Did any NBA Players go to Yale?

By Edcel Panganiban December 07, 2023 05:51

Yale University, renowned for its academic excellence, may not be the first name that comes to mind when thinking of NBA players. However, there have been a handful of talented athletes who have donned the Bulldog jersey and made their mark on the professional basketball scene. Let's take a closer look at the NBA players who attended Yale University.

Miye Oni - The Ivy League Trailblazer

Miye Oni, a standout player for the Yale basketball team, has undoubtedly been the most successful NBA player to emerge from the Ivy League institution in recent years. Oni, who idolized the late Kobe Bryant and dreamed of playing in the NBA since he was a young boy, faced challenges early on due to a slower growth rate compared to his peers in middle school. However, he experienced a growth spurt in high school that caught the attention of Yale's coaches.

Remaining committed to Yale despite interest from other schools, Oni continued to excel on the court, ultimately earning the title of Ivy League Player of the Year. His exceptional performance led NBA scouts to regularly attend his games, assessing his potential. Oni is currently ranked among the top 50 prospects for the NBA Draft and is expected to declare next year. If selected, he would become the first Ivy League player to be drafted into the NBA since 1995.

Miye Oni's Journey to the NBA

After an impressive college career, Miye Oni's dream of playing in the NBA became a reality when he was selected in the NBA Draft. The Golden State Warriors initially chose him but later traded him to the Utah Jazz, where he would begin his professional career. This selection made Oni the highest draft pick for a Yale player since 1949.

Oni's selection is not only a testament to his talent and hard work but also a validation of the success of Yale basketball in recent years. Overcoming self-doubt in high school, Oni caught the attention of Yale's coaching staff, and with their guidance, he blossomed into an outstanding player. Oni expressed his gratitude to his family and considers his selection a dream come true.

Other Notable Yale Alumni in the NBA

While Miye Oni may be the most recent Yale alumnus to make a name for himself in the NBA, he is not the only player to have come from this prestigious institution. Let's explore some other notable NBA players who honed their skills at Yale.

Chris Dudley - The Trailblazer

Chris Dudley, a 6'11" center, played for the Yale Bulldogs from 1983 to 1987. Although he was not known for his scoring prowess, Dudley's defensive skills and rebounding ability caught the attention of NBA scouts. Dudley went on to have a successful NBA career, playing for several teams, including the Cleveland Cavaliers, New York Knicks, and Portland Trail Blazers. He was known for his

Tony Lavelli - The Early Pioneer

Tony Lavelli, a talented 6'3" guard, played for Yale in the late 1940s. Lavelli was a two-time All-American and led the Bulldogs to an Ivy League title. After graduating from Yale, he went on to play in the NBA for the Boston Celtics. Lavelli was known for his scoring ability and was one of the first players to utilize the behind-the-back dribble in games.

Yale's Impact on the NBA

While Yale University may not be a traditional powerhouse in terms of producing NBA players, its contribution to the league cannot be overlooked. The success of players like Miye Oni, Chris Dudley, and Tony Lavelli demonstrates that talent can be found in unexpected places. These players have shattered stereotypes and proven that a Yale education can go hand in hand with athletic excellence.

while the Ivy League may not be synonymous with the NBA, Yale University has produced several notable players who have made their mark in professional basketball. Miye Oni's journey from doubting his abilities in high school to becoming an NBA prospect is an inspiration to aspiring athletes. Additionally, players like Chris Dudley and Tony Lavelli have shown that Yale's basketball program has a rich history of producing talented players. Whether it's breaking barriers or excelling on the court, these NBA players who attended Yale have left a lasting impact on the sport.