Howdy Partners, Let's Lasso Some Aggie NBA All-Stars (or at Least Guys Who Got Paid to Play Ball)
You might know Texas A&M for its yell leaders, its maroon mist, or even Johnny Manziel's... interesting college career. But did you know that Aggieland has also produced some baller NBA talent? That's right, we're not just about sealy kisses and bonfire smoke (although those are pretty awesome too).
The Undrafted Gems: From Scrappy Aggies to NBA Warriors
Now, A&M might not be a traditional NBA powerhouse like Kentucky or Duke. But hey, that just makes our success stories even sweeter. Take Alex Caruso, the defensive whiz who roamed the court like a happy-go-lucky honey badger. Undrafted in 2016, he clawed his way onto the Los Angeles Lakers and became a fan favorite for his hustle and, let's be honest, his incredible meme potential.
There's also DeAndre Jordan, a man whose wingspan could probably reach the top row of Kyle Field. Drafted in the second round by the Clippers back in 2008, he became a rebounding machine, yanking down boards like a farmer collecting eggs on a good day.
Lesson learned: Don't underestimate the Aggie spirit. We might not always have the five-star recruits coming out of high school, but we develop grinders who know how to get things done.
The Folks Who Heard Their Names Called on Draft Day
Okay, so we don't have a ton of first-round picks at A&M, but that doesn't mean we haven't had some exciting draft night moments. Khris Middleton, a smooth operator with a killer three-point shot, was snatched up by the Milwaukee Bucks in the second round of 2012. Now, he's an NBA champion alongside the one and only Giannis Antetokounmpo (the Greek Freak, for those keeping score at home).
Robert Williams III, a high-flying rim protector with hops that would make a kangaroo jealous, got drafted by the Boston Celtics in 2018. He's become a defensive force, swatting away shots like flies at a summer picnic.
Fun fact: Remember that time Johnny Manziel tried to trademark "Johnny Football"? Well, Robert Williams has his own nickname - Timelord. Because apparently, he controls the paint with the power of time itself.
So there you have it, folks! Proof that Texas A&M isn't just about yell practices and Midnight Yell. We've got some NBA talent roaming the courts, bringing a little bit of Aggie spirit to the big leagues. Now, if you'll excuse me, I gotta go practice my own jump shot. Gig 'em Aggies!
