Despite his diminutive size, 5' 6" Spud Webb led his 1983 NC State team to the Sweet 16. He was not drafted into the NBA.

Refusing to give up on his lifelong dream, a disappointed Webb played in the United States Basketball League. Spud finally achieved his goal in 1985 when he was drafted in the fourth round by the Detroit Pistons. Just when he thought that he had overcome his final obstacle, Spud was cut by the team. However, he was given an opportunity to tryout for the Atlanta Hawks and the rest was history. Teaming with Doc Rivers, Spud went on to average over 10 points, five assists a game, play in several playoff series and of course, win the slam-dunk championship at the 1986 All-Star game.