NBA Undrafted Award Winners In League History: Could Austin Reaves Be Next?
Here is a look at every undrafted NBA award winner and whether Austin Reaves could become the next one after his breakout with the Lakers.
In the NBA's rich history, few undrafted players have achieved significant individual accolades. Of the handful who have, three stand out: John Starks, Patrick Ewing's former Knicks teammate, Darrell Armstrong, and Ben Wallace. All three men defied the odds, securing awards that many once considered out of reach for someone who never made an NBA draft.
John Starks, drafted in 1988 but not selected, joined the NBA as a journeyman. After battling injuries and playing in various leagues, Starks earned his opportunity with the New York Knicks in 1992. In a stroke of fortune, the Knicks traded leading scorer Allan Houston to make room for Starks in the starting lineup. Starks went on to win the Sixth Man of the Year award in the 1996-97 season, averaging 13.8 points, 2.8 assists, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.2 steals per game while shooting 43.1% from the field and 36.9% from beyond the arc.
His impact was evident when the Knicks reached the NBA Finals that year, a testament to Starks' ability to elevate his game when given the chance.
Darrell Armstrong, undrafted out of Division II Fayetteville State in 1991, spent years playing in lesser leagues before the Orlando Magic gave him a chance in 1995. Despite his advanced age, Armstrong continued to improve, becoming a key component of the Magic's championship team in 2000. In the 1998-99 season, Armstrong earned the Most Improved Player and Sixth Man of the Year awards, averaging 13.8 points, 6.7 assists, 3.6 rebounds, and 2.2 steals per game while shooting 44.1% from the field, 36.5% from three, and 90.4% from the line.
His prowess on defense was equally impressive, with a 2.2 steals per game rate that ranked among the NBA's best. Armstrong's career spanned 14 seasons and 840 games, with averages of 9.2 points, 4.0 assists, and 2.7 rebounds for the Magic, which he joined for nine seasons.
Ben Wallace, perhaps the most notable of these undrafted players, made a name for himself as a premier defensive force in the NBA. Drafted in 1995 but not selected, Wallace spent time in the minor leagues before joining the Detroit Pistons. Over his 17-season career, Wallace won four Defensive Player of the Year awards, cementing his status as one of the greatest defenders in NBA history.
His unparalleled ability to disrupt opposing offenses made him a vital piece in multiple playoff runs for the Pistons, including three NBA Finals appearances. Wallace's work ethic, leadership, and consistency made him a beloved figure in Detroit and a model for any undrafted player seeking to leave their mark on the league.
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