As the title says, who’s the most successful or greatest “hometown hero” in the NBA? A player that played high school, college, and professional basketball in their home state/city, AND even managed to get a few accolades along the way, such as All-Stars, Rings, scoring titles, etc.

The closest and best I can think of is LeBron, skipping over college to play for the Cavs and the rest is history 🤷‍♂️ but is there anyone else that had just as good as a career for their hometowns?

EDIT: and when talking accolades they gained, I believe only the ones they got while playing for said team should apply for this discussion.

  • MercuryStreet@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    1 year ago

    Yeah, LeBron no doubt.

    I think Derrick Rose is honorable mention in this case if he played more yrs and won more with the Bulls. Aside from college ball, he played almost his entire basketball career in the Chicago area.

  • boozle222@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    1 year ago

    LeBron for sure

    Does Hakeem count? Nigerian born but has always had Houston as a home since his college days. No high school, but there just feels like a close tie.

  • StandardMammoth7085@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    1 year ago

    Udonis Haslem played high school ball in Miami, went to the University of Florida, and his only pro team was Miami. Three time champion, and played a huge role in the 2006 win. I think this hews the closest in spirit to the original question, since LeBron has played much of his career outside of Ohio.