(this article appeared on www.collegehoopsnet.com on November 24, 2005)

As I was thinking about the 2005-2006 class of collegiate point guards, the same thought kept leaking into my brain… Where would these guys rank in the context of all-time greats?

How would UT’s Daniel Gibson match-up with B.J. Armstrong? Or, for that matter, B.J. Tyler? Is Derek Raivio another Matt Santangelo or Blake Stepp or Dan Dickau? Ohio’s Jeremy Fears is a small school guy with some big school pub. Does that mean he’ll be the next Speedy Claxton?

When these types of thoughts leak in my head, they don’t just settle in. They evolve. The original question was a mogwai and someone just fed it after midnight.

So here’s what I reasoned…

The only way to rank players is to place them against each other in a similar era (1990-2005). There’s no point in comparing Chris Paul to someone who used a two-handed set shot. Even enshrined greats, like Isiah Thomas, are off-limits. While I have no doubt Thomas would tear up almost everyone on my list, he still played in an entirely different era.

The addition of the three-point line, a billion-dollar NCAA Tournament facelift, and an infestation of websites, radio shows, and television programs dissecting players in just about every conference are just a few of the many alterations to the college game over the last 20 years. This doesn’t mean modern players are better. It just means they are playing a different game. Think about it; even the idea of a “point” guard is a fairly modern revelation.

So, as far as I was concerned, if someone played their last season in 1990, they’re eligible for my list. Meanwhile, “active” players are just too hard to assess. Some of today’s stars will crack this list and some will fizzle. No use trying to project the current crop when a decade and a half of point guards has already set their careers in stone.

Once I figured out my parameters, it simply became a matter of figuring out how many I should rank. Top 15 in the last 15 years seemed about right. But Top 15 turned into Top 50 and then into Top 100. Separating the first ten was difficult, so you can only imagine how hard it was to decipher between #72 and #91.

Just think, this all started when I thought about comparing Daniel Gibson and B.J. Armstrong. And now neither one is eligible for my list… Blame it on the gremlins…

Also, for the purposes of accurate representation, all professional accomplishments are worthless. Some phenomenal college point guards struggled to make pro rosters. Conversely, some improved dramatically upon the completion of their careers. And some even found the pro game better suited for their skill set. While it is difficult to separate those successes, I tried envisioning a world in which none of these players touched a basketball after they left school. It may help if you suspend your disbelief long enough to do the same. Just keep in mind, this list is strictly about point guard play at the college level.

The research process was endless as the data compilation took hours upon hours, as did the process of ranking them. Let the debate begin...

The Top 100 list is based upon the following factors:

Balance
Assists are important, but a true point guard must control every aspect of the game. Balanced point guards score and distribute with equal proficiency. They can rebound well and play solid defense. Also, they must establish the appropriate tempo needed to foster team success.

Statistical Accomplishments
Statistical comparisons weed out biased opinions. Career stats can also establish a framework for judging. However, it is important to remember that a player’s statistical output can vary greatly depending on his team’s style of play and the competition an individual faced. Thus, this factor weighed less heavily into the decision-making process.

Consistency
Excellence over four years meant more than excellence over one or two years. The longer a player stays in school, the longer defenses have to find ways to combat the talents of elite players. Some of the greatest point guards of all-time stayed in school briefly, yet these rankings reward a high-level of play for a substantial period of time.

Team Accomplishments
The goals of the team should always trump those of an individual competitor. Evaluating team success can make it easier to separate similarly-talented players. The key was carefully examining how well the players met and surpassed the expectations set for their team. And, of course, measuring how much of that team success was a direct result of the individual’s play. A great point guard can often determine whether a team wins a game or wins an NCAA Championship.

TOP 100 POINT GUARDS IN THE MODERN ERA (1990 – 2005)
(all statistics are from the player’s final season)

100. Tyronn Lue (Nebraska, 1998) 21.2 ppg, 4.8 apg (4.1 tpg), 4.3 rpg, 2.0 spg, 44% FG, 78 3-FG

Speedy scorer and distributor. Left school after three seasons, but led Cornhuskers in assists every season. One-time First-Team All-Big 12 selection and one-time Second-Team All-Big 12 selection.

99. Jason Williams (Florida, 1998) 17.1 ppg, 6.7 apg (4.4 tpg), 3.0 rpg, 2.7 spg, 44% FG, 54 3-FG

Remarkable ball-handler and passer. Transferred from Marshall and discipline problems ended Gator career early. Set school-record with 17 assists in one game. Honorable Mention All-SEC selection.

98. Chris Herren (Fresno State, 1999) 11.4 ppg, 7.2 apg (2.8 tpg), 1.6 rpg, 1.0 spg, 44 % FG, 44 3-FG

Outstanding, well-rounded talent, but never took Bulldogs to NCAA Tournament. Boston College transfer. Two-time First-Team All-WAC performer. Left school ranked second on career assists list (465), despite playing just three seasons. Career was marred by injuries and substance abuse issues.

97. Marcus Banks (UNLV, 2003) 20.3 ppg, 5.5 apg (3.9 tpg), 3.3 rpg, 2.8 spg, 51% FG, 41 3-FG

Transferred from Dixie College. Played just two seasons for the Running Rebels. One-time First-Team All-Mountain West selection and one-time Second-Team All-Mountain West selection. Two-time Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year. Finished season second in conference in scoring, first in assists and steals. Oscar Robertson Trophy finalist. One-time Honorable Mention All-American selection.

96. Randy Woods (LaSalle, 1992) 27.3 ppg, 5.2 apg (3.6 tpg), 6.3 rpg, 2.4 spg, 42% FG, 121 3-FG

A top-notch scorer with fine shooting skills. In three seasons at sed Explorers to three postseason appearances in three seasons at school. MAAC Tournament MVP honoree. Two-time First-Team All-MAAC selection. Earned MAAC Player of the Year award. NCAA leader in total points (847). Big 5 MVP, two-time First-Team All-Big 5 selection, and one-time Second-Team All-Big 5 selection. One-time Honorable Mention All-American selection.

95. Adonis Jordan (Kansas, 1993) 12.1 ppg, 4.5 apg (1.7 tpg), 2.3 rpg, 1.9 spg, 46% FG, 65 3-FG

Solid playmaker and strong leader. Led Jayhawks to two Final Four appearances and one National Championship finals appearance. One-time First-Team All-Big Eight selection and one Honorable Mention All-American selection. Two-time NCAA Regional All-Tournament team member.

