An undrafted NBA player is not selected by any team during the NBA Draft but later joins the league by signing as a free agent. I compiled a list of the best undrafted NBA players, including legends like Ben Wallace or Udonis Haslem.
While the NBA Draft is often seen as the primary route to a successful career, many best undrafted NBA players have defied expectations and built their legacies.
Whether through grit, determination, or raw talent, these players have proven that greatness can emerge from being overlooked.
In this article, I explore who are the best undrafted NBA players, dividing them into two sections: 10 retired legends who made their mark and five active players who continue their careers either in the NBA or overseas.
Best undrafted NBA players of all time
10. Raja Bell
Teams: Philadelphia 76ers, Dallas Mavericks, Utah Jazz, Phoenix Suns, Charlotte Bobcats, Golden State Warriors
Raja Bell's career stats:
| GP | GS | PPG | APG | RPG | FG | 3PT | FT |
| 706 | 479 | 9.9 | 1.7 | 2.8 | 43.4% | 40.6% | 79.9% |
Accolades: 2× NBA All-Defensive Team
Raja Bell was known as one of the premier perimeter defenders during his time in the NBA.
Bell is best remembered for his time with the Phoenix Suns (2005-08). Under coach Mike D'Antoni, he was a key contributor to the Suns' "Seven Seconds or Less" offense, providing strong defense and three-point shooting.
He also had a well-known rivalry with Kobe Bryant, when he clotheslined the Los Angeles Lakers superstar during the 2006 NBA Playoffs, leading to a suspension. His defense on Kobe became legendary, and he remains one of the best undrafted NBA players due to his two-way impact.
9. JJ Barea
Teams: Dallas Mavericks, Minnesota Timberwolves
JJ Barea's career stats:
| GP | GS | PPG | APG | RPG | FG | 3PT | FT |
| 831 | 108 | 8.9 | 3.9 | 2.1 | 42.4% | 35.2% | 79.4% |
Accolades: NBA Champion (2011)
J.J. Barea was a key player for the Mavs during their 2011 NBA Championship run. His fearless drives and playmaking off the bench were crucial in the NBA Finals against the Miami Heat.
Barea is one of the most well-known basketball players from Puerto Rico. He has represented his country in numerous international competitions, including the FIBA World Cup 2010 and 2014.
Throughout his career, Barea was valued not just for his skills but also for his leadership. He played 11 seasons with the Mavericks, and in his later years, he became a mentor for younger players on the team.
A fan favorite in Dallas, Barea's grit and grind earned him a spot among the greatest undrafted NBA players.
8. Jose Manuel Calderon
Teams: Toronto Raptors, Detroit Pistons, Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks, Los Angeles Lakers, Atlanta Hawks, Cleveland Cavaliers
Jose Calderon's career stats:
| GP | GS | PPG | APG | RPG | FG | 3PT | FT |
| 895 | 591 | 5.8 | 1.7 | 2.4 | 47.2% | 40.7% | 87.3% |
Jose Calderon was a steady, efficient point guard known for his high basketball IQ and impeccable free-throw shooting.
He left his mark as the Toronto Raptors' all-time runner-up in assists, providing 3,770 dimes over eight seasons and 525 games. His career-high season came in 2008-09 when he averaged 8.9 assists per game with Toronto.
Calderon set an NBA record for the highest free-throw percentage in a single season. During the 2008-09 campaign, he shot an incredible 98.1% from the line, making 151 out of 154 attempts.
The playmaker also had a decorated international career with Spain's national team. He was part of the "Golden Generation" that won the 2006 FIBA World Cup, 2011 FIBA EuroBasket, and earned two Olympic silver medals (2008, 2012).
7. Brad Miller
Teams: Charlotte Hornets, Chicago Bulls, Indiana Pacers, Sacramento Kings, Houston Rockets, Minnesota Timberwolves
Brad Miller's career stats:
| GP | GS | PPG | APG | RPG | FG | 3PT | FT |
| 868 | 598 | 11.2 | 2.8 | 7.1 | 48.0% | 33.0% | 80.4% |
Accolades: 2× NBA All-Star
Brad Miller's versatility as a big man who could pass, shoot, and rebound made him a highly valuable player throughout his career.
