The Best There Never Was

In the world of basketball, there are players whose careers never reached their full potential, their names etched in memory rather than in the record books. Some were poised for greatness but tragically never made it to the NBA, while others simply faded into the background of what could have been. This article shines a light on five such players — Raymond Lewis, Len Bias, Hank Gathers, and others — whose careers were defined by untapped potential, heartbreak, and undeniable talent. Despite the absence of a lengthy professional career, these athletes shaped the game in ways only those fortunate enough to witness their performances could truly appreciate.

The Best There Never Was

Ben Wilson 

Position: Point Guard, 6-6, 190

High School: Simeon Academy, Chicago, IL

University: Committed to Illinois

HS Ranking: #1 Class of 1985

NBA Draft Mock: #1 Class of 1988

NBA Comparison: Magic Johnson / Shaun Livingston

Injury: Was shot by two teenagers in Chicago during his Senior year, passed away in 1989.

As Ben Wilson’s basketball game evolved, it became clear to everyone around him that he had the potential to become one of the greatest players the sport had ever seen. Growing up on Chicago’s South Side during the height of the 1980s crack epidemic, Wilson’s inner circle made it a priority to keep him focused and away from the streets. Their hope was to protect a rare talent in a dangerous environment.

Wilson entered Simeon Career Academy as a freshman in the fall of 1981. By the 1982–83 season, he was the only sophomore on Simeon’s varsity basketball team. The following year, Wilson led Simeon to its first-ever Illinois AA State Championship, defeating West Aurora in the semifinals and top-ranked Evanston Township in the final. That 1983–84 season, the Wolverines finished with a 30-1 record, and Wilson was hailed by ESPN HS as the top high school junior in the nation.

Known for his smooth ball-handling, court vision, and polished jump shot, Wilson earned comparisons to Magic Johnson. His coach at Simeon, Bob Hambric, famously described him as “Magic Johnson with a jump shot.” He shared the court with future stars like Nick Anderson and R. Kelly, and by the summer of 1984, Wilson’s name was known across the country.

That July, he was invited to the prestigious Athletes For Better Education camp in Princeton, New Jersey—an event that brought together the top high school players in the U.S. After an outstanding performance, Wilson was officially ranked the number-one high school basketball player in America. College offers rolled in, with schools like DePaul, Illinois, and Indiana competing for his commitment.

That same summer, Wilson’s friendship with Nick Anderson deepened. Anderson transferred to Simeon at Wilson’s urging, and the two spent nearly every day together—on the court, at the movies, just being teenagers. “He was a brother to me,” Anderson recalled in a 2009 interview with the Chicago Tribune.

But just as his future was starting to crystallize, everything was cut short.

On November 20, 1984, the day before the season opener of his senior year, Wilson was shot near Simeon after a heated street confrontation. As Wilson tried to speak to his girlfriend, he accidentally bumped into another teen, Billy Moore. What started as a misunderstanding escalated quickly. Words were exchanged, and Moore pulled a gun. Wilson, emotional and not backing down, challenged him. Moore fired two shots—one hit Wilson in the groin, the other in the abdomen, causing massive internal injuries.

“It was an honor, because Benji was a legend,” Rose said in 2009. “Benji meant so much to us. His story really scared me, knowing it happened to a great player. Anything can happen.”

Emergency services were called, and news of the shooting spread rapidly throughout Simeon’s campus and Chicago’s basketball community. Despite medical efforts, Wilson died the following morning. He was just 17 years old.

The loss sent shockwaves through the city and the national sports world. Wilson was more than just a gifted athlete—he symbolized hope for a better future. The Chicago Tribune would later call Wilson’s graduating class of 1985 “one for the books—perhaps the best graduating class in state history.”

His legacy didn’t end with his passing. At Simeon, the No. 25 jersey he wore became sacred. Each year, the school’s top player earns the right to wear it in his honor. Among those who have donned the number are Derrick Rose—NBA MVP and Rookie of the Year—and Jabari Parker. Nick Anderson, his close friend, was the first to carry on the tradition.

Even decades later, Ben Wilson’s impact on Chicago basketball and youth culture continues to be felt. His story is a reminder of what was lost—but also of the power of community, mentorship, and legacy.

Ronnie Fields

Position: Guard, 6-3, 200

High School: Farragut Academy, Chicago, IL

University: Committed to Depaul

HS Ranking: #1 Class of 1990

NBA Comparison: Donovan Mitchell / Fred Jones

Injury: Suffered a car crash during his senior season of high school.

From Chicago's South Side to the national spotlight, Ronnie Fields was once regarded as one of the most electrifying high school basketball players in the country. With a 50-inch vertical leap, he earned the nickname "Baby Jordan," drawing comparisons to the legendary Michael Jordan. Fields’ dazzling athleticism and playing style were so captivating that future NBA star Kevin Garnett moved from South Carolina to play alongside him at Farragut Academy in the mid-'90s.