94. Travis Ford (Kentucky, 1994) 11.3 ppg, 5.8 apg (2.8 tpg), 2.8 rpg, 1.3 spg, 40% FG, 63 3-FG

Sweet-shooting, undersized leader. Transferred from Missouri. One-time First-Team All-SEC selection and a two-time SEC Tournament MVP. Led Wildcats to three straight NCAA Tournament appearances and one Final Four appearance. Earned NCAA Tournament Southeast Region MVP honors. Set school record with 3-pt field goals made in a season.

93. Negele Knight (Dayton, 1990) 22.8 ppg, 6.8 apg (3.1 tpg), 3.8 rpg, 1.7 spg, 50% FG, 71 3-FG

Underappreciated, clutch performer. Won or tied a game on team’s last possession 12 times on his career. Held 12 school records upon graduation. Honorable Mention All-American selection.

92. Brent Price (Oklahoma, 1992) 18.7 ppg, 6.2 apg (2.3 tpg), 3.7 rpg, 2.7 spg, 47% FG, 76 3-FG

Outstanding shooter and solid playmaker. Transferred from South Carolina. One-time First-Team All-Big Eight selection. Scored 56 points with NCAA-record 11 made 3-pt field goals in one game.

91. Kareem Reid (Arkansas, 1999) 10.4 ppg, 5.3 apg (2.1 tpg), 2.5 rpg, 1.7 spg, 40% FG, 36 3-FG

Quick, shifty scorer and creative playmaker. Ranks second all-time on SEC career assists list and first in school history. One-time Second-Team All-SEC selection. Started 117 games in his career.

90. John Lucas (Oklahoma State, 2005) 17.7 ppg, 4.1 apg (1.6 tpg), 2.5 rpg, 1.1 spg, 45% FG, 100 3-FG

Intelligent leader and outstanding shooter. Transfer from Baylor. Two-time First-Team All-Big 12 selection. Third highest on conference’s all-time career 3-pt field goals made list (280) and fifth on assists list (535). One-time Third-Team All-American selection. Led Cowboys to Final Four, earning NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player of East Regional honors.

89, Antonio Daniels (Bowling Green, 1997) 24.0 ppg, 6.8 apg (3.2 tpg), 2.8 rpg, 2.3 spg, 55% FG, 45 3-FG

Tall, efficient scorer with solid fundamentals. MAC Player of the Year, one-time First-Team All-MAC selection and one-time Second-Team All-MAC selection. Honorable Mention All-American honoree.

88. Lynn Greer (Temple, 2002) 23.2 ppg, 4.2 apg (3.4 tpg), 3.1 rpg, 1.7 spg, 40% FG, 95 3-FG

Sweet-shooting lefty and tough defensive player with solid fundamentals. Two-time First-Team All-Atlantic-10 selection. Atlantic-10 Tournament MVP. Finalist for Wooden and Naismith awards. One-time Honorable Mention All-American selection.

87. Chris Thomas (Notre Dame, 2005) 14.2 ppg, 6.7 apg (3.0 tpg), 5.0 rpg, 2.1 spg, 35% FG, 52 3-FG

Enigmatic player who produced for four straight seasons. Excellent shooter and creative ball-handler. Two-time Second-Team All-Big East selection and two-time Third-Team All-Big East selection. Two-time Honorable Mention All-American. School’s all-time career assists leader.

86. Aaron Miles (Kansas, 2005) 9.3 ppg, 7.2 apg (3.1 tpg), 3.5 rpg, 1.7 spg, 46% FG, 40 3-FG

Wonderful distributor, but rarely looked for his own offense. Led Jayhawks to four NCAA Tournament appearances, three Elite Eight appearances, two Final Four appearances, and one NCAA Championship final. All-time career assist leader in school and Big 12 history. Three-time All-Big 12 Defensive Team. One-time Second-Team All-Big 12 selection and one-time Third-Team All-Big 12 selection. Never finished a season with a double-digit scoring average.

85. Jarrett Jack (Georgia Tech, 2005) 15.5 ppg, 4.5 apg (3.4 tpg), 4.8 rpg, 1.8 spg, 51% FG, 46 3-FG

Strong, intelligent leader. In three seasons, earned one Second-Team All-ACC selection and one Third-Team All-ACC selection. Honorable Mention All-American honoree. Led Yellow Jackets to one National Championship game appearance.

84. Greg “Boo” Harvey (St. John’s, 1990) 16.5 ppg, 5.5 apg (2.8 tpg), 2.2 rpg, 1.8 spg, 45% FG, 46 3-FG

Scoring machine and fun playmaker. Transfer from San Jacinto JC. One-time First-Team All-Big East selection. Winner of the Frances Pomeroy Naismith Award.

83. Rashad Phillips (Detroit, 2001) 22.5 ppg, 4.1 apg (3.5 tpg), 2.5 rpg, 1.0 spg, 44% FG, 136 3-FG

Tiny, explosive scorer with strong leadership skills. Led Titans in scoring for three straight seasons and finished as school’s all-time career scoring leader. Two-time MCC Player of the Year honoree. Three-time First-Team All-MCC selection. Winner of the Frances Pomeroy Naismith Award and one-time Honorable Mention All-American selection.

82. Doug Overton (LaSalle, 1991) 22.3 ppg, 5.0 apg (3.6 tpg), 4.2 rpg, 2.0 spg, 45% FG, 54 3-FG

True leader, equally proficient at scoring and distributing. Led Explorers to a 30-2 record and three straight MAAC Tournament Championships. Three-time First-Team All-MAAC selection. Finished as school’s all-time career leader in assists (671) and steals (277). Three-time First-Team All-Big 5 selection.

81. Wayne Turner (Kentucky, 1999) 10.5 ppg, 3.9 apg (2.5 tpg), 2.8 rpg, 1.5 spg, 50% FG, 12 3-FG

Outstanding playmaker and defensive player with limited offensive game. NCAA Tournament Regional MVP and two-time NCAA Tournament All-Regional team selection. One-time Third-Team All-SEC selection, one-time SEC Tournament MVP, and two-time All-SEC Tournament team selection. Broke NCAA record for most career games played (151). All-time school leader in career assists. Won two National Championships (but did not play in one), led team to four Elite Eight appearances, and three National Championship games.

