Last Updated on April 27, 2026 by Mat Diekhake

The Oregon State Beavers men’s basketball program has produced a respectable group of NBA talent, with 30+ NBA/ABA players in its history. While often flying under the radar, Oregon State has developed All-Stars, long-tenured pros, and high-impact role players across multiple eras.

Best NBA Players From Oregon State Beavers (All-Time Greats)

  • Gary Payton – Hall of Famer, 9× All-Star, and one of the greatest defensive guards ever
  • A.C. Green – 3× NBA Champion and one of the most durable players in NBA history
  • Steve Johnson – NBA All-Star and efficient scoring big man
  • Brent Barry – NBA champion and elite shooter/playmaker
  • Sidney Wicks – NBA Rookie of the Year and All-Star

Oregon State’s top players are defined by elite defense, versatility, and longevity, highlighted by Gary Payton’s all-time greatness.

Notable Oregon State Players in the NBA (Modern Era)

  • Gary Payton II
  • Tres Tinkle
  • Jared Cunningham
  • Ethan Thompson

Oregon State continues to produce defensive-minded guards and versatile wings, with Gary Payton II emerging as a key modern contributor.

Full List of Oregon State Beavers NBA Players

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

  • Gary Payton
  • Gary Payton II
  • A.C. Green
  • Brent Barry
  • Steve Johnson
  • Sidney Wicks
  • Lester Conner
  • Charlie Sitton
  • Erick Green
  • Jared Cunningham
  • Ethan Thompson
  • Mel Counts
  • Jimmy Anderson
  • Mark Radford
  • Dave Gambee
  • Jay Carty
  • Scott Haskin
  • Ray Blume
  • Freeman Williams
  • Steve Pauly
  • Terry Baker
  • Red Rocha
  • Paul Valenti
  • John Mandic
  • Cliff Crandall
  • Norm Van Lier
  • Wally Walker
  • Ronnie Lee
  • Sam Weiss
  • Larry Holliday

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

Oregon State’s NBA Legacy

Oregon State’s NBA identity is built around defensive excellence and toughness, particularly in the backcourt. The program has produced:

  • A Hall of Fame legend (Gary Payton)
  • Multiple NBA champions
  • Several long-tenured contributors and specialists

Despite not being a consistent national contender, Oregon State has a strong track record of producing impactful NBA players, especially defensively.

Summary

  • Oregon State has produced 30+ NBA players
  • Features a Hall of Famer and multiple champions
  • Known for defense and toughness
  • Consistent pipeline of role players and specialists