The Greatest Missouri Basketball Players of All Time

Ranker NCAA Basketball
Updated April 19, 2024 36 items
Ranked By
4.5K votes
756 voters
2 reranks
Voting Rules
Upvote the best basketball players in Tigers history based only on the player's college career.

The Missouri Tigers basketball program has a history of attracting talented athletes. Fans love to reminisce about past glories, and there's no better way to do so than reflecting on some of the best Missouri basketball players who have donned the black and gold. A closer look at their careers reveals what has earned these athletes top status in the annals of Missouri Tigers Gael basketball. 

The spotlight on these standout Missouri players highlights not only their individual skills but also their impact on their team's overall success. Each athlete brought to the game an impressive combination of athleticism, skill, and determination. These qualities allowed them to excel during their time in college hoops. Their contributions went beyond just scoring points or grabbing rebounds - they were integral parts of championship-caliber squads.

The impact of these athletes on Missouri basketball is evidenced by the numerous accolades they received. Among these notable players are Anthony Peeler, Derrick Chievous, and Steve Stipanovich - each contributing to the legacy of Missouri basketball. Peeler's scoring abilities secured him Big Eight Conference Player of the Year honors in 1992 while Chievous became an all-time great scorer for the Tigers. Stipanovich's dominance in the paint helped propel Missouri to multiple NCAA tournament appearances, earning him First Team All-Big Eight selections three times throughout his collegiate career. These athletes are good examples of what it meant to be considered among the best in Missouri Tigers basketball history. 

Taking this trip down memory lane reminds us that greatness can be found in every era of college sports. The lasting impact left by these phenomenal Missouri basketball players continues to inspire future generations - as they too strive for excellence within this sport. 

Most divisive: J. T. Tiller
Over 700 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of Missouri Tigers
  • Anthony Peeler
    1
    227 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 1988–1992

    An explosive guard with a lethal shooting touch, Anthony Peeler burst onto the scene after being highly sought after in recruiting circles and quickly established himself as a force in Missouri basketball. Known for his ability to create his own shot off the dribble and stretch defenses with his long-range marksmanship, Peeler made a name for himself on the hardwood during his time with the Tigers. As a testament to his prowess, he garnered multiple All-Big Eight honors and was named a consensus Second-Team All-American before departing to make an impact at the NBA level.

  • Derrick Chievous
    2

    Derrick Chievous

    Age: 56
    176 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 1984–1988

    Earning the nickname "Band-Aid" for his penchant for wearing one during games, Derrick Chievous was a scoring machine who tormented opponents with an uncanny ability to put the ball in the basket. His scoring arsenal included a dizzying array of floaters, runners, and jumpers, all released with a feathery touch that left defenders helpless. As a result of his scoring prowess, Chievous earned multiple All-Big Eight selections and etched his name into the annals of Missouri basketball history as one of the program's all-time leading scorers.

  • Steve Stipanovich
    3
    157 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 1979–1983

    A towering presence in the paint, Steve Stipanovich anchored the Tigers' frontline during his illustrious career in Columbia. The big man's defensive prowess often had opponents thinking twice before entering the lane, while his versatile offensive repertoire, which featured both a reliable back-to-the-basket game and a silky smooth mid-range jumper, kept opposing bigs guessing. A two-time All-Big Eight selection and consensus Second-Team All-American, Stipanovich's contributions helped lead the team to great heights during his time with the program.

  • Melvin Booker
    4

    Melvin Booker

    Age: 51
    135 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 1990–1994

    Famed for his electric quickness and extraordinary court vision, Melvin Booker was a dynamic point guard who orchestrated the Tigers' offense with surgeon-like precision. Whether he was finding an open teammate with a pinpoint pass or breaking down a defender and finishing at the rim with a breathtaking display of athleticism, Booker excited fans and frustrated opponents in equal measure. He collected multiple All-Big Eight honors and was named a consensus Second-Team All-American during his time with the program, further cementing his place among the all-time greats.

