South Carolina basketball’s NBA Draft history: Which Gamecocks players have been selected.

South Carolina basketball has a proud legacy when it comes to the NBA Draft, with several Gamecocks leaving their mark on professional basketball after successful collegiate careers in Columbia. The program, known for its grit and tenacity, has produced a number of NBA-caliber athletes over the decades, each contributing in their own way to the Gamecocks’ history of excellence.

Some of the earliest contributions came during the program’s golden era under legendary coach Frank McGuire in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Under McGuire, South Carolina emerged as a national powerhouse, and that success translated into professional opportunities for many standout players. One of the most notable names from that era is John Roche, a dynamic guard known for his scoring ability and leadership. Roche was selected in the 1971 NBA Draft by the Phoenix Suns and went on to have a professional career that also included time in the ABA.

Another key figure from that same period is Tom Owens, a dominant forward/center who was drafted in 1971 by the Houston Rockets. Owens carved out a solid career in the ABA and NBA, showcasing the kind of size and skill that made him a force in college. His physicality and inside scoring were trademarks of McGuire’s hard-nosed teams.

South Carolina’s NBA pipeline remained active through the decades, producing versatile athletes capable of adapting to the pro game. One of the more modern Gamecocks to make an impact at the next level is Renaldo Balkman, who was selected by the New York Knicks with the 20th overall pick in the 2006 NBA Draft. Balkman, a tenacious defender and energetic forward, helped lead South Carolina to back-to-back NIT titles in 2005 and 2006. His athleticism, hustle, and length made him a valuable asset in the league for several seasons, and he later became a star in international play.

Another significant name is PJ Dozier, a key player from South Carolina’s historic Final Four run in 2017. Though he went undrafted in 2017, Dozier worked his way through the G League and earned multiple NBA contracts, including with the Boston Celtics and Denver Nuggets. His story is one of resilience and development, proving that NBA success can still be reached without hearing your name called on draft night.

Sindarius Thornwell, Dozier’s teammate on that 2017 Final Four squad, did hear his name in the draft. Thornwell was selected 48th overall in the second round of the 2017 NBA Draft by the Milwaukee Bucks and was later traded to the Los Angeles Clippers. Known for his strong frame and defensive prowess, Thornwell made an immediate impression as a tough, two-way guard. His leadership in college and his ability to contribute in spot minutes in the NBA underlined the value of experience and maturity at the professional level.

The Gamecocks have also seen their players enter the NBA ranks through other routes, including undrafted free agency and international play that later led to NBA opportunities. While the number of South Carolina players in the NBA might not match that of traditional blue-blood programs, the quality and character of those who made it reflect the culture and values instilled in Columbia.

Over the years, South Carolina has developed a reputation for producing players who are tough, team-oriented, and willing to do the dirty work. These are not always the players who attract the most attention on draft night, but they often prove to be valuable contributors in the long run. Their work ethic and discipline often earn them extended careers, both in the NBA and in top leagues around the world.

Bruce Ellington, another multi-sport athlete at South Carolina, took a unique route. While better known for his career in the NFL as a wide receiver, Ellington also played basketball for the Gamecocks and was talented enough to consider an NBA future before turning his attention to football. His time as a two-sport standout is a testament to the level of athleticism that South Carolina has brought into its basketball program.

In terms of recent developments, the current direction of the program under head coach Lamont Paris is promising. As the Gamecocks continue to build, there’s a renewed focus on player development and recruiting talent capable of making the leap to the professional level. With the SEC becoming one of the top pipelines to the NBA thanks to its growing competitiveness, South Carolina’s players are now under even brighter spotlights.

While the program has not yet had a lottery pick, its presence in the NBA Draft continues to grow, reflecting both improved recruiting and greater success on the court. The expectation now is that the next wave of Gamecocks will not only reach the NBA but make a lasting impact once they get there.

Looking back, it’s clear that South Carolina’s NBA Draft history is marked by perseverance, underrated talent, and athletes who outwork the odds. Each Gamecock who’s made it to the league carries with them a piece of the program’s identity: tough, unselfish, and fearless. Their journeys serve as both inspiration and blueprint for future players coming through the ranks in Columbia.

As the Gamecocks move forward in their pursuit of national prominence, the list of South Carolina alumni in the NBA is bound to grow. With the rise of NIL opportunities, better facilities, and a renewed energy around the program, Columbia is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for elite prospects. The goal now isn’t just to reach the NBA—it’s to thrive in it.

The history of South Carolina basketball in the NBA Draft may not be the flashiest, but it is rich in character, full of effort, and deeply rooted in the values that define Gamecock basketball. From John Roche to Sindarius Thornwell, from Renaldo Balkman to PJ Dozier, the players who have worn garnet and black have carried their competitive spirit to the professional stage. And with the momentum building, the next generation is ready to add their names to that growing legacy.