The Best NBA Players from Colorado
Who are the best NBA players from Colorado? Featuring Hall of Fame greats, superstars, and active players, this list of basketball players who were born in Colorado includes Chauncey Billups, Jason Smith, Derrick White, and Chuck Williams. Who is the best NBA player from Colorado?
Vote up the top Colorado NBA players, and help decide who is the greatest Colorado basketball player of all time!
- 1
Chauncey Billups, fondly known as "Mr. Big Shot," established himself as one of the most clutch performers in the NBA. Throughout his 17-year career, he earned numerous accolades and led several teams to deep playoff runs, most notably guiding the Detroit Pistons to an NBA championship in 2004. An incredible floor general and savvy veteran presence, Billups' impact on the game transcends the box score, leaving a lasting legacy as one of the best point guards and leaders to come from Colorado.
- Birthplace: Denver, Colorado
- Team: Los Angeles Clippers
- Position: Point guard
- 2
Derrick White's journey from a Division II college player to becoming one of the most promising guards in the NBA is nothing short of remarkable. Known for his tireless work ethic, White has developed into a highly skilled, versatile player capable of scoring, passing, and defending at an elite level. His tenacious attitude and ability to contribute in multiple facets has made him an invaluable asset to his team, and a shining example of the basketball talent that hails from Colorado.
- Birthplace: Parker, Colorado
- Team: Boston Celtics
- Position: Point guard
Jalen Williams, a tough, hard-nosed competitor, consistently played with a chip on his shoulder throughout his professional career. As an undersized power forward, Williams carved out a niche as a tenacious rebounder and robust defender, making his presence felt on both ends of the court. Furthermore, his unyielding spirit and drive to make the most of his opportunities have left an indelible mark on the game, cementing his place among the pantheon of talented athletes from Colorado.
- Birthplace: Denver, Colorado
- Team: Oklahoma City Thunder
- Position: Shooting guard
- 4
Reggie Jackson has transformed from an overlooked second-round draft pick to a dynamic, versatile guard in today's NBA. Known for his fearlessness on the court, Jackson's offensive prowess has been highlighted by his ability to knock down big shots in crucial moments, earning a reputation as a dangerous scoring threat. As a proud representative of Colorado, he continues to captivate fans with his electrifying performances and relentless determination, showcasing the state's rich basketball heritage.
- Birthplace: Pordenone, Italy
- Team: Washington Wizards
- Position: Point guard
- 5
Michael Ruffin's imposing physical presence and unwavering intensity made him a force to be reckoned with on the court. Despite being undersized as a center, Ruffin compensated with an uncanny ability to outmuscle opponents in the paint, making him a relentless rebounder and tough-as-nails defender. Just like the rugged terrain of Colorado, Ruffin's game was built on a foundation of strength and resilience, earning him a spot among the state's most esteemed athletes.
- Birthplace: Denver, Colorado
- Position: Power forward, Center
- 6
Eddie Gill, a fearless and determined point guard, made a name for himself thanks to his relentless work ethic and indomitable spirit. A journeyman known for his hard-nosed defense and offensive spark, he proved time and time again that heart can triumph over size and pedigree. Gill's perseverance and unwavering belief in his abilities stand as a shining example of Colorado's strong basketball tradition.
- Birthplace: Aurora, Colorado
- Position: Guard
- 7
Jason Smith, a strapping, 7-foot sharpshooting big man, defied traditional positional norms throughout his NBA tenure. His ability to stretch the floor with his impressive outside shooting touch created matchup nightmares for opposing teams while also contributing to a trend of versatile, perimeter-oriented big men in the modern NBA. Smith's unique skill set serves as an emblem of the diverse and multi-faceted basketball talent that Colorado has produced over the years.
- Birthplace: Greeley, Colorado
- Team: New Orleans Pelicans
- Position: Power forward, Center
- 8
Chuck Williams
Age: 79Chuck Williams, a versatile guard with exceptional court vision, undoubtedly left his mark on the game due in part to his innate ability to make the players around him better. Dubbed the "Wizard" for his magical passing acumen, Williams mesmerized fans and teammates alike with his dazzling assists and unselfish play. His impact on the game and reputation as an excellent floor general are testaments to the depth of basketball talent that can be found in Colorado.
- Birthplace: Boulder, Colorado
- 9
Darrick Martin dazzled on the hardwood with his flashy ball-handling skills and knack for finding open teammates with pinpoint passes. His ability to effortlessly weave through defenders and dictate the tempo of the game established him as a dynamic playmaker and dependable point guard. As yet another shining example of Colorado's rich basketball history, Martin's creativity and unrelenting drive will be remembered for years to come.
- Birthplace: Denver, Colorado
- Position: Point guard
- 10
Don Putman
Age: 103Don Putman's career was marked by his striking versatility and uncanny defensive instincts that allowed him to make critical plays when it mattered most. Known for being able to guard multiple positions with ease, Putman's defensive impact stretched far beyond on-the-ball pressure, as he frequently altered opponents' offensive schemes and disrupted their plans with his quick hands and impeccable timing. A true testament to Colorado's basketball legacy, Putman exemplified the importance of a strong defensive presence in the ever-evolving game.
