
College basketball has seen many remarkable players, but centers hold a special place due to their size, skill, and impact on the game. These athletes have often been game-changers, leading their teams to victory through dominance in the paint, shot-blocking, and scoring.
Who are the players that have left an indelible mark on college basketball history? This article highlights the top ten centers who have not only excelled individually but have also significantly contributed to their teams’ successes and the sport’s evolution.
1) Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is widely regarded as one of the greatest centers in college basketball history. He played for UCLA under coach John Wooden from 1967 to 1969. During his time at UCLA, Abdul-Jabbar led the Bruins to three consecutive NCAA championships.
Standing at 7’2″, Abdul-Jabbar was known for his dominant presence on the court. He was a three-time national player of the year and was named the Most Outstanding Player of the NCAA tournament twice. His signature move, the skyhook, was nearly impossible to defend.
His college career was marked by incredible statistics. Abdul-Jabbar averaged 26.4 points per game and 15.5 rebounds per game over his college career. In his first varsity game, he scored 56 points, setting a UCLA single-game record.
Kareem’s impact on college basketball extended beyond his individual achievements. His performances brought significant attention to the sport and contributed to the popularity and prestige of college basketball.
2) Wilt Chamberlain

Wilt Chamberlain, a giant at 7 feet 1 inch tall, is one of the most iconic figures in college basketball history. He played for the Kansas Jayhawks from 1956 to 1958. During his time in college, Wilt showcased incredible scoring and rebounding skills that would later define his professional career.
Chamberlain made an immediate impact, scoring 52 points in his varsity debut, which set a record for Kansas. He led the Jayhawks to the NCAA finals in 1957. Although Kansas lost in triple overtime, Wilt’s performance was unforgettable, scoring 23 points and grabbing 14 rebounds.
Wilt was known for his athleticism and dominance on both ends of the court. His rebounding ability was unmatched, and he often blocked shots effortlessly. He averaged 29.9 points and 18.3 rebounds per game during his college career.
In just two seasons, Chamberlain left an indelible mark on college basketball. He was named a First Team All-American and won numerous accolades. Despite his short college stint, his exploits at Kansas remain legendary. For his contributions to the sport, Wilt Chamberlain remains a towering figure in the history of college basketball.
3) Shaquille O’Neal

Shaquille O’Neal is one of the most dominant centers in college basketball history. He played for the LSU Tigers from 1989 to 1992. During his time at LSU, he was known for his powerful presence in the paint and his scoring ability.
O’Neal averaged 21.6 points, 13.5 rebounds, and 4.6 blocks per game in his college career. He was a two-time consensus All-American and won the Adolph Rupp Trophy as the best player in the NCAA in 1991.
His powerful dunks and shot-blocking skills made him a fan favorite and a defensive nightmare for opponents. Shaq’s impact on the game extended beyond the stats; his physical play and personality changed the way opponents approached each game.
Shaquille O’Neal entered the NBA Draft in 1992, where he was selected first overall by the Orlando Magic. His college career remains one of the most impressive in basketball history.
4) Hakeem Olajuwon

Hakeem Olajuwon, also known as “The Dream,” made a huge impact on college basketball during his time at the University of Houston. He played from 1981 to 1984. His dominant presence in the paint made him an unforgettable force.
Olajuwon helped lead the Cougars to three Final Four appearances. In 1983 and 1984, he took his team to the national championship game. Although they fell short both times, his performance was extraordinary.
In 1983, he was named the Final Four Most Outstanding Player. This was despite the fact that Houston didn’t win the championship. This unique honor speaks volumes about his individual skill and impact on the game.
Hakeem averaged double-doubles during his college career, showcasing his scoring and rebounding talents. His shot-blocking ability was unmatched, and he was known for his agility and footwork.
His college career laid the foundation for his successful NBA journey, where he became one of the greatest centers in the league’s history.
5) Bill Russell

Bill Russell is considered one of the greatest centers in college basketball history. He played for the University of San Francisco (USF) from 1953 to 1956. During his time at USF, Russell was known for his defensive skills and shot-blocking ability.
Russell led USF to win consecutive NCAA championships in 1955 and 1956. His presence on the court was a game-changer. He also earned All-American honors and was a three-time All-CBAC/WCAC All-Star.
Born on February 12, 1934, in West Monroe, Louisiana, Russell moved to Oakland, California, at a young age. He attended McClymonds High School before joining USF. His college performance set the stage for his future success in the NBA with the Boston Celtics.
Russell’s impact on the game extended beyond his college years, but his achievements at USF laid the foundation for what would become an illustrious career. His defensive prowess and leadership abilities made him a standout player in college basketball history.
6) Patrick Ewing