Born and raised in Chicago, Fields quickly became a local legend. He played at Farragut Academy from 1992 to 1996, where he became one of the most talked-about prospects in the nation. Known for his gravity-defying dunks, impeccable scoring ability, and strong all-around game, Fields’ career took off early. ESPN HS named him the best freshman in the country in 1992, and by his senior year, he had firmly cemented his status as a top-tier talent in high school basketball.

Fields’ athleticism was unmatched, with his 50-inch vertical leap allowing him to soar above defenders. His high-flying dunks became legendary, and he even challenged Michael Jordan himself to a dunk contest

As a senior in 1995–96, Fields was a force on the court, averaging 32.4 points, 12.2 rebounds, 5.1 assists, 4.5 blocks, 4 steals, and 4.5 dunks per game. He led Farragut to an 11-1 record in the Chicago Public League and earned consensus First Team All-American honors, joining a list of future NBA greats like Tim Thomas, Jermaine O'Neal, and Kobe Bryant.

Fields’ athleticism was unmatched, with his 50-inch vertical leap allowing him to soar above defenders. His high-flying dunks became legendary, and he even challenged Michael Jordan himself to a dunk contest, a testament to his fearless attitude and unshakable confidence. Fields was widely considered the best high school player of his time and was expected to make an immediate impact in the NBA after graduation.

Despite the immense hype and his undeniable talent, tragedy struck in February 1996. Just one week before the city playoffs, Fields was involved in a devastating car accident that left him with a fractured neck. After undergoing surgery and wearing a protective halo, Fields was forced to heal while watching his senior season slip away. At the time of the accident, he was already a top contender for the NBA draft, with many predicting he would go straight from high school to the professional ranks.

Following the accident, Fields signed a letter of intent to play for his hometown team, DePaul University. However, his dreams were delayed when he was ruled academically ineligible and ultimately denied admission. Further complications arose when Fields pled guilty to a misdemeanor charge of sexual abuse, resulting in probation. This series of setbacks marked a tragic turn in what had once seemed like a guaranteed path to stardom.

Despite these obstacles, Fields left a lasting impact on the game. He finished his high school career as the third all-time leading scorer in Chicago Public League history, with 2,619 points. His performances at Farragut remain part of Chicago basketball lore, with his electric play and unmatched athleticism leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.

Though his career was marred by unfortunate circumstances, Ronnie Fields remains one of the most exciting and skilled basketball players to ever come out of Chicago. His unforgettable dunks and relentless drive to compete continue to inspire basketball players across the world. Fields' journey, filled with highs and lows, serves as a reminder of both the immense potential and the fragility of li

 

Raymond Lewis

Position: Guard, 6-2, 175

High School: Verbum Dei, Los Angeles, CA

University: Cal State Los Angeles

HS Ranking: Top 10 Class of 1971

NBA Draft: First Round #18 Overall 1973

NBA Comparison: Kyrie Irving / Chris Jackson

Injury: Had argument with Philadelphia over his contract, blackballed.

Renowned basketball coach Jerry Tarkanian once said, "Raymond Lewis was the greatest basketball player I ever saw." Despite never stepping onto an NBA court, Lewis' impact on the game is undeniable. Revered as the best high school guard in Southern California over the past 40 years, the 6’1" Lewis dazzled fans with his exceptional skills and intense competitive spirit. Known for his incredible ball-handling, shooting ability, and fearless finishing at the rim, Lewis is a legend in Los Angeles basketball lore.

Lewis was one of the first early draft entrees in NBA hsitory, as he left after his Sophmore season in school.

Lewis' basketball journey began at Verbum Dei High School in Los Angeles, where he led the Eagles to three consecutive California State titles in 1969, 1970, and 1971. His dominance on the court helped Verbum Dei achieve an 84-4 record, with Lewis being named CIF Player of the Year in both 1970 and 1971. Known for his electrifying performances, one of his most iconic moments came when he dropped 52 points on a group of LA Lakers in a summer league game while still in high school—a feat that further cemented his reputation as a rising star.

Despite interest from major colleges, including UCLA, Lewis chose to bypass the legendary John Wooden and attend Cal-State LA, a decision that would alter the trajectory of his career. For more on Lewis check out this short video.

Lewis was widely considered to be the best player from all of Los Angeles despite him never playing an NBA game.

At Cal-State LA, Lewis quickly proved he was more than just a high school sensation. In his freshman year, he scored an astounding 73 points against UC Santa Barbara—a performance that turned heads across the basketball world. After his sophomore season, Lewis declared for the NBA Draft, becoming one of the first high school athletes to do so. Drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in the first round (18th overall), Lewis’ journey to the NBA seemed inevitable. But fate had other plans.