  • Doug Smith
    5

    Doug Smith

    Age: 54
    164 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 1987–1991

    A gifted forward with a unique blend of size, strength, and agility, Doug Smith made his presence felt from the moment he arrived on campus. With a versatile skillset that allowed him to excel both inside and outside the paint, Smith could score in a variety of ways and possessed an uncanny ability to find open teammates when defenses collapsed on him. A two-time All-Big Eight honoree and consensus First-Team All-American, Smith built a legacy in black and gold that few can match.

  • Larry Drew
    6
    Age: 66
    117 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 1976–1980

    A maestro of the hardwood who possessed a preternatural understanding of the game, Larry Drew dazzled opponents and teammates alike with his impeccable passing ability and creative finishes around the rim. The point guard's vision and creativity were unmatched, as he consistently made plays that left onlookers shaking their heads in disbelief. As a testament to his incredible talents, Drew earned multiple All-Big Eight honors during his time in Columbia.

  • Jon Sundvold
    7
    148 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 1979–1983

    A quintessential floor general with ice water in his veins, Jon Sundvold displayed an unflappable demeanor and keen basketball intellect that set him apart from his contemporaries. His ability to read defenses and make the right play, whether it was finding a cutting teammate or pulling up for a clutch jumper, was nothing short of remarkable. A multiple-time All-Big Eight selection, Sundvold's steady hand guided the Tigers to some of the program's most successful seasons.

  • Kareem Rush
    8
    154 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 1999–2002

    In an era defined by sharpshooters, Kareem Rush stood tall as one of the deadliest marksmen in Tigers' history. His smooth shooting stroke and textbook form were a sight to behold, and his ability to get hot from beyond the arc in an instant made him a constant threat to take over games. As a testament to his tremendous skill, Rush garnered multiple All-Big 12 accolades before taking his talents to the NBA.

  • Willie Smith
    9

    Willie Smith

    Age: 70
    125 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 1974–1976

    A dazzling scorer with a flair for the dramatic, Willie Smith regularly thrilled Tiger fans with his high-flying acrobatics and unconscious shooting displays. His fearlessness on the court and boundless energy often proved contagious, inspiring his teammates to elevate their own play. As a nod to his immense talents, Smith earned multiple All-Big Eight selections and was a driving force behind some of the most memorable moments in Missouri basketball history.

  • DeMarre Carroll
    10
    150 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 2007–2009

    A relentless competitor with a blue-collar work ethic, DeMarre Carroll brought unmatched toughness and tenacity to the floor every time he put on a Tigers uniform. His game was defined by gritty defense, relentless rebounding, and an uncanny ability to score around the basket despite being undersized for a forward. The "Junkyard Dog" moniker that followed him throughout his career was well earned, as Carroll racked up All-Big 12 honors and etched his name into the hearts of Missouri fans.

  • Keyon Dooling
    11
    115 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 1998–2000

    An explosive, high-energy guard with an unrelenting motor, Keyon Dooling made life miserable for opposing backcourts during his time in black and gold. Known for his intense on-ball defense and ability to wreak havoc in the passing lanes, Dooling was a constant threat to cause turnovers and ignite fast breaks. On the offensive end, his quick first step and lightning-fast crossover dazzled fans and helped him earn multiple All-Big 12 selections.

  • Ricky Frazier
    12

    Ricky Frazier

    Age: 66
    92 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 1979–1982

    A versatile forward with a silky-smooth game, Ricky Frazier excelled on both ends of the court during his time with the Tigers. His scoring prowess was matched only by his tenacious defense, making him a constant threat to stuff the stat sheet and contribute in a multitude of ways. Earning multiple All-Big Eight honors during his tenure, Frazier's all-around game solidified his place among the greats in Missouri basketball lore.

