The 2024 NBA Draft has just wrapped up, and it was nothing short of electrifying. The Atlanta Hawks selected Zaccharie Risacher first overall , a move that has fans and analysts buzzing with excitement. The draft also saw the Washington Wizards taking Alex Sarr at No. 2 and the Houston Rockets selecting Reed Sheppard at No. 3, rounding out a highly anticipated top three.
This year’s draft brought back memories of past No. 1 overall picks and their varied journeys in the NBA. From LeBron James' legendary career to the potential-filled start for Cade Cunningham, each top pick has a unique story. As we look back over the last 25 years, it’s clear that the impact of a No. 1 pick can be franchise-defining.
In this article, we'll tier the best No. 1 overall draft picks since 1999, categorizing them based on their achievements, impact on the game, and the legacies they've built. We'll separate the legends from the solid starters and the missed opportunities, providing a comprehensive look at how each top pick has shaped the NBA landscape. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, this tier list will give you a deeper appreciation of the talent and drama that comes with being the first pick in the draft.
Hall Of Famers: LeBron James, Dwight Howard, Yao Ming, Anthony Davis, Kyrie Irving
LeBron James continues solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest basketball players ever. As of the 2023-24 NBA season, LeBron is still playing for the Los Angeles Lakers . He averaged 25.7 points, 8.3 assists, and 7.3 rebounds per game across 71 games. LeBron was selected to his 20th All-Star game this season and reached the remarkable milestone of 40,000 career points. Despite nearing the end of his career, LeBron remains a dominant force on the court and a significant influence off it.
Dwight Howard , now retired, made significant contributions during his career, especially during his time with the Orlando Magic where he led the team to the 2009 NBA Finals. An eight-time All-Star and three-time Defensive Player of the Year, Howard's career averages include 15.7 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game. Post-retirement, he has expressed interest in various ventures, including potential coaching roles and media appearances. Howard is often remembered for his athleticism, defensive prowess, and impactful presence in the paint.
Yao Ming's career was cut short due to injuries, but he left a lasting impact on the NBA and global basketball. The Hall of Famer and eight-time All-Star averaged 19.0 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game over his career. Yao is currently the president of the Chinese Basketball Association, where he continues to promote the sport and develop basketball talent in China. His influence extends beyond the court, as he has played a key role in the NBA's expansion and popularity in Asia.
Anthony Davis remains one of the premier big men in the NBA, currently playing alongside LeBron James with the Los Angeles Lakers. Known for his defensive prowess and scoring ability, Davis averaged 24.7 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game for the 2023-24 season. Injuries have been a concern throughout his career, but when healthy, he is among the most dominant players in the league. Davis continues to be a critical component of the Lakers' aspirations for another championship run.
Kyrie Irving , now with the Dallas Mavericks, continues to showcase his exceptional ball-handling skills and scoring ability. For the 2023-24 season, he averaged 25.6 points, 5.2 assists, and 5.0 rebounds per game. Despite controversies off the court, Irving's talent is undeniable, and he remains a critical component of the Mavericks' backcourt, partnering with Luka Doncic to form a formidable duo. His clutch performances and scoring ability make him one of the most exciting players to watch in the league.
All-NBA Players: John Wall, Blake Griffin, Derrick Rose
John Wall, the first overall pick in the 2010 NBA Draft by the Washington Wizards, quickly made his mark as one of the league's most thrilling point guards. Known for his incredible speed, court vision, and playmaking skills, Wall earned five All-Star selections and one All-NBA Team nod during his time with the Wizards. He led Washington to four playoff appearances, including back-to-back trips to the Eastern Conference Semifinals in 2014 and 2015. In 2017, Wall signed a lucrative four-year, $170 million contract extension, solidifying his status as one of the highest-paid players in the league. However, injuries began to take their toll, severely limiting his playing time and effectiveness. Wall was traded to the Houston Rockets in 2020, but injuries continued to hinder his career. As of the end of the 2022-23 season, Wall has career averages of 19.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 9.1 assists per game, although he has not been able to return to the court since.
Selected first overall in the 2009 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Clippers, Blake Griffin made an explosive entry into the NBA. After sitting out his first season due to injury, Griffin debuted with a bang, winning the NBA Rookie of the Year Award and earning a spot on the All-Rookie First Team. Known for his electrifying dunks and athletic prowess, Griffin became a fan favorite and a dominant force, securing six All-Star selections, five All-NBA Team honors, and winning the NBA Slam Dunk Contest. In 2018, he was traded to the Detroit Pistons, where he continued to perform at a high level. Griffin eventually joined the Boston Celtics before retiring after the 2022-23 season. Over his career, Griffin averaged 19.0 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game.
