The NBA Finals are beginning this week, and it makes us think back about how the season started: with the NBA Draft. It’s such an exciting event that it gets almost as many viewers as the games during the regular season. It’s fun to try to predict who will be the first-round pick and the players that each team will have for the new season. Ever wonder who was picked first throughout the years? Then you’re in luck. This is a list of who was chosen first and what happened to the first-round NBA pick every year.
You’ll learn many interesting facts from this list. For example, Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant aren’t listed here and we have included some of the great old-school NBA teams, like the Providence Steamrollers and the Pittsburgh Ironmen. It’s also cool to see how well many of these first-draft picks did once they entered the league. Some of them were world-famous, like Shaq and Magic Johnson, while others, like Gene Melchiorre, were banned from the NBA and never played a single game. Some players also stuck with one team during their entire career, while others hopped around. There’s a lot to learn here.
To determine what happened to the first-round NBA pick every year, 24/7 Tempo checked several sources, including NBA.com, ESPN, and NCAA.com. We also checked verified stories about the players’ lives on Bleacher Report and other sites. We think you’ll find the list quite fascinating. If you’re still hungry to learn more about this exciting sports league, check out this list of the 18 things you didn’t know about the NBA.
2023
- No. 1 Pick: Victor Wembanyama
- Drafted By: San Antonio Spurs
The newest member on our list of the first round NBA picks every year is Victor Wembanyama who had a rocky first year. The Spurs finished with a record of 22-60, but there’s much promise in this young man.
2022
ORLANDO, FLORIDA - MAY 03: Paolo Banchero #5 of the Orlando Magic celebrates with Cole Anthony #50 of the Orlando Magic against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the first quarter in Game Six of the Eastern Conference First Round Playoffs at Kia Center on May 03, 2024 in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images)
- No. 1 Pick: Paolo Banchero
- Drafted By: Orlando Magic
Paolo Banchero has done alright with only two years in the league. He was an NBA All-Star in 2024, and in his first year, he was the NBA Rookie of the Year.
2021
DETROIT, MICHIGAN - MARCH 22: Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics looks to drive around Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons during the first half at Little Caesars Arena on March 22, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
- No. 1 Pick: Cade Cunningham
- Drafted By: Detroit Pistons
The Detroit Pistons haven’t done too well since drafting Cade Cunningham. He had season-ending injury in 2022, but he’s returned and is looking pretty good with a couple games over 40 points.
2020
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - MAY 30: Luka Doncic #77 of the Dallas Mavericks brings the ball up the court against Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves during the third quarter in Game Five of the Western Conference Finals at Target Center on May 30, 2024 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stephen Maturen/Getty Images)
- No. 1 Pick: Anthony Edwards
- Drafted By: Minnesota Timberwolves
Anthony Edwards is doing very well with the Timberwolves and he helped them almost get to the finals this year. He’s been a two-time NBA All-Star, and he’s a high scorer with a lot of promise.
2019
- No. 1 Pick: Zion Williamson
- Drafted By: New Orleans Pelicans
Zion Williamson has done fairly well during his short time in the NBA. He is a two-time NBA All-Star, he was on the NBA All-Rookie First Team, and he simply dominates on the court.
2018
- No. 1 Pick: Deandre Ayton
- Drafted By: Phoenix Suns
Deandre Ayton started his NBA career with the Suns and made a name for himself as the team made a run in the finals. Now, on the Trail Blazers, he’s still doing well on the court.
2017
- No. 1 Pick: Markelle Fultz
- Drafted By: Philadelphia 76ers
The next first-round NBA pick is Markelle Fultz. He held great promise coming out of college where he played for the Huskies. However, a shoulder injury has kept him mostly out of the game.
2016
- No. 1 Pick: Ben Simmons
- Drafted By: Philadelphia 76ers
Ben Simmons has his ups and downs in the league. He’s dealt with injury, but he’s also a dominant offensive star when he needs to be. During his career, he’s been a three-time NBA All-Star.
2015
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - FEBRUARY 23: Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the Minnesota Timberwolves reacts to his foul against the Milwaukee Bucks in the fourth quarter at Target Center on February 23, 2024 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Bucks defeated the Timberwolves 112-107. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images)
- No. 1 Pick: Karl-Anthony Towns
- Drafted By: Minnesota Timberwolves
Karl-Anthony Towns also helped the Timberwolves make a deep run into the postseason in 2024. He has also been on the NBA All-Star team four times, and he won the 3-point contest in 2022.
