Introduction

As part of ESPN's "50 States in 50 Days" series, we delve into the rich basketball history of Texas, spotlighting the top high school players who have made significant impacts both on and off the court since 2000. This feature focuses on their high school achievements, state titles, national honors, and their enduring legacies in basketball.

Boys

1. Chris Bosh, Lincoln High School Class of 2002

   • Achievements: Led Lincoln Tigers to a 40-0 record and a Class 4A state championship. Ranked No. 13 in the 2002 ESPN 100.
   • Career Highlights: 11 NBA All-Star games, two NBA titles with the Miami Heat.

2. Julius Randle, Prestonwood Christian Academy Class of 2013

   • Achievements: Three state titles, averaged 32.5 points and 22.5 rebounds as a senior.
   • Career Highlights: Three-time NBA All-Star, currently playing for the Minnesota Timberwolves.

3. Marcus Smart, Edward S. Marcus High School Class of 2012

   • Achievements: Two 5A state titles, two-time Gatorade Player of the Year.
   • Career Highlights: NBA Defensive Player of the Year, recently signed with the Los Angeles Lakers.

4. T.J. Ford, Willowridge High School Class of 2001

   • Achievements: Led team to a 75-1 record, back-to-back state titles.
   • Career Highlights: Naismith and Wooden Player of the Year, played eight seasons in the NBA.

5. De'Aaron Fox, Cypress Lakes High School Class of 2016

   • Achievements: Texas Gatorade Player of the Year, Co-MVP of the Jordan Brand Classic.
   • Career Highlights: NBA All-Star, Clutch Player of the Year.

Girls

1. Brittney Griner, Chester W. Nimitz Senior High School Class of 2009

   • Achievements: Averaged 33 points, 15.5 rebounds, and 11.7 blocks as a senior.
   • Career Highlights: Two-time WNBA Defensive Player of the Year, currently with the Atlanta Dream.

2. Ariel Atkins, Duncanville High School Class of 2014

   • Achievements: Led team to a 148-10 record, two UIL Class 5A state titles.
   • Career Highlights: WNBA champion, first player to make All-Defensive team in first five seasons.

3. Moriah Jefferson, Texas Home Educators Sports Association Class of 2012

   • Achievements: Five National Christian HomeSchool Basketball Championships.
   • Career Highlights: Four NCAA titles with UConn, currently with the Chicago Sky.

4. Alexis Jones, MacArthur High School Class of 2012

   • Achievements: Two-time Texas Gatorade Player of the Year, state title.
   • Career Highlights: WNBA champion with the Minnesota Lynx.

5. Tiffany Jackson, Duncanville High School Class of 2003

   • Achievements: State title, Texas Gatorade Player of the Year.
   • Career Highlights: Three-time All-American at Texas, played 10 WNBA seasons.

Conclusion

These players not only dominated the high school courts in Texas but also carried their excellence into their professional careers, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of basketball.