Writers Note: Over the next few weeks, we will be doing a countdown of the 20 greatest Spartan basketball players of all-time. Every week, we will reveal one or two players and their spot on the all-time Spartans list. Who is the greatest of Spartan of all-time? Comment below who you think deserves the top spot, and let the debate begin!
Starting off our countdown at the 20th spot is Paul Davis. The Spartan Center wore the green and white from 2002-2006. Standing at an intimidating 6'11 frame, Davis played every bit his size, grabbing boards and battling inside. A physical presence throughout his career Davis exploited every possible match up advantage on the floor on his way to a overall successful career at MSU.
Davis grew up in Rochester Michigan where he won Mr. Basketball honors in 2002. Paul went on to spend four seasons in Lansing having a breakout senior campaign. As a senior, Davis led the Spartans to the 2005 NCAA Tournament where he lead the tournament in rebounds. Davis also had impressive numbers, putting up 17.5 points per game, 9.1 rebounds per game, and 1.6 steals per game.
Davis went on to be a 2nd round NBA Draft pick playing four essentially unsuccessful seasons with the Clippers and Wizards. He is currently playing overseas but a NBA comeback is highly unlikely at this point in his career.
All-Time Davis ranked ninth in points scored with 1,718 (One point ahead of 10th place Mike Robinson) and his 910 rebounds put him fifth in Spartan history. Paul Davis is the 20th greatest player in Michigan State basketball history.