Top 5 Smartest Athletes

Honorable Mentions:

Shane Battier

Sport: Basketball
Education: Duke University (Bachelor’s in Religion)
IQ/Accomplishments: Shane Battier is widely regarded as one of the smartest basketball players both on and off the court. At Duke University, Battier was known for his academic achievements and leadership skills. 

His high basketball IQ allowed him to excel in defensive schemes, earning him numerous accolades, including the Naismith College Player of the Year. Off the court, Battier’s analytical approach to the game has translated into a successful post-basketball career, including work in sports analytics and broadcasting.

David Robinson

Sport: Basketball
Education: United States Naval Academy (Bachelor’s in Mathematics)
IQ/Accomplishments: Known as “The Admiral,” David Robinson is not only one of the greatest centers in NBA history but also one of the smartest athletes to ever play the game. A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy with a degree in mathematics, Robinson combined his academic prowess with his athletic ability, leading to a Hall of Fame basketball career. 

His leadership on and off the court, including his philanthropic efforts, further highlights his intelligence and character.

Steve Nash

Sport: Basketball
Education: Santa Clara University
IQ/Accomplishments: Steve Nash is known for his cerebral approach to basketball, which helped him become one of the greatest point guards in NBA history. 

A two-time NBA MVP, Nash’s high basketball IQ allowed him to excel in running complex offenses and making his teammates better. Off the court, Nash has been involved in various philanthropic and business ventures, showcasing his intelligence and ability to succeed in multiple areas.

#5: Craig Breslow (2005 – 2017)

Sport: Baseball
Position: Pitcher
Height/Weight: 6’1″, 185 lbs
Education: Yale University (Bachelor’s in Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry)

Craig Breslow is often referred to as “the smartest man in baseball” due to his impressive academic background and success on the field. 

A graduate of Yale University with a degree in Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Breslow’s intellect is as impressive as his pitching career. Over the course of his 12-year MLB career, Breslow became a reliable left-handed reliever, known for his precision and ability to get out of tough situations. 

He played for several teams, including the Boston Red Sox, with whom he won a World Series in 2013.

Beyond his baseball achievements, Breslow has been involved in numerous philanthropic efforts, particularly in raising awareness and funds for childhood cancer research. 

His combination of academic excellence, athletic prowess, and commitment to helping others has made him one of the most respected figures in sports.

#4: Pau Gasol (2001 – 2021)

Sport: Basketball
Position: Center/Power Forward
Height/Weight: 7’0″, 250 lbs
Education: University of Barcelona (Medical School – attended but did not complete)

Pau Gasol is not only one of the most skilled big men in NBA history, but he is also one of the most intellectually gifted athletes to have played the game. 

Originally enrolled in medical school at the University of Barcelona before pursuing a professional basketball career, Gasol’s academic inclination has always been evident. Over his two-decade-long NBA career, Gasol was a six-time All-Star, two-time NBA champion, and a key player for the Spanish national team, leading them to multiple international successes. 

His understanding of the game, combined with his off-court intelligence, has made him a respected leader and advocate for education and social issues.

#3: Myron Rolle (2010 – 2012)

Sport: Football
Position: Safety
Height/Weight: 6’2″, 215 lbs
Education: Florida State University (Bachelor’s in Exercise Science), University of Oxford (Rhodes Scholar), Florida State University College of Medicine (Doctor of Medicine)

Myron Rolle is an extraordinary example of how academic excellence can be paired with athletic achievement. After a standout football career at Florida State University, where he earned All-American honors, Rolle was awarded a Rhodes Scholarship and studied at the University of Oxford, earning a master’s degree in medical anthropology. 

He later pursued a career in medicine, attending Florida State University College of Medicine and becoming a neurosurgeon. Although Rolle’s NFL career was brief, his accomplishments in both academics and athletics have made him a role model and an inspiration to many.

#2: Ryan Fitzpatrick (2005 – 2021)

Sport: Football
Position: Quarterback
Height/Weight: 6’2″, 228 lbs
Education: Harvard University (Bachelor’s in Economics)

Ryan Fitzpatrick, often affectionately known as “Fitzmagic,” is widely recognized as one of the smartest players in NFL history. A graduate of Harvard University with a degree in economics, Fitzpatrick scored an impressive 48 out of 50 on the Wonderlic test, a feat that highlights his intellectual prowess. 

Over his 17-year NFL career, Fitzpatrick played for nine different teams, becoming known for his savvy play, leadership, and ability to step into challenging situations and succeed. 

His combination of academic excellence and longevity in one of the most mentally demanding positions in sports underscores his place as one of the smartest athletes of all time.

#1: Bill Bradley (1967 – 1977)

Sport: Basketball
Position: Small Forward
Height/Weight: 6’5″, 205 lbs
Education: Princeton University (Bachelor’s in History), University of Oxford (Rhodes Scholar)

Bill Bradley is a prime example of an athlete whose intelligence and academic achievements are as impressive as his sports career. A standout basketball player at Princeton University, Bradley became a Rhodes Scholar and studied at the University of Oxford before embarking on a professional career in the NBA. 

During his time with the New York Knicks, Bradley won two NBA championships and was known for his unselfish play and high basketball IQ. 

Off the court, Bradley went on to have a successful political career, serving as a U.S. Senator for New Jersey from 1979 to 1997. His contributions to both sports and public service highlight his exceptional intellect and leadership.