New York’s Best from High School to the NBA Andrew Horowitz

Basketball is a sport with an everlasting footprint in New York. There have been many great NY high school players who have transitioned their talents to the NBA level. Let’s examine the success of five active players from their high school playing days to the biggest stage of them all, the NBA.

Metta World Peace (Ron Artest)

High School – LaSalle Academy NBA

Known simply by Ron Artest in those days, he dominated high school basketball at Manhattan’s LaSalle Academy. In 1997, his senior year, he won New York’s Co-Player of the Year and led his team to an undefeated record on the way to the school’s first championship since 1971. With New York basketball in his blood, he would continue his journey at St. John’s University.

“He is the best player in the city and he shows it by the way he can completely take over a game.” – LaSalle Coach Bill Aberer

"He wants to be the best player in the game. That’s what drives him. That's what motivates him." – Legendary Coach Phil Jackson

An NBA veteran, the man formerly known as Ron Artest has always been passionate and defensive minded on the basketball court. While playing for six different teams, he has matured on and off the court throughout his 14 year NBA career. He won Defensive Player of the Year in 2004 and scored 20 points in Game seven to help the Lakers win the 2009-2010 NBA championship. Simply put, Metta World Peace’s NBA career has been defined by growth, liveliness, and defense.

Lance Stephenson

High School – Abraham Lincoln NBA

Elton Brand

High School – Peekskill NBA

I'm just going to keep working hard and prove everyone wrong." – Lance Stephenson

“The best I’ve ever had at Lincoln” – Abraham Lincoln Coach Dwayne Morton

Lance’s high school career is one of the best in New York State basketball history. Although there were some questions off the court, Lance’s accomplishments on the court speak for themselves. He led Abraham Lincoln High School to four straight championships, is the all-time leading scorer in NY high school basketball history, and was Mr. New York Basketball during his senior year. Lance will forever be in an elite class of scholastic basketball players.

Lance is in his fourth NBA season and his numbers and role have increased in each subsequent year. He is now a huge piece of a Pacers team that is currently on top of the Eastern Conference. He is leading the NBA in triple doubles during this 2013-2014 campaign and his scoring output has increased by about 6 points per game. The key for Lance is growth, and I believe he has the ability to be one of the top shooting guards in the league as his career progresses.

“Peekskill’s favorite son” – Former NY Governor George Pataki

“The ultimate goal is to win championships. That’s what I play for.” – Elton Brand

Danny Green

High School – St. Mary’s NBA

Elton Brand became a NY star during his time at Peekskill High School, averaging 40 points and 20 rebounds per game. With those outstanding numbers he was named Mr. New York State Basketball and led his team to two straight championships. Elton was humble, intelligent, and classy throughout his fantastic high school basketball career. It’s no surprise that his success translated to the NBA.

Averaging over 17 points and 9 rebounds per game throughout his NBA career, Elton has been a two time All-Star. Not only has he put up great career numbers, but his calm demeanor helped him win the NBA Sportsmanship Award in 2006. A true pro on and off the court, Elton is on the tail end of an extremely respectable NBA career. From my hometown, it is exciting to have seen Elton as one of the best power forwards in the game.

“Most guys do something extremely well and something extremely poor, but he's good in every area. He's more like an old-school player and that's what makes him so special." – St. Mary’s Coach Tim Cluess

“It was a pleasure watching Danny grow and develop this past season. We think he will only continue to mature and get better.” – Spurs Coach Gregg Popovich

Jimmer Fredette

High School – Glens Falls NBA

Danny led his school to a record of 74-5 and three conference titles during his tenure. Danny’s high school numbers are balanced across the board, averaging 20 points, 10 rebounds, four assists, and four blocked shots per game as a senior. Although Danny has been out of high school for nearly a decade, he has generously given back to the community by hosting basketball camps in his home-town.

In Danny’s first few years in the league he struggled to find consistent minutes. In his third year, he found a niche with the San Antonio Spurs and eventually took over as their starting shooting guard. The highlight of his career to this point was his dazzling three point display in 2013 NBA Finals. Danny hit a remarkable 27 three pointers in the series, and although the Spurs lost in seven games, his shooting prowess was widely discussed throughout the nation. Danny continues to grow and develop, even though this season has been up and down.

“To win all the awards he’s won and to get to that level, it’s unbelievable. It’s quite an accomplishment.” – Glens Falls Coach Anthony Hammel

“The guy can flat-out score with deep range, catch and shoot or off the dribble. He’s got a really special gift for scoring.” – Five Time NBA Champion Steve Kerr

Born in the city that hosts the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) Basketball Championship, Jimmer had an incredible high school career. In his senior year he recorded twelve 40 point performances and led his team to the Class A State Championship Game. Although his team fell short in that game, Jimmer finished his career ranking 6th on the New York State all-time scoring list. When he returned to Glenn Falls with his college team BYU, nearly half of the city showed up to watch him perform. His effervescent persona and his unbelievable scoring ability make him an extremely unique basketball talent.

Jimmer has only been in the NBA for three seasons, but he is yet to find the same magic that elevated him into the national spotlight in high school and college. He is a member of the struggling Sacramento Kings. Recently however, Jimmer had a career game against his hometown Knicks. He scored a career high 24 points while hitting six three pointers. Hopefully, Jimmer will elevate his scoring prowess at the NBA level as his career progresses.