A New Chapter for Florida Atlantic Basketball
Baba Miller, a former Florida Atlantic University forward who transferred from Florida State before his final college season, was selected by the Los Angeles Clippers with the 36th overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. His addition follows the historic selection of Alijah Martin just a year earlier, marking the first time two Owls alumni have been drafted in consecutive years.
Miller’s college journey took him from Florida State to Boca Raton, where he helped the Owls finish 18‑16 and reach the NIT before moving on to Cincinnati, where he posted 13.0 points and 10.3 rebounds per game. At FAU he averaged 11.3 points, 7.0 rebounds and 1.7 blocks while shooting 34 percent from three‑point range, numbers that helped the program break a 36‑year drought without an NBA draft pick.
From Campus to the NBA
The ripple effect of Dusty May’s departure to the Dallas Mavericks has not slowed the pipeline. Former FAU coach May, who transformed the Owls into a national contender from 2018 to 2024, now leads the Mavericks, while center Vladislav Goldin signed a two‑way contract with the Miami Heat and appeared in nine games as a rookie. Guard Johnell Davis also joined the Orlando Magic organization, spending time in the G League before aiming for a roster spot.
Beyond individual contracts, the surge of talent reflects a broader rise for Florida Atlantic University, a program that once struggled for national attention. With a strong recruiting base in Florida and a growing reputation for player development, the Owls are positioned to keep feeding the NBA with skilled big men and versatile wings.