The NBA Draft is where careers begin, dynasties are built, and mistakes become legendary. Behind every pick is a story — and those stories make for incredible trivia. Here are some of the most surprising facts about Draft Night.
The Biggest Draft Steals
Some of the greatest players in history weren't picked where you'd expect:
Kobe Bryant was the 13th pick in 1996 — drafted by the Charlotte Hornets, then immediately traded to the Lakers. Twelve teams passed on a future top-10 all-time player.
Giannis Antetokounmpo went 15th overall in 2013. A skinny teenager from Greece who could barely speak English became a two-time MVP and champion.
Nikola Jokic was the 41st pick in 2014. A second-round pick from Serbia who became a three-time MVP. Teams that passed on him would love a do-over.
Manu Ginobili was picked 57th in 1999. He went on to win four championships with the Spurs and an Olympic gold medal with Argentina.
The Number One Picks That Didn't Pan Out
Not every first overall pick becomes a star:
Anthony Bennett (2013) is widely considered the biggest number one bust in NBA history. He lasted just four seasons and averaged 4.4 points per game.
Kwame Brown (2001) was selected first by Michael Jordan's Wizards at just 19 years old. The pressure was immense, and Brown never lived up to it.
Greg Oden (2007) had the talent but not the health. Injuries limited him to just 105 career games while the guy picked after him — Kevin Durant — became one of the greatest scorers ever.
Draft Night Trades
Some of the most impactful draft moments are trades:
The 1998 Draft saw the Bucks trade the rights to Dirk Nowitzki (9th pick) to Dallas for Robert Traylor (6th pick). Dallas got a 21-year career, an MVP, and a championship. Milwaukee got a player who lasted six seasons.
In 2011, the Pacers traded the 15th pick (Kawhi Leonard) to San Antonio for George Hill. Kawhi became a two-time Finals MVP.
Fun Draft Facts
- Hakeem Olajuwon was the number one pick in 1984, one spot ahead of Michael Jordan. It's the only draft where the first two picks both became consensus top-10 all-time players.
- Four teams have never had the number one overall pick: the Charlotte Hornets (current franchise), the Denver Nuggets, the Indiana Pacers, and the Miami Heat.
- The youngest player ever drafted was Andrew Bynum at 17 years old in 2005.
- LeBron James was such a sure thing that Sports Illustrated put him on their cover when he was still in high school.
How Well Do You Know Draft History?
Test yourself with our daily games. Who Am I? frequently features clues about draft position, and 2 Truths 1 Lie loves to sneak in draft-related facts.