Every year, March Madness delivers unforgettable moments—buzzer-beaters, upsets, and players who become overnight sensations.
But what happens to those Cinderella stars after the tournament dust settles? One of the most recent names added to March Madness lore is N.C. State’s DJ Burns, the standout big man from the Wolfpack who captivated fans with his dominant tournament performances last season.
Where Are March Madness’s Cinderella Stars Now?
DJ Burns, N.C. State (2024)
DJ Burns became a household name during the 2024 NCAA Tournament, leading NC State on an improbable run with his size, footwork, and post-scoring ability. His powerful presence in the paint and charismatic personality made him a fan favorite. But where is he now?
Now playing professional basketball in South Korea, Burns has caught the attention of NBA scouts. While he may not be a projected first-round pick, his unique skill set could land him opportunities in professional basketball, whether in the NBA, G League, or overseas.
March’s Former Cinderella Stars
Over the years, many other players have had magical tournament runs, only to take different career paths after their shining moment. Here’s a look at a few past March Madness darlings and where they ended up.
Jimmer Fredette (BYU, 2011): Fredette’s deep shooting range made him an instant legend, but his NBA career never fully took off. After stints with multiple teams, he became a star overseas, dominating the Chinese Basketball Association.
Doug McDermott (Creighton, 2014): Unlike some Cinderella stars, McDermott found a long-term NBA home. After a stellar college career, he has carved out a role as a reliable sharpshooter in the league. He has spent time several teams, including the Chicago Bulls, Oklahoma City Thunder, and most recently, the Sacremento Kings.
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Ali Farokhmanesh (Northern Iowa, 2010): Known for his fearless three-pointer that stunned Kansas, Farokhmanesh transitioned into coaching and is now an assistant at Colorado State.
C.J. McCollum (Lehigh, 2012): McCollum’s performance in Lehigh’s upset over Duke launched a successful NBA career. He has since become a star guard and a key leader for the New Orleans Pelicans.
Who will be the next Cinderella hero? Only time will tell, but history shows that the magic of March never fades.
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