional career hasn't quite lived up to the promise he showed in Norman, Warren remains a memorable figure in Oklahoma basketball history.
- Birthplace: Dallas, Texas
- Position: Point guard, Shooting guard
- 20
Sooners Seasons: 1976 - 1980
A cerebral player with an uncanny understanding of the game, Terry Stotts' time with the Oklahoma Sooners basketball team in the mid-to-late '70s was marked by his ability to always be one step ahead of his opponents. Arriving on campus in 1976, Stotts displayed a strong knack for making the right play at the right time, whether as a scorer or a facilitator. His basketball IQ and leadership qualities made him a valuable asset to the Sooners during his collegiate career. After a brief professional tenure, Stotts would go on to enjoy success as an NBA coach, further solidifying his connection to the game and the Oklahoma program.
- Birthplace: Cedar Falls, Iowa
- Position: Forward
- 21
Sooners Seasons: 1968 - 1971
A defensive stalwart with a tenacious work ethic, Clifford Ray's time with the Oklahoma Sooners basketball program in the late '60s and early '70s helped lay the groundwork for future generations of talented big men. Arriving on campus in 1968, Ray immediately made his presence felt on the defensive end, often using his size and athleticism to intimidate opposing players. A standout rebounder and shot-blocker, Ray played a crucial role on the Sooners' 1971 Big Eight Championship team, earning All-Big Eight First Team honors in the process. Though his collegiate accolades may have been limited, Ray's contributions to the Oklahoma program remain firmly etched in the annals of the school's basketball history.
- Birthplace: Union, South Carolina
- Position: Power forward, Center
- 22
Nate Erdmann
Age: 51Sooners Seasons: 1995 - 1997
A sharpshooting guard with a quick release, Nate Erdmann was a crucial piece for the Oklahoma Sooners basketball program during his tenure in the mid-'90s. Arriving on campus in 1993, Erdmann quickly developed a reputation as one of the best shooters in the conference, utilizing his dead-eye accuracy from beyond the arc to great effect. His scoring ability and relentless work ethic made him a vital cog in the Sooners' machine during his collegiate career. Erdmann's lasting impact on the program remains evident, as he is still fondly remembered by Oklahoma basketball fans to this day.
- Position: Shooting guard
- 23
Romero Osby
Age: 34Sooners Seasons: 2011 - 2013
A versatile forward with a knack for scoring, Romero Osby carved out a memorable career with the Oklahoma Sooners basketball program during his brief time in Norman. Joining the team after transferring from Mississippi State in 2011, Osby showcased his abilities as a scorer and defender, making an immediate impact on both ends of the court. His gritty play and scoring touch earned him All-Big 12 Second Team honors in 2013. Though his professional career never quite reached significant heights, Osby's contributions to the Sooners remain ingrained in the program's history.
- Birthplace: Frankfurt, Germany
- Team: Mississippi State Bulldogs men's basketball
- Position: Forward
- 24
Tony Crocker
Age: 38Sooners Seasons: 2006 - 2010
A smooth-shooting guard with a penchant for clutch performances, Tony Crocker was a valuable piece for the Oklahoma Sooners basketball program during his tenure in the late 2000s. Arriving on campus in 2006, Crocker established himself as a reliable outside threat and a tireless worker. An integral part of the Sooners' 2009 Elite Eight run, Crocker's steady play and crucial shot-making ability endeared him to Oklahoma fans throughout his collegiate career. Although his professional career never quite took off, Crocker's impact on the Oklahoma program remains firmly etched in the minds of the Sooner faithful.
- Birthplace: Lawton, Oklahoma
- Team: Oklahoma Sooners men's basketball
- Position: Shooting guard, Small forward
- 25
Cade Davis
Age: 36Sooners Seasons: 2007 - 2011
An underrated contributor with a well-rounded game, Cade Davis played a significant role for the Oklahoma Sooners basketball program during his tenure in the late 2000s and early 2010s. Arriving on campus in 2007, Davis immediately showcased his versatility as a player, contributing on both the offensive and defensive ends of the floor. A fan favorite for his hustle and heart, Davis' steady play and relentless work ethic made a lasting impression on the Sooners' program. Despite not achieving great individual accolades during his time in Norman, Davis remains an important part of Oklahoma basketball history.
- Birthplace: Amarillo, Texas
- Team: Oklahoma Sooners men's basketball
- Position: Shooting guard, Small forward
- 26
De'Vion Harmon
Sooners Seasons: 2019-present
A budding talent with limitless potential, De'Vion Harmon has already shown flashes of brilliance during his time with the Oklahoma Sooners basketball program. Arriving on campus in 2019, Harmon quickly made an impact with his aggressive play and impressive court vision. As a floor general with a bright future ahead of him, Harmon has fans eagerly anticipating the heights he may reach during his tenure in Norman. Though his collegiate career is still unfolding, Harmon's early contributions to the Sooners have many optimistic about the program's future.
