Ranking the best No. 1 picks in the NBA Draft since LeBron James is an intriguing task, especially given his legendary status. LeBron James stands out as a player who has not only redefined basketball but has also set a high bar for all future No. 1 overall selections.
Before James, the list of No. 1 picks included icons such as Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Tim Duncan, and Shaquille O’Neal. Each of these players has made significant contributions to the game, yet James has managed to carve out a unique legacy over his impressive 22-year career in the NBA.
Since LeBron’s selection by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2003, several players have emerged as noteworthy No. 1 picks. Nick Wright compiled a list on “First Things First” that highlights these standout athletes.
Not on the list
Some notable No. 1 picks who did not make the cut include Andrew Bogut (2005), Andrea Bargnani (2006), Greg Oden (2007), John Wall (2010), Anthony Bennett (2013), Andrew Wiggins (2014), Ben Simmons (2016), Markelle Fultz (2017), DeAndre Ayton (2018), Zion Williamson (2019), Cade Cunningham (2021), Paolo Banchero (2022), and Zaccharie Risacher (2024).
Nick Wright’s list
8. Blake Griffin (2009)
Drafted by: LA Clippers
Awards/accolades: 6x All-Star, 5x All-NBA, 2010-11 ROY
7. Karl-Anthony Towns (2015)
Drafted by: Minnesota Timberwolves
Awards/accolades: 5x All-Star, 2x All-NBA, 2015-16 ROY
6. Derrick Rose (2008)
Drafted by: Chicago Bulls
Awards/accolades: 2010-11 MVP, 3x All-Star, 1x All-NBA, 2008-09 ROY
5. Kyrie Irving (2011)
Drafted by: Cleveland Cavaliers
Awards/accolades: 2016 NBA champion, 9x All-Star, 3x All-NBA, 2011-12 ROY
4. Anthony Edwards (2020)
Drafted by: Minnesota Timberwolves
Awards/accolades: 3x All-Star, 1x All-NBA
3. Dwight Howard (2004)
Drafted by: Orlando Magic
Awards/accolades: 1x NBA champion, 8x All-Star, 8x All-NBA, 3x DPOY, 5x All-Defensive
2. Anthony Davis (2012)
Drafted by: New Orleans Hornets
Awards/accolades: 1x NBA champion, 10x All-Star, 5x All-NBA, 5x All-Defensive
1. Victor Wembanyama (2023)
Drafted by: San Antonio Spurs
Awards/accolades: 1x All-Star, 1x ROY, 1x All-Defensive
