Top 10 Centers in College Basketball History

By Edcel Panganiban April 21, 2024 09:34

College basketball has seen a plethora of remarkable centers who have left an indelible mark on the game.

These players have not only displayed extraordinary skill and dominance on the court but have also significantly impacted the sport through their achievements and contributions.

1. Bill Russell

College: University of San Francisco

Accomplishments: Led the Dons to back-to-back NCAA championships in 1955 and 1956.

Impact: Russell's defensive prowess and shot-blocking ability revolutionized the game, laying the foundation for his illustrious professional career with the Boston Celtics.

2. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

College: UCLA

Accomplishments: A three-time NCAA champion (1967, 1968, 1969) and three-time consensus All-American.

Impact: Known as Lew Alcindor during his collegiate years, Abdul-Jabbar's dominance in the paint and his patented skyhook shot made him an iconic figure in college basketball history.

3. Wilt Chamberlain

College: University of Kansas

Accomplishments: Chamberlain's impact was felt during his two years at Kansas, as he averaged 29.9 points and 18.3 rebounds per game.

Impact: Chamberlain's remarkable athleticism and scoring ability set the stage for his legendary professional career and forever changed the way the center position was perceived.

4. Patrick Ewing

College: Georgetown University

Accomplishments: Led the Hoyas to three NCAA championship games, winning the title in 1984.

Impact: Ewing's defensive prowess and intimidating presence in the paint made him one of the most dominant centers in college basketball history, and he continued to excel in the NBA.

5. Bill Walton

College: UCLA

Accomplishments: Won two NCAA championships (1972, 1973) and was a three-time Naismith College Player of the Year.

Impact: Walton's exceptional passing, rebounding, and scoring abilities made him a force to be reckoned with, and his impact on UCLA's success during the early 1970s is undeniable.

6. Hakeem Olajuwon

College: University of Houston

Accomplishments: Olajuwon's defensive prowess and shot-blocking ability were on full display during his college career.

Impact: His impact on the game was further solidified during his professional career, as he became one of the greatest centers in NBA history, showcasing the skills honed during his collegiate years.

7. Shaquille O'Neal

College: Louisiana State University (LSU)

Accomplishments: O'Neal's dominant presence in the paint and scoring ability made him a force to be reckoned with during his time at LSU.

Impact: His combination of size, strength, and agility redefined the center position, and he went on to have a highly successful professional career in the NBA.

8. David Robinson

College: United States Naval Academy

Accomplishments: Robinson's exceptional shot-blocking and rebounding abilities made him a standout player during his college years.

Impact: His influence extended to the NBA, where he enjoyed a successful career with the San Antonio Spurs, earning the nickname "The Admiral" for his leadership and impact on the court.

9. Alonzo Mourning

College: Georgetown University

Accomplishments: Mourning's defensive prowess and scoring ability were instrumental in Georgetown's success during his college career.

Impact: He went on to have a successful professional career in the NBA, showcasing the skills and tenacity that made him a standout center in college basketball.

10. Tim Duncan

College: Wake Forest University.

Accomplishments: Duncan's exceptional post moves, rebounding, and shot-blocking abilities made him a dominant force during his college career.

Impact: His remarkable skill set and work ethic translated seamlessly to the NBA, where he became one of the most accomplished and revered centers in professional basketball history.

These centers have not only left an indelible mark on the college basketball landscape through their exceptional skill and prowess but have also influenced the future of the game through their enduring legacies.

Their impact transcends statistics and accolades, shaping the very essence of what it means to dominate the center position in college basketball history.

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