Three University of Illinois players drafted by the Lakers over the years
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 9, 2026, 6:00 PM
Last updated Aug 9, 2026
The Los Angeles Lakers have drafted three players from the University of Illinois throughout their history. Rod Fletcher was selected in the sixth round of the 1952 draft, Harvey Schmidt was picked in the second round in 1957, and Brian Cook was chosen at No. 24 in 2003. Fletcher and Schmidt did not play in the NBA, while Cook had a nine-season career, averaging 5.5 points during his time with the Lakers and other teams. Under current coach Brad Underwood, the Illinois basketball program has reached the NCAA Tournament each of the past six years, including a Final Four appearance last season.
- •Rod Fletcher drafted by Lakers in 1952 but never played NBA.
- •Harvey Schmidt selected in 1957, also did not play in NBA.
- •Brian Cook taken 24th overall in 2003, played nine seasons.
- •Illinois basketball has a strong legacy with 74 NBA draft picks.
- •Brad Underwood has led Illinois to NCAA Tournaments for six consecutive years.
- 6:00 PMYahoo Sports — Every Indiana University player drafted by the Lakers
- 4:00 PMYahoo Sports — Every University of Illinois player drafted by the Lakers
"A look at every University of Illinois player who has been drafted by the Lakers.
"A look at every Indiana University player who has been drafted by the Lakers.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsAug 9, 2026, 6:00 PMEvery Indiana University player drafted by the Lakers
A look at every Indiana University player who has been drafted by the Lakers.
- Yahoo SportsAug 9, 2026, 4:00 PMEvery University of Illinois player drafted by the Lakers
A look at every University of Illinois player who has been drafted by the Lakers.
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