Nestled in the heart of Central California, Fresno has long been a hotbed for basketball talent. While Fresno’s population of around 550,000 may seem modest compared to major metropolitan areas, the region has consistently punched above its weight when it comes to producing top-tier basketball players.
One of the keys to Fresno’s basketball success has been its strong network of high school programs, including San Joaquin Memorial, Washington Union, Clovis West, Clovis East, Edison, Bullard, Hoover, and Central. These schools have not only cultivated local talent but have also provided a launching pad for players to compete on bigger stages.
Adding to this development pipeline is the renowned AAU program led by Darren Matsubara, the EA EBO All-Stars. This program has been instrumental in refining skills and elevating Fresno’s young athletes, helping them gain exposure and compete at national levels. The influence of Matsubara’s training and mentorship has been pivotal in shaping many of the region’s standout players.
Though NBA first-round picks remain a rare achievement for Fresno players, the region’s basketball legacy dates back to the 1970s when the Fresno Pondexters took the local scene by storm. Since then, Fresno has become a recognized threshold for NBA-level talent and high-ranking high school prospects.
Fresno State University has a proud history of producing outstanding teams and players. One of its most notable periods came under legendary coach Jerry Tarkanian, who led the Bulldogs from 1995 to 2002. During his tenure, he coached a roster full of talent, including Rafer "Skip to My Lou" Alston, Chris Herren, Melvin Ely, Courtney Alexander, Tremaine Fowlkes, and others. While his teams often underachieved in terms of results, they drew national attention and brought top-level professional talent through Fresno. Even after Tarkanian’s departure, Fresno State continued to produce standout players such as Paul George and Tyler Johnson.
Fresno’s basketball history is a testament to the city’s passion, community support, and dedication to developing players who strive for greatness. Whether on the courts of local high schools or in national arenas, Fresno’s finest basketball players continue to leave their mark and inspire the next generation.
Fresno All-Time Basketball Team 1st Team
C - Brook Lopez
High School: San Joaquin Memorial High School (Fresno, CA)
College: Stanford University
College Stats: 11.5 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 1.6 BPG
NBA Draft: 10th overall 2008
NBA Stats: 18 PPG, 6.5 RPG and 2 BPG
Accolades: 2x NBA All-Star, NBA Champion, McDonald’s All-American
Brook Lopez and his brother Robin were dominant forces at San Joaquin Memorial High School, leading the program to prominence in the Central Valley. Brook stood out with his polished offensive skills and shot-blocking ability, which earned him a scholarship to Stanford. After two strong collegiate seasons, he entered the 2008 NBA Draft and was selected 10th overall. Lopez quickly became known as a reliable scoring center with a developing outside shot, eventually transforming his game into a modern stretch big. His defensive presence and scoring helped him earn All-Star selections and culminated in winning an NBA championship with the Lakers in 2020.
F - Robin Lopez
High School: San Joaquin Memorial High School (Fresno, CA)
College: Stanford University
College Stats: 10 PPG, 7 RPG, 1.5 BPG
NBA Draft: 15th overall 2008
NBA Stats: 7 PPG, 5 RPG, 1 BPG
Accolades: McDonald’s All-American
Robin Lopez, the younger twin brother of Brook, also starred at San Joaquin Memorial before playing three seasons at Stanford alongside Brook for one year. Selected 15th overall in the 2008 NBA Draft by the Phoenix Suns, Robin carved out a career as a tough, defensively minded power forward/center. While not as offensively gifted as his brother, Robin earned respect for his defense, rebounding, and locker room presence. Over a 15+ year NBA career, he became known as a reliable role player who anchored defenses and provided veteran leadership.
F - Bruce Bowen
High School: Edison High School (Fresno, CA)
College: Cal State Fullerton
College Stats: 16.3 PPG, 6.5 RPG, and 2.3 APG
NBA Draft: Undrafted
NBA Stats: 6.1 PPG, 4.5 RPG
Accolades: NBA Champion (2003, 2005, 2007 with Spurs); 8× NBA All-Defensive Team selection (First and Second Teams)
Bruce Bowen overcame a difficult childhood in Fresno to become one of the NBA’s most feared defensive specialists. Growing up in West Fresno, Bowen was a standout at Edison High School before playing four seasons at Cal State Fullerton, where he was a consistent scorer and rebounder. Despite going undrafted, Bowen carved out a remarkable NBA career, becoming a cornerstone of the San Antonio Spurs’ championship teams in the early 2000s. Known for his tenacious perimeter defense and tough playing style, Bowen earned eight All-Defensive Team honors but also faced criticism for his physical approach on the court. Off the court, Bowen credits his uncle Darryl and family for support during his challenging youth.
