Top 10 UCLA Bruins Basketball Players of All Time

The UCLA Bruins have one of the most storied traditions in college basketball, producing numerous legendary players who have left an indelible mark on the sport. From dominating NCAA championships to shaping the NBA, these players have cemented their legacy. Here are the top 10 UCLA Bruins basketball players of all time:

1. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (Lew Alcindor) (1966-1969)

Regarded as one of the greatest basketball players ever, Abdul-Jabbar led UCLA to three consecutive NCAA championships (1967-1969) and won three National College Player of the Year awards. His patented skyhook and dominance on both ends of the floor revolutionized the game.

Vintage Lew Alcindor Highlights

2. Bill Walton (1971-1974)

Walton, a two-time NCAA champion (1972, 1973) and three-time National College Player of the Year, was a dominant force in the paint. His legendary 44-point performance in the 1973 national championship game remains one of the greatest performances in college basketball history.

Bill Walton Greatest Games: 44 Points vs Memphis State (1973 NCAA FInal)

3. Sidney Wicks (1968-1971)

A key figure in UCLA’s dynasty, Wicks was instrumental in winning three consecutive NCAA titles (1969-1971). He was a two-time consensus All-American and the 1970 NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player.

UCLA’s Sidney Wicks

4. Gail Goodrich (1962-1965)

Goodrich led UCLA to its first two NCAA championships in 1964 and 1965. He was the leading scorer on the 1965 title team, averaging 24.8 points per game, and later became a Hall of Fame NBA player.

HD Stock Footage College Basketball UCLA Bruins vs. Michigan Wolverines 1965

5. Marques Johnson (1973-1977)

The first winner of the John R. Wooden Award in 1977, Johnson was a versatile forward who led UCLA to the 1975 NCAA championship. His all-around game made him one of the most well-rounded players in UCLA history.

Marques Johnson (NCAA 1976-77, UCLA)

6. Ed O’Bannon (1991-1995)

O’Bannon was the leader of the 1995 UCLA team that won the school’s 11th NCAA championship. He was named the Final Four Most Outstanding Player and won multiple Player of the Year awards in his senior season.

UCLA’s Ed O’Bannon – 1995 NCAA Championship

7. Reggie Miller (1983-1987)

One of the greatest shooters in basketball history, Miller was a prolific scorer at UCLA, finishing as the school’s second all-time leading scorer at the time. His sharpshooting and clutch performances made him a standout player.

Reggie Miller highlights – UCLA vs NORTH CAROLINA – 1986

8. Jamaal Wilkes (1971-1974)

Wilkes was a key player on two NCAA championship teams (1972, 1973). A smooth forward known for his defensive prowess and efficient scoring, he played an essential role in UCLA’s dominance during his era.

Memorable Moments with Jamaal Wilkes

9. Kevin Love (2007-2008)

Despite playing just one season at UCLA, Love made a significant impact, leading the Bruins to the Final Four in 2008. He was a consensus First-Team All-American and a dominant force in the paint before heading to the NBA.

Kevin Love UCLA Highlights

10. Russell Westbrook (2006-2008)

Westbrook’s explosive athleticism and defensive intensity helped UCLA reach two Final Fours (2007, 2008). Though he wasn’t the top scorer, his impact on both ends of the court foreshadowed his future NBA stardom.

Russell Westbrook highlights: Top March Madness plays

Conclusion

UCLA’s basketball program has produced some of the most legendary players in the sport’s history. These ten players exemplify the greatness of the Bruins, each contributing to the rich legacy that continues to inspire future generations. Whether through championships, awards, or revolutionary play, these athletes left an everlasting mark on college basketball and beyond.