Hoosier-born guard Javon Small took a triumphant leap into the pros when the Memphis Grizzlies selected him with the No. 48 pick in the second round of the 2025 NBA Draft. A South Bend native who honed his skills at East Carolina, Oklahoma State, and finally West Virginia, Small delivered a stellar senior season with averaging 18.6 points, 5.6 assists, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game. He earned All-Big 12 First Team and AP All-American Honorable Mention honors. At the NBA Combine, scouts praised his “quick, crafty” guard play and tenacious defense, traits that drew comparisons to players like Immanuel Quickley. Beyond the court, Small’s draft night became an emotional family moment from his grandfather’s tearful reaction captured hearts and highlights what this achievement means to the community. Now, as a 6′3″ lead guard with proven playmaking and defender grit, Small embarks on his NBA journey as a proud new chapter for Indiana basketball and a potent story of perseverance and hometown pride.