Every year, some talented players are overlooked during the NBA Draft. While most focus goes to early picks, a few undrafted athletes show that determination and hard work can lead to success.
These players start their careers without much attention, facing challenges and doubts from teams and fans. However, through consistent effort, they prove themselves on the court and earn important roles in the league.
Their journey is a reminder that where someone begins does not decide how far they can go. Rising from the shadows, they build strong careers and inspire others with their dedication, skill, and belief in their own potential, even when others did not believe in them at first.
Hidden NBA Gems Who Broke Through Without Hearing Their Name Called
Ben Wallace
Wallace went undrafted in 1996 after playing college basketball at Virginia Union University, a small Division II HBCU. Despite his strong defensive skills, many doubted whether he could succeed at the NBA level.
He began his career with the Washington Wizards, then spent a season with the Orlando Magic before being traded to the Detroit Pistons. In Detroit, Wallace became one of the league’s toughest defenders and helped lead the team to a championship in 2004.
He earned four Defensive Player of the Year awards in five seasons, tying the NBA record held by Dikembe Mutombo and Rudy Gobert, and built a legacy as one of the best undrafted players in NBA history.
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Connie Hawkins
Hawkins was barred from the NBA early in his career after being wrongly linked to a point-shaving scandal during his freshman year at Iowa, even though NCAA rules made him ineligible to play at the time. Expelled and shut out of college basketball, he was also blocked by the NBA. He went on to win MVP in the ABL and spent years with the Harlem Globetrotters before finally joining the Phoenix Suns in 1969 at age 27.
Hawkins made an immediate impact, earning four All-Star selections and showing elite scoring ability. Though his NBA career started late, he still achieved Hall of Fame status despite limited years at the top level.
John Starks
Starks, an undrafted player, struggled early in his NBA career, first with the Golden State Warriors and then in the Chinese Basketball Association. However, his breakthrough came when he joined the New York Knicks, where he became an explosive scorer off the bench. Over his first four seasons, Starks evolved into a key player, earning an All-Star selection in 1994. He continued to contribute significantly to competitive Knicks teams, even winning Sixth Man of the Year in 1997. Despite never winning a championship, Starks’ athleticism and impact on the Knicks made him a memorable figure in NBA history.
Bruce Bowen
Bowen spent his first three professional seasons overseas before joining the Miami Heat for a brief stint in 1996-97. After a few years as a reserve, Bowen returned to Miami in 1999-00 and became a standout defender, earning an All-Defensive selection in his first full season.
He later gained recognition with the San Antonio Spurs, where he was known for his tough defense and efficient three-point shooting. Bowen played a crucial role in three Spurs championships, forming a formidable defensive duo with Tim Duncan.
Despite a slow start to his career, Bowen’s success as a defender and 3-and-D player makes him one of the NBA’s best undrafted stories.
Fred VanVleet
VanVleet, an undrafted guard standing at six feet tall, was overlooked during the 2016 NBA Draft. The Toronto Raptors signed him as a free agent to back up Kyle Lowry, Cory Joseph, and Delon Wright.
After a limited role as a rookie, VanVleet gained more playing time in 2017-18, showcasing his shooting and playmaking skills as the team’s sixth man. He played a key part in the Raptors’ 2019 championship, starting nearly 30 games.
Following Kawhi Leonard’s departure, VanVleet became the starter, leading the offense and earning an All-Star appearance. After Lowry’s departure, he took on a bigger role and signed a lucrative deal with the Houston Rockets in 2023, where he continues to thrive as a veteran leader.
Also Read: From Bench To Breakout: NBA Role Players Who Became Game Changers