- Birthplace: Wray, Colorado
- 11
Kaniel Dickens, a skilled and versatile forward, showcased his ability to stretch the floor with his adept shooting touch, making him a prototypical "three-and-D" player. His impressive combination of size, athleticism, and shooting prowess allowed him to be a valuable contributor across multiple lineups and adapt to various roles on the court. Dickens' well-rounded game and commitment to team success serve as a testament to the quality of basketball talent that Colorado has to offer.
- Birthplace: Denver, Colorado
- 12
Chuck Nevitt, one of the tallest players in NBA history at 7 feet 5 inches, showcased the immense physical potential that Colorado athletes can possess. Nevitt used his incredible height to his advantage, providing a formidable shot-blocking presence and altering the trajectory of countless opposing shots. His towering stature and unmistakable impact on the game serve as clear evidence of the diverse talents that have emerged from The Centennial State.
- Birthplace: Cortez, Colorado
- Position: Center
- 13
Charles Williams
Age: 81Charlie Williams, a wiry and agile guard, anchored his reputation on his pesky defense and lightning-quick speed on the hardwood. Proficient in both on-the-ball pressure and off-ball anticipation, Williams consistently frustrated opponents with his active hands and keen defensive instincts. As an exemplar of the hustle and determination that Colorado athletes are known for, Williams' relentless defensive prowess will long be remembered and appreciated by basketball aficionados.
- Birthplace: Colorado Springs, Colorado
- 14
Joe Kleine, a solid and dependable big man, displayed a workmanlike approach to the game, using his formidable size and physicality to his advantage in the paint. Equally adept at scoring down low and protecting the rim, Kleine served as a reliable presence in the post and a selfless teammate, always willing to do the dirty work. His steady contributions on both ends of the floor earned him the respect of his peers and secured his place in Colorado's storied basketball history.
- Birthplace: Colorado Springs, Colorado
- Position: Center
- 15
Glen Gondrezick
Dec. at 53 (1955-2009)Glen Gondrezick, a strong, rugged forward boasting a high motor, was the embodiment of grit and determination during his playing days. This tenacious athlete consistently outworked his opponents, earning the respect of fellow players and coaches alike for his never-quit attitude. Gondrezick's relentless drive and all-out effort on the court remain emblematic of the resilient spirit that defines the best of Colorado's basketball talent.
- Birthplace: Boulder, Colorado
- 16
Tom Hovasse
Age: 58Tom Hovasse, a versatile forward with an unwavering competitive drive, consistently demonstrated his skill and determination on the court throughout his career. His combination of size, shooting prowess, and gritty play made him a valuable asset to his teams, as he was always willing to fight for loose balls and contribute in any way possible. Hovasse's dogged approach to the game stands as an enduring symbol of the tenacity and heart that have come to embody Colorado basketball.
- Birthplace: Durango, Colorado
- 17
Nick Fazekas, a skilled big man who boasted an uncanny ability to score from anywhere on the court, continually showcased his versatility and adaptability as a player. Equipped with a soft shooting touch and a keen sense of timing, Fazekas was a formidable force in both the post and on the perimeter, causing matchup problems for opposing defenses. His diverse skill set and hunger for success make him yet another standout example of the talented athletes that have emerged from Colorado.
- Birthplace: Arvada, Colorado
- Position: Small forward, Power forward, Center
- 18
Bob Doll
Dec. at 40 (1919-1959)Bob Doll, an agile and crafty forward, possessed a wealth of basketball knowledge and court awareness that helped elevate his game and those of his teammates. Known for his ability to read defenses and exploit their weaknesses, Doll demonstrated an innate understanding of the game that extended well beyond his physical talents. As a notable figure among Colorado's basketball legends, Doll's cerebral approach to the game serves as a shining example of the intellect and passion that drives the state's athletes.
- Birthplace: Steamboat Springs, Colorado
- Position: Center
- 19
Grant Gondrezick
Age: 62Grant Gondrezick, following in the footsteps of his brother Glen, embodied a similar style of play defined by intensity and tenacity on both ends of the court. As a defense-oriented guard, Gondrezick thrived in high-pressure situations, utilizing his quick hands and relentless work ethic to hound opponents and disrupt their offensive flow. The Gondrezick name has become synonymous with hard-nosed, passionate basketball in Colorado, and Grant's contributions to that legacy will not be forgotten.
- Birthplace: Boulder, Colorado
- 20
Ronnie Shavlik, a dominant force in the post with an unyielding competitive spirit, left a lasting mark on the basketball landscape with his consistent strong play down low. Shavlik combined his impressive physical gifts with a keen understanding of positioning, timing, and footwork to become a feared interior presence. His impact on the game is a shining example of the raw talent and dedication to excellence that have come to define Colorado's basketball lineage.
- Birthplace: Denver, Colorado
- Position: Center
- 21
Eric McWilliams
Age: 75Eric McWilliams, an imposing physical presence on the court, used his size and strength to great effect as a forceful rebounder and shot-blocker. His relentless pursuit of loose balls and unyielding determination to protect the paint made him an invaluable asset to his teams. McWilliams' fierce competitive spirit and unwavering commitment to hard-nosed play stand as a testament to the grit and toughness that define Colorado's basketball talent.
- Birthplace: Denver, Colorado
