Top 10 NBA Players Born in Indiana (2025 Rankings)

Indiana has long been called the cradle of basketball, producing some of the finest players to ever lace up their sneakers. Hoosiers grow up with the sport in their blood, and gyms across the state serve as breeding grounds for talent that eventually makes its way to the professional level.

The modern NBA continues to showcase athletes who hail from Indiana, carrying on that tradition with pride.

This list of ours points out the top active players and emerging stars born in Indiana as of 2025.

Performance, impact, and career trajectory have been considered, ensuring that both established veterans and promising young talents receive the recognition they deserve.

1. Desmond Bane (Richmond, IN)

Desmond Bane has risen into superstardom, establishing himself as one of the NBA’s premier shooting guards.

His move to the Orlando Magic unlocked a new level in his game, where he became not only a high-volume scorer but also a strong playmaker.

At 6’5” with a powerful frame, Bane excels at driving through contact, spacing the floor with his three-point shot, and defending both guard positions. His leadership qualities are undeniable, serving as a vocal and steady presence on a young roster.

Career milestones also highlight his rapid ascent. Drafted by Memphis in 2020, he quickly grew into a reliable option before landing in Orlando, where his production skyrocketed. His $200 million extension solidifies his value as a franchise cornerstone.

2. Darius Garland (Gary, IN)

Darius Garland represents the modern floor general, capable of scoring at will while orchestrating an offense with precision.

His ball-handling skills and quick release make him a constant threat. Cleveland relies heavily on his shot creation, particularly in clutch moments.

Despite missing time due to injury in recent postseasons, Garland remains the centerpiece of the Cavaliers’ long-term plans. His vision in the pick-and-roll, coupled with his three-point shooting, places him among the NBA’s top guards.

He develops as a leader, pushing teammates to higher levels while shouldering the offensive load.

His playoff performances, even when limited, show poise under pressure.

3. Michael Porter Jr. (Indianapolis, IN)

Michael Porter Jr. offers Denver consistent scoring with his pure shooting stroke. At 6’10”, he brings rare size for a wing paired with excellent perimeter efficiency.

Injuries early in his career slowed his rise, yet his resilience and commitment to improvement have paid off. Now, as a vital member of a title-contending team, Porter provides floor spacing that complements Nikola Jokic’s playmaking perfectly.

His confidence has grown steadily, with his scoring reaching career highs in 2024–25.

While defense remains a point of improvement, his offensive presence makes him invaluable.

4. Jaden Ivey (South Bend, IN)

Jaden Ivey embodies the next generation of Indiana-born NBA stars. Known for explosive athleticism, quick first steps, and fearless drives to the basket, he has energized the Detroit Pistons since being drafted in 2022.

His improvement each season is evident, with growing confidence in his jump shot and better decision-making in transition.

Detroit views him as a future franchise leader, pairing him with fellow young talents in hopes of sparking a competitive rebuild.

Development in his mid-range shooting and consistency from three could elevate him into elite status. Already, he has proven himself a dangerous backcourt scorer.

5. Trayce Jackson-Davis (Greenwood, IN)

Trayce Jackson-Davis has transitioned into the NBA seamlessly, showing maturity and efficiency.

Golden State utilizes his ability to finish at the rim, rebound with tenacity, and protect the paint. His left-handed post game, developed during his time at Indiana University, remains effective in the pros.

Although a rookie, his confidence and versatility are already turning heads. His presence provides much-needed energy off the bench, and coaches praise his work ethic.

6. Gary Harris (Fishers, IN)

Gary Harris has carved out a reputation as one of the NBA’s reliable two-way wings.

His defensive versatility allows him to guard both backcourt and wing scorers, while his offensive role centers on spacing the floor with timely threes.

Although not a primary scorer anymore, his steadiness and veteran mindset are crucial for Orlando’s young roster.

Younger players often credit him as a mentor, and coaches lean on his experience in close contests.

7. Eric Gordon (Indianapolis, IN)

Eric Gordon continues to defy time with his scoring ability.

Seventeen years into his NBA career, he still produces double-digit points for Philadelphia, thriving in his role as a bench scorer and floor spacer.

His longevity speaks to his conditioning and ability to adapt to evolving NBA systems.

Younger teammates benefit from his playoff experience, and his willingness to embrace various roles has earned him respect throughout the league.

8. Mason Plumlee (Fort Wayne, IN)

Mason Plumlee continues to thrive in his role as a dependable backup center.

With Phoenix, he provides reliable rebounding, solid screens, and rim protection in limited minutes. His physical presence and passing ability make him a valuable role player, especially in playoff situations where depth matters.

Longevity is also a marker of his career success, with teams repeatedly seeking his services for interior stability.

9. Blake Wesley (South Bend, IN)

Blake Wesley remains a work-in-progress but is showing promise with the Spurs.

Under Gregg Popovich’s system, his defensive instincts and athleticism are being honed, while his offensive skill set gradually expands.

Although minutes are limited, flashes of speed and playmaking suggest long-term potential.

With patience, Wesley could grow into a key guard for San Antonio, contributing on both ends of the floor.

10. Cody Zeller (Washington, IN)

Cody Zeller’s career reflects consistency and professionalism.

While no longer a major on-court producer, his rebounding, post defense, and hustle plays remain valuable.

Atlanta uses him in a limited role, but his impact in the locker room is significant, guiding younger teammates with his veteran insight.

His long NBA career highlights resilience and adaptability.

Rising Indiana Stars to Watch (High School Class of 2025)

High school talent across Indiana shows that the next generation is already making noise on the national recruiting stage.

Other players to keep an eye on include Chuck Love III of La Lumiere, Chase Konieczny of South Bend, and Kellen Pickett of Fort Wayne. Each shows potential to add to Indiana’s long line of future pros.

Final Thoughts

Indiana’s basketball heritage continues to shine, with NBA stars like Desmond Bane and Darius Garland leading the way.

Veterans such as Eric Gordon and Cody Zeller maintain relevance, while younger names like Jaden Ivey and Trayce Jackson-Davis carry the torch for the next decade. On the horizon, recruits such as Braylon Mullins and Jalen Haralson are already gaining national attention.

The state’s connection to basketball remains strong, ensuring that Indiana will remain a dominant contributor to NBA talent for years to come.

Read more: Get your head start on the biggest events in Indiana happening in the near future!