He had a reliable mid-range shot and was an excellent passer for a big man, often facilitating offense from the high post.
Miller is best remembered for his time with the Sacramento Kings (2003-09). There, he formed a frontcourt duo with Chris Webber and was part of a Kings team known for its ball movement and unselfish play under coach Rick Adelman.
6. Avery Johnson
Teams: Seattle SuperSonics, Denver Nuggets, San Antonio Spurs, Houston Rockets, Golden State Warriors, Dallas Mavericks
Avery Johnson's career stats:
| GP | GS | PPG | APG | RPG | FG | 3PT | FT |
| 1054 | 637 | 8.4 | 5.5 | 1.7 | 47.9% | 14.5% | 70.6% |
Accolades: NBA Champion (1999)
Avery Johnson, known as "The Little General," was the floor leader for the San Antonio Spurs during their 1999 championship run. He hit the game-clinching shot in Game 5 of the NBA Finals to win the title against the New York Knicks.
His leadership and clutch play make him one of the most respected and notable undrafted NBA players in the game's history. He ranks second among the all-time leaders in assists for the Spurs and finished his career with 4,474 assists.
After retiring as a player, Johnson transitioned into coaching. He became the head coach of the Dallas Mavericks in 2005 and led them to the NBA Finals in 2006, where they lost to the Heat. He was named NBA Coach of the Year in 2006 for leading the Mavs to a 60-win season.
5. Connie Hawkins
Teams: Phoenix Suns, Los Angeles Lakers, Atlanta Hawks
Connie Hawkins' career stats:
| GP | GS | PPG | APG | RPG | FG | 3PT | FT |
| 616 | N/A | 18.7 | 4.1 | 8.8 | 47.9% | 16.1% | 77.9% |
Accolades: NBA Hall of Fame (1992), 4× NBA All-Star, ABA champion and MVP (1968)
Connie Hawkins' career path was unconventional due to legal battles that delayed his NBA debut. Early in his career, he was wrongfully banned from the NBA due to his alleged involvement in a point-shaving scandal during his college days.
After winning a legal battle against the league, Hawkins was allowed to join the NBA in 1969
When he finally arrived, his athleticism and unique style of play quickly earned him accolades and respect, including multiple All-Star appearances and a spot in the Hall of Fame.
Known for his acrobatic playing style, Hawkins was one of the first players to popularize high-flying, above-the-rim basketball.
After joining the Phoenix Suns in 1969, Hawkins quickly became a star and was named to the All-NBA First Team in his first season. He had his No. 42 jersey retired by the Suns.
4. Bruce Bowen
Teams: Miami Heat, Boston Celtics, Philadelphia 76ers, San Antonio Spurs
Bruce Bowen's career stats:
| GP | GS | PPG | APG | RPG | FG | 3PT | FT |
| 873 | 644 | 6.1 | 1.2 | 2.8 | 40.9% | 39.3% | 57.5% |
Accolades: 3× NBA Champion (2003, 2005, 2007), 5× NBA All-Defensive First Team
Bruce Bowen was widely regarded as one of the best perimeter defenders in NBA history. Known for his tenacity and ability to guard elite scorers, he was a key defensive player for the San Antonio Spurs during three championship runs, also earning eight NBA All-Defensive Team selections throughout his career.
Although primarily known for his defense, Bowen was also a reliable three-point shooter. He developed a reputation for hitting clutch shots, particularly from beyond the arc.
Bowen went undrafted in the 1993 NBA Draft but persevered through various leagues, including the Continental Basketball Association (CBA) and overseas in France, before eventually signing with the Miami Heat in 1997.
His No. 12 jersey was retired by the Spurs.