80. Reece Gaines (Louisville, 2003) 17.9 ppg, 5.0 apg (3.0 tpg), 2.9 rpg, 1.7 spg, 46% FG, 75 3-FG

Tall, athletic scorer with deep range. Led Cardinals in assists for three straight seasons. Two-time First-Team All-Conference USA selection. Third-Team All-American selection.

79. Jeryl Sasser (SMU, 2001) 17.0 ppg, 4.2 apg (2.1 tpg), 8.3 rpg, 1.4 spg, 39% FG, 35 3-FG

Great size and smooth all-around game, but shot inconsistently. Two-time First-Team All-WAC selection and two-time Second-Team All-WAC selection. Led Mustangs in scoring, assists, and rebounding. School’s all-time leading scorer and ranks top-five in assists, rebounds, steals, and 3-pt field goals made.

78. Dajuan Wagner (Memphis, 2002) 21.2 ppg, 3.6 apg (2.9 tpg), 2.5 rpg, 1.2 spg, 41% FG, 66 3-FG

Dynamic athlete who exploded in only season at school. Honored as First-Team All-Conference USA and Honorable Mention All-American. Led Tigers to NIT Championship, earning MVP honors. Set school’s single-season scoring record (762 points).

77. B.J. McKie (South Carolina, 1999) 17.3 ppg, 4.0 apg (3.3 tpg), 3.4 rpg, 1.6 spg, 41% FG, 51 3-FG

Super scorer and tough penetrator. Three-time Honorable Mention All-American selection. Three-time First-Team All-SEC. Finished career as Gamecocks all-time leading scorer.

76. Litterial Green (Georgia, 1992) 19.4 ppg, 4.0 apg (2.6 tpg), 3.0 rpg, 1.1 spg, 41% FG, 62 3-FG

Smooth, aggressive leader. Left school as Bulldogs all-time leader in career points and assists. Three-time All-SEC selection.

75. Jeff McInnis (North Carolina, 1996) 16.5 ppg, 5.5 apg (2.5 tpg), 2.6 rpg, 1.2 spg, 44% FG, 67 3-FG

Rangy, tempo-controlling leader. In just three seasons, earned one Second-Team All-ACC selection and one Third-Team All-ACC selection. Led Tar Heels to one Final Four appearance.

74. Earl Boykins (Eastern Michigan, 1998) 25.7 ppg, 5.5 apg (3.2 tpg), 2.3 rpg, 1.9 spg, 47% FG, 85 3-FG

Tiny, explosive, and strong performer. Two-time First-Team All-MAC selection and one-time Second-Team All-MAC selection. Nation’s second-leading scorer. Honorable Mention All-American selection. MAC Tournament MVP after breaking tournament scoring record. Winner of the Frances Pomeroy Naismith Award.

73. Blake Stepp (Gonzaga, 2004) 14.7 ppg, 6.9 apg (3.0 tpg), 4.6 rpg, 1.2 spg, 44% FG, 77 3-FG

Tall, pure shooting performer. Two-time WCC Player of the Year who led Bulldogs to a 107-23 record. One-time Second-Team All-American selection.

72. Craig “Speedy” Claxton (Hofstra, 2000) 22.8 ppg, 6.0 apg (3.3 tpg), 5.4 rpg, 3.3 spg, 47% FG, 51 3-FG

Lived up to the nickname with surprising athleticism. Two-time America East Player of the Year. Three-time First-Team All-America East selection and one-time Third-Team All-America East selection. School’s all-time leader in career assists and steals, also a 2,000-point scorer. Six straight games with at least 29 points. Led Flying Dutchmen to NCAA Tournament. Named honorable Mention All-American.

71. Shanta Rogers (George Washington, 1999) 20.7 ppg, 6.8 apg (3.6 tpg), 4.0 rpg, 3.6 spg, 41% FG, 86 3-FG

Tiny guard with remarkable strength and ability to dominate all aspects of the game. First player in Atlantic-10 history to lead league in scoring, assists, steals, and free throw percentage. Led the nation in steals. Earned All-Atlantic 10 First-Team, Second-Team, and Third-Team honors. Atlantic-10 Player of the Year. Honorable Mention All-American selection and winner of the Frances Pomeroy Naismith Award.

70. Nate Robinson (Washington, 2005) 16.4 ppg, 4.5 apg (2.0 tpg), 3.9 rpg, 1.7 spg, 46% FG, 62 3-FG

Ultra quick and incredibly athletic playmaker. Team’s leading in only three seasons at school. Earned two First-Team All-Pac-10 selections. One-time Third-Team All-American selection. Led Huskies to school record for wins in a season (29) and first-ever No. 1 seed in NCAA Tournament, advancing to the Sweet Sixteen. Wooden Award finalist.

69. Jerome Allen (Penn, 1995) 14.7 ppg, 5.7 apg (2.3 tpg), 4.8 rpg, 1.3 spg, 43% FG, 41 3-FG

Strong, intelligent leader of dominant mid-major school. Twice-named Ivy League Player of the Year. Three-time First-Team All-Ivy League selection. Led Quakers to three straight undefeated conference seasons and three straight NCAA Tournament appearances.

68. Kiwane Garris (Illinois, 1997) 19.4 ppg, 5.6 apg (2.5 tpg), 3.5 rpg, 1.6 spg, 40% FG, 76 3-FG

Equally proficient at penetrating, passing, defending, and shooting. One-time Honorable Mention All-American selection. Two-time First-Team All-Big Ten. Second in the conference in scoring and assists. Finished second all-time on school career scoring and assists lists.

67. Travis Diener (Marquette, 2005) 19.7 ppg, 7.0 apg (2.5 tpg), 3.9 rpg, 1.3 spg, 42% FG, 68 3-FG

Crafty playmaker with a soft touch. Two-time First-Team All-Conference USA selection and one-time Second-Team selection. First player in conference history to lead league in points and assists. Led Golden Eagles to one Final Four appearance.