G - DeShawn Stevenson
High School: Washington Union High School (Fresno, CA)
College: None, declared for NBA Draft directly from high school
College Stats: N/A
NBA Draft: 23rd overall in 2000
NBA Stats: 7.2 PPG, 2.2 RPG, and 1.6 APG
Accolades: McDonald’s All-American, NBA Champion (2011 with Dallas Mavericks); NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2001
DeShawn Stevenson’s high school basketball career at Washington Union High School in Fresno, California, was marked by raw talent and electric athleticism that quickly grabbed the attention of scouts nationwide. He was a top 5 recruit in his High School class since his 8th grade year in Fresno. Known for his tenacious defense, smooth shooting stroke, and explosive athleticism, Stevenson was often compared to NBA legends Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant for his scoring ability and competitiveness. His high school career was a mix of impressive scoring and leadership, propelling Washington Union into deep playoff runs and earning him local and national recognition as one of the top prep players in the country. Washington Union even took home the California State title in 1999.
Throughout his NBA career, Stevenson became known as a fierce defender and a reliable perimeter shooter. His tenacity and grit made him a valuable role player on several teams, but his crowning achievement came with the Dallas Mavericks, where he played a key role in their 2011 NBA championship run, providing tough defense and timely shooting in the playoffs. Stevenson’s journey from Fresno to NBA champion remains a source of pride for his hometown and a testament to his work ethic and competitive spirit.
Beyond his on-court skills, Stevenson’s journey from Fresno’s Washington Union to NBA champion is an inspiring story of perseverance and work ethic. He remains a beloved figure in Fresno basketball circles, remembered for his heart, hustle, and the promise he fulfilled at the highest levels of the game.
G - Jalen Green
High School: San Joaquin Memorial High School (Fresno, CA)
NBA Draft: 2nd overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft by the Houston Rockets
NBA Stats:20 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 3 APG
Accolades: McDonald’s All-American
Jalen Green emerged as one of the most electrifying high school basketball talents in recent memory. A native of Fresno, California, Green dominated at San Joaquin Memorial High School with his rare blend of speed, shooting, and athleticism, quickly earning consensus All-American honors. Instead of following the traditional college route, Green made a groundbreaking decision to join the NBA G League Ignite, a team designed to develop top NBA prospects in a professional environment while earning a salary — a bold move that positioned him as a pioneer for future elite prospects.
Drafted second overall in the 2021 NBA Draft by the Houston Rockets, Green entered the league with sky-high expectations and hasn’t disappointed. Known for his explosive scoring ability, deep shooting range, and high-flying dunks, he immediately became a focal point of the Rockets’ rebuilding effort. His youth, energy, and highlight-reel plays have made him a fan favorite and one of the most exciting young guards in the NBA today.
Green’s rise from Fresno’s local star to NBA phenom embodies the city’s growing reputation for producing top-tier basketball talent. With a rapidly developing all-around game and leadership potential, Jalen Green is set to be one of the faces of the league’s future.
Fresno All-Time Basketball Team 2nd Team
C - Greg Smith
High School: Edison High School
College: Fresno State University
College Stats: Averaged 11.6 PPG, 6.9 RPG, 1.2 BPG
NBA Draft: Undrafted
NBA Stats: N/A
Accolades: 2009 Central Valley Fresno Bee Player of the Year
Greg Smith chose Fresno State motivated by deep family ties and a strong connection to his hometown school. At Edison High School, he was a dominant force, leading the Tigers to a section Division I championship and advancing to the Southern California Regional. His junior season was particularly impressive, averaging 22 points, 15 rebounds, five assists, and five blocks per game, highlighted by a 35-point performance. Smith was named the 2009 Central Valley Fresno Bee Player of the Year and was heavily recruited by major programs including Arizona, California, Florida, Kansas, Kansas State, UCLA, and USC. His production on both ends of the court, combined with his loyalty to Fresno State, made him a standout local star and a favorite to watch.
F - Chris Jeffries
High School: Washington Union High School
College: University of Arkansas, Fresno State University
College Stats: 12.9 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 1.8 APG
NBA Draft: 27th overall 2002
NBA Stats: 3.9 PPG, 1.2 RPG
Accolades: WAC Newcomer of the Year; First Team All-WAC, All-Defensive Team
Chris Jeffries was a high-profile recruit at Washington Union High School, known for his size, athleticism, and ability to play multiple positions with ease. Pairing with Deshaawn Stevenson in high school, Jeffries developed into a leading scorer and versatile forward. After committing to the University of Arkansas, where he was the team’s leading scorer at nearly 20 points per game, he transferred to Fresno State following his freshman year. At Fresno State, Jeffries continued to impress, earning First Team All-Western Athletic Conference honors and being named WAC Newcomer of the Year. He played on some of the most star-studded Fresno State teams alongside future pros like Rafer Alston and Chris Herren.
