1. Bruce Bowen
Bowen is arguably the best modern undrafted player in NBA history. After four years at Cal State Fullerton, the 6’7 wing was not selected in the 1993 draft. He spent time playing in France before finally getting a 10-day contract with the Miami Heat in March of 1997. Bowen played just one minute in his first NBA game, and it was the only action he saw that season.
He finally broke through that summer as he signed with the Boston Celtics. Bowen spent the next two seasons in Beantown, but his opportunities and production were limited, despite the team’s struggles. The 6’7 wing signed with the Philadelphia 76es in 1999, but it was not until he arrived in Miami that his career took off.
Bowen won three championships with the San Antonio Spurs and was named to the All-Defensive teams eight times, including five straight first-team nods. He is regarded as one of the best defenders of all time, despite not receiving over 22 minutes per game until after his 29th birthday.
Bruce Bowen got his first real NBA shot with the Boston Celtics, and they have found multiple undrafted gems over the years. Who will be the next name on this list? Stay tuned to find out.
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