2014
- No. 1 Pick: Andrew Wiggins
- Drafted By: Cleveland Cavaliers
Andrew Wiggins started out on the Timberwolves, where he was the Rookie of the Year. He later joined the Golden State Warriors and won a championship with them.
2013
- No. 1 Pick: Anthony Bennett
- Drafted By: Cleveland Cavaliers
Anthony Bennett was the first Canadian player to be a first-round NBA pick when he went to the Cavaliers. Since then, his career has had ups and downs, and he now plays professionally in Taiwan.
2012
- No. 1 Pick: Anthony Davis
- Drafted By: New Orleans Hornets
Anthony Davis has been a dependable player in the league since he was on the Hornets and then the Pelicans. Now, he’s a go-to player on the Los Angeles Lakers.
2011
- No. 1 Pick: Kyrie Irving
- Drafted By: Cleveland Cavaliers
Kyrie Irving was first picked by the Cavaliers, where he played alongside LeBron James when they won the NBA championship. Since then, he’s done great work with the Celtics, Nets, and Mavericks.
2010
- No. 1 Pick: John Wall
- Drafted By: Washington Wizards
John Wall was one of the dominant players when he was with the Wizards. He’s currently on the Clippers. He’s been a five-time NBA All-Star and continues to be a great player.
2009
- No. 1 Pick: Blake Griffin
- Drafted By: LA Clippers
Blake Griffin has played on several teams and has been an All-Star six times. Name an award and he’s won it. He’s also the first on this list of the first-round NBA picks every year that is retired.
2008
- No. 1 Pick: Derrick Rose
- Drafted By: Chicago Bulls
Derrick Rose began with the Bulls but played for many other teams over the years. He’s currently with the Grizzlies. He’s a three-time All-Star and was the Rookie of the Year.
2007
- No. 1 Pick: Greg Oden
- Drafted By: Portland Trail Blazers
Greg Oden has had an interesting career. He was drafted by the Trail Blazers and had some success, but then he went to the Heat briefly before landing in the Chinese Basketball Association.
2006
- No. 1 Pick: Andrea Bargnani
- Drafted By: Toronto Raptors
Andrea Bargnani was a first round pick that was often compared to Dirk Nowitzki when he played for the Raptors, Knicks, and Nuggets. He then went on to play in Italy before retiring.
2005
GOLD COAST, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 18: Andrew Bogut attends a function during the 2023 NBL Blitz match between Sydney Kings and South East Melbourne Phoenix at Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre on September 18, 2023 in Gold Coast, Australia. (Photo by Albert Perez/Getty Images for NBL)
- No. 1 Pick: Andrew Bogut
- Drafted By: Milwaukee Bucks
Andrew Bogut had a very successful career playing for various teams. He’s an NBA champion and the 2011 blocks leader. He was a great defensive player before retiring.
2004
- No. 1 Pick: Dwight Howard
- Drafted By: Orlando Magic
Dwight Howard has been a beloved player over the years after playing for many teams. He’s still active today. He’s been a NBA champion, an 8-time All-Star, and he’s won many defensive awards.
2003
- No. 1 Pick: LeBron James
- Drafted By: Cleveland Cavaliers
LeBron James continues to play at a very high level. He’s an NBA champion who currently plays for the Lakers. He’s considered to be one of the best players that has ever played the game.
2002
- No. 1 Pick: Yao Ming
- Drafted By: Houston Rockets
Yao Ming was drafted due to his skills and his amazing height. He played all of his professional career for the Rockets and he was an eight-time NBA All-Star.
2001
BOSTON, MA - AUGUST 03: Chris Andersen #11 of Power drives to the basket against Kwame Brown #54 of 3 Headed Monsters during week seven of the BIG3 three on three basketball league at TD Garden on August 3, 2018 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/BIG3/Getty Images)
- No. 1 Pick: Kwame Brown
- Drafted By: Washington Wizards
Kwame Brown played for various teams, ending with the Philadelphia 76ers in 2013. During his career, he scored over 4,000 points. He has since retired.
2000
- No. 1 Pick: Kenyon Martin
- Drafted By: New Jersey Nets
Kenyon Martin played for several teams up until 2015. He was a power forward who played for the Nets, Knicks, Nuggets, Clippers, and Bucks before retiring.
1999
- No. 1 Pick: Elton Brand
- Drafted By: Chicago Bulls
Elton Brand had a successful career right out of the gate. During his career, he played for several teams. He was the Co-Rookie of the Year, a two-time NBA All-Star, and he won the Sportsmanship Award.