  • Marcus Denmon
    13
    98 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 2008–2012

    A sharpshooting guard with ice in his veins, Marcus Denmon was a fearless competitor who never hesitated to take the big shot. With a picture-perfect jump shot and a quick release, Denmon could heat up in a hurry from beyond the arc and leave opponents scrambling to catch up. His accolades include multiple All-Big 12 selections, cementing his status as one of the most lethal scorers in Missouri basketball history.

  • Jordan Clarkson
    14
    171 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 2013–2014

    A dynamic guard with a natural scoring instinct, Jordan Clarkson made a name for himself in Columbia with his electrifying play. Known for his ability to slash to the rim and finish with authority, as well as his range from beyond the arc, Clarkson elevated the Tigers' offensive attack whenever he took the floor. His exceptional talent earned him All-SEC honors and helped pave the way for a successful NBA career.

  • John Brown
    15
    Age: 72
    110 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 1969–1973

    With an imposing frame and an aggressive mindset, John Brown established himself as a dominant force in the paint for the Tigers. His sheer physicality and relentless pursuit of rebounds made him a nightmare matchup for opposing big men, while his ability to finish with authority around the basket made him a constant scoring threat. As a result of his dominance, Brown earned numerous All-Big Eight selections during his time in Columbia.

  • Norm Stewart
    16
    98 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 1953–1956

    An intense, fiery competitor who earned the nickname "Stormin' Norman," Norm Stewart set the tone for Missouri basketball during his tenure as both a player and coach. As a guard, he brought an unmatched intensity to the floor, using his tenacious defense and hard-nosed playing style to fluster opponents and fuel his teammates. In recognition of his accomplishments, Stewart was named an All-Big Eight selection and has since become synonymous with the Tigers' program.

  • Kim English
    17

    Kim English

    Age: 35
    124 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 2008–2012

    A sweet-shooting guard with a textbook stroke, Kim English demonstrated his prowess from beyond the arc during his time with the Tigers. His ability to space the floor and knock down clutch threes made him an invaluable weapon in the offensive arsenal. In recognition of his sharpshooting talent, English earned All-Big 12 honors and left a lasting impression on Missouri basketball.

  • Phil Pressey
    18
    100 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 2010–2013

    As dazzling with the ball as he was clever without it, Phil Pressey was a true maestro on the court, conducting the Tigers' offense with flair and precision. His vision and creativity were unmatched, as he consistently made plays that left opponents grasping at thin air and fans shaking their heads in disbelief. A two-time All-Big 12 selection, Pressey ranks among the all-time greats in Missouri basketball history.

  • Rickey Paulding
    19

    Rickey Paulding

    Age: 41
    90 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 2000–2004

    A high-flying forward with an incredible vertical leap, Rickey Paulding was a human highlight reel during his time in Columbia. His gravity-defying dunks and acrobatic finishes regularly filled stadium seats and left fans in awe. As a testament to his jaw-dropping athleticism, Paulding earned multiple All-Big 12 honors and became one of the most exciting and memorable players in Tigers history.

  • Linas Kleiza
    20
    98 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 2003–2005

    A skilled big man with a soft touch around the basket, Linas Kleiza quickly established himself as a force in the paint for the Tigers. His size and strength allowed him to bully opposing defenders, while his shooting touch made him a constant threat to score. With his combination of physicality and finesse, Kleiza earned All-Big 12 honors during his time in Columbia.

  • Al Eberhard
    21

    Al Eberhard

    Age: 72
    72 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 1971–1974

    With a relentless motor and a heart as big as his frame, Al Eberhard's nonstop effort and determination helped define an era of Missouri basketball. The versatile forward never shied away from contact and regularly outworked opponents both on the glass and in the trenches of the paint. As a result of his selfless play and impressive skillset, Eberhard earned multiple All-Big Eight selections during his tenure in Columbia.