Jeffries was selected in the first round of the 2002 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers, but his draft rights were traded to the Toronto Raptors. He later played for the Chicago Bulls before finishing his NBA career in 2004. In 72 games and 12 starts, Jeffries averaged 3.9 points and 1.2 rebounds per game. He is also the half-brother of Nate Jeffries, a local high school basketball star.
F - Quincy Pondexter
High School: San Joaquin Memorial High School
College: University of Washington
College Stats: 14.1 PPG, 6.3 RPG, and 2.1 APG
NBA Draft: 28th overall 2010
NBA Stats: 7.3 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game
Accolades: Pac-10 All-Conference team
Quincy Pondexter, son of NBA player Cliff Pondexter, grew up in Fresno and starred at San Joaquin Memorial High School. He played three seasons at the University of Washington, where he was a key contributor, known for his scoring and defensive versatility. Pondexter was selected in the first round of the 2010 NBA Draft by the New Orleans Hornets. Over his eight-year NBA career, he played for several teams and was recognized for his hard-nosed defense and leadership despite battling serious knee injuries.
G - AJ Johnson
High School: San Joaquin Memorial High School, Taft High School, Donda Academy, Southern California Academy
NBA Draft: 23rd overall 2024 NBA Draft
NBA Stats: 27.6 PPG, 2.0 RPG, 2.6 APG
AJ Johnson was born and raised in Fresno, California. He started his high school basketball journey locally before moving to Taft High School, where he emerged as one of the top combo guards in the 2023 class. For his senior year, he attended Kanye West’s Donda Academy before finishing at Southern California Academy after Donda’s closure. Despite projections as a second-round pick, Johnson was selected 23rd overall in the 2024 NBA Draft by the Milwaukee Bucks. He made his NBA debut in October 2024 and was traded to the Washington Wizards in early 2025. Johnson has shown promising versatility early in his rookie season.
G - Cedric Coward
High School: Central High School
College: Eastern Washington University, Washington State University
College Stats: 17.7 PPG, 7.0 RPG at Washington State
NBA Draft: 11th overall 2025
NBA Stats: NBA Rookie
Accolades: Northwest Conference Freshman of the Year; First-team All-Big Sky Conference
Cedric Coward grew up in Fresno and attended Central High School. He started his college basketball journey at Division III Willamette University, where he impressed with strong scoring and rebounding numbers. Coward transferred to Eastern Washington, earning first-team All-Big Sky honors after a solid junior year. He then moved to Washington State, where he was the team’s leading scorer before a shoulder injury ended his season early. Coward was drafted in the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft and was traded to the Memphis Grizzlies, where he recently signed.
Fresno All-Time Basketball Team 3rd Team
C - Robert Upshaw
High School: San Joaquin Memorial High School (Fresno, CA)
College: Fresno State University (2012–13), University of Washington (2014–15)
College Stats: 10.9 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 4.5 BPG
NBA Draft: Undrafted
Robert Upshaw emerged as one of Fresno’s most promising basketball prospects while playing for San Joaquin Memorial High School. Standing 7 feet tall, Upshaw was a dominant force in the paint, known especially for his elite shot-blocking and rim protection abilities. During his high school career, he was widely recognized as one of the top 100 recruits nationally. His defensive presence and rebounding skills made him a nightmare for opponents, and his combination of size and athleticism drew significant attention from college programs across the country.
Initially, Upshaw committed to Kansas State University, but when head coach Frank Martin left the program, Upshaw was released from his letter of intent. Choosing to stay closer to home, he committed to Fresno State University, where he played as a freshman in the 2012–13 season. During that year, Upshaw averaged 4.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game, showing flashes of his shot-blocking prowess. However, his time at Fresno State was cut short when he was dismissed from the team for violations of team rules.
Seeking a fresh start, Upshaw transferred to the University of Washington. After sitting out the 2013–14 season due to NCAA transfer rules, he returned to the court with the Huskies in 2014–15, making a significant impact. In just 19 games, he averaged 10.9 points, 8.2 rebounds, and an impressive 4.5 blocks per game, which led the entire NCAA that season. His defensive dominance and rebounding leadership made him one of the nation’s most feared big men. Unfortunately, his college career was again derailed when he was dismissed from the Washington program for a second time due to violations of team rules in January 2015.
Despite the setbacks, Upshaw’s combination of size, shot-blocking talent, and defensive instincts have made him a notable figure in Fresno’s basketball history. His journey underscores both the challenges and potential of a highly talented athlete navigating the complexities of college basketball.
F - Cliff Pondexter
High School: San Joaquin Memorial High School (Fresno, CA)
College: Long Beach State University
College Stats:
NBA Draft: 9th Overall 1975
NBA Stats: 5.3 PPG, 4.8 RPG
Accolades: Notable for being part of the Pondexter brothers’ legacy in Fresno basketball, Cliff was a key player during his time at Long Beach State and made the jump to the NBA as a high draft pick.
