Here are the top ten UCLA point guards in the modern era of college basketball.
UCLA has a long history of producing talented basketball players, with a decent number of those being standout point guards in particular. Ten of UCLA's best point guards are listed, not ranked in any specific order, but named in this top ten list according to their achievements while playing at UCLA, their roles in team wins (especially titles won), and their later NBA careers.
Lonzo Ball, who played for just one season from 2016 to 2017, had a significant influence on UCLA in terms of recruiting and branding shortly after he left Westwood. He regularly approached triple-double numbers, and his superb passing skills made UCLA's attack one of the most exciting in the country. His performance was truly remarkable. He was selected for the esteemed All-American first team.
Throwback to Lonzo Ball’s freshman season at UCLA (16-17) 🔵🐻 pic.twitter.com/CrfeNR8HwO
— College Basketball Report (@CBKReport) February 16, 2024
From 1996 to 1999, Baron Davis demonstrated his guard abilities as the Bruins' point guard. Davis was always ready to provide a breathtaking moment, showcasing incredible strength and speed. He was a key player in helping UCLA advance far into the NCAA Tournament with his outstanding scoring, accurate passing, and strong defense. He distinguished himself as an exceptional player in college and the NBA thanks to his quickness and ability to get to the basket and score.
UCLA Baron Davis 🔥
— ThrowbackHoops (@ThrowbackHoops) March 13, 2023
(📼: @teamflightbros) pic.twitter.com/Sd4O5MtbT4
From 2005 to 2009, Darren Collison played point guard for UCLA, showcasing his abilities. Collison proved to be dependable on the court time and time again, getting better every season. Under Ben Howland's leadership, multiple Bruins teams advanced to the Final Four of the NCAA Tournament. He was an essential member of a number of those teams. He has a reputation in the game for his quick scoring, strong defense, and high basketball IQ.
Russell Westbrook and Darren Collison, former UCLA teammates, went at it in open run 👀 (via @ChrisJHoops) pic.twitter.com/Jx2lTwBwi5
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) August 8, 2018
Tyus Edney played for UCLA from 1991 to 1995, showcasing his skills on the floor. That historic coast-to-coast layup in the 1995 NCAA Tournament, which helped the Bruins win their last national title, solidified his reputation. He was a key member of that winning team and showed outstanding leadership.
That time Tyus Edney went the distance for @UCLAMBB. pic.twitter.com/S4aqZCS4gG
— CBS Sports College Basketball 🏀 (@CBSSportsCBB) March 4, 2025
Pooh Richardson demonstrated his abilities as the Bruins' point guard from 1985 to 1989, performing admirably on the court. After attending UCLA, he had a prosperous NBA career. They admired him for his ability to score at will and generate opportunities on the court through assists for his teammates.
#ThrowbackThursday to Pooh Richardson, UCLA's all-time leader in assists.
— UCLA Men’s Basketball (@UCLAMBB) July 23, 2020
He registered 8⃣3⃣3⃣ career assists (second-best in @pac12 history) from 1986 through 1989. #GoBruins pic.twitter.com/zUl8QPVqn4
Russell Westbrook developed his offensive abilities while playing defense at UCLA from 2006 to 2008, showcasing his fantastic speed and toughness. His connection with Darren Collison demonstrated his potential as a prominent player. In his sophomore year, he made his debut, showcasing the skill that would ultimately win him the NBA MVP award. Although not the primary ball-handler during his time at UCLA, this athlete left a lasting impact on the program, which is why he is considered a point guard.
From @UCLA to the @NBA, @russwest44 seeks his 10th selection to the annual #NBAAllStar Game!
— UCLA Men’s Basketball (@UCLAMBB) February 14, 2021
RT to VOTE Russell Westbrook of the @WashWizards.#NBABruins pic.twitter.com/xhuCrlTwJ0
Jrue Holiday briefly played in Westwood from 2008 to 2009. Like Westbrook, Holiday made a big impression during his one season at UCLA. He was unable to hide his defensive proficiency or his general aptitude as a player, even as a rookie. He demonstrated his ability to be a multifaceted NBA star.
Drafted 17th overall out of UCLA in 2009 and now 2x NBA CHAMPION in Year 15... Jrue Holiday! pic.twitter.com/GDOKycSNTv
— NBA (@NBA) June 18, 2024
From 1997 to 2001, Earl Watson showed his abilities as a point guard. On the field, Watson demonstrated tenacity and reliability, gaining a reputation for his excellent leadership and defensive skills. Throughout his four years as a starter, he distinguished himself as a powerful force for the Bruins. He went on to have a lengthy NBA career after that.
In NCAA tournament history, 103 players have had at least 30 assists in a single tournament.
— Paul Branham (@BoilerPaulie) March 30, 2024
Only 5️⃣ have done it in 3 games:
33 Earl Watson, UCLA 2000
32 Mark Wade, UNLV 1986
31 Jason Kidd, Cal 1993
31 Brett Comer, FGCU 2013
31 Braden Smith, Purdue 2024
Braden has also done… pic.twitter.com/LPvhJ9GFw6
Between 2019 and 2023, Tyger Campbell consistently took the court as the starting point guard, proving to be a reliable presence for his team in every game. He excelled as a passer, showcased his scoring ability, and demonstrated sharp decision-making that propelled UCLA deep into the NCAA Tournament.
Another day, another career high.
— UCLA Men’s Basketball (@UCLAMBB) March 11, 2023
𝟐𝟖 points for Tyger Campbell.#GoBruins | #Pac12MBB pic.twitter.com/AUSgRrVPFV
Jordan Farmar, from 2004 to 2006, joined UCLA just before the 2005 season, and as a point guard, he played a crucial role in the school's significant resurgence under Ben Howland. He racked up an impressive number of points and facilitated plays for his teammates, playing a critical role in the Bruins' journey to the 2006 National Championship game.
#FlashbackFriday to former standout guard Jordan Farmar (@JrFarmar).
— UCLA Men’s Basketball (@UCLAMBB) November 20, 2020
He led the Bruins to the NCAA championship contest as a sophomore in 2006. In 2009 & 2010, he helped the @Lakers secure back-to-back NBA titles.#GoBruins pic.twitter.com/3jv3JEYgtH
