American · Lansing, Michigan · Born 10 June 1959American basketball forward who won the 1979 NCAA Championship with Michigan State and played six seasons in the NBA from 1981-1987.
Jay Vincent was born in Lansing, Michigan in 1959 and attended Michigan State University alongside Magic Johnson — winning the national championship in 1979. Dallas Mavericks selected him 24th overall in the 1981 NBA Draft. His nine-season career produced 12.8 points and 5.6 rebounds per game across seven franchises. He was the Dallas Mavericks' leading scorer in his rookie season. He was one of the era's more productive journeymen — a reliable scorer who could contribute 15-18 points off the bench on multiple teams throughout the 1980s. His Michigan State connection to Magic Johnson meant his college career was celebrated even if his professional production received limited national attention. He was one of the first Lansing, Michigan products to have sustained professional basketball success — a fact celebrated in that city's basketball community.
Solid NBA forward and Michigan State championship contributor
How They Played
Versatile forward with good scoring ability and rebounding
Lasting Impact
Reliable NBA journeyman who contributed consistently across multiple teams
Career Honours
- Michigan State champion (1979)
- All-Rookie consideration
- NBA journeyman contributor
| Club | Period | Apps |
|---|---|---|
| Dallas Mavericks | 1981–1986 | 382 |
| Washington Bullets | 1986–1987 | 44 |
| Denver Nuggets | 1987–1990 | 164 |
| San Antonio Spurs | 1990–1991 | 26 |
| Philadelphia 76ers | 1991–1992 | 35 |
American Athletes