Ranking the best No. 1 overall draft picks in NBA history
San Antonio Spurs No. 1 overall pick Victor Wembanyama is arguably the most hyped-up draft prospects in NBA history, and all eyes will be on him throughout his rookie season.
Being the No. 1 pick in the NBA Draft isn't easy; it comes with a ton of pressure and attention. Some players are able to overcome this and become superstars, while others aren't able to live up to the extreme expectations.
Today, let's take a look back at the best No. 1 overall picks in NBA history.
1. LeBron James, 2003 NBA Draft, Cleveland Cavaliers
LeBron James entered the league with unparalleled hype and somehow lived up to the immense expectations. James possesses a unique combination of size, athleticism and basketball IQ. With four NBA championships, four MVP awards and numerous All-NBA selections, James has solidified his place as arguably the greatest player to ever pick up a basketball, and certainly the best No. 1 overall pick of all-time. LeBron is the NBA's all-time leading scorer, surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar last season.
2. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, 1969 NBA Draft, Milwaukee Bucks
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, formerly known as Lew Alcindor, was the first overall pick in the 1969 NBA Draft by the Milwaukee Bucks. Standing at an impressive 7-foot-2, Abdul-Jabbar possessed exceptional skills and athleticism. Throughout his illustrious career, he amassed six NBA championships and six MVP awards. His iconic skyhook shot and dominant presence in the paint revolutionized the game and cemented his status as one of the greatest players ever.
3. Magic Johnson, 1979 NBA Draft, Los Angeles Lakers
Magic Johnson, selected as the first overall pick by the Los Angeles Lakers in the 1979 NBA Draft, brought a new style of play to the league and helped usher in the Showtime era of Lakers basketball. At 6-foot-9, Johnson possessed exceptional court vision and ball-handling skills as well as terrific leadership abilities. He led the Lakers to five championships and was a three-time MVP. His rivalry with Larry Bird captivated fans and elevated the popularity of the NBA, making him one of the most influential players in basketball history.
4. Tim Duncan, 1997 NBA Draft, San Antonio Spurs
Tim Duncan, selected as the first overall pick by the San Antonio Spurs in 1997, exemplified consistency and excellence throughout his career. Known for his fundamental skills, basketball IQ and unassuming demeanor, Duncan led the Spurs to five NBA championships and earned two MVP awards. His dominance in the paint, defensive prowess and exceptional leadership made him the cornerstone of the Spurs' dynasty for nearly two decades.
5. Shaquille O'Neal, 1992 NBA Draft, Orlando Magic
Drafted as the top pick by the Orlando Magic in 1992, Shaq's combination of size, strength and agility was unprecedented. Standing at 7-foot-1 and weighing over 300 pounds, he dominated the paint with his powerful dunks and sheer force. O'Neal's impact was undeniable, leading the Magic to their first-ever NBA Finals appearance in 1995. Throughout his career, he won four NBA championships and was a three-time Finals MVP. Shaq's larger-than-life personality and dominant style of play made him a fan favorite and an iconic figure in the sport. He's widely regarded as one of the most dominant players in NBA history.
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