66. Brandin Knight (Pittsburgh, 2003) 11.2 ppg, 6.3 apg (3.1 tpg), 3.5 rpg, 2.1 spg, 37% FG, 57 3-FG

Big East Player of the Year and Third-Team All-American as a junior. Wooden Award finalist. Excellent decision-maker and defensive player, yet often struggled to score.

65. B.J. Tyler (Texas, 1994) 22.8 ppg, 6.3 apg (3.5 tpg), 3.4 rpg, 3.1 spg, 44% FG, 99 3-FG

Ultra-quick fast break specialist. DePaul transfer was a big-time scorer, but had trouble in half-court sets. SWC Most Valuable Player and Third-Team All-American selection. Potential slowed down by substance abuse problems and injuries.

64. Vernell “Bimbo” Coles (Virginia Tech, 1990) 25.3 ppg, 3.9 apg (3.3 tpg), 4.7 rpg, 2.3 spg, 40% FG, 67 3-FG

Tough, aggressive scorer. Top career scorer in school and Metro Conference history. First player to ever lead Metro Conference in scoring for three straight seasons and the first player to lead conference in scoring and assists in the same season. One-time Honorable Mention All-American selection.

63. Pepe Sanchez (Temple, 2000) 5.6 ppg, 8.0 apg (2.1 tpg), 5.5 rpg, 3.4 spg, 32% FG, 27 3-FG

Extraordinary defensive player with exceptional passing and leadership skills. Poor shooter who rarely looked for his own offense. One-time Third-Team All-American selection. Two-time Atlantic-10 Defensive Player of the Year selection. Two-time First-Team All-Atlantic-10 selection and one-time Third-Team All-Atlantic-10 selection. First player in Atlantic-10 history to win Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year honors, despite missing eight games due to injury. Finished second all-time on NCAA career steals list. Member of the NCAA East Regional All-Tournament team.

62. Luke Ridnour (Oregon, 2003) 19.7 ppg, 6.6 apg (4.2 tpg), 3.4 rpg, 1.9 spg, 43% FG, 81 3-FG

Sweet-shooting, creative passer. Second player in conference history to earn Pac-10 Player of the Year and Pac-10 Tournament MVP honors in same season. Two-time First-Team All-Pac-10 selection. Two-time Honorable Mention All-American selection. Led Ducks to two Pac-10 Tournament Championships. Member of the All-NCAA Tournament Midwest Regional team.

61. Hollis Price (Oklahoma, 2003) 18.1 ppg, 2.8 apg (2.1 tpg), 2.7 rpg, 1.6 spg, 45% FG, 90 3-FG

Quick, skinny and consistent scorer. Two-time First-Team All-Big 12 honoree. Big 12 Tournament MVP and NCAA Tournament West Regional MVP. Wooden Award finalist. Led Sooners to school-record 111 wins, two Elite Eight appearances, and one Final Four appearance. One-time Second-Team All-American selection. More of a scorer than a true point guard.

60. Frank Williams (Illinois, 2002) 16.2 ppg, 4.4 apg (2.7 tpg), 4.7 rpg, 2.0 spg, 39% FG, 54 3-FG

Strong, crafty playmaker. Two-time First-Team All-Big Ten selection. Earned Big Ten Player of the Year honors. One-time Third-Team All-American selection and one-time Honorable Mention All-American selection. Finalist for Wooden and Naismith awards. Inconsistent play during junior season. Led team to one Sweet Sixteen appearance.

59. Travis Best (Georgia Tech, 1995) 20.2 ppg, 5.0 apg (2.3 tpg), 3.2 rpg, 2.0 spg, 45% FG, 73 3-FG

Darting, sweet-shooting lefty. Finished career as second player in ACC history with over 2,000 points and 600 assists. Honorable Mention All-American selection. Two-time Second-Team All-ACC selection and one-time Third-Team All-American selection. Did not take team to NCAA Tournament after sophomore year.

58. Chris Smith (Connecticut, 1992) 21.2 ppg, 3.7 apg (2.8 tpg) 3.3 rpg, 1.2 spg, 41% FG, 81 3-FG

Gutsy, high-scoring leader who revitalized Husky program. One-time First-Team All-Big East selection and two-time Second-Team All-Big East selection. Big East Tournament MVP. Finished as school’s all-time leading scorer and the Big East’s all-time leader in 3-pt field goals made.

57. Steve Henson (Kansas State, 1990) 17.4 ppg, 4.4 apg (2.3 tpg), 2.7 rpg, 1.9 spg, 45% FG, 93 3-FG

Phenomenal shooter with solid playmaking skills. NCAA-leader in free throw shooting percentage. Led the Wildcats to one Elite Eight appearance and four NCAA Tournament appearances. One-time First-Team All-Big Eight selection and two-time Honorable Mention All-American. Finished as school’s career leader in steals, assists, free throw percentage, and 3-pt field goals made.

56. Bobby Jackson (Minnesota, 1997) 15.3 ppg, 4.0 apg (2.3 tpg), 6.1 rpg, 2.1 spg, 44% FG, 31 3-FG

Defensive standout and gutsy leader. Big Ten Player of the Year and Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year. Led Golden Gophers to one Final Four appearance, earning MVP of Midwest Region and All-Final Four team honors. Wooden Award finalist was a one-time Second-Team All-American selection.

55. Andre Woolridge (Iowa, 1997) 20.2 ppg, 6.0 apg (3.9 tpg), 2.7 rpg, 1.4 spg, 46% FG, 58 3-FG

Quick scorer and playmaker. Nebraska-transfer holds Hawkeye records for assists in a season (193) and a career (575). First player to ever lead the Big Ten in scoring and assists. Two-time First-Team All-Big Ten selection and one-time Third-Team All-Big Ten selection. One-time Third-Team All-American selection.

54. Chauncey Billups (Colorado, 1997) 19.1 ppg, 4.8 apg (2.9 tpg), 4.9 rpg, 2.1 spg, 41% FG, 75 3-FG

Strong, intelligent well-rounded performer. Led Buffaloes to first NCAA Tournament appearance in 28 years. Recorded only triple-double in school history. Second-Team All-American selection and First-Team All-Big 12 selection.

53. Melvin Booker (Missouri, 1994) 18.1 ppg, 4.5 apg (2.7 tpg), 3.8 rpg, 1.3 spg, 50% FG, 66 3-FG

Fundamentally sound shooter and ball-handler, but lacked serious quickness. Led Tigers to the Elite Eight. Second-Team All-American selection and Big Eight Player of the Year. Two-time All-Big Eight selection.

