Magic legend Tracy McGrady names the most underrated players he ever faced in the NBA

Tracy McGrady is widely recognized as one of the NBA’s all-time greats, particularly for his dominant years with the Orlando Magic. Throughout his career, he battled against countless stars and future Hall of Famers. But while marquee names often grab the headlines, McGrady hasn’t forgotten about the lesser-heralded opponents who consistently brought their best to the court.

For every superstar with shoe deals and highlight reels, there are players who quietly put together impactful careers without the same level of recognition. These were competitors who may not have received national attention, but whose talent and competitiveness earned deep respect from their peers.

McGrady, a seven-time All-Star and two-time scoring champion, recently took time to acknowledge some of the most underrated players he faced during his career. “Man, I got a couple,” McGrady said when asked to name the most overlooked opponents. He didn’t hesitate in listing names that may not appear on many all-time lists — but left a lasting impression on him.

“Jamal Mashburn, Cuttino Mobley, Ricky Davis — those guys were really good,” McGrady said. “They were highlight players that nobody talks about. But Jamal Mashburn and Cuttino Mobley were underrated hoopers for me. And another one — Peja Stojaković! I hated guarding him. Hated guarding Peja. Oh man, he was unbelievable. Un-freaking-believable.”

Tracy McGrady #1 of the Orlando Magic drives past Kobe Bryant #8 of the Los Angeles Lakers during the game at Staples Center

Jamal Mashburn, Mobley, Davis, and Peja: Quiet Legends

Jamal Mashburn, nicknamed “Monster Mash,” was one of the most explosive scorers of the 1990s. Drafted fourth overall by the Dallas Mavericks in 1993, Mashburn averaged more than 19 points per game in his rookie year and was part of the Mavericks’ “Three J’s” core with Jason Kidd and Jim Jackson. His peak came with the Charlotte/New Orleans Hornets, where he earned an All-Star nod in 2003 before injuries shortened a career that deserved more recognition.

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Cuttino Mobley carved out a highly productive NBA run as a high-IQ, sharpshooting guard. Selected in the second round by the Houston Rockets in 1998, Mobley quickly rose to starter status and formed a dynamic backcourt alongside Steve Francis. Known for his shot creation, perimeter accuracy, and defensive versatility, Mobley made stops with the Rockets, Clippers, and Magic, consistently delivering on both ends of the floor.

Ricky Davis, one of the league’s most electrifying and unpredictable players in the 2000s, became known for his scoring prowess and athleticism. He played for several teams, including the Cavaliers, Celtics, and Heat, and averaged over 20 points per game in the 2002–03 season with Cleveland. While Davis was often surrounded by controversy — notably when he tried to record a triple-double by rebounding his own missed shot — his raw talent was never in doubt.

Peja Stojaković was one of the NBA’s first great international sharpshooters. The Serbian-born forward helped elevate the Sacramento Kings into contention during the early 2000s, forming a potent duo with Chris Webber. A three-time All-Star and a 2002 All-NBA selection, Stojaković was revered for his quick release, deep shooting range, and free-throw accuracy. He capped off his NBA journey by winning a title with the Dallas Mavericks in 2011, solidifying his role in the league’s international evolution and the rise of the modern stretch four.