The No. 2 overall pick in the NBA Draft often carries high expectations and immense pressure. Over the past 25 years, this selection has yielded a mix of superstar talents, solid contributors, and disappointing busts. This tier list categorizes these players based on their career achievements, potential, and overall impact on the league.
Hall Of Famers: Kevin Durant
Widely regarded as one of the greatest pure scorers in NBA history, Kevin Durant was drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics, who later became the Oklahoma City Thunder. Durant’s illustrious career includes two NBA championships, one regular season as well as two Finals MVP awards, and four scoring titles. After his tenure with the Thunder, Durant won two NBA championships with the Golden State Warriors . As of the 2023-24 season, Durant is playing for the Phoenix Suns, where he continues to be a dominant force. Known for his exceptional versatility, shooting accuracy, and clutch performances, Durant boasts career averages of 27.2 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game. His impact on the game has been profound, and he continues to add to his legacy, solidifying his status as a future Hall of Famer.
All-NBA Players: LaMarcus Aldridge, Ja Morant, Victor Oladipo, Brandon Ingram
LaMarcus Aldridge’s career, primarily with the Portland Trail Blazers and San Antonio Spurs, is a testament to consistency and excellence. Known for his exceptional mid-range shooting and reliable post-up game, Aldridge became a seven-time All-Star and a five-time All-NBA selection. His ability to score efficiently and rebound effectively has made him one of the most respected power forwards of his generation. Over his career, Aldridge has averaged 19.4 points and 8.2 rebounds per game, solidifying his legacy as a dominant force in the paint.
Ja Morant , drafted by the Memphis Grizzlies , quickly established himself as one of the NBA's most electrifying players. Known for his explosive athleticism and remarkable playmaking skills, Morant has transformed the Grizzlies into a playoff contender. Despite facing challenges, including a suspension at the beginning of the 2023-24 season, Morant has continued to impress with his on-court performance. In the season, Morant averaged 26.1 points, 8.4 assists, and 5.5 rebounds per game before ending his stint with a shoulder injury. His resilience and ability to lead the team are crucial as the Grizzlies aim for deeper playoff runs.
Victor Oladipo’s journey in the NBA has been marked by resilience and standout performances. Drafted by the Orlando Magic, Oladipo became an All-Star and All-Defensive Team member during his time with the Indiana Pacers. Known for his defensive tenacity and clutch scoring, Oladipo has overcome significant injuries to remain a key player in the league. His career averages of 17.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game reflect his versatility and impact on both ends of the court. As of the 2023-24 season, Oladipo has continued to battle injuries but remains a valuable asset when healthy.
Brandon Ingram’s evolution into a star with the New Orleans Pelicans has been impressive. After being drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers , Ingram’s scoring ability and versatility flourished with the Pelicans, earning him an All-Star selection in 2020. In the 2023-24 season, Ingram averaged 20.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game. His smooth shooting and ability to play multiple positions make him a critical player for the Pelicans, anchoring their offense and contributing significantly to their overall success.
Related: No. 1 Overall Draft Picks Tier List In The Last 25 Years
Huge Potential: Jalen Green, Chet Holmgren, Brandon Miller
Drafted by the Houston Rockets with the second overall pick in 2021, Jalen Green has shown significant development in the 2023-24 season. Currently averaging 19.6 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, Green's explosive scoring and athleticism are key to the Rockets' future. His improved consistency and ability to create plays have been instrumental in Houston's rebuilding phase, positioning him as a cornerstone for the team's aspirations.
Chet Holmgren, the Oklahoma City Thunder's second overall pick in 2022, has made a substantial impact in his debut season after missing his rookie year due to injury. Holmgren is putting up impressive numbers, averaging 16.5 points, 7.9 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 2.3 blocks per game. His ability to stretch the floor and protect the rim has been crucial for the Thunder's rebuilding efforts, making him a vital part of their future plans.
Chosen second overall by the Charlotte Hornets in the 2023 NBA Draft, Brandon Miller has shown considerable potential in his rookie season. Averaging 17.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game, Miller’s versatility and scoring ability have been standout features. His performance has provided the Hornets with a solid foundation as they work to build a competitive team around their young talent.
Just Arrived: Alex Sarr
Alex Sarr, the second overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft by the Washington Wizards, is a highly touted 19-year-old French prospect known for his unique path to the NBA. Standing at 7 feet tall with a 7'4.25" wingspan, Sarr has played in several professional leagues, including Spain's Real Madrid youth program, the Overtime Elite league, and Australia's NBL with the Perth Wildcats.
In the 2023-24 season with the Perth Wildcats, Sarr averaged 9.4 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game, showcasing his defensive prowess and potential as a mobile rim protector. His performances in the NBL helped elevate his draft stock, making him a key addition to the Wizards' roster. Sarr's versatility, coordination, and athleticism for his size make him a promising player as he begins his NBA journey.
Solid Player: Tyson Chandler
Tyson Chandler had a storied career marked by his defensive prowess and leadership. Chandler's career took off when he joined the Dallas Mavericks, where he played a pivotal role in their 2011 NBA Championship run. That season, Chandler was instrumental in the Mavericks' defense, anchoring the paint and providing veteran leadership. His contributions earned him the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award in 2012, as the newest member of the New York Knicks. Over his career, Chandler averaged 8.2 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game. His All-Defensive Team selections and reputation as one of the premier defensive centers of his era have cemented his legacy.