52. Steve Blake (Maryland, 2003) 11.6 ppg, 7.1 apg (3.2 tpg), 3.7 rpg, 1.6 spg, 41% FG, 64 3-FG

Fine defender and superb passer. One-time First-Team All-ACC selection and one-time Third-Team selection. Led Terrapins to three Sweet Sixteen appearances, two Final Four appearances, and one NCAA Championship. Honorable Mention All-American selection. Led ACC in assists for three straight seasons. First player in ACC history with 1,000 points, 800 assists, 400 rebounds, and 200 steals.

51. DeJuan Wheat (Louisville, 1997) 17.3 ppg, 4.3 apg (2.6 tpg), 2.2 rpg, 1.9 spg, 43% FG, 97 3-FG

Sweet-shooting leader with strong defensive ability. One-time First-Team All-Metro Conference selection and one-time Second-Team All-Metro Conference selection. Metro Conference Tournament Most Outstanding Player. Two-time First-Team All-Conference USA. First player in NCAA history with 2,000 points, 450 assists, 300 3-pt field goals made, and 200 steals. Started a school-record 136 games for the Cardinals and led the team in scoring for three straight seasons.

50. Jason Gardner (Arizona, 2003) 14.8 ppg, 4.9 apg (2.8 tpg), 4.0 rpg, 1.8 spg, 39% FG, 66 3-FG

True leader with good distribution skills and excellent range. Left school as highest scoring guard in Wildcat history. Led team to a 107-29 record, one NCAA Tournament finals appearance, two Pac-10 Championships, and one Pac-10 Tournament title. School’s career leader in games played, games started, and 3-pt field goals made. Named Second-Team All-American and Wooden Award finalist. Winner of the Frances Pomeroy Naismith Award.

49. James “Scoonie” Penn (Ohio State, 2000) 15.6 ppg, 4.3 apg (2.6 tpg), 4.4 rpg, 2.2 spg, 39% FG, 65 3-FG

Strong-willed warrior with quick feet and a soft touch. Boston College transfer was a two-time Third-Team All-American selection. Big Ten Player of the Year and two-time First-Team All-Big Ten selection. Led Buckeyes to Final Four, earning NCAA South Region Most Outstanding Player honors. Winner of the Frances Pomeroy Naismith Award.

48. Elliot Perry (Memphis, 1991) 20.8 ppg, 4.6 apg (3.4 tpg), 3.5 rpg, 2.7 spg, 46% FG, 49 3-FG

Super-quick, rail-thin playmaker who excelled at pushing tempo. Only player in Metro Conference history with over 2,000 points and 500 assists. Led conference in scoring, assists, and steals. Led team in scoring, assists, and steals for three seasons in a row. Two-time First-Team All-Metro Conference selection.

47. Baron Davis (UCLA, 1999) 15.9 ppg, 5.1 apg (3.3 tpg), 3.6 rpg, 2.5 spg, 48% FG, 35 3-FG

Tough penetrator, sensational athlete, and special passer. In just two seasons, he missed a chance to be among elite because of an ACL tear. Third-Team All-American, despite sitting out four games due to an ACL tear.

46. Terrell Brandon (Oregon, 1991) 26.6 ppg, 5.0 apg (3.6 tpg), 3.6 rpg, 2.3 spg, 49% FG, 40 3-FG

Quietly dominated while rarely playing in front of television audiences. Played just two seasons, but amassed big-time statistics. Pac-10 Player of the Year, led the conference in scoring and steals.

45. Devin Harris (Wisconsin, 2004) 19.5 ppg, 4.4 apg (2.1 tpg), 4.3 rpg, 1.8 spg, 46% FG, 75 3-FG

Tremendous one-on-one defender and an efficient scorer. Big Ten Player of the Year and Second-Team All-American selection. Wooden Award finalist. Started every game of three-year career. Remarkable statistics considering the controlled, deliberate offense he played in.

44. Lee Mayberry (Arkansas, 1992) 15.2 ppg, 5.9 apg (1.6 tpg), 2.3 rpg, 2.2 spg, 49% FG, 63 3-FG

Quick, intelligent player who scored and distributed proficiently. Career record of 115-24. Led Razorbacks to three consecutive SWC regular season and Tournament titles, one Final Four appearance and one Elite Eight appearance. First-Team All-SEC selection and Third-Team All-American selection.

43. Tyus Edney (UCLA, 1995) 14.3 ppg, 6.8 apg (2.9 tpg), 3.1 rpg, 2.3 spg, 50% FG, 25 3-FG

Tiny speeding bullet was an excellent decision-maker. First player in Bruin history to amass 600 assists and 200 steals. Three-time First-Team All-Pac-10 selection. NCAA Tournament West Regional Most Outstanding Player. Winner of the Frances Pomeroy Naismith Award. Made game-winning shot in NCAA Tournament.

42. A.J. Guyton (Indiana, 2000) 19.7 ppg, 2.3 apg (2.4 tpg), 2.8 rpg, 1.0 spg, 46% FG, 72 3-FG

Clutch shooter and rugged defender who lacked major quickness. Wooden Award finalist, one-time First-Team All-American honoree and one-time Honorable Mention All-American honoree. Big Ten Player of the Year, two-time First-Team All-Big Ten selection and two-time Second-Team All-Big Ten selection.

41. Randolph Childress (Wake Forest, 1995) 20.1 ppg, 5.2 apg (3.9 tpg), 3.6 rpg, 1.5 spg, 44% FG, 94 3-FG

Deadly shooter with a killer instinct. ACC Tournament MVP after historic 3-game stretch (35.7 ppg, 6.3 apg, and 23 3-pt field goals). Three-time All-ACC selection. Second-Team All-American selection and Wooden Award finalist.

40. Steve Francis (Maryland, 1999) 17.0 ppg, 4.5 apg (3.0 tpg), 4.5 rpg, 2.8 spg, 52% FG, 45 3-FG

Dynamic talent who played three college seasons, but just one in Division I. Second-Team All-American selection. First-Team All-ACC and ACC All-Defensive Team. Led conference in steals.