3. Udonis Haslem
Teams: Miami Heat
Udonis Haslem's career stats:
| GP | GS | PPG | APG | RPG | FG | 3PT | FT |
| 879 | 501 | 7.5 | 0.8 | 6.6 | 48.9% | 12.7% | 75.6% |
Accolades: 3× NBA Champion (2006, 2012, 2013)
A Miami Heat legend, Udonis Haslem spent his entire 20-year career with the team, becoming a symbol of leadership, toughness, and loyalty.
Haslem is just the 3rd player to play 20 seasons with one team after Dirk Nowitzki (Mavericks) and Kobe Bryant (Lakers). He also became the 10th player to play at least 20 seasons in the league.
His contributions to three NBA championships, combined with his dedication to the franchise, work ethic, and professionalism, make him a standout among the best undrafted NBA players.
Haslem began his professional career in France, which was capped off by his No. 40 retirement from Miami.
2. John Starks
Teams: Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks, Chicago Bulls, Utah Jazz
John Starks' career stats:
| GP | GS | PPG | APG | RPG | FG | 3PT | FT |
| 866 | 420 | 12.5 | 3.6 | 2.5 | 41.2% | 34.0% | 76.9% |
Accolades: NBA All-Star (1994), NBA Sixth Man of the Year (1997)
John Starks is best known for his time with the New York Knicks, where he played from 1990 to 1998. He became a fan favorite and a key player for the team, helping them reach the NBA Finals in 1994.
Starks was named an NBA All-Star in 1994, as he averaged 19 points per game that season and became famed for his clutch performances.
One of the defining moments of Starks' career came during Game 2 of the 1993 Eastern Conference Finals, where he famously dunked over Chicago Bulls star Scottie Pippen.
1. Ben Wallace
Teams: Washington Bullets/Wizards, Orlando Magic, Detroit Pistons, Chicago Bulls, Cleveland Cavaliers
Ben Wallace's career stats:
| GP | GS | PPG | APG | RPG | FG | 3PT | FT |
| 1088 | 912 | 5.7 | 1.3 | 9.6 | 47.4% | 13.7% | 41.4% |
Accolades: NBA Champion (2004), 4× NBA All-Star, 4× NBA Defensive Player of the Year, Hall of Fame (2021)
Ben Wallace is a towering figure among the undrafted NBA Hall of Famers. Overall, he is widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive players in NBA history.
Wallace was a four-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year (2002, 2003, 2005, 2006) and earned five NBA All-Defensive First Team selections (2002-06). He is known for his shot-blocking, rebounding, and ability to guard multiple positions.
Wallace played the majority of his career with the Detroit Pistons (2000-06, 2009-12) and was instrumental in the team's success. He helped lead the Pistons to an NBA Championship in 2004, defeating the Lakers in the Finals.
His eventual Hall of Fame induction cemented his legacy as one of the best undrafted NBA players of all time.
Top 5 current undrafted NBA players
5. Wesley Matthews
Teams: Utah Jazz, Portland Trail Blazers, Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks, Indiana Pacers, Milwaukee Bucks, Los Angeles Lakers, Atlanta Hawks
Wesley Matthews' career stats:
| GP | GS | PPG | APG | RPG | FG | 3PT | FT |
| 986 | 757 | 11.4 | 1.9 | 2.8 | 41.9% | 37.5% | 82.3% |
Wesley Matthews' consistency as a 3-and-D player has made him a valuable asset for multiple teams or contenders.
Matthews had a solid impact during his time with the Portland Trail Blazers (2010-15). He became a key player for the team, contributing to multiple playoff runs and earning a reputation as a tough, hard-nosed player who could shoot, defend, and lead.
In 2015, Matthews suffered a torn Achilles tendon. However, he made a successful comeback, signing with the Dallas Mavericks and continuing to play at a high level.
The 37-year-old is currently without a team and last played for the Atlanta Hawks during the 2023-24 season. He has not announced about his retirement.