Overrated: Jay Williams, Emeka Okafor, Marvin Williams, Michael Beasley, Evan Turner, Derrick Williams, D’Angelo Russell
Jay Williams, selected second overall by the Chicago Bulls, had a promising start to his career but suffered a devastating motorcycle accident after his rookie season. His career was cut short, and he was unable to live up to the expectations of a top pick. Despite a strong college career at Duke, his NBA impact was minimal due to the tragic injury.
Emeka Okafor, drafted by the Charlotte Bobcats, won Rookie of the Year in 2005 but struggled with consistency and injuries throughout his career. Although he was a solid defensive presence and a capable rebounder, Okafor never reached the star level expected of a second-overall pick. His career averages of 12.0 points and 9.7 rebounds per game reflect a solid but unspectacular NBA tenure.
Marvin Williams had a long NBA career after being picked by the Atlanta Hawks, but never became the star many anticipated. Known for his versatility and defensive skills, Williams was a reliable role player but did not live up to the expectations of a high draft pick. His career averages of 10.2 points and 5.2 rebounds per game highlight his steady but underwhelming production.
Michael Beasley, drafted by the Miami Heat, entered the NBA with high expectations due to his scoring ability. However, off-court issues and inconsistent play marred his career. Despite his talent, Beasley was unable to sustain success in the league. He finished with career averages of 12.4 points and 4.7 rebounds per game, far below the potential envisioned for him.
Evan Turner, selected by the Philadelphia 76ers, struggled to find his niche in the NBA. Though a versatile player, Turner's inability to develop a consistent outside shot limited his effectiveness. Over his career, he averaged 9.7 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. Turner's performance never matched the expectations of a second-overall pick, leading to a journeyman career across several teams.
Derrick Williams, drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves, was another high pick who failed to live up to the hype. Known for his athleticism and scoring in college, Williams struggled to transition his game to the NBA. He averaged 8.9 points and 4.0 rebounds per game over his career, falling short of becoming the impactful player many expected.
D’Angelo Russell, selected by the Los Angeles Lakers, has shown flashes of brilliance and earned an All-Star selection, but his overall inconsistency and defensive liabilities have led to debates about his true value. In the 2023-24 season, Russell averaged 18.0 points and 6.2 assists per game. Despite his offensive talent, his career has been marked by up-and-down performances, and he has yet to establish himself as a consistent star.
Disappointments: Stormile Swift, Darko Milicic, Hasheem Thabeet, Michael Carter-Williams, Jabari Parker, Lonzo Ball, Marvin Bagley, James Wiseman
Stormile Swift was selected second overall by the Vancouver Grizzlies, showcasing remarkable athleticism and potential. However, his NBA career did not meet expectations. Over his nine-season career, Swift averaged 8.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game. His inability to develop a consistent offensive game and struggles with injuries limited his impact. After brief stints with the New Jersey Nets and Phoenix Suns, Swift's NBA career ended in 2009.
Drafted second overall by the Detroit Pistons, Darko Milicic is often cited as one of the biggest draft busts, especially considering he was picked ahead of future stars like Carmelo Anthony, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh. Milicic struggled to find his footing in the NBA, averaging just 6.0 points and 4.2 rebounds per game over his career. Despite winning an NBA championship with the Pistons, Milicic never lived up to the high expectations set for him, leading to a disappointing professional career.
Hasheem Thabeet, selected second overall by the Memphis Grizzlies, was known for his shot-blocking ability in college but struggled to translate his skills to the NBA. Thabeet averaged only 2.2 points and 2.7 rebounds per game, failing to secure a consistent role on any team. His inability to develop a more rounded game led to frequent assignments to the G League and eventually playing overseas, marking a disappointing career for such a high draft pick.
Michael Carter-Williams, drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers, had a promising start to his career, winning Rookie of the Year in 2014. However, injuries and inconsistent performance hampered his career progression. Carter-Williams has played for multiple teams, averaging 10.3 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game. Despite his early success, he has struggled to maintain a steady role in the league, reflecting a career that didn't fully capitalize on his early promise.
Jabari Parker was picked second overall by the Milwaukee Bucks, showing significant scoring ability when healthy. However, repeated knee injuries severely limited his potential. Parker averaged 14.1 points and 5.5 rebounds per game but struggled to stay on the court consistently. His defensive limitations and health issues have seen him move between several teams, unable to secure a long-term position and fulfill the high expectations of his draft status.
Lonzo Ball, drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers, has had a career marked by flashes of brilliance and frequent injuries. Known for his playmaking and defensive skills, Ball has shown potential but has been unable to perform consistently due to health issues. Lonzo last played in the 2021-22 season, as he averaged 13.0 points, 5.1 assists, and 5.3 rebounds per game but missed significant time due to injury so far. Currently, his career is at a crossroads as he seeks to overcome these challenges and establish himself as a reliable player in the league.
Marvin Bagley III, selected by the Sacramento Kings, has struggled with injuries and consistency. In the 2023-24 season, Bagley averaged 11.7 points and 6.2 rebounds per game but failed to become the dominant player expected of a second overall pick. His development has been hampered by injuries and inconsistent play, making him a disappointment relative to his draft position. The Kings and later the Pistons have yet to see him reach the potential that made him a top prospect.
James Wiseman was initially drafted by the Golden State Warriors but traded to the Detroit Pistons in just his second NBA season after missing his sophomore year. He has faced a challenging start to his career due to injuries and inconsistent playing time. In the 2023-24 season, Wiseman averaged 7.1 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 0.6 blocks per game when given extended minutes. However, Detroit chose not to extend a qualifying offer, making him a free agent this year. Just two weeks ago, James Wiseman signed a two-way deal with the Indiana Pacers.
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