39. Khalid El-Amin (Connecticut, 2000) 16.0 ppg, 5.2 apg (2.7 tpg), 3.1 rpg, 1.7 spg, 41% FG, 63 3-FG

Stocky, shifty penetrator with solid shooting stroke. Led Huskies to the National Championship, earning Final Four All-Tournament Team honors. Honorable Mention All-American selection in all three seasons at school. Named First-Team All-Big East, Second-Team All-Big East, and Third-Team All-Big East.

38. Tony Bennett (Wisonsin-GB) 20.2 ppg, 5.1 apg (2.6 tpg), 2.9 rpg, 1.2 spg, 53% FG, 95 3-FG

One of the finest shooters ever to play point guard in college, he also passed the ball extremely well. NCAA’s all-time leader in 3-pt field goal percentage (.497). Two-time Mid-Continent Player of the Year, finished as conference’s all-time leader in points and assists. Winner of the Frances Pomeroy Naismith Award. Career record 87-34 at the school.

37. Brevin Knight (Stanford, 1997) 16.3 ppg, 7.8 apg (3.4 tpg), 3.7 rpg, 2.8 spg, 41% FG, 45 3-FG

Tiny, swift playmaker. First-Team All-Pac-10 selection for three straight seasons. Set single-season school records in assists and steals. Second-Team All-American selection and Wooden Award finalist. Winner of the Frances Pomeroy Naismith Award.

36. Ed Cota (North Carolina, 2000) 10.1 ppg, 8.1 apg (3.0 tpg), 4.4 rpg, 1.1 spg, 44.3% FG, 33 3-FG

Excellent passer who drove Tar Heel offense for four years. Often struggled to score, but wasn’t asked to. Third all-time on NCAA career assists list. Led ACC in assists for four straight seasons. First player in NCAA history to amass 1,000 points, 1,000 assists, and 500 rebounds. Three-time NCAA Tournament All-Regional selection.

35. Deron Williams (Illinois, 2005) 12.5 ppg, 6.8 apg (2.8 tpg), 3.6 rpg, 1.0 spg, 43% FG, 68 3-FG

Strong, intelligent leader with remarkable vision and rare passing ability. Twice eaned First-Team All-Big Ten honors. First player in Big Ten history to lead conference in assists for three consecutive seasons. Led Illini to NCAA Tournament final, picking up Most Outstanding Player Award of the Chicago Regional and Final Four All-Tournament Team accolades. Second-Team All-American and Wooden Award finalist.

34. Bryce Drew (Valparaiso, 1998) 19.8 ppg, 5.0 apg (2.4 tpg), 4.2 rpg, 1.7 spg, 45% FG, 94 3-FG

Sweet shooter shouldered full offensive responsibilities and blossomed. Took fairytale team into Sweet 16 through now-famous buzzer-beater. Four straight Mid-Continent titles and Mid-Continent Tournament titles. Two-time Mid-Continent Player of the Year. Three-time All-Mid-Continent First-Team selection and three-time Mid-Continent Tournament MVP. Conference’s all-time leader in 3-pt made and steals.

33. Jamaal Tinsley (Iowa State, 2001) 14.3 ppg, 6.0 apg (3.8 tpg), 3.8 rpg, 2.5 spg, 40% FG, 37 3-FG

Strong, creative distributor who was great defensively. Mount San Jacinto CC transfer who made outstanding contributions in just two years with Cyclones. AP National Player of the Year runner-up. Second-Team All-American selection. Big 12 Player of the Year. Two-time First-Team All-Big 12 honoree and two-time All-Big 12 Defensive Team honoree.

32. Nick Van Exel (Cincinnati, 1993) 18.3 ppg, 4.5 apg (2.6 tpg), 2.4 rpg, 1.8 spg, 39% FG, 85 3-FG

Transfer from Trinity Valley CC exploded late into his college career. Great long-range shooter who played with a lot of heart. Third-Team All-American and Wooden Award finalist. Led Bearcats to one Final Four appearance and one Elite Eight appearance.

31. Dan Dickau (Gonzaga, 2002) 21.0 ppg, 4.7 apg (2.9 tpg), 3.0 rpg, 0.8 spg, 44% FG, 117 3-FG

Washington-tranfer utilized deep range and slick ball-handling skills to lead Bulldogs high in national rankings. Two-time First-Team All-WCC selection and two-time MVP of the WCC Tournament. Wooden and Naismith Award finalist. First-Team All-American, first selection in school history.

30. Raymond Felton (North Carolina, 2005) 12.9 ppg, 6.9 apg (3.6 tpg), 4.3 rpg, 2.0 spg, 46% FG, 70 3-FG

Speedy, athletic, and intelligent. Natural point guard skills and a tough competitor. Bob Cousy Collegiate Point Guard of the Year and Third-Team All-American selection. Led team to National Championship, earning Final Four All-Tournament Team honors. Garnered one First-Team All-ACC selection and two Third-Team All-ACC selections in three seasons.

29. Kirk Hinrich (Kansas, 2003) 17.3 ppg, 3.5 apg (2.2 tpg), 3.8 rpg, 1.9 spg, 48% FG, 89 3-FG

Aggressive performer, excellent shooter, and tough defensively. One Third-Team All-American selection and one Honorable Mention All-American selection. Wooden Award finalist. Final Four All-Tournament Team selection. Led Jayhawks to back-to-back Final Four appearances and started 118 games in his career.

28. Eric Murdock (Providence, 1991) 25.6 ppg, 4.6 apg (3.7 tpg), 5.3 rpg, 3.5 spg, 44% FG, 56 3-FG

Phenomenal defensive player and a prolific scorer. Left Friars as NCAA’s all-time career steals leader, also set Big East records for most points in conference games in a season (435) and most points in a conference game (48). One-time Second-Team All-American selection and two-time Honorable Mention All-American selection. Wooden Award finalist.

27. Jason Terry (Arizona, 1999) 21.9 ppg, 5.5 apg (4.1 tpg), 3.3 rpg, 2.8 spg, 44% FG, 76 3-FG

Skinny, ultra-quick scorer with a silky-smooth feel for the game. First-Team All-American selection. Pac-10 Player of the Year. Only player in school history with over 1,000 career points and 200 career steals. Honored as National Player of the Year by Sports Illustrated, Chevrolet, and Basketball Times. Wooden Award finalist.