Upon joining the 76ers for summer league play, Lewis faced off against Doug Collins, the number one overall pick in the 1973 NBA Draft. In a legendary scrimmage, Lewis stunned the 76ers’ coaching staff by scoring 60 points on Collins. The performance led Lewis to demand a bigger contract, but the 76ers responded by saying he needed more maturity before he could join the NBA full-time. Lewis, disappointed and frustrated, became a fixture in summer and streetball leagues across Southern California, where he continued to showcase his undeniable talent.

Regarded as a streetball legend, Raymond Lewis was known for his pure shooting stroke and deadly accuracy on the asphalt-covered courts of Los Angeles. His ability to score at will, often drilling consecutive baskets in one-on-one games, earned him the respect of both fans and opponents. Lewis’ offensive game was so advanced that his high school coach, George McQuarn, ordered him not to shoot for the first five minutes of each game just to give other teams a chance to catch up.

In one of his most memorable performances, Lewis scored 41 points on 18 of 21 shooting (85.7%) and added 14 assists and 6 steals. His scoring feats became the stuff of legend, and he was widely regarded as the best player to ever come out of Los Angeles—despite never playing a single NBA game.

Lewis' basketball journey was marked by both brilliance and misfortune. In his sophomore year at Cal-State LA, he averaged 32.9 points per game, with game highs of 53, 46, and 43 points. His performance against Long Beach State, coached by Tarkanian, was one for the ages, scoring 53 points in a double-overtime thriller to secure a 107-104 victory.

After declaring for the NBA Draft, Lewis was selected by the Philadelphia 76ers as the 18th overall pick. However, due to a contract dispute and the team’s assessment that he needed more development, Lewis was never able to fully realize his NBA potential. His relationship with the NBA remained strained as he continued his career in summer leagues, showcasing his skills in the streets of Southern California.

While Raymond Lewis never played an official game in the NBA, his legacy lives on through the stories told by streetball enthusiasts, coaches, and basketball historians. His unmatched scoring ability, court vision, and raw talent made him a god in the basketball playgrounds of Los Angeles. To this day, Lewis is remembered as one of the greatest pure shooters in Southern California history—a player who could have changed the course of the NBA had he been given the opportunity.

For more on the life and career of Raymond Lewis, check out his incredible streetball career and the lasting influence he had on basketball in Southern California.

 

The Washington DC / Baltimore Product Went 2nd Overall In The 86' Draft

Len Bias

Position: Forward, 6-8, 220

High School: Upper Marbolo, MD

University: University of Maryland

HS Ranking: #8 Class of 1982

NBA Draft: First Round #2 Overall 1986

NBA Comparison: Kawhi Leonard / Glen Robinson

Injury: Cardiac Arrest via Cocaine Overdose

Len Bias, the second overall pick in the 1986 NBA Draft, was on the verge of becoming one of the greatest basketball players to ever play the game. Tragically, his life was cut short by a cocaine overdose just days after being selected by the Boston Celtics, leaving fans and the basketball world to wonder what could have been.

Len Bias wasn’t your typical modern forward. Unlike today’s players like Paul George or Jayson Tatum, Bias wasn’t known for his fluid ball-handling or perimeter finesse. His game was built on explosive straight-line moves, quick rip-throughs, jab steps, and elite athleticism. With a deadly mid-range jumper and a vertical leap that could rival anyone in the league, Bias was a face-up scorer who could dominate in the paint and on the perimeter.

While he may not have been known for advanced dribble moves or navigating ball screens like a guard, Bias' power-based, direct style of play was devastating. His first step was explosive, and his athleticism allowed him to do things few others could, making him a matchup nightmare for any defender.

During his time at the University of Maryland, Bias proved to be one of the most dominant players in college basketball. He averaged 16.4 points per game and was named the ACC Player of the Year in both 1985 and 1986. His impact on the court was undeniable, and his combination of size, skill, and athleticism made him one of the most feared players in the country.

“He looked like he was sculpted,” said Kenny Smith, reflecting on Bias' appearance and athleticism. “He also had great athleticism with a soft touch. To put him with Larry Bird and the Boston Celtics, you would think that his career would have been a 15-20 year career, NBA All-Stars, MVPs, and probably one of the greatest players to ever play this game.”

“Other than Jordan, He is the player no team had an answer for. He was that good.” - Coach K

Mike Krzyzewski, widely regarded as one of the greatest coaches in basketball history, faced off against Bias during his college career. Coach K, who has coached or faced nearly every elite player since the 1980s, considers Bias to be one of the two best players he’s ever seen, alongside Michael Jordan.

