Posted by cbriese on 1/16/2016 8:28:00 PM (view original):
"Hey, Johnny, this is Coach Hamilton of Florida State. I realize that you've already told the good folks at UAB that you'll play for their program, but I'd like to offer you a full-ride scholarship to Florida State. You'll get to play all the ACC teams every year, and your family and friends will be able to watch you on ESPN many, many times each season. We really need you when we go up against Duke and North Carolina. I completely understand, however, if you want to honor your commitment to the Blazer staff - after all, they get the make trips to schools like Western Kentucky every season. I am hoping you will consider becoming a Seminole, and maybe one day adding your name to a list of the 30 Florida State players, like Dave Cowens and Sam Cassell, who have made the jump to the NBA."
"Sorry, coach, but I'd really prefer to go to the University of Alabama, Birmingham", said no one ever.
Not really true. Think about some of the great players who have played for lesser known schools, some of whom carried them to incredible levels.
If you are a fan of basketball at all (or have even paid any attention to the history of the NBA or college hoops) then you should immediately recognize these names.
Larry Bird went to Indiana and then left for another home state team ,Indiana State, who he led to the national title game; in the Hall of Fame.
Karl Malone, led home state team Louisiana Tech to two NT appearances, one of which went to the Sweet 16; in the Hall of Fame.
John Stockton, led Gonzaga to the NT at a time when Gonzaga wasn't what they are now; in the Hall of Fame.
David Robinson is called "The Admiral" for a reason - he led Navy to the Elite 8; in the Hall of Fame.
Steve Nash led Santa Clara to 3 NT appearances; quite possible the best point guard in the world for several years.
Oh, and this isn't just a phenomenon limited to past NBA greats...
Stephen Curry, the reigning NBA MVP and arguably the best player in the league, led Davidson to the Elite 8.
So while none played at UAB, clearly a number of great players have played for lesser colleges, with some (such as Bird) clearing deciding to do so despite having better offers.