Derrick Rose , chosen first overall in the 2008 NBA Draft by the Chicago Bulls , rapidly established himself as one of the NBA's most dynamic players. Rose captured the NBA Rookie of the Year Award and was named to the All-Rookie First Team. In 2011, he made history by becoming the youngest player ever to win the NBA MVP Award at just 22 years old, leading the Bulls to the league's best record. Unfortunately, a series of severe knee injuries derailed what seemed destined to be a Hall of Fame career. Despite these setbacks, Rose has remained a resilient figure in the league, most recently playing for the Memphis Grizzlies during the 2023-24 season. His career averages stand at 17.4 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game.
Related: Ranking The 10 Best No. 1 Overall Picks Who Are Currently In The NBA
Huge Potential: Victor Wembanyama, Anthony Edwards, Zion Williamson, Karl-Anthony Towns, Paolo Banchero, Cade Cunningham
Victor Wembanyama made an immediate splash as the first overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. Joining the San Antonio Spurs, the 7'4" prodigy with an 8'0" wingspan showcased an extraordinary mix of size, skill, and athleticism. In his rookie season, he posted averages of 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, 3.6 blocks, and 3.9 assists per game. Wembanyama's shooting range and ball-handling abilities are unmatched for a player of his height, setting a new standard for modern big men. His defensive impact was also profound, as he quickly became one of the top shot-blockers in the league. This stellar performance earned him the 2023-24 NBA Rookie of the Year award and a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team. Spurs fans are eagerly anticipating his continued development and future contributions.
Anthony Edwards has quickly established himself as one of the NBA's rising stars since being drafted first overall in the 2020 NBA Draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves. In the 2023-24 season, Edwards delivered an outstanding performance, averaging 25.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game across 79 games. Known for his explosive athleticism and scoring ability, Edwards has become a pivotal player for the Timberwolves. His improved shooting and playmaking, coupled with his defensive intensity, have been key factors in Minnesota's playoff pursuits.
Since being selected first overall in the 2019 NBA Draft by the New Orleans Pelicans, Zion Williamson has been a powerful presence on the court. In the 2023-24 season, despite ongoing injury concerns, Williamson managed to average 22.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game over 70 games. His remarkable athleticism and ability to dominate in the paint make him one of the league's most exciting talents. Williamson’s performances continue to captivate fans, but maintaining his health remains crucial for his sustained impact and career longevity.
Karl-Anthony Towns, the first overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, continues to be a fundamental player for the Minnesota Timberwolves. Throughout the 2023-24 season, Towns averaged 21.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game, demonstrating his versatility as a big man who can shoot from the perimeter and dominate inside. His ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting and his defensive improvements have been instrumental for the Timberwolves. Towns’ consistent performance and leadership are essential as Minnesota strives for greater success in the playoffs after a Conference Finals run.
Building off an impressive rookie campaign, Paolo Banchero continued to shine for the Orlando Magic in his second season. The 2022 NBA Draft’s top pick averaged 22.6 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.4 assists over 80 games in the 2023-24 season. Standing at 6'10" and weighing 250 pounds, Banchero dominates the paint with his size and strength while also displaying a smooth shooting touch from mid-range and beyond the arc. His ability to facilitate the offense and create plays with excellent court vision has been remarkable. Additionally, Banchero's defensive game has improved, making him a more complete player. His exceptional performance earned him his first All-Star selection in 2024, solidifying his role as the cornerstone of the Magic's rebuild.
After an injury-limited season, Cade Cunningham made a strong comeback for the Detroit Pistons in 2023-24. The first overall pick of the 2021 NBA Draft played 62 games, averaging 22.7 points, 7.5 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game. Known for his versatility and high basketball IQ, Cunningham effectively plays multiple positions and influences various aspects of the game. His proficiency in pick-and-roll situations, reliable three-point shot, and strong finishing at the rim make him a dynamic offensive player. Cunningham's court vision and passing ability enable him to create numerous opportunities for his teammates. Defensively, his size and instincts allow him to guard multiple positions effectively. As the Pistons' leader, Cunningham is central to their rebuilding efforts, with the franchise looking to construct a competitive team around his talents.
Just Arrived: Zaccharie Risacher
Zaccharie Risacher, a 19-year-old French basketball player, was selected as the first overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks. Risacher, a 6-foot-8 forward, is known for his versatility and scoring ability.
In the 2023-24 season, Richarie played for JL Bourg in France's top basketball league, averaging 10.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game. He has also represented France in international competitions, showcasing his talents against elite players of his generation. The Atlanta Hawks expect Richarie to develop quickly and become a key player for the team in the coming years.
Risacher is a young and talented player who has proven his worth at both national and international levels. His selection as the first overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft is a testament to his potential and the expectations placed upon him.