1998
- No. 1 Pick: Michael Olowokandi
- Drafted By: LA Clippers
Michael Olowokandi is a Nigerian-born player who had some success as he played for the Clippers, Timberwolves, and Celtics. However, he had to retire due to expensive hernia issues.
1997
- No. 1 Pick: Tim Duncan
- Drafted By: San Antonio Spurs
Widely considered to be one of the best players of all time, Tim Duncan did amazing work when he played for the Spurs. He has five NBA championship wins under his belt, among many other awards.
1996
- No. 1 Pick: Allen Iverson
- Drafted By: Philadelphia 76ers
Another very famous name on this list of the first-round NBA picks every year is Allen Iverson. He played for numerous teams and was an 11-time All-Star. He’s since retired.
1995
- No. 1 Pick: Joe Smith
- Drafted By: Golden State Warriors
Joe Smith moved amongst 11 teams during his NBA career. During that time he was on the NBA All-Rookie First Team. He finished his career with over 11,000 points.
1994
- No. 1 Pick: Glenn Robinson
- Drafted By: Milwaukee Bucks
Glenn Robinson had a great career and even had the nickname of “The Chosen One” He won an NBA championship and was a two-time All Star before returning in 2005.
1993
- No. 1 Pick: Chris Webber
- Drafted By: Orlando Magic
Chris Webber held many accolades over his career, including being a five-time All-Star and the Rookie of the Year. He retired with over 17,000 points.
1992
- No. 1 Pick: Shaquille O’ Neal
- Drafted By: Orlando Magic
Shaq still remains one of the most famous basketball players of all time. He is a four-time NBA champion and now hosts shows and stars in movies, in addition to working for law enforcement.
1991
- No. 1 Pick: Larry Johnson
- Drafted By: Charlotte Hornets
Larry Johnson was a two-time All-Star and the Rookie of the Year during his career. After basketball, he went to college and then worked for the Knicks.
1990
- No. 1 Pick: Derrick Coleman
- Drafted By: New Jersey Nets
Derrick Coleman was chosen by the Nets. With them, he averaged 10.6 rebounds and 19.8 points per game. He was also an NBA All-Star in 1994 and has since retired.
1989
- No. 1 Pick: Pervis Ellison
- Drafted By: Sacramento Kings
During his career, Pervis Ellison was plagued by injuries, so he didn’t get a lot of playing time or a chance to show his stuff. However, he was voted Most Improved Player in 1992.
1988
- No. 1 Pick: Danny Manning
- Drafted By: LA Clippers
Danny Manning was a star in college and was the all-time leading scorer with the Kansas Jayhawks. As a pro, he played and coached several teams and was a two-time NBA All-Star.
1987
- No. 1 Pick: David Robinson
- Drafted By: San Antonio Spurs
David Robinson was a powerhouse of a player. He played his entire career with the Spurs and won two championships. Now, he’s a minority owner of the team.
1986
- No. 1 Pick: Brad Daugherty
- Drafted By: Cleveland Cavaliers
Our next first-round NBA pick is Brad Daugherty, who spent his entire career with the Cavaliers and was a five-time NBA All-Star. After basketball, he became a NASCAR broadcaster for NBC.
1985
- No. 1 Pick: Patrick Ewing
- Drafted By: New York Knicks
Patrick Ewing had an amazing career as an 11-time All-Star. He was a great player and later a coach. He was also one of the stars of the 1996 film “Space Jam.”
1984
HOUSTON, TEXAS - FEBRUARY 19: Hakeem Olajuwon waves to the crowd as the Houston Cougars played the Memphis Tigers at Fertitta Center on February 19, 2023 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images)
- No. 1 Pick: Hakeem Olajuwon
- Drafted By: Houston Rockets
Hakeem Olajuwon had an incredible career with the Rockets. He was a 2-time NBA champion and a two-time Finals MVP. Olajuwon was also a very good defensive player. He now works in real estate.
1983
- No. 1 Pick: Ralph Sampson
- Drafted By: Houston Rockets
Ralph Sampson played for many different teams during his NBA tenure, and he was a four-time All Star. After retirement, he went on to be an assistant coach in the NBA.
1982
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 07: (L-R) Former players A.C. Green, Kareem Abdul-Jabar and James Worthy in attendance for a game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Oklahoma City Thunder at Crypto.com Arena on February 07, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
- No. 1 Pick: James Worthy
- Drafted By: Los Angeles Lakers
James Worthy spent his entire career with the Lakers and was a three-time NBA champion and a seven-time All-Star. Now, he does post-game coverage for the Lakers.
