Before UConn became a powerhouse, Clifford Robinson helped lay the foundation for future success. He was a versatile forward who had a long and successful NBA career, proving that UConn could develop elite talent.
Caron Butler was a dominant two-way player, leading UConn to an Elite Eight appearance in 2002 before heading to a long NBA career. His toughness and leadership made him one of UConn’s best players ever.
Ben Gordon was a clutch performer, hitting big shots throughout the 2004 national championship run. His ability to shoot from anywhere made him one of the most dangerous guards in UConn history.
Chris Smith was the first superstar of the Jim Calhoun era, setting the foundation for UConn’s dominance. He remains the program’s all-time leading scorer and helped establish UConn as a national contender.
Shabazz Napier was the heart and soul of the 2014 national championship team, carrying UConn through March Madness with his elite shot-making and leadership. He was also a key player in the 2011 title run, making him one of only a few players with multiple championships.
Donyell Marshall was a scoring and defensive force, leading UConn to its first Elite Eight appearance under Jim Calhoun. He was a top-five NBA draft pick and one of the most dominant all-around players in school history.
Rip Hamilton led UConn to its first-ever national championship in 1999, hitting clutch shots and dominating offensively. His buzzer-beater against Washington in the Sweet 16 is one of the greatest shots in NCAA history.
Emeka Okafor was the anchor of UConn’s dominant 2004 national championship team, shutting down opponents with his elite shot-blocking and rebounding. He won National Defensive Player of the Year and was the first pick in the 2004 NBA Draft.
Ray Allen was one of the purest shooters in college basketball history and led UConn to Big East dominance. His game-winning shot against Georgetown in the 1996 Big East Tournament final remains iconic. He went on to become one of the greatest shooters in NBA history and a Hall of Famer.
Kemba Walker delivered one of the greatest March Madness performances ever in 2011, leading UConn to five wins in five days to win the Big East Tournament before carrying the team to a national championship. His legendary step-back buzzer-beater against Pitt and his clutch play throughout the tournament cemented his legacy as one of the greatest Huskies ever.
