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Ranking The 2010 NBA Draft Class By Tiers

By Fran Leiva,

8 hours ago

The 2010 NBA Draft class is a fascinating mix of talent, potential, and what-could-have-been stories. Recently, Gordon Hayward announced his retirement , closing the chapter on a career marked by highs and heartbreaking injuries. His departure leaves Paul George as the last active player from this draft class, a testament to George's resilience and skill. This class has given us plenty to remember from the electrifying early years of John Wall and DeMarcus Cousins to the steady contributions of role players like Avery Bradley and Derrick Favors. As we break down these 30 players into six tiers, we'll revisit their careers, celebrate their achievements, and reflect on the paths they've taken since that fateful night in 2010.

Tier 1

Paul George

Paul George stands out as the crown jewel of the 2010 NBA Draft class. Drafted 10th overall by the Indiana Pacers, George has built an illustrious career as one of the premier two-way players in the league. Recently, George signed a four-year, $212 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers , joining forces with Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey to form a formidable trio. Over his career, George has averaged 20.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game. His accolades include 9 NBA All-Star selections, 6 All-NBA Team honors, and 4 NBA All-Defensive Team nods.

George's journey hasn't been without its hurdles. A gruesome leg injury in 2014 threatened to derail his career, but his remarkable recovery and return to elite form are testaments to his resilience and work ethic. Known for his scoring prowess, defensive versatility, and clutch performances, George's move to Philadelphia is seen as a key step for the 76ers to break their playoff curse and potentially secure an NBA title. He is now the only active player from the 2010 draft class, showcasing his durability and talent over the years.

Tier 2

John Wall, DeMarcus Cousins, Gordon Hayward

Selected first overall in the 2010 NBA Draft, John Wall was a player whose speed and playmaking skills were immediately apparent. Known for his explosive drives and flashy assists, Wall quickly became a fan favorite. Throughout his career, Wall has averaged 18.7 points, 8.9 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game, earning five NBA All-Star selections and an NBA All-Defensive Team honor. Despite his talents, Wall's career has been significantly hampered by injuries, including a ruptured Achilles tendon.

DeMarcus Cousins , selected 5th overall by the Sacramento Kings, was a dominant force during his peak. Cousins averaged 19.6 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game throughout his career. He earned four NBA All-Star selections and two All-NBA Team honors. Cousins' combination of size, skill, and agility made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. His ability to score inside and out, coupled with his rebounding and passing skills, made him one of the most versatile big men of his time. However, like many of his draft peers, Cousins' career was marred by injuries, including a torn Achilles and a torn ACL, which significantly impacted his career trajectory. Despite these challenges, Cousins' impact during his prime with the Kings and Pelicans was profound.

Gordon Hayward, the 9th overall pick by the Utah Jazz, had a career filled with both promise and moments of brilliance. Hayward was recently with the Oklahoma City Thunder before announcing his retirement on August 1, 2024. Throughout his career, Hayward averaged 15.2 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. He was named an NBA All-Star in 2017. Despite his talents, Hayward's career was frequently interrupted by injuries, including a devastating leg injury in his first game with the Boston Celtics. His final seasons were spent with the Charlotte Hornets and the Thunder, where he played a limited role. Hayward's retirement marks the end of a career that had its highs and lows, but he leaves behind a legacy of perseverance and skill.

Tier 3

Eric Bledsoe, Derrick Favors, Avery Bradley, Evan Turner, Ed Davis

Known for his explosive athleticism and defensive prowess, Eric Bledsoe was drafted 18th overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder but soon traded to the Los Angeles Clippers. Bledsoe's career averages of 13.7 points, 4.7 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game reflect his all-around capabilities. Over the years, he earned two NBA All-Defensive Team selections and played significant roles with the Phoenix Suns and Milwaukee Bucks, where his defensive tenacity and ability to drive to the basket were crucial in their playoff runs.