1981
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - JANUARY 28: Mark Aguirre is seen during the game between the DePaul Blue Demons and the Marquette Golden Eagles at Wintrust Arena on January 28, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Quinn Harris/Getty Images)
- No. 1 Pick: Mark Aguirre
- Drafted By: Dallas Mavericks
Mark Aguirre was a two-time NBA champion and a three-time All-Star. He would go on to play for different teams, including a partial run in Los Angeles. He retired in 1994.
1980
- No. 1 Pick: Joe Barry Carroll
- Drafted By: Golden State Warriors
Joe Barry Carroll had a good career playing for multiple teams and joining the All-Star team in 1981. After retirement, he became a financial advisor.
1979
- No. 1 Pick: Magic Johnson
- Drafted By: Los Angeles Lakers
Magic Johnson remains one of the most famous former NBA players to this day. He was a five-time NBA champion. Later on, Johnson would become the President of Operations for the Lakers.
1978
- No. 1 Pick: Mychal Thompson
- Drafted By: Portland Trail Blazers
Mychal Thompson helped the Lakers win two NBA championships before retiring in 1991. After his retirement, he would go on to do talk radio. He is also the father of Klay Thompson.
1977
- No. 1 Pick: Kent Benson
- Drafted By: Milwaukee Bucks
Kent Benson played for many teams over his years, including the Pistons, Jazz, and Cavaliers. He was a supporting player who retired after scoring over 6,000 points.
1976
- No. 1 Pick: John Lucas
- Drafted By: Houston Rockets
John Lucas played for 10 teams and then retired as a player. Then, he went on to coach seven other teams, including the Spurs and 76ers.
1975
- No. 1 Pick: David Thompson
- Drafted By: Atlanta Hawks
David Thompson was an amazing player for the Nuggets and Seattle SuperSonics. He is one of only 10 players to score more than 70 points in a game.
1974
- No. 1 Pick: Bill Walton
- Drafted By: Portland Trail Blazers
Bill Walton was an amazing player who was a two-time champion, a Finals MVP, and was voted the Most Valuable Player in 1978. He later went on to be a sports announcer.
1973
- No. 1 Pick: Doug Collins
- Drafted By: Philadelphia 76ers
Doug Collins is another notable first round NBA pick who played exclusively for the 76ers and was a four-time All-Star. Later on, he would coach several teams, including the Bulls and 76ers.
1972
- No. 1 Pick: LaRue Martin
- Drafted By: Portland Trail Blazers
LaRue Martin was drafted first, but his career was relatively uneventful as he only scored 1,430 points during his time in the NBA. Today, he does a lot of community service.
1971
- No. 1 Pick: Austin Carr
- Drafted By: Cleveland Cavaliers
Austin Carr had a successful career, playing mostly for the Cavaliers. He was an All-Star in 1974. He then retired and went into broadcasting.
1970
- No. 1 Pick: Bob Lanier
- Drafted By: Detroit Pistons
Bob Lanier had a long career with both the Pistons and the Bucks. He was an eight-time All-Star. He retired and went to coach the Golden State Warriors as an assistant.
1969
- No. 1 Pick: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
- Drafted By: Milwaukee Bucks
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was a famous player who won championships with both the Lakers and the Bucks. He won many awards during his career, and when he retired, he became an actor, among other things.
1968
- No. 1 Pick: Elvin Hayes
- Drafted By: San Diego Rockets
Elvin Hayes won an NBA championship and was a 12-time NBA All-Star, among many other awards. After he retired, he worked as a sheriff’s deputy and then as a broadcaster.
1967
- No. 1 Pick: Jimmy Walker
- Drafted By: Detroit Pistons
Jimmy Walker had a good career with the Pistons and Rockets and he was a two-time All-Star. He scored 11,655 points during his career.
1966
- No. 1 Pick: Cazzie Russell
- Drafted By: New York Knicks
Cazzie Russell had a long career with multiple teams. As a member of the Knicks, he won a championship. Later, with the Warriors, he would be a one-time All-Star.
1965
- No. 1 Pick: Fred Hetzel
- Drafted By: San Francisco Warriors
Fred Hetzel was a great supportive player for numerous teams in the NBA. He never won a championship, but he scored over 4,600 points during his career.
1964
- No. 1 Pick: Jim Barnes
- Drafted By: New York Knicks
Jim Barnes won a championship in 1969 with the Boston Celtics. He was also an Olympic Gold Medalist. His nickname was “Bad News Barnes” due to the damage he did to opponents.
