Last Updated on April 28, 2026 by Mat Diekhake

The Tulsa Golden Hurricane men’s basketball program has produced a solid but under-the-radar NBA pipeline, with 20–30+ NBA/ABA players throughout its history. While not a major basketball powerhouse, Tulsa has developed several long-tenured professionals, an All-Star, and multiple modern-era contributors.

Best NBA Players From Tulsa Golden Hurricane (All-Time Greats)

  • Paul Pressey – NBA All-Star and one of the original “point forwards”
  • Bingo Smith – 10,000+ career points and Cavaliers legend
  • Jim King – NBA All-Star and high-level scorer
  • Steve Bracey – NBA champion with the Golden State Warriors
  • Michael Ruffin – Long-time NBA defensive big

Tulsa’s top-tier players are defined by versatility, defense, and longevity, with Pressey standing out as the program’s most accomplished NBA talent.

Notable Tulsa Players in the NBA (Modern Era)

  • Jordan Clarkson
  • Shaquille Harrison
  • DaQuan Jeffries
  • Jerome Jordan
  • Will Magnay

Jordan Clarkson is easily the most prominent modern Tulsa product, becoming an NBA Sixth Man of the Year and elite scorer off the bench.

Full List of Tulsa Golden Hurricane NBA Players

Here are many of the Tulsa alumni who reached the NBA:

  • Jordan Clarkson
  • Paul Pressey
  • Bingo Smith
  • Jim King
  • Steve Bracey
  • Joe Cooper
  • Al Cueto
  • Julian Hammond
  • Steve Harris
  • Shaquille Harrison
  • DaQuan Jeffries
  • Jerome Jordan
  • Neil Johnson
  • Carlton McKinney
  • Tracy Moore
  • Michael Ruffin
  • Shea Seals
  • Ken Smith
  • Ben Uzoh
  • Will Magnay

(Tulsa has produced 20–30+ NBA/ABA players overall.)

Tulsa’s NBA Legacy

Tulsa’s NBA identity is built on developing versatile, team-oriented players who carve out long professional careers. The program has produced:

  • An NBA All-Star (Paul Pressey)
  • A modern award winner (Jordan Clarkson – Sixth Man of the Year)
  • Multiple long-tenured role players and champions

Despite limited national spotlight, Tulsa consistently produces players who succeed through skill, IQ, and adaptability.

Summary

  • Tulsa has produced 20–30+ NBA players
  • Features an NBA All-Star and award winners
  • Known for versatile, high-IQ players
  • Strong history despite smaller program size