4. Austin Reaves
Teams: Los Angeles Lakers (current)
Austin Reaves' career stats:
| GP | GS | PPG | APG | RPG | FG | 3PT | FT |
| 207 | 98 | 12.4 | 3.7 | 3.6 | 49.3% | 36.5% | 85.5% |
Accolades: NBA Cup champion (2023)
Austin Reaves went undrafted in the 2021 NBA Draft but quickly made a name for himself with the Los Angeles Lakers. He signed a two-way contract with the team and soon earned a regular roster spot due to his successful play.
Reaves had a breakout performance during the 2023 NBA Playoffs with the Lakers. He was a key contributor, averaging nearly 17 points per game and demonstrating his ability to step up in high-stakes situations, cementing his role as an important part of the team's future.
Now, he's widely considered a future star among top undrafted NBA players.
3. Jeremy Lin
Teams: Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks, Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Lakers, Charlotte Hornets, Brooklyn Nets, Atlanta Hawks, Toronto Raptors
Jeremy Lin's career stats:
| GP | GS | PPG | APG | RPG | FG | 3PT | FT |
| 480 | 221 | 11.6 | 4.3 | 2.8 | 43.3% | 34.2% | 80.9% |
Accolades: NBA Champion (2019)
Jeremy Lin became an international sensation during the 2011-12 NBA season with the New York Knicks, a phenomenon known as "Linsanity." His unexpected rise to stardom captured global attention as he delivered a series of incredible performances, including a career-high 38 points against the Lakers.
Lin went undrafted in the 2010 NBA Draft and faced many challenges before breaking out with the Knicks. He initially signed with the Golden State Warriors and later spent time in the NBA's Development League (now G League) before getting his chance with New York.
He made history as the first American of Chinese or Taiwanese descent to play in the NBA. His success inspired millions, especially in the Asian-American community.
In 2019, Lin became the first Asian-American player to win an NBA Championship as a member of the Toronto Raptors.
Currently, Lin plays in Taiwan, New Taipei Kings (P. League+).
2. Alex Caruso
Teams: Los Angeles Lakers, Chicago Bulls, Oklahoma City Thunder (current)
Alex Caruso's career stats:
| GP | GS | PPG | APG | RPG | FG | 3PT | FT |
| 363 | 130 | 6.8 | 2.9 | 2.9 | 44.0% | 38.0% | 75.1% |
Accolades: NBA Champion (2020)
Alex Caruso went undrafted in the 2016 NBA Draft but made his way into the league through the NBA G League. He signed with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2017 and steadily earned a reputation as a reliable role player, particularly known for his energy and defensive tenacity.
Caruso was an integral part of the Lakers' 2020 NBA Championship team. His defensive prowess, hustle, and high basketball IQ made him a key contributor during the Lakers' playoff run, and he started in the deciding Game 6 of the NBA Finals.
He is best known for his outstanding perimeter defense. His ability to guard multiple positions, create turnovers, and disrupt opposing offenses has made him one of the top defensive guards in the league, earning him a spot on the NBA All-Defensive First Team in 2023 and NBA All-Defensive Second Team in 2024.
1. Fred VanVleet
Teams: Toronto Raptors, Houston Rockets (current)
Fred VanVleet's career stats:
| GP | GS | PPG | APG | RPG | FG | 3PT | FT |
| 490 | 341 | 15.0 | 5.7 | 3.4 | 40.4% | 37.5% | 86.8% |
Accolades: NBA Champion (2019), NBA All-Star (2022)
Fred VanVleet went undrafted in the 2016 NBA Draft but signed with the Toronto Raptors, where he steadily worked his way up from a bench player to one of the league's top guards.
Despite being one of the shortest players in the NBA, VanVleet played an important role in helping the Raptors win their first-ever title in 2019. He was instrumental in the Finals against the Golden State Warriors, hitting clutch shots and providing solid defense, particularly on Stephen Curry.
VanVleet was named an NBA All-Star in 2022, averaging a career-high 20.3 points that season.
In 2021, he set a franchise record for the Raptors by scoring 54 points in a game against the Orlando Magic. This performance also made him the highest-scoring undrafted player in NBA history for a single game.
