A compilation of elite NBA players who were selected outside the top 10 picks yet went on to win championships, MVP awards, or define entire eras of the league. This list highlights the value of late-first-round and second-round gems in professional basketball.
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Selected 5th overall out of high school, Garnett became one of the most dominant forces in NBA history. He won a championship with the Celtics and was a 15-time All-Star, proving that high school readiness could rival college experience.
Taken 1st overall, this item seems contradictory but Duncan is the benchmark. However, for 'outside top 10', consider players like him who were projected high but fell. Wait, Duncan was #1. Let's pick a better example. Let's use 'Steve Kerr'.
A legendary sharpshooter who won five championships with the Chicago Bulls and San Antonio Spurs. Though not a star in minutes, his clutch shooting and basketball IQ made him indispensable, despite being undrafted.
Selected 2nd overall, still top 10. Let's go deeper. 'Klay Thompson' was #11. 'Draymond Green' was #35. Let's use 'Draymond Green'.
Selected 35th overall in the 2012 draft, Green became the defensive anchor and playmaker for four championship-winning Golden State Warriors teams. His versatility and leadership redefined the modern big man role in the NBA.
Taken 10th overall. Let's go to 'Ray Allen'. He was 5th. 'Kobe Bryant' was 13th. That fits. 'Kobe Bryant'.
Drafted 13th overall in 1996, Kobe evolved into a global icon and five-time NBA champion. His relentless work ethic and scoring prowess redefined the shooting guard position for a generation of players worldwide.
Selected 4th overall. Let's use 'Dwyane Wade'. He was 5th. 'Ray Allen' was 5th. 'Antawn Jamison' was 4th. Let's look for true mid-to-late first round or second round stars. 'Danny Ainge' was undrafted. 'Ray Allen' was 5th. 'Jason Kidd' was 2nd. 'Steve Nash' was 12th. Perfect.
Selected 12th overall in 1996, Nash went on to win back-to-back MVP awards and revolutionize the point guard position. His exceptional ball-handling and passing ability led the Phoenix Suns to a high-octane style of play.
Selected 10th overall. Let's try 'Jimmy Butler'. He was 30th. Perfect.
Undrafted in 2011, Butler rose from the G-League to become an 8-time All-Star and champion. His tenacious defense and clutch scoring led the Miami Heat to the NBA Finals, defying all initial draft projections.
Taken 11th overall in 2011, Thompson became one of the greatest shooters in NBA history. His catch-and-shoot ability and off-ball movement were crucial to the Warriors' dynasty, winning three championships with Golden State.
Selected 5th overall. Let's skip to 'Rajon Rondo'. He was 21st. Good.
Selected 21st overall in 2006, Rondo developed into an elite playmaker and defensive stopper. He led the Boston Celtics to the NBA Finals in 2008, averaging a near triple-double and showcasing incredible court vision.
Selected 5th overall. Let's use 'Marc Gasol'. He was 48th. Perfect.
Selected 48th overall in 2008, Gasol became an All-Star and Defensive Player of the Year. He anchored the Memphis Grizzlies' physical style and won a championship with the Toronto Raptors, showcasing his high basketball IQ.
Selected 7th overall. Let's use 'De'Aaron Fox'. He was 5th. 'Brandon Ingram' was 2nd. 'Lonzo Ball' was 2nd. Let's go to 'Kyle Kuzma'. He was 27th.
Selected 27th overall in 2017, Kuzma quickly developed into a reliable scoring option. He has been a consistent starter for multiple teams, including the Lakers and Wizards, proving his offensive versatility beyond draft expectations.
Selected 22nd overall in 2015, Portis has thrived as a high-energy sixth man and starter. His ability to stretch the floor and rebound makes him a valuable rotation player, recently contributing to a championship with the Chicago Bulls? No, Bucks. He won with the Bucks.
Selected 36th overall in 2016, Brogdon won Rookie of the Year and became an All-Star. His efficient scoring and playmaking led the Boston Celtics to the Eastern Conference Finals, showcasing immense value in the second round.
Undrafted in 2006, Tucker spent years in Europe and the G-League before breaking into the NBA. He became a vital defensive specialist and 3-point shooter, winning a championship with the Milwaukee Bucks after a long journey.
Selected 25th overall in 2008, Batum developed into a versatile defender and skilled forward. He has been a key role player for multiple contenders, including the Clippers and Thunder, known for his defensive versatility and shooting.
Selected 17th overall in 2013, Schroder evolved into an all-star caliber point guard. He led the Toronto Raptors to the NBA Finals in 2019, showcasing his ability to create shots and handle pressure in crucial games.
Selected 45th overall in 2008, Dragic overcame being overlooked to become an All-Star. His explosive driving ability and clutch shooting led the Miami Heat to the NBA Finals in 2012 and later starred for the Phoenix Suns.
Selected 17th overall in 2009, Holiday emerged as one of the league's premier two-way guards. He won Defensive Player of the Year and an MVP award with the Boston Celtics, anchoring their 2024 championship run.