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The NBA Draft is an annual event where teams select eligible players to join the league, shaping the future of franchises and the careers of many young athletes. Over the decades, the draft has produced legendary players who have stamped their mark on NBA history. This article explores the history of the NBA Draft and highlights some of the best draft picks ever, focusing on the value of players based on when they were drafted.
The NBA Draft began in 1947, providing teams with a structured way to select new players. Initially, the draft order was determined by a team’s win-loss record, with the worst teams picking first. In 1985, the draft lottery was introduced to discourage teams from deliberately losing games to secure higher picks, adding an element of chance to the process.
Over the years, the draft has expanded and evolved, featuring multiple rounds and numerous international players. While early draft picks often receive the most attention, some of the greatest players in NBA history were selected later, demonstrating the unpredictability and potential of the draft.
Taking the top spot on our list of best NBA Draft picks ever is current Denver Nuggets unicorn, the three-time MVP, six-time All-Star, four-time First Team All-NBA representative and one-time NBA champion, Nikola Jokić. The Serbian, nicknamed “The Joker,” was selected 41st overall (second round) by the Denver Nuggets in the 2014 draft. In the 10 years since, Jokić has become one of the most unique and skilled big men in the league, and has already solidified himself as one of the most well-rounded players in league history. His ability to pass, score and rebound at an elite level, combined with his selection in the second round and the fact he has always been a Nugget, makes Jokić one of the best draft steals in NBA history.
Kobe Bryant was selected 13th overall, initially by the Charlotte Hornets, before being traded to the Los Angeles Lakers. Bryant may not be a second-round steal like Jokić, but considering the one-of-a-kind, larger-than-life-persona and bonafide superstardom, it’s difficult to believe he was drafted outside the top 10.
Some may argue the Lakers could have ended up with another star had they not gone with Bryant, like Peja Stojaković or Steve Nash, but Bryant’s dominant scoring nature, tenacious work ethic and competitive spirit was built to carry an iconic franchise in a major city.
Bryant’s career with the Lakers spanned two decades, during which he won five NBA championships, two Finals MVP awards and 18 All-Star appearances. Bryant’s impact on the game and his draft position make him one of the best picks in NBA history.
The Milwaukee Bucks selected Giannis Antetokounmpo with the 15th pick in the 2013 draft. Known as the “Greek Freak,” Antetokounmpo has become one of the league’s most dominant and versatile big men. He has won two MVP awards, led the Bucks to an NBA championship in 2021, winning Finals MVP, has six First team All-NBA selections, eight All-Star appearances and a Defensive Player of the Year plaque.
When Antetokounmpo was drafted, he was 190 pounds. 11 years later, he now weighs over 240 pounds, adding considerable bulk in muscle. His stature at the time of his draft was symbolic of his standing as a project in early development; one that would take time to mold. Giannis’s selection at 15th demonstrates the incredible potential that can be found outside the lottery picks. The fact he has grown up with and stayed with the Bucks, turning the lesser-market franchise into a perennial contender, is a testament to his standing on this list.
Manu Ginóbili was selected 57th overall by the San Antonio Spurs, making him one of the biggest draft steals ever. Ginóbili’s 16-year career with the Spurs included four NBA championships and two All-Star appearances. His international flair, versatility, reliable shooting and playmaking were key instruments in fueling San Antonio’s enduring success, proving yet again that valuable players can be found even in the second round.
In a draft that featured a bevy of other talented and touted first-round point guards (9), Stephen Curry landed seventh overall with the Golden State Warriors in the 2009 draft. Can you imagine if it were Johnny Flynn, Brandon Jennings or even the massively successful Jrue Holiday in Golden State?
Curry revolutionized the game with his exceptional shooting ability, particularly from beyond the three-point line. He has won two MVP awards and led the Warriors to four NBA championships. Curry’s impact on the game and his selection outside the top five make him one of the most valuable draft picks ever.
Zach has been a published sports writer since 2018 specializing in college football & basketball, MLB and NFL content for multiple publications.