Patrick Ewing was born on August 5, 1962. He is widely known as one of the greatest centers in college basketball history. Ewing played for the Georgetown Hoyas from 1981 to 1985.
During his college career, Ewing helped lead the Hoyas to three NCAA Championship Game appearances. Georgetown won the national championship in 1984.
Ewing was a dominant force on the court, known for his shot-blocking and rebounding skills. His presence in the paint was unparalleled during his college years.
In 2008, ESPN named him the 16th-greatest college basketball player of all time. His impact at Georgetown is still remembered.
7) David Robinson

David Robinson, nicknamed “The Admiral,” stands among the greatest centers in college basketball history. Known for his time at the Naval Academy, Robinson’s talent was evident early on. He led Navy to the NCAA Tournament’s Elite Eight, which was a major highlight of his college career.
Standing at 7 feet 1 inch, Robinson was a dominant force on both ends of the court. He averaged 21 points and 10 rebounds per game during his college years. His shot-blocking ability was also incredible, with Robinson setting numerous records.
Robinson’s performance earned him several accolades. He won the Naismith and Wooden Awards in 1987, recognizing him as the top college player in the nation. His prowess on the court made him a high draft pick in the NBA.
Although he later became a legendary player with the San Antonio Spurs, Robinson’s college career laid the foundation for his professional success. His combination of size, skill, and leadership made him a standout player. David Robinson’s impact on college basketball remains significant even today.
8) Arvydas Sabonis

Arvydas Sabonis was one of the most skilled centers in college basketball history. Before joining the NBA, he had established himself as a dominant force in European basketball. Standing at 7 feet 3 inches, Sabonis combined size with incredible passing ability and basketball IQ.
In the mid-1980s, Sabonis played for Žalgiris Kaunas in Lithuania. During his time there, he led the team to multiple Soviet Union championships. His performance earned him the recognition as one of the best players outside the United States.
His skill set was unique for a center. He was not only a powerful presence in the paint but also an exceptional passer. This made him a versatile threat on the court, capable of scoring and facilitating plays for teammates.
Though he didn’t play college basketball in the United States, his impact globally and his dominance over college-age peers are why he is included in this list. Sabonis later enjoyed a successful NBA career with the Portland Trail Blazers, but his early years in Europe solidified his legacy as one of the greatest centers.
9) Ralph Sampson

Ralph Sampson stood out as one of the tallest players in college basketball history at 7-foot-4. He played for the University of Virginia.
Sampson was named the Naismith Player of the Year three times. This honor is given to the top player in college basketball each season.
During his college career, Sampson averaged 16.9 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 3.5 blocks per game. His impressive stats show his dominance on the court.
In 1983, Sampson was the first overall pick in the NBA Draft. His transition to the professional level brought high expectations.
Sampson’s height and skillset allowed him to redefine the center position. He was known for his graceful and athletic play style.
Ralph Sampson’s impact on college basketball remains significant. He is a member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
10) Alonzo Mourning

Alonzo Mourning played college basketball at Georgetown University from 1988 to 1992. He was known for his strong defense and shot-blocking ability. Playing under coach John Thompson, Mourning developed into a dominant center.
Mourning was a crucial part of the Georgetown Hoyas’ success during his time there. He helped lead the team to the NCAA tournament multiple times. His defensive prowess was unmatched, and he was a force to be reckoned with in the paint.
He finished his college career with impressive stats, including 2,001 points and 1,032 rebounds. Mourning also set a school record for blocked shots. His performances earned him numerous accolades and solidified his place among the best centers in college basketball history.
After leaving Georgetown, Mourning was the second pick in the 1992 NBA Draft, selected by the Charlotte Hornets. In the NBA, he continued to showcase his defensive skills and became a key player for the Miami Heat.
Alonzo Mourning’s legacy at Georgetown is remembered not only for his individual achievements but also for his role in maintaining the university’s reputation for developing top-tier centers.