Current NBA Players from the State of South Carolina (2023-2024)
Basketball players, and indeed competitors across all athletic fields, carry a badge of honor for their birthplaces. It could be their home state, the neighborhood they grew up in, or the area code they associate with; there’s always a noticeable desire to represent one’s beginnings.
The same holds true for the fan base. There’s an added thrill in supporting a player who shares your state lines or even the same local stomping grounds, especially when that athlete plays for the team you root for above all others.
Bearing this in mind, we scoured through NBA.com to extract the home states or, in some instances, the home countries of every player listed on the active rosters of each team.
Our findings included 10 players originating from the state of South Carolina.
NBA Players from South Carolina
Below is a list of all 10 players on NBA rosters at the commencement of the 2023 season, detailing their hometowns and the respective teams they represent.
| Name | City | State | Team |
|---|---|---|---|
| Noah Clowney | Spartanburg | South Carolina | Brooklyn Nets |
| Nic Claxton | Greenville | South Carolina | Brooklyn Nets |
| Torrey Craig | Columbia | South Carolina | Chicago Bulls |
| Aaron Nesmith | Charleston | South Carolina | Indiana Pacers |
| Khris Middleton | Charleston | South Carolina | Milwaukee Bucks |
| Bryce McGowens | Pendleton | South Carolina | Charlotte Hornets |
| John Butler Jr. | Greenville | South Carolina | Washington Wizards |
| Jalen Slawson | Charleston | South Carolina | Sacramento Kings |
| Ja Morant | Dalzell | South Carolina | Memphis Grizzlies |
| GG Jackson | Columbia | South Carolina | Memphis Grizzlies |
Player Bios
Here is a little more background on a few of the standout players from the state of South Carolina:
Khris Middleton
Khris Middleton was born in Charleston, South Carolina, a historic city known for its rich culture and strong sports tradition. Middleton attended Porter-Gaud School in Charleston, where he emerged as a talented basketball player.
His high school career was highlighted by his scoring ability and basketball IQ. Middleton played college basketball at Texas A&M University, where he developed into a versatile and efficient player.
His journey from Charleston to becoming an NBA All-Star underscores his steady development, scoring prowess, and ability to perform in high-pressure situations, reflecting the competitive spirit of his South Carolina roots.
Ja Morant
Ja Morant was born in Dalzell, South Carolina, a small community with a close-knit environment. Morant attended Crestwood High School in Sumter, South Carolina, where he quickly distinguished himself as an electrifying guard with exceptional athleticism and playmaking skills.
Despite being lightly recruited, Morant’s raw talent and potential were undeniable. He played college basketball at Murray State University in Kentucky, where he rose to national prominence with his dynamic scoring and highlight-reel plays.
Morant’s path from the small-town courts of South Carolina to becoming an NBA sensation is a testament to his extraordinary talent, determination, and the depth of basketball talent found in the state.
Aaron Nesmith
Aaron Nesmith was born in Charleston, South Carolina, a city renowned for its rich history and vibrant culture. Nesmith attended Porter-Gaud School, the same high school as fellow NBA player Khris Middleton, in Charleston, where he honed his skills on the basketball court.
His high school career was marked by his exceptional shooting ability and scoring talent, leading him to become one of the top prospects in the state.
Nesmith chose to play college basketball at Vanderbilt University, where he continued to impress with his sharpshooting and offensive skills. Despite an injury-shortened sophomore year, he led the nation in three-point shooting percentage, showcasing his potential as a high-level shooter.
Nesmith’s journey from Charleston to becoming a first-round pick in the NBA Draft highlights his development as a standout shooter and his personal dedication to improving his game.
Conclusion
From the driveways of small-town South Carolina to the gleaming hardwood of NBA arenas, these players carry with them a piece of their home state, a testament to the talent and determination that South Carolina instills in its athletes.
Whether they are rookies making their debut or seasoned veterans known by every fan, the pride of South Carolina continues to shine on the national stage. To the fans back home, these players are more than just athletes; they are local heroes, each with a story that resonates with the dreams of young ballers across the state.
As the season unfolds, we will watch their stories develop further, cheering for not only the skills they display but also the communities they represent. The spirit of South Carolina basketball is alive and well in the NBA, and perhaps, in the cheers of the crowd, the players can hear a little bit of home calling back to them.
