In the wild, ever-changing world of college sports, Kansas State University just keeps popping up in the headlines. Their athletes are making waves—again.
Lately, it’s former K-State forward Dean Wade grabbing all the attention. He just inked a massive four-year, $39 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers.
This kind of news always gets people talking. Suddenly, everyone’s debating which K-State alumni have had the most impressive NBA careers.
So, who really left their mark? Let’s wander through some of the top K-State players who’ve made it big in the NBA.
The Rise of Dean Wade
Dean Wade’s path from Kansas State to the NBA is honestly pretty inspiring. He was a force in college, and since then, he’s just kept climbing.
Now, with his new deal in Philly, Wade’s set for life—and that’s not even the whole story. He’s already racked up 1,824 career points, and he’s not done yet.
It’s wild to think he could end up among the top K-State scorers in NBA history. Feels like he’s just getting started, doesn’t it?
Wade’s Impact on K-State Basketball
Back at Kansas State, Wade wasn’t just good—he was everywhere. The guy could do a little bit of everything and scored when it mattered.
He helped lead the Wildcats to some big wins. Now, with all he’s accomplished, it’s clear K-State knows how to grow real talent.
Top K-State Scorers in NBA History
Dean Wade’s rise makes you wonder about the others who came before him. Let’s check out a few K-State grads who piled up points and left their stamp on the league.
Ed Nealy
Ed Nealy kicked off his NBA career in the 1982-83 season with the Kansas City Kings. Over ten years, he bounced around—Chicago, Phoenix, San Antonio, Golden State.
He put up 1,451 points. Not bad for a guy who was never the flashiest player on the court.
Rodney McGruder
Rodney McGruder never really became a star, but you have to respect his grind. After leaving K-State in 2013, he finally made it to the NBA with the Miami Heat in 2016.
He later played for the Clippers and Pistons, and by the time he was done, he’d scored 1,825 points. Not everyone gets that far, honestly.
Lew Hitch
Lew Hitch played in the NBA from 1952 to 1957. He managed to rack up 2,075 points along the way.
He won two NBA championships with the Minneapolis Lakers. People still remember him, especially around K-State.
Willie Murrell
Willie Murrell led the Wildcats to the Final Four back in 1964. In the pros, he scored 2,988 points.
He was all about hustle and heart—one of those players you don’t forget.
Mike Evans
Mike Evans used to be K-State’s all-time leading scorer until 2011. He put up 4,531 points in a nine-year NBA career.
He played for the Spurs, Bucks, Cavs, and Nuggets. Everywhere he went, he made an impact, even if people don’t talk about him enough now.
Michael Beasley
Michael Beasley—now there’s a guy who could score in his sleep. He finished his NBA run with 7,568 points.
Drafted second overall by the Miami Heat, Beasley bounced around the league but always found ways to put up numbers. He’s definitely one of the most talented players to wear a K-State jersey.
Bob Boozer
Bob Boozer was a force at K-State and kept it going in the NBA. Drafted first overall in 1959, he scored 12,964 points and won a ring with the Milwaukee Bucks in 1971.
He even made the NBA All-Star team in 1968. Boozer’s name still carries weight in K-State basketball circles.
Rolando Blackman
Rolando Blackman sits second on K-State’s NBA scoring list, with 17,623 points. Drafted ninth overall by Dallas in 1981, he spent most of his career with the Mavericks, then finished with the Knicks.
Blackman was consistent, smooth, and just plain tough to guard. He’s up there with the league’s best, if you ask me.
Mitch Richmond
And then there’s Mitch Richmond, the top K-State scorer in NBA history. He poured in 20,497 points over his career.
Richmond played for the Warriors, Kings, Wizards, and Lakers. Six-time All-Star, 1989 Rookie of the Year—his resume’s stacked.
His scoring total puts him 53rd all-time in the NBA, ahead of some huge names. That’s something to brag about, right?
Conclusion
Kansas State University sure knows how to turn out some impressive basketball talent. Just look at Dean Wade, who recently signed with the Philadelphia 76ers.
And of course, you can’t forget Mitch Richmond and his legendary NBA run. K-State alumni have left their mark on the game, no doubt about it.
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