Drafted 3rd overall by the New Jersey Nets, Derrick Favors made his mark as a consistent and reliable big man in the NBA. He spent most of his career with the Utah Jazz, averaging 10.6 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game. Favors' interior presence and defensive skills provided stability for the Jazz, making him a key contributor on both ends of the floor. His career also included productive stints with the New Orleans Pelicans and the Oklahoma City Thunder. Avery Bradley, known for his elite perimeter defense, was selected 19th overall by the Boston Celtics. Over his career, Bradley averaged 11.0 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game, earning two NBA All-Defensive Team honors. His defensive tenacity and ability to hit crucial shots made him a valuable player for the Celtics, and he later contributed significantly to the Los Angeles Lakers, playing a key role in their 2020 NBA Championship run.

Evan Turner, picked 2nd overall by the Philadelphia 76ers, brought versatility and playmaking skills to every team he played for. Turner averaged 9.7 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game during his career. He was known for his ability to fill multiple roles on the court, making significant contributions to the Sixers, Indiana Pacers, and Portland Trail Blazers. Turner's best years came in Portland, where he served as a steadying presence and key facilitator off the bench.

Drafted 13th overall by the Toronto Raptors, Ed Davis earned a reputation as a hardworking rebounder and solid interior defender. Davis averaged 6.3 points and 6.6 rebounds per game over his career. He was a valued role player for multiple teams, including the Memphis Grizzlies, Portland Trail Blazers, and Brooklyn Nets, where his energy and toughness off the bench were particularly appreciated.

Tier 4

Greivis Vásquez, Wesley Johnson, Quincy Pondexter, Jordan Crawford, Ekpe Udoh, James Anderson

Greivis Vásquez, selected 28th overall by the Memphis Grizzlies, was known for his playmaking abilities and leadership on the court. Vásquez averaged 9.0 points, 4.8 assists, and 2.5 rebounds per game. His standout season came with the New Orleans Hornets, where he posted career highs of 13.9 points and 9.0 assists per game. Vásquez's ability to lead and create plays was a key asset during his stints with the Toronto Raptors and Milwaukee Bucks before injuries cut his career short.

Selected 4th overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves, Wesley Johnson had a career marked by versatility and moments of brilliance. Johnson averaged 7.0 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game. Despite showing potential, he struggled with consistency but found roles with teams like the Phoenix Suns, Los Angeles Lakers, and Los Angeles Clippers, where he contributed as a solid role player and defensive presence.

Quincy Pondexter, picked 26th overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder but traded to the New Orleans Hornets, became known for his defensive skills and reliable three-point shooting. Pondexter averaged 5.0 points and 2.0 rebounds per game, playing valuable minutes for the Memphis Grizzlies and Chicago Bulls. His ability to stretch the floor and guard multiple positions made him a useful asset off the bench.

Drafted 27th overall by the New Jersey Nets and traded to the Atlanta Hawks, Jordan Crawford was known for his scoring ability. He averaged 12.2 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game. Crawford had notable scoring outbursts with the Washington Wizards and Boston Celtics, where he provided a much-needed scoring punch off the bench. His streaky shooting and ability to catch fire quickly made him an exciting sixth man.

Ekpe Udoh, selected 6th overall by the Golden State Warriors, was primarily known for his defense and shot-blocking. Udoh averaged 3.5 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game. Although his offensive game was limited, his defensive impact earned him roles with the Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Clippers. Udoh later achieved significant success in the EuroLeague, where he became a standout defender.

Chosen 20th overall by the San Antonio Spurs, James Anderson's career was characterized by his shooting skills. Anderson averaged 5.3 points and 2.3 rebounds per game. He played for several teams, including the Houston Rockets, Philadelphia 76ers, and Sacramento Kings. Anderson's ability to hit long-range shots was his main strength, though he struggled to secure a consistent role in the NBA.

Tier 5

Lance Stephenson, Luke Babbitt, Armon Johnson, Darington Hobson, Lazar Hayward, Solomon Alabi, Derrick Caracter

Lance Stephenson was picked 40th overall by the Indiana Pacers and quickly became known for his dynamic playing style and memorable on-court antics. Over his career, Stephenson averaged 8.6 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game. His most productive years were with the Pacers, where his energy and competitiveness made him a key player during their playoff runs. Stephenson's ability to perform in high-pressure situations and his knack for stirring up excitement on the court made him a standout personality in the league.

