Paul Millsap grew up in Monroe, Louisiana, where his love for basketball began. Known for his work ethic and tenacity, Millsap honed his skills at Grambling High School, becoming one of the top high school prospects in the state.
After high school, Millsap attended Louisiana Tech University, where he made NCAA history by leading the nation in rebounding for three consecutive seasons. His dominance on the boards made him a standout prospect, even though he lacked the hype of some of his peers.
Al Jefferson, on the other hand, was a highly touted recruit from Prentiss, Mississippi. Standing at 6'10" with a polished low-post game, Jefferson dominated high school basketball at Prentiss High School. He earned McDonald's All-American honors and was ranked among the top high school players in the country.
Instead of playing college basketball, Jefferson declared for the 2004 NBA Draft, entering the league directly from high school.
Paul Millsap was selected 47th overall in the 2006 NBA Draft by the Utah Jazz. Being a second-round pick, expectations for him were modest. However, Millsap quickly proved his value with relentless effort and versatility. His ability to contribute as a scorer, rebounder, and defender made him a key piece for the Jazz early in his career.
Al Jefferson was selected 15th overall in the 2004 NBA Draft by the Boston Celtics. Joining a rebuilding Celtics team, Jefferson showed flashes of brilliance but struggled with consistency in his first few seasons. However, his potential as a dominant post scorer was evident, and he became a valuable asset for the franchise.
Paul Millsap established himself as one of the most versatile forwards in the NBA. At 6'7", he played both power forward and center, using his basketball IQ and defensive skills to outplay bigger opponents. Millsap’s mid-range jump shot, three-point shooting, and rebounding made him a reliable scorer and defender.
During his time with the Atlanta Hawks, Millsap became a four-time All-Star (2014–2017), helping the team achieve one of the best records in the league during the 2014–2015 season.
Al Jefferson was known for his elite footwork and scoring ability in the post. He thrived as a traditional big man, using his size and skill to dominate opponents. Jefferson’s career took off after being traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he became the team’s primary offensive option.
Jefferson’s best season came in 2013–2014 with the Charlotte Bobcats (now Hornets), where he averaged 21.8 points and 10.8 rebounds per game, earning All-NBA Third Team honors.
Millsap’s career trajectory was marked by his adaptability. In Utah, he was a reliable contributor off the bench before earning a starting role. With the Hawks, he became the centerpiece of a team known for its balanced offense and stellar defense.
Later, with the Denver Nuggets, Millsap provided veteran leadership, helping develop young stars like Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray. His contributions were instrumental in the Nuggets’ deep playoff runs.
Jefferson played a pivotal role for multiple teams throughout his career. In Minnesota, he posted several 20-point, 10-rebound seasons, cementing his status as one of the league’s best big men. During his time with the Jazz, Jefferson was a consistent scoring option in the paint.
With the Hornets, Jefferson led the team to a playoff berth and was widely regarded as one of the league’s most skilled low-post players.
Both players were respected leaders in their locker rooms. Millsap’s calm demeanor and work ethic made him a mentor for younger players, while Jefferson’s outgoing personality and basketball IQ earned him admiration from teammates and coaches alike.
When Millsap and Jefferson faced each other, their contrasting styles made for exciting matchups. Millsap’s agility and defensive prowess often clashed with Jefferson’s size and scoring ability in the post.
Injuries impacted both players at various points in their careers. Millsap managed to adapt his game as he aged, extending his career by evolving into a three-point shooter. Jefferson, meanwhile, struggled with injuries in his later years, which eventually led to his retirement.
While neither player is a lock for the Hall of Fame, their contributions to basketball are undeniable. Millsap’s consistency and versatility make him a strong candidate for consideration, while Jefferson’s dominance as a post scorer has earned him a place among the game’s most skilled big men.
Fans remember Millsap for his reliability and underappreciated skill set, while Jefferson is celebrated for his old-school approach and offensive mastery. Both players remain beloved by the fanbases of the teams they represented.
Paul Millsap and Al Jefferson may not have the flashiest resumes, but their careers are testaments to hard work, skill, and dedication. As we look back on their journeys, it’s clear that both players left an indelible mark on the NBA, inspiring the next generation of basketball stars.
