- Michigan State’s “Flintstones” quartet – Cleaves, Bell, Hutson, and Smith – played a pivotal role in three consecutive Final Four appearances
- Green recalls how watching these Spartans from nearby Flint ignited his desire to play basketball and join Michigan State
- The group’s resilience and success in the 2000 National Championship left an indelible mark on Green’s basketball aspirations
In a recent conversation on Los Angeles Clippers star Paul George’s podcast, “Podcast P with Paul George,” Draymond Green, revealed a significant source of inspiration that shaped his basketball journey.
Green pointed to the iconic group of Michigan State basketball greats known as “The Flintstones” as the driving force behind his decision to pursue a career in the NBA. The impact of this quartet from Flint, Michigan, resonated deeply with Green and set him on a path toward becoming a notable NBA figure:
“When I saw those guys from Flint, Michigan, which was 20 minutes away from Saginaw, that was the first thing that was like ‘Ah, I can do that. And from that point on, I wanted to go to Michigan State.”
“When I saw those guys win the national championship, Mo Cleaves jumping around on one ankle, doing his little dance. That, for me, was the first thing that opened my eyes to be like, ‘I want to be like that, and I want to go there, and I want to go to the NBA.”
The Flintstones 🤝 Draymond
Draymond Green explains what inspired his decision to play at @MSU_Basketball 👏 @PodcastPShow pic.twitter.com/mn6EgpysCD
— NCAA March Madness (@MarchMadnessMBB) July 5, 2023
For Green, who hails from Saginaw, Michigan, watching “The Flintstones” achieve greatness ignited his desire to emulate their success. The proximity of Flint to his hometown further amplified the impact of their achievements.
The group’s ability to make a profound impact on a national stage while representing their home state resonated with Green, showing him that he could also achieve his dreams on the big stage.
Who were the Flintstones From Michigan?
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Michigan State University basketball witnessed the rise of a remarkable quartet known as “The Flintstones.” Comprising Mateen Cleaves, Charlie Bell, Andre Hutson, and Antonio Smith, these players left an indelible mark on the sport and inspired a generation.
Hailing from Flint, Michigan, these athletes brought their unique talents to the Spartans’ court. Led by Cleaves, they showcased exceptional teamwork and skill, propelling the team to unprecedented heights.
Their legacy was defined by three consecutive Final Four appearances from 1999 to 2001, a testament to their consistency and excellence.
The crowning achievement for “The Flintstones” came in 2000 when they secured the NCAA National Championship. Their victory over Florida marked a historic moment for Michigan State basketball.
Cleaves’ leadership, Bell’s versatility, Hutson’s inside presence, and Smith’s hustle combined to create a force that opponents struggled to overcome.
Beyond their records, “The Flintstones” embodied the essence of college basketball – dedication, passion, and unity. Cleaves’ charismatic leadership earned him a special place in the hearts of fans.
Bell’s well-rounded skills translated to a successful NBA career. Hutson’s dominance in the paint symbolized the Spartans’ competitive spirit, while Smith’s energy became the team’s heartbeat.
“The Flintstones” from Flint, Michigan, remain an integral part of Michigan State’s basketball history. Their impact is felt not only through their accomplishments but also through the values they instilled in the program.
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