Overrated: Deandre Ayton, Andrew Wiggins, Andre Bargnani, Andrew Bogut, Kenyon Martin
As the first overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft by the Phoenix Suns, Deandre Ayton has delivered solid stats but has not fully met the lofty expectations. In the 2023-24 season, Ayton posted averages of 16.7 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 0.8 blocks per game during his debut with the Portland Trail Blazers. Despite these numbers, his inconsistent defensive efforts and lack of dominance in key moments have led to criticism. Ayton has yet to earn an All-Star selection, adding to the perception that he has underperformed as a top pick.
Andrew Wiggins, drafted first overall in 2014 by the Cleveland Cavaliers (and traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves), has experienced a career of highs and lows. Currently with the Golden State Warriors, Wiggins averaged 13.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game in the 2023-24 season. Despite winning an NBA Championship and earning an All-Star nod in 2022, Wiggins' inconsistency and inefficiency have sparked debates about his true impact and value.
Selected first overall by the Toronto Raptors in the 2006 NBA Draft, Andrea Bargnani's career has been marked by unfulfilled promise. His best season came in 2010-11, where he averaged 21.4 points per game, but persistent injuries and defensive shortcomings marred his career. Bargnani retired with career averages of 14.3 points and 4.6 rebounds per game. Despite his scoring talent, his inability to contribute defensively or on the boards overshadowed his offensive prowess.
Andrew Bogut, the top pick in the 2005 NBA Draft by the Milwaukee Bucks, carved out a niche as a defensive stalwart and rebounder. Named to the All-NBA Third Team in 2010, Bogut was a key defensive anchor for the Golden State Warriors' 2015 Championship team. His career averages of 9.6 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game reflect his role as a defensive specialist rather than a dominant offensive force. Frequent injuries and a limited offensive game have contributed to perceptions of him being overrated for a top pick.
Kenyon Martin, chosen first overall by the New Jersey Nets in the 2000 NBA Draft, had a career known for defensive intensity and athleticism. Making one All-Star appearance in 2004, Martin averaged 12.3 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game over his career. Despite his contributions to the Nets' back-to-back NBA Finals appearances in 2002 and 2003, Martin's offensive limitations and inconsistent play have led to him being seen as overrated compared to typical expectations of a top draft pick.
Disappointments: Markelle Fultz, Ben Simmons, Anthony Bennett, Greg Oden, Kwame Brown
Markelle Fultz was supposed to be the final piece for the Philadelphia 76ers' "Process." Drafted first overall in 2017, Fultz had an impressive college career and was seen as a future star. However, his time in the NBA has been marred by a mysterious shoulder injury that severely impacted his shooting form. After a rocky start in Philadelphia, he found a new home with the Orlando Magic. In the 2023-24 season, he lowered his production, averaging 7.8 points, 2.9 assists, and 3.2 rebounds per game. Despite past improvement, Fultz's career has not lived up to the high expectations set for a top pick.
Ben Simmons arrived in the NBA with much fanfare as the first pick in the 2016 draft, bringing with him comparisons to Magic Johnson due to his size and playmaking skills. Simmons quickly made his mark, winning Rookie of the Year in 2018 and earning multiple All-Star selections. However, his refusal to shoot from distance and his offensive struggles in critical moments have overshadowed his early successes. The 2023-24 season was particularly challenging, with Simmons posting 6.1 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game for the Brooklyn Nets, far from the transformative player many had hoped he would become.
Anthony Bennett’s selection as the first overall pick in the 2013 draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers was a surprise to many and quickly became one of the most notorious draft decisions in NBA history. Bennett struggled from the outset, averaging just 4.2 points and 3.0 rebounds per game in his rookie season. His time in the NBA was brief and disappointing, ending with career averages of 4.4 points and 3.1 rebounds. Bennett's story is often cited as a prime example of a draft bust.
Greg Oden was viewed as a once-in-a-generation talent when the Portland Trail Blazers selected him first overall in the 2007 draft. His college performance promised dominance at the professional level, but persistent knee injuries derailed his career before it could truly begin. Oden managed to play in just 82 NBA games, averaging 8.0 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game. His career is one of the most poignant examples of unfulfilled potential due to injury.
Kwame Brown's entry into the NBA as the first overall pick in the 2001 draft by the Washington Wizards was historic, as he was the first high school player ever to be drafted number one. Unfortunately, Brown struggled to adjust to the NBA, and his development stalled. Over a 12-year career, he averaged 6.6 points and 5.5 rebounds per game. Despite his physical gifts, Brown never became the dominant player many anticipated, and his name has become synonymous with unmet expectations.
Related: 2018 NBA Draft Class By Tiers: Luka Doncic Leads The Pack
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