26. Troy Bell (Boston College, 2003) 25.2 ppg, 3.7 apg (2.5 tpg), 4.6 rpg, 2.3 spg, 44% FG, 106 3-FG

Tremendous scorer and quick defensive player who put BC program back in the national spotlight. Two-time Second-Team All-American selection and one-time Honorable Mention All-American selection. Wooden Award finalist. Two-time Big East Player of the Year. Second-leading scorer in Big East history.

25. Rumeal Robinson (Michigan, 1990) 19.2 ppg, 6.1 apg (4.0 tpg), 4.2 rpg, 1.4 spg, 49% FG, 48 3-FG

Crafty, and very difficult to defend, but liked to score more than pass. Final Four All-Tournament team selection after nailing two clutch free throws to seal a National Championship. Second-Team All-American.

24. Steve Nash (Santa Clara, 1996) 17.0 ppg, 6.0 apg (3.6 tpg), 3.6 rpg, 1.3 spg, 43% FG, 63 3-FG

Fun penetrator who excelled in pressure situations. Burst onto spotlight as a frosh, winning MVP of WCC Tournament and hitting six straight free throws in last 31 seconds to stun Arizona in NCAA Tournament. Two-time WCC Player of the Year and two-time Wooden Award finalist. Honorable Mention All-American.

23. Jalen Rose (Michigan, 1994) 19.9 ppg, 3.9 apg (2.7 tpg), 5.7 rpg, 1.2 spg, 46% FG, 55 3-FG

Tall, lanky guard with extraordinary talent. Multi-dimensional scorer. Second-Team All-American selection and Wooden Award finalist. Led team in assists three times and scoring twice. Made two NCAA finals appearances. Scored 34 points off the bench in the only game he didn’t start.

22. Walt Williams (Maryland, 1992) 26.8 ppg, 3.6 apg (3.8 tpg), 5.6 rpg, 2.1 spg, 47% FG, 89 3-FG

Known for the high socks, “The Wizard” passed and handled the ball extremely well for his size. Scored at least 20 points in 19 straight games and at least 30 points in seven straight. Would have received more recognition nationally, but school was on probation. Second-Team All-American and Wooden Award finalist. Left school as Maryland’s all-time career leader in points and assists.

21. Steve Logan (Cincinnati, 2002) 22.0 ppg, 5.3 apg (2.5 tpg), 3.1 rpg, 0.9 spg, 46% FG, 86 3-FG

Tough, creative leader. Two-time Conference USA Player of the Year. Wooden Award finalist, National Player of the Year honoree from FoxSports.com and CNN/SI.com. One-time First-Team All-American selection and one-time Honorable Mention All-American selection. Winner of the Frances Pomeroy Naismith Award. Most victories (111) in Bearcat history.

20. Stephon Marbury (Georgia Tech, 1996) 18.9 ppg, 4.5 apg (3.2 tpg), 3.1 rpg, 1.8 spg, 46% FG, 88 3-FG

Explosive leader ranks among the most accomplished one-year players in NCAA history. Just the fifth freshman in conference history to be named First-Team All-ACC. Third-Team All-American, Wooden Award finalist, and All-ACC Tournament selection.

19. Andre Miller (Utah, 1999) 15.8 ppg, 5.6 apg (2.8 tpg), 5.4 rpg, 2.5 spg, 49% FG, 22 3-FG

Tough, defensive-minded guard who guided team to one NCAA Tournament final appearance and one Elite Eight appearance. Final Four All-Tournament Team selection after triple-double against Arizona in West Regional final. WAC Player of the Year. One-time First-Team All-American and one-time Honorable Mention All-American. Wooden Award finalist.

18. Chris Corchiani (NC State, 1991) 16.3 ppg, 9.6 apg (3.8 tpg), 2.5 rpg, 2.9 spg, 47% FG, 51 3-FG

Consisent performer and phenomenal distributor. Led nation in assists, ranks second on NCAA all-time career assists list (1038), and fourth on career assists per game (8.4 apg). Third-Team All-American selection.

17. Chris Paul (Wake Forest, 2005) 15.3 ppg, 6.6 apg (2.8 tpg), 4.5 rpg, 2.4 spg, 45% FG, 46 3-FG

Highly-efficient producer offensively and a lock-down force defensively. Played just two seasons, yet still earned First-Team All-American honors and was a finalist for the Wooden and Naismith Awards. Led conference in assist-to-turnover ration (2.4:1) and steals (2.4 spg). Two-time member of the All-ACC Defensive Team.

16. Damon Stoudamire (Arizona, 1995) 22.8 ppg, 7.3 apg (4.6 tpg), 4.3 rpg, 1.7 spg, 48% FG, 112 3-FG

Sweet-shooting lead guard who excelled at taking over games. First-Team All-American and Wooden Award finalist, and three-time All-Pac-10 selection. Guided Wildcats to two Pac-10 titles and one Final Four appearance. First player in Pac-10 history to lead the conference in scoring and assists.

15. Allen Iverson (Georgetown, 1996) 25.0 ppg, 4.7 apg (3.8 tpg), 3.8 rpg, 3.4 spg, 48% FG, 87 3-FG

Prolific scorer and tremendous competitor literally expanded John Thompson’s options as a coach. In just two seasons, he garnered First-Team All-American honors and two Big East Defensive Player of the Year awards. Wooden Award finalist. School record-holder for most single-season points (926), field goals made (312), 3-pt field goals made (87), steals (124) , and minutes played (1,214).

14. Mike Bibby (Arizona, 1998) 17.2 ppg, 5.7 apg (2.2 tpg), 3.0 rpg, 2.4 spg, 46% FG, 77 3-FG

Do-it-all guard scored, dished, and defended with equal proficiency, yet played just two seasons. Burst onto the national scene as a freshman, leading the Wildcats to the National Championship and picking up All-Southeast Regional honors along the way. Led another Wildcat team to the Elite Eight. Wooden Award finalist was a Pac-10 Player of the Year and a First-Team All-American.

13. Greg Anthony (UNLV, 1991) 11.6 ppg, 8.9 apg (1.9 tpg), 2.5 rpg, 2.4 spg, 46% FG, 45 3-FG

Transfer from Portland quarterbacked some the best college teams in the modern era, making two Final Four appearances and winning one National Championship. Dynamo distributor and top-notch defensive player. Two-time Honorable Mention All-American. Recorded 100 assists in NCAA Tournament play.