1963
- No. 1 Pick: Art Heyman
- Drafted By: New York Knicks
Art Heyman was in the league for many years and played for various teams while also winning a championship. After retirement, he opened a restaurant in NYC.
1962
- No. 1 Pick: Bill McGill
- Drafted By: Chicago Zephyrs
Bill McGill played for several teams during his career and ended with just over 3,000 points. He’s also credited with creating the jump hook shot.
1961
- No. 1 Pick: Walt Bellamy
- Drafted By: Chicago Zephyrs
The next first-round NBA pick, Walt Bellamy, started off with a bang by becoming the Rookie of the Year in 1962. He would also be a four-time All-Star and a legend in the game.
1960
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - FEBRUARY 18: NBA Legend Oscar Robertson is honored during the 2024 NBA All-Star Game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on February 18, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)
- No. 1 Pick: Oscar Robertson
- Drafted By: Cincinnati Royals
Oscar Robertson is also credited with being one of the best who ever played. He won a championship, he was a 12-time All-Star, and he was a six-time assists leader.
1959
- No. 1 Pick: Bob Boozer
- Drafted By: Cincinnati Royals
Bob Boozer was an NBA champion and an All-Star who played for many teams, including the Lakers and the Bucks. After retirement, he worked as an executive for Bell Systems.
1958
SANTA MONICA, CA - JUNE 25: Elgin Baylor attends the 2018 NBA Awards Show at Barker Hangar on June 25, 2018 in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Allen Berezovsky/Getty Images)
- No. 1 Pick: Elgin Baylor
- Drafted By: Minneapolis Lakers
Elgin Baylor was an 11-time NBA All-Star, and he won many other awards during his successful career. He did so well during his career that he is considered one of the best to ever play.
1957
- No. 1 Pick: Hot Rod Hundley
- Drafted By: Cincinnati Royals
Hot Rod Hundley was a two-time All-Star. He got the name “Hot Rod” because of his dribbling and antics on the court. He later became a sports broadcaster.
1956
- No. 1 Pick: Si Green
- Drafted By: Rochester Royals
Si Green played for many of the early basketball teams and accrued over 4,600 points, which was great for the time. He was known for being silent but deadly on the court.
1955
- No. 1 Pick: Dick Ricketts
- Drafted By: St. Louis Hawks
Dick Ricketts was a great player in the early days of basketball. He was such a natural athlete that he later went on to play Major League Baseball, and he did well there.
1954
- No. 1 Pick: Frank Selvy
- Drafted By: Baltimore Bullets
Frank Selvy was a star in college when he scored 100 points in a game. Then, he went to the NBA, played for several teams, and became a two-time All-Star.
1953
- No. 1 Pick: Ray Felix
- Drafted By: Baltimore Bullets
Ray Felix was a great player for many early teams. He started out well by becoming the Rookie of the Year, and he went on to be a one-time All-Star.
1952
- No. 1 Pick: Mark Workman
- Drafted By: Milwaukee Hawks
Mark Workman was chosen by the Hawks. After that, he went on to play for the Philadelphia Warriors and the Baltimore Bullets. After he retired, he worked as a salesman for the Brunswick Corporation.
1951
- No. 1 Pick: Gene Melchiorre
- Drafted By: Baltimore Hawk
Gene Melchiorre was a first-round pick, but due to a point-shaving scandal, he was banned from ever playing in the NBA again.
1950
- No. 1 Pick: Chuck Share
- Drafted By: Boston Celtics
Chuck Share won an NBA championship with the St. Louis Hawks in 1958, and he had a great career overall. After retiring from the NBA, he pursued various business ventures.
1949
- No. 1 Pick: Howie Shannon
- Drafted By: Providence Steam Rollers
Howie Shannon was one of the first-ever first round picks. He played for the Providence Steamrollers and the Boston Celtics. After he retired, he coached college and high school teams.
1948
- No. 1 Pick: Andy Tonkovich
- Drafted By: Providence Steamrollers
Andy Tonkovich was a great first-round pick who played for both the Providence Steamrollers and the Wheeling Blues. He would retire and go on to coach the Wheeling Blues.
1947
- No. 1 Pick: Clifton McNeeley
- Drafted By: Pittsburgh Ironmen
Our final entry on this list of what happened to the first-round NBA pick every year is Clifton McNeeley. He played for the Pittsburgh Ironmen and had a short career. He then went on to be a high school basketball coach. Want to learn other Pittsburgh sports facts? Check out this list of the most popular sports teams in Pennsylvania.