Luke Babbitt was chosen 16th overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves and then traded to the Portland Trail Blazers, where he established himself as a reliable shooter. Babbitt averaged 4.8 points and 2.3 rebounds per game during his NBA career. Known for his three-point shooting, he served as a valuable floor spacer for the Trail Blazers, Miami Heat, and New Orleans Pelicans, contributing significantly off the bench.

Armon Johnson, drafted 34th overall by the Portland Trail Blazers, had a brief career in the NBA. Johnson averaged 2.9 points and 1.2 assists per game. Although his time in the league was short, he showed promise as a backup point guard. After his NBA stint, Johnson continued his professional career overseas and in various minor leagues, where he maintained a role as a reliable playmaker.

Darington Hobson was chosen 37th overall by the Milwaukee Bucks but struggled to make a significant impact in the NBA. Hobson averaged 0.6 points and 1.5 rebounds per game in limited appearances. His professional journey took him across various international leagues and the G League, where he continued to pursue his basketball career despite the challenges of breaking into the NBA.

Lazar Hayward, picked 30th overall by the Washington Wizards and traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves, experienced a brief NBA career. Hayward averaged 2.9 points and 1.3 rebounds per game. While he had limited playing time in the NBA, he continued to play professionally in international leagues, where he found opportunities to showcase his skills and extend his basketball journey.

Solomon Alabi, selected 50th overall by the Dallas Mavericks and traded to the Toronto Raptors, was primarily known for his shot-blocking abilities. Alabi averaged 1.2 points and 1.2 rebounds per game. Despite his limited impact in the NBA, his height and defensive potential kept him on the radar of teams in the G League and overseas, where he continued to play professionally.

Derrick Caracter, chosen 58th overall by the Los Angeles Lakers, was known for his physical presence. In his brief NBA career, Caracter averaged 2.0 points and 1.0 rebounds per game. He spent most of his professional career in various international leagues and the G League, where he continued to utilize his skills in the paint.

Tier 6

Daniel Orton, Devin Ebanks, Jerome Jordan, Magnum Rolle, Hamady N'Diaye, Pape Sy, Ryan Reid, Stanley Robinson

Daniel Orton was drafted 29th overall by the Orlando Magic and was known for his size and defensive potential. Orton averaged 2.8 points and 2.5 rebounds per game. Despite his high draft selection, he struggled to find a consistent role in the NBA and spent much of his career in the G League and overseas.

Devin Ebanks, picked 43rd overall by the Los Angeles Lakers, had a brief career in the NBA, averaging 3.6 points and 1.9 rebounds per game. Known for his athleticism and defensive potential, Ebanks continued his professional career internationally after his time in the NBA.

Jerome Jordan was selected 44th overall by the Milwaukee Bucks and traded to the New York Knicks. Recognized for his shot-blocking and rebounding skills, Jordan averaged 2.0 points and 1.2 rebounds per game. His NBA career was limited, and he found more success playing in various international leagues.

Magnum Rolle was chosen 51st overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder and traded to the Indiana Pacers. Known for his athleticism and potential, Rolle never played a regular-season game in the NBA. He spent most of his professional career overseas, where he continued to showcase his skills.

Hamady N'Diaye was drafted 56th overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves and traded to the Washington Wizards. Known for his shot-blocking abilities, N'Diaye averaged 0.8 points and 0.9 rebounds per game. His NBA career was brief, and he continued to play professionally in various international leagues.

Pape Sy, picked 53rd overall by the Atlanta Hawks, had a short stint in the NBA, averaging 0.6 points and 0.6 rebounds per game. Sy spent most of his professional career playing in Europe, where he found more consistent playing opportunities.

Ryan Reid was chosen 57th overall by the Indiana Pacers and traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder. He averaged 1.6 points and 1.5 rebounds per game in his limited NBA appearances. Reid continued his basketball career in international leagues and the G League, maintaining his presence in the professional basketball scene.

Stanley Robinson, drafted 59th overall by the Orlando Magic, did not play in the NBA but was known for his athleticism and potential. Robinson played professionally in various international leagues, where he continued to pursue his basketball career and demonstrate his abilities.