12. Keith Jennings (ETSU, 1991) 20.1 ppg, 9.1 apg (3.5 tpg), 3.9 rpg, 3.3 spg, 60% FG, 84 3-FG

Underappreciated, yet spectacular talent led the Buccaneers to three SoCon Championships and three NCAA Tournament berths. Second-team All-American and Frances Pomeroy Naismith Award winner. With over 20 ppg, 9 apg, 3 spg, and a national-best 59.2% 3-pt completion percentage, senior campaign remains one of the most remarkable seasons in NCAA history.

11. Jacque Vaughn (Kansas, 1997) 10.2 ppg, 6.2 apg (2.5 tpg), 2.4 rpg, 1.8 spg, 43% FG, 18 3-FG

Excellent passer and a true leader who always kept game at perfect pace. Two-time Wooden Award finalist. Two-time second-Team All-American. Big Eight Player of the Year. School’s all-time career assists leader.

10. Mateen Cleaves (Michigan State, 2000) 12.1 ppg, 6.9 apg (3.7 tpg), 1.8 rpg, 1.4 spg, 42% FG, 32 3-FG

Gutsy performer and tremendous leader. Statistics fail to show his true impact on games. Two-time Big Ten Player of the Year. Won NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player Award after leading team to National Championship. One-time First-Team All-American selection and two Third-Team All-American selections. Wooden Award finalist. Big Ten’s All-Time career assists leader. Member of ESPN’s Big Ten Silver Anniversary Team.

9. T.J. Ford (Texas, 2003) 15.0 ppg, 7.7 apg (3.2 tpg), 3.9 rpg, 2.0 spg, 40% FG, 18 3-FG

Lightning-quick playmaker led Longhorns to their first Final Four in over 50 years. Played just two seasons, earning First-Team All-American honors as a sophomore and Honorable Mention acclaim as a freshman. Naismith, Wooden, Sports Illustrated, and The Sporting News College Player of the Year award winner. First freshman to ever lead the nation in assists per game (8.3 apg). Member of ESPN’s Big 12 Silver Anniversary Team.

8. Chris Jackson (Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf) (LSU, 1990) 27.8 ppg, 3.2 apg (3.7 tpg), 2.5 rpg, 1.6 spg, 46% FG, 88 3-FG

Only stayed two seasons and wasn’t a traditional pass-first point guard, but was one of the most prolific collegiate scorers ever to play the position. Twice garnered First-Team All-American honors. Set freshman scoring records for points in a season (965), points scored in a game (55), and scoring average (30.2). Member of ESPN’s SEC Silver Anniversary Team.

7. Kenny Anderson (Georgia Tech, 1991) 25.9 ppg, 5.6 apg (3.8 tpg), 5.7 rpg, 3.0 spg, 44% FG, 65 3-FG

Truly exemplified skill set and craftsmanship of New York City point guard lineage. In just two seasons, he earned First-Team All-American acclaim and two Second-Team All-American selections by The Sporting News. More accomplished than Bobby Hurley through two seasons, he left school to become the youngest player in the NBA.

6. Jay Williams (Duke, 2002) 21.3 ppg, 5.3 apg (3.7 tpg), 3.5 rpg, 2.2 spg, 46% FG, 108 3-FG

Unstoppable offensive talent, he led the Blue Devils to a 95-13 record and a National Championship. Winner of the AP, Wooden, Naismith, and Chevrolet Player of the Year Awards. Two-time Wooden Award finalist. Two-time ACC scoring leader. Final Four All-Tournament team selection.

5. Anfernee Hardaway (Memphis, 1993) 22.8 ppg, 6.4 apg (3.4 tpg), 8.5 rpg, 2.4 spg, 48% FG, 73 3-FG

Multi-dimensional offensive game and a premier rebounder. After sitting out freshman year due to Prop-48 ruling, he was honored as the Great Midwest Conference Player of the Year in both of his seasons on campus. One-time First-Team All-American selection and a finalist for the Wooden and Naismith Awards. Member of ESPN’s Conference USA Silver Anniversary Team.

4. Jameer Nelson (St. Joseph’s, 2004) 20.6 ppg, 5.3 apg (2.8 tpg), 3.0 spg, 48% FG, 73 3-FG

Controlled games both offensively and defensively during his senior year and led the Hawks to an undefeated regular season. AP, Naismith, Wooden, Rupp, Robertson, and Chevrolet Award winner as the College Player of the Year. Earned A-10 Player of the Week honors eight times during his senior season. One-time First-Team All-American selection. Member of ESPN’s A-10 Silver Anniversary Team.

3. Jason Kidd (California, 1994) 16.7 ppg, 9.1 apg (4.3 tpg), 6.9 rpg, 3.1 spg, 47% FG, 51 3-FG

There has never been a better passer or defender to play point guard at the college level. Only drawback is that he only played two seasons. First-Team All-American selection and led the nation in assists. He broke the Pac-10 steals record as a freshman and was the first sophomore to earned Pac-10 Player of the Year honors. Wooden Award finalist.

2. Bobby Hurley (Duke, 1993) 17.0 ppg, 8.2 apg (3.4 tpg), 2.6 rpg, 1.5 spg, 42% FG, 88 3-FG

Picture-perfect point guard is the NCAA’s all-time assist leader. Possibly the best player in NCAA Tournament history, he led Blue Devils to two NCAA Championships and three appearances in the final game. Winner of tournament’s Most Outstanding Player award and two-time member of All-Tournament Team. One-time First-Team All-American selection and one-time Third-Team All-American selection.

1. Gary Payton (Oregon State, 1990) 25.7 ppg, 8.1 apg (3.7 tpg), 4.7 rpg, 3.4 spg, 50% FG, 52 3-FG

Truly dominant lead guard with no weaknesses. Sports Illustrated College Player of the Year honoree. Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year. Led Beavers to one Pac-10 Championship, three 20-win seasons, three NCAA Tournament appearances, and one NIT appearance. Three-time All-Pac-10 selection and a member of the Pac-10 All-Decade Team. One-time First-Team All-American selection. Finished second on the NCAA all-time career assists and steals lists. All-time leading scorer in school history. Wooden Award runner-up.