Cliff Pondexter, like his brother Roscoe, was a star at San Joaquin Memorial High School in Fresno during the 1970s. After a successful high school career, he continued to Long Beach State, where he played a major role for the 49ers. Cliff’s solid collegiate play earned him a high NBA draft selection, and although his NBA career was relatively brief, he remains part of Fresno’s rich basketball history and the notable Pondexter family legacy.
F - Roscoe Pondexter
High School: San Joaquin Memorial High School, Fresno, CA
College: Long Beach State 49ers (1972–1974)
College Stats: 14.4 PPG, 9.3 RPG
NBA Draft: 53rd Overall 1974
Accolades: Named California Mr. Basketball in 1971 and inducted into the Fresno Athletic Hall of Fame and San Joaquin Memorial High School Hall of Fame
Roscoe Pondexter is a former professional basketball player known for his college career at Long Beach State from 1972 to 1974. Before college, he starred at San Joaquin Memorial High School in Fresno, where he graduated in 1971 as California’s all-time leading prep scorer with 2,288 points and earned the title of California Mr. Basketball for his senior year. Pondexter began his college basketball career at Fresno City College before transferring to Long Beach State. As a sophomore, he averaged 14.6 points and 9.3 rebounds per game and was named first-team All-Pacific Coast Athletic Association (PCAA). During his junior season, he averaged 15.6 points and 6.9 rebounds per game, earning another first-team All-PCAA selection despite eligibility controversies that were resolved by a court order.
Pondexter was drafted in the third round of the 1974 NBA Draft by the Boston Celtics but spent his professional career playing overseas in Europe and South America. After retiring from basketball, he worked as a prison guard and became involved with a controversial group at California State Prison, Corcoran.
G - Chris Hernandez
High School: Clovis West High School
College: Stanford University
College Stats: 10.5 PPG, 3.3 APG
NBA Draft: Undrafted
Accolades: California State Division I Player of the Year (junior year of high school); silver medalist with 2000 USA Basketball Men’s Youth Development Team; first-team All-Pac-10; multiple academic honors
Chris Hernandez was a dynamic floor leader at Clovis West High School, helping the program to 134 wins during his career. During his senior year, Hernandez led Clovis West to a 31-3 record, winning the section and league championships and advancing to the Southern Section finals. That season, Clovis West was ranked second in California and 12th nationally. Hernandez averaged 16.7 points and 6.9 assists per game, shooting 51 percent from the field and 83 percent from the free throw line. His 29-point performance against Modesto Christian was a highlight in a season that earned him numerous honors, including all-state recognition, league MVP, and a McDonald’s All-America team nomination.
In his junior year, Hernandez was named California State Division I Player of the Year and led Clovis West to the state championship game with a 39-3 record, tying a state wins record. The team was ranked third in California and ninth nationally. Hernandez’s leadership helped Clovis West claim victories over top programs such as Dominguez and Mater Dei.
After high school, Hernandez played for Stanford University, where he consistently excelled both on the court and academically. He earned first-team All-Pac-10 honors multiple seasons and was recognized as one of the nation’s best point guards. He also contributed to Stanford’s success with his scoring, assists, and defensive prowess.
G - Mike Penburthy
High School: Hoover High School (Fresno, CA)
College: The Master’s College (Santa Clarita, CA)
College Stats: Senior Seasno 27.5 PPG
NBA Draft: Undrafted
NBA Stats: 4.9 PPG, 1.3 APG, 1.2 RPG
Accolades: 1x NBA Champion with Lakers (2000–01)
Born in Los Gatos, California, Mike Penberthy graduated from Hoover High School in Fresno in 1993. He went on to play college basketball at The Master’s College, where he earned a B.A. in biblical studies in 1997. During his college career, Penberthy was a standout player, setting school records and earning NAIA All-American honors twice.
Penberthy’s professional career included a stint with the Los Angeles Lakers, where he won an NBA championship in the 2000–01 season. After being waived by the Lakers in 2001, he continued his career overseas, playing in Italy and Germany. While with Alba Berlin, he helped the team win the German Cup in 2006. Penberthy later returned to play in the American Basketball Association with the Los Angeles Slam in 2011.
Fresno's Finest Basketball Talent
From the defensive grit of Bruce Bowen to the sharpshooting of Quincy Pondexter, from the dominance of the Lopez twins to the fearless play of DeShawn Stevenson, Fresno has produced a lineage of talent that has left its mark on basketball’s biggest stage. Today, that tradition burns just as brightly, with Jalen Green dazzling fans in Houston and rising stars Cedric Coward and AJ Johnson carrying the torch forward.
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