Last Updated on April 27, 2026 by Mat Diekhake

The Oklahoma State Cowboys men’s basketball program has a strong NBA history, producing 30+ NBA/ABA players, including Hall of Famers, All-Stars, and one of the greatest point guards of all time. The program is widely respected for developing elite guards and fundamentally sound players.

Best NBA Players From Oklahoma State Cowboys (All-Time Greats)

  • John Stockton – Hall of Fame point guard and the NBA’s all-time leader in assists and steals
  • Gary Payton – Hall of Famer, NBA champion, and Defensive Player of the Year
  • Marcus Smart – Defensive Player of the Year and elite guard defender
  • Tony Allen – One of the best perimeter defenders of his era
  • Desmond Mason – High-flying scorer and Slam Dunk Contest champion

Oklahoma State stands out for producing elite defensive guards and Hall of Fame talent, particularly at the point guard position.

Notable Oklahoma State Players in the NBA (Modern Era)

  • Cade Cunningham
  • Josh Green
  • Marcus Smart
  • Jawun Evans

Oklahoma State continues to produce NBA talent, highlighted by No. 1 overall pick Cade Cunningham and a steady pipeline of guards and wings.

Full List of Oklahoma State Cowboys NBA Players

Here are many of the Oklahoma State alumni who reached the NBA:

  • Bob Kurland
  • John Starks
  • Byron Houston
  • Richard Dumas
  • Bryant Reeves
  • Desmond Mason
  • Tony Allen
  • Joey Graham
  • James Anderson
  • Marcus Smart
  • Le’Bryan Nash
  • Jawun Evans
  • Phil Forte
  • Cameron McGriff
  • Cade Cunningham
  • Isaac Likekele
  • Rondel Walker
  • Avery Anderson III
  • Markel Brown
  • Doug Gottlieb
  • Stephen Graham
  • Daniel Orton
  • Gary Payton
  • JamesOn Curry
  • Josh Green

(Oklahoma State has produced 30+ NBA players overall.)

Oklahoma State’s NBA Legacy

Oklahoma State’s NBA identity is built on elite guard play and defensive excellence. The program has produced:

  • Multiple Hall of Famers (Stockton, Payton)
  • A No. 1 overall pick (Cade Cunningham)
  • Several Defensive Player of the Year–level talents

The Cowboys are especially known for developing tough, high-IQ guards who excel on both ends of the floor.

Summary

  • Oklahoma State has produced 30+ NBA players
  • Features Hall of Fame guards and a No. 1 pick
  • Known for elite defense and guard development
  • Strong historical and modern NBA impact