From Big Ten Star to NBA Draft Pick: The Legacy of Dennis Hopson

Dennis Hopson’s journey from a standout college basketball player to an NBA draft pick is one of perseverance, talent, and the pursuit of greatness. His name remains etched in the history of Ohio State basketball, not just as a legendary figure, but as the school’s all-time leading scorer. The story of his career, both in college and the professional arena, showcases the evolution of an athlete who achieved remarkable success and left a lasting impact on the game. From being named the 1987 Big Ten Player of the Year to becoming the third overall pick in the 1987 NBA Draft, Hopson’s path to success wasn’t straightforward but was marked by his undeniable talent and determination.

Dennis Hopson was born on January 22, 1965, in Detroit, Michigan. Growing up in one of the nation’s basketball hotbeds, Hopson was introduced to the game at an early age. He attended Redford High School in Detroit, where he quickly became a star, demonstrating the athleticism and scoring ability that would become his signature traits. His high school success caught the attention of college recruiters, and by the time he was ready to move on to the next level, he was regarded as one of the top prospects in the country.

Hopson’s college journey began in 1983 when he made the decision to play for Ohio State University. The Buckeyes were a powerhouse in the Big Ten Conference, and Hopson would soon make his mark as one of the premier players in the league. Under the guidance of head coach Eldon Miller, he began to develop into a versatile scoring threat.

During his freshman season, Hopson played a supporting role but showed glimpses of the skills that would define his career. His ability to score in a variety of ways—whether from the perimeter, in transition, or attacking the basket—was evident. As his college career progressed, so did his role on the team. By the time Hopson reached his junior year, he had firmly established himself as the focal point of the Ohio State offense.

In the 1986-1987 season, Hopson had a breakout year, leading Ohio State to an NCAA Tournament appearance. He averaged 16 points, 5 rebounds, and 1 assist per game during his time at Ohio State, showcasing his well-rounded game. His scoring prowess was complemented by his tenacity on the boards and his ability to impact the game in other areas.

Hopson’s individual success culminated in him being named the 1987 Big Ten Player of the Year, an honor that recognized his dominance within one of the most competitive conferences in the country. His 1,004 career points placed him in the Ohio State history books, and it was clear that he had a bright future ahead of him. However, Hopson’s most significant claim to fame at Ohio State would come in the form of his total career points. As of 2025, he remains the all-time leading scorer for the Buckeyes, a record that further cemented his place in Ohio State’s basketball history.

Hopson’s success wasn’t just about individual accolades—he was also a key player for the Buckeyes, leading them to several successful seasons and post-season appearances. His leadership on the court and ability to perform in high-pressure situations made him a valuable asset to the team. His skillset was a testament to his work ethic and his desire to elevate those around him.

By 1987, Hopson’s outstanding college career had caught the attention of NBA scouts. He declared for the NBA Draft, where his combination of size, skill, and scoring ability made him one of the most highly anticipated prospects. His impressive college career, highlighted by his dominance in the Big Ten, made him a sought-after player for several teams in the league.

Hopson was selected as the third overall pick in the 1987 NBA Draft by the New Jersey Nets, a significant achievement for any player. The Nets were a team in need of offensive firepower, and Hopson’s ability to score from multiple positions made him an ideal fit. The draft marked the beginning of a new chapter in Hopson’s life as he moved from the college ranks to the fast-paced world of professional basketball.

Despite the excitement surrounding his arrival in the NBA, Hopson’s professional career did not pan out as expected. He played three seasons with the New Jersey Nets (1987-1990), where he was given the opportunity to develop and prove himself. His early years in the league were challenging, as he faced the steep learning curve that comes with transitioning from college to the pros. Hopson’s performance in his first few years was solid, but not spectacular. In his rookie season, he averaged 9.6 points per game, which was respectable for a first-year player, but it wasn’t enough to elevate him into the ranks of elite NBA players.

One of the challenges Hopson faced was adjusting to the speed and physicality of the NBA. While his college success translated well to the professional level, it took time for him to adjust to the nuances of playing against the world’s best players. His shooting ability, one of his greatest strengths in college, didn’t always translate in the pros, and he struggled to find consistency.

In 1990, after a brief stint with the Nets, Hopson was traded to the Sacramento Kings, where he spent the remainder of the 1990 season. He continued to show flashes of his potential but was never able to establish himself as a consistent starter. He played just one more season in the NBA with the Kings before his career in the league came to an end. Hopson’s professional career was short-lived, and while he wasn’t able to achieve the same level of success in the NBA that he had enjoyed in college, he still made an impact as a skilled scorer during his time in the league.

After his time in the NBA, Hopson played briefly overseas, where he had the opportunity to continue his basketball career and gain experience in different international leagues. His time abroad allowed him to keep his competitive edge and remain involved in the game, although it was clear that his playing days were nearing an end. Hopson eventually moved on from playing professionally and transitioned into other ventures.

However, his legacy in basketball, particularly at Ohio State, has endured. His place in Ohio State history is secure as the school’s all-time leading scorer, and his impact on the program is still felt to this day. He remains a beloved figure for Buckeyes fans, who remember his incredible performances on the court during his college years. Hopson’s legacy also transcends basketball, as he has become a symbol of what hard work and determination can achieve.

His time as the Big Ten Player of the Year and his impressive college career are a reminder of the talent he brought to the game. Even though his NBA career didn’t meet the high expectations set for him, Hopson’s success at the college level and his contributions to the sport are undeniable. He was a trailblazer for Ohio State basketball, and his story is one of overcoming obstacles, finding success, and leaving a lasting impact on the game.

Dennis Hopson’s journey from being a high school star in Detroit to becoming Ohio State’s all-time leading scorer and the third overall pick in the 1987 NBA Draft is a testament to his skill, perseverance, and love for the game of basketball. Though his NBA career may not have been as illustrious as many expected, his legacy as one of Ohio State’s greatest players remains secure. Hopson’s time at Ohio State will always be remembered as one of the brightest eras in the program’s history, and his journey through basketball continues to inspire athletes and fans alike.

Ultimately, Dennis Hopson’s story is one of triumphs and challenges, of dreams realized and obstacles faced. His legacy will continue to shine brightly as a reminder of what it takes to succeed at the highest levels of sport and how far talent, dedication, and heart can take you. From Big Ten star to NBA draft pick, Dennis Hopson’s legacy is one that will not be forgotten.!