In the world of college basketball, Florida Atlantic University (FAU) is making waves with its men's team, and it's not just any waves - they're NBA-ready waves. This year, two FAU alumni are making their mark in the professional basketball scene, one through the draft and the other through an undrafted free agent (UFA) contract. This is a testament to the program's consistent success and the players' dedication and talent.
The Draft: A Momentous Occasion
On Wednesday night, the Los Angeles Clippers made history by selecting FAU forward Baba Miller with the 36th overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. This moment was particularly special for Miller, who had a stellar collegiate career. He started his journey at Real Madrid's youth program, then moved to Florida State for two seasons. After withdrawing from the 2024 NBA Draft, Miller transferred to FAU, where he averaged 11 points, seven rebounds, and three assists in 2025, earning a spot on the All-American Athletic Conference team. His final stop was at Cincinnati, where he averaged 13 points and 10 rebounds before finally hearing his name called in the draft.
What makes Miller's selection even more impressive is the company he's keeping. In the second round of the previous year's draft, FAU guard Alijah Martin was selected 39th overall by the Toronto Raptors. This trend of FAU players being drafted in the second round is a testament to the program's ability to develop talent and prepare players for the professional level.
The Undrafted Free Agent: A Second Chance
While Miller was making history in the draft, another FAU alumnus, Nick Boyd, was securing his spot in the NBA through an Exhibit 10 contract with the Golden State Warriors. These contracts, while less guaranteed than standard NBA deals, offer a second chance for players who might not have been drafted but have the potential to make an impact.
Boyd, a guard who played for the Owls from 2020 to 2024, averaged eight points and two rebounds during his time at FAU. He was a key member of the team that reached the NCAA tournament in 2024. After transferring to San Diego State for the 2025 season and Wisconsin for the 2026 season, Boyd broke out, averaging 21 points, four rebounds, and four assists, leading the Badgers to the NCAA tournament.
FAU's Consistent Success: A Model for Other Programs
FAU's ability to produce NBA-ready players is not a fluke. It's a result of consistent success within their men's basketball program. In the past two seasons alone, FAU has put five players into the NBA, including Miller and Boyd. This is a remarkable achievement, especially considering the competitive nature of college basketball.
The Broader Impact: Inspiring Future Generations
What makes FAU's success even more significant is its impact on future generations of basketball players. By seeing their peers succeed, young athletes are inspired to strive for excellence. This creates a positive feedback loop, where the program continues to attract top talent and develop it into professional-level players.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for FAU Basketball
In conclusion, FAU's men's basketball program is on a roll, and its success is not just a product of chance. It's a result of hard work, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. As FAU continues to produce NBA-ready players, it sets a high bar for other college basketball programs, inspiring them to raise their game and prepare their players for the professional level. The future looks bright for FAU basketball, and the NBA is taking notice.
Personally, I think FAU's success is a testament to the power of a strong program and the dedication of its players. What makes this particularly fascinating is the impact it has on the broader basketball community, inspiring young athletes to dream big. In my opinion, FAU is setting a new standard for college basketball, and its success will continue to resonate for years to come.