“Other than Jordan, he is the player no team had an answer for. He was that good,” said Coach K. His sentiment was echoed by legendary coaches such as Dean Smith and John Thompson, as well as respected sports figures like Michael Wilbon and Bob Ryan. These voices all believed that Bias had the potential to rival even the greatest players in history, including Michael Jordan.

In addition to his on-court prowess, Bias had a magnetic presence off the court as well. He had just signed a three-million-dollar deal with Reebok, and his marketability was through the roof. With his charisma, athleticism, and good looks, Bias seemed poised to elevate Reebok to new heights. At the time, Nike and Reebok were on relatively equal footing, with Nike having just signed Michael Jordan. But if Bias had lived to fulfill his potential, could he have propelled Reebok to dominate the athletic apparel market the way Nike did with Jordan? It’s a question that still lingers in the minds of basketball fans and marketers alike.

 

Gathers Was Set To Be Picked In The Top 5 of The NBA Draft

Hank Gathers

Position: Power Forward, 6-8, 245

High School: Dobbins, Philadelphia, PA

University: USC - LMU

HS Ranking: #40 Class of 1985

NBA Draft Projection: First Round #10 Overall 1990

NBA Comparison: Karl Malone / Charles Oakley

Injury: Suffered a seger, in his last season of college, died on the court.

The heart of Loyola Marymount’s high-octane basketball machine, a rugged, physical inside presence who knew how to use his body, angles, and effort to dominate. Though just 6'7"–6'8", he played bigger, stronger, and harder than nearly anyone on the floor. He wasn’t flashy, but he was unrelenting.

Gathers came up in a golden era of Philadelphia high school basketball. He starred at Dobbins Tech alongside Bo Kimble and Doug Overton, battling peers like Pooh Richardson, Lionel Simmons, and Doug Overton for city supremacy. In 1985, Gathers led Dobbins to the Philadelphia Public League title, defeating Simmons’ South Philly squad after losing to Richardson’s Benjamin Franklin High the year before.

Gathers and Kimble, initially not close, became inseparable during their senior year and committed together to USC. Though the surrounding L.A. neighborhood was described as rough, they joked it felt like a suburb compared to their Philadelphia upbringing.

Gathers and Kimble’s time at USC was cut short when new head coach George Raveling revoked their scholarships after a communication breakdown. The fallout was controversial, and Gathers soon found a new home at Loyola Marymount with coach Paul Westhead.

NBA Trajectory Former LMU coach Paul Westhead believed Gathers would have been "A solid, consistent role player, rather than a superstar, projecting him at 15 points and 10 rebounds per night—think a more athletic Buck Williams or a less polished Charles Oakley"

Forced to sit out a year due to transfer rules, Gathers erupted once eligible. In 1988–89, he became just the second player in NCAA history to lead the nation in both scoring (32.7 PPG) and rebounding (13.7 RPG). He once dropped 49 points and 26 rebounds in a single game against Nevada. LMU’s frantic, breakneck style led to video game-like stats, and Gathers thrived in the chaos.

Gathers rarely shot from more than 10 feet out, yet was wildly efficient — scoring through power moves, tip-ins, and relentless offensive rebounding. He famously said:

On December 9, 1989, Gathers collapsed during a game due to an abnormal heartbeat and was prescribed the beta blocker Inderal. Concerned it dulled his explosiveness, he cut back on the dosage.

Despite the health scare, Gathers returned and in February 1990 delivered a nationally televised 48-point, 13-rebound performance against LSU — guarded by future NBA stars Shaquille O'Neal and Stanley Roberts. Weeks later, he pulled down a career-high 30 rebounds against Saint Mary's.

On March 4, 1990, during the WCC tournament semifinal, Gathers threw down an alley-oop dunk and then collapsed seconds later on the court. His last words, reportedly, were:

Gathers was projected as a top-5 pick in the 1990 NBA Draft — some scouts had him going as high as No. 3. He had an NBA-ready body, elite rebounding instincts, and a nonstop motor. LMU coach Paul Westhead believed Gathers could’ve been a double-double machine in the NBA, somewhere between a more athletic Buck Williams and a rawer Charles Oakley.

His ceiling? A long, productive career, potentially 10+ years as a reliable starter or high-end role player. His floor? Still better than most.

The Legacy

These five players Raymond Lewis, Len Bias, Hank Gathers, and the others in this series — represent more than just talent lost; they are reminders of how greatness can shine even without the spotlight of the NBA. Their stories stretch far beyond box scores. They’re about dominance on playgrounds and college courts, untapped potential, and the aching question of what might have been.

Each of them left behind glimpses of transcendent skill, jaw-dropping performances, iconic moments, and respect from legends like Jerry Tarkanian, Coach K, and Paul Westhead. They weren’t just future NBA players. They were future stars.

In remembering them, we don’t just mourn the careers that never were, we celebrate the brilliance that was.