Last Updated on April 27, 2026 by Mat Diekhake
The California Golden Bears men’s basketball program has produced a strong NBA pipeline, with around 35–40+ NBA/ABA players throughout its history. Known for developing elite guards and high-level scorers, Cal has produced Hall of Fame talent, All-Stars, and multiple high draft picks.
Best NBA Players From California Golden Bears (All-Time Greats)
- Jason Kidd – Hall of Famer, 10× All-Star, and NBA champion
- Kevin Johnson – 3× All-Star and one of the best point guards of his era
- Jaylen Brown – NBA champion and All-Star wing
- Shareef Abdur-Rahim – All-Star and elite scorer in his prime
- Phil Chenier – All-Star and high-level scorer
California’s top players are defined by elite guard play, scoring ability, and basketball IQ, with multiple franchise-level talents.
Notable California Players in the NBA (Modern Era)
- Jaylen Brown
- Jaylon Tyson
- Ivan Rabb
- Allen Crabbe
Cal continues to produce NBA-level talent, with players like Brown leading the modern era as high-impact stars. (California Golden Bears Athletics)
Full List of California Golden Bears NBA Players
Here are many of the California alumni who reached the NBA:
- Jason Kidd
- Kevin Johnson
- Jaylen Brown
- Shareef Abdur-Rahim
- Phil Chenier
- Darrall Imhoff
- Lamond Murray
- Ryan Anderson
- Leon Powe
- Jorge Gutiérrez
- Allen Crabbe
- Ivan Rabb
- Mark McNamara
- Kevin Gamble
- Michael Stewart
- Ed Gray
- Sean Lampley
- Shantay Legans
- Amit Tamir
- Rod Benson
- Patrick Christopher
- Jerome Randle
- Brandon Ashley
- Tyrone Wallace
- Jabari Bird
- Charlie Moore
- Matt Barnes
- Ryan Kelly
- Brian Hendrickson
- Russell White
- Jim Pollard
- Frankie Brian
- Bob Lavoy
- Gene Ransom
- Doug Hertenstein
- Dave Newmark
- Bill McClintock
- Larry Friend
(California has produced 38 NBA/ABA players in total.)
California’s NBA Legacy
California’s NBA identity is built around elite playmaking guards and versatile scorers. The program has produced:
- A Hall of Fame legend (Jason Kidd)
- Multiple All-Stars and franchise players
- Consistent development of NBA-level guards and wings
Despite inconsistent team success at the college level, Cal continues to produce high-end NBA talent, particularly at the guard position.
Summary
- California has produced 35–40+ NBA players
- Features a Hall of Famer and multiple All-Stars
- Known for elite guards and scorers
- Strong history of NBA-level playmakers