  • Laurence Bowers
    22

    Laurence Bowers

    56 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 2008-2013

    A rangy forward with a knack for affecting the game in a variety of ways, Laurence Bowers was instrumental in the Tigers' success during his time on campus. Known for his shot-blocking acumen, tenacious rebounding, and scoring ability, Bowers was a constant source of energy and production for Missouri. In recognition of his versatile contributions, he was named to the All-SEC team and etched his name into the annals of Missouri basketball history.

  • Jason Sutherland
    23

    Jason Sutherland

    71 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 1993-1997

    An aggressive, gritty guard known for his no-nonsense approach to competition, Jason Sutherland embodied the intensity and tenacity that defined Missouri basketball during his time with the team. A fearless defender and relentless competitor, Sutherland's unyielding effort and determination endeared him to fans and teammates alike. His contributions to the program were recognized with All-Big 12 honors, further cementing his place among the all-time greats.

  • Bill Stauffer
    24

    Bill Stauffer

    54 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 1949–1952

    A versatile big man who could score both inside and out, Bill Stauffer's combination of size and skill made him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting touch, as well as pound the glass and score down low, made him a vital cog in the Tigers' offensive machine. In recognition of his unique talents, Stauffer was named an All-Big Eight selection during his time in Columbia.

  • Thomas Gardner
    25
    66 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 2003–2006

    Armed with a lightning-quick release and limitless range, Thomas Gardner was a constant threat to catch fire from beyond the arc during his time in Columbia. His ability to heat up in an instant made him a perpetual nightmare for opposing defenses, as well as a fan favorite among the Tigers faithful. Gardner's shooting exploits earned him All-Big 12 recognition and a lasting place in Missouri basketball lore.

  • J. T. Tiller
    26

    J. T. Tiller

    Age: 36
    64 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 2006–2010

    With a dogged determination and a never-say-die attitude, J.T. Tiller was the embodiment of heart and hustle during his days in black and gold. Known for his relentless on-ball defense and ability to wreak havoc in passing lanes, Tiller was the defensive linchpin that held the Tigers together. His blue-collar approach to the game earned him All-Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year honors, a fitting tribute to his impact on the program.

  • Jabari Brown
    27

    Jabari Brown

    Age: 31
    84 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 2012–2014

    A scoring machine with a seemingly endless array of offensive weapons, Jabari Brown terrorized opponents with his uncanny ability to put the ball in the basket. Whether he was pulling up for a silky mid-range jumper or slashing to the rim with authority, Brown was a force to be reckoned with on the offensive end. His prowess earned him All-SEC honors and a place among the all-time great scorers in Missouri basketball history.

  • Leo Lyons
    28

    Leo Lyons

    Age: 37
    64 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 2005–2009

    A versatile forward with a soft touch around the basket, Leo Lyons showcased his impressive offensive repertoire during his time with the Tigers. His ability to score both inside and out made him a mismatch for most defenders, and his relentless work on the glass only added to his value. Earning All-Big 12 honors for his contributions, Lyons carved out a memorable legacy in Missouri basketball.

  • Travon Bryant
    29

    Travon Bryant

    Age: 41
    32 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 2000-2004

    Known for his silky smooth post moves and formidable presence in the paint, Travon Bryant was a force to be reckoned with during his time at Missouri. His scoring touch and ability to create offense out of seemingly impossible situations made him a fan favorite and a key component of the Tigers' success. Bryant's efforts were rewarded with All-Big 12 honors, cementing his legacy as one of the program's all-time greats.

  • Jeremiah Tilmon
    30

    Jeremiah Tilmon

    69 votes

    Tigers Seasons: 2017-present

    An imposing presence in the paint, Jeremiah Tilmon anchored the Tigers' interior defense with his shot-blocking prowess and physicality. On the offensive end, his strength and athleticism around the basket made him a touch to handle for opponents. Earning All-SEC recognition for his efforts, Tilmon played a crucial role in the team's success during his time in Columbia.