Some of the NBA’s most iconic players weren’t selected in the first round of the NBA Draft. Whether undrafted or second-round steals, these players defied expectations and carved out legendary careers. Here’s a look at the top NBA players not drafted in the first round, some are all-time greats who prove that draft position doesn’t determine destiny. Side note, THD produced a similar list way back in 2008 if you are interested to see what’s changed.
1. Nikola Jokic (41st pick, 2014)
The reigning king of second-round success, Jokic is a 3-time NBA MVP and 2023 NBA champion. The Serbian big man revolutionized the center position with his court vision, passing, and scoring efficiency. He continues to anchor the Denver Nuggets as a perennial title contender.
2. Manu Ginóbili (57th pick, 1999)
Drafted near the bottom of the 1999 NBA Draft, Ginóbili became a four-time champion and a Hall of Famer. Known for his creativity, fearless drives, and international flair, Manu was a key piece in the Spurs dynasty and one of the greatest sixth men in history.
3. Dennis Rodman (27th pick, 1986)
The Worm redefined rebounding and defense. Though technically a first-rounder, Rodman was picked last in the first round, often lumped in with non-first-round legends. He won five NBA titles and earned two Defensive Player of the Year awards, anchoring the Pistons and Bulls dynasties.
4. Draymond Green (35th pick, 2012)
Green has been the vocal heart and defensive soul of the Golden State Warriors. A four-time NBA champion and 2017 Defensive Player of the Year, Draymond’s playmaking and toughness have made him indispensable in the Warriors’ dynasty.
5. Marc Gasol (48th pick, 2007)
Marc Gasol blossomed into a premier center in Memphis, earning an NBA championship with Toronto in 2019 and a Defensive Player of the Year award. Known for his high IQ and versatility, Gasol was a franchise cornerstone for the “Grit and Grind” Grizzlies.
6. Gilbert Arenas (31st pick, 2001)
“Agent Zero” was one of the league’s most electrifying scorers in the mid-2000s. A three-time All-Star, Arenas had multiple 60-point games and was known for clutch moments and deep shooting before injuries shortened his prime.
7. Michael Redd (43rd pick, 2000)
Redd quietly became one of the league’s best shooters in the 2000s, even making an All-Star team and the 2004 Olympic squad. He averaged over 20 PPG for six straight seasons and once scored 57 points in a game.
8. Ben Wallace (Undrafted)
The greatest undrafted player in NBA history, Wallace won four Defensive Player of the Year awards and led the Pistons to the 2004 title. A rebounding and shot-blocking machine, Wallace is enshrined in the Hall of Fame.
9. Manute Bol (31st pick, 1985)
Bol was one of the most feared shot blockers in NBA history. The 7’7″ Sudanese center averaged 3.3 blocks per game for his career and had multiple games with double-digit blocks. He remains a beloved and unique figure in NBA lore.
10. Fred VanVleet (Undrafted)
From undrafted to NBA champion, VanVleet played a pivotal role in Toronto’s 2019 title run. He holds the record for most points in a game by an undrafted player (54) and earned an All-Star nod in 2022. Now a franchise leader in Houston, he’s one of the most successful undrafted guards ever.
Next 20 Notable Players Not Drafted in the First Round
| Rank | Player | Draft Status | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | Isaiah Thomas | 60th pick (2011) | 2× All-Star, 29 PPG season |
| 12 | Kyle Korver | 51st pick (2003) | All-Star, Top 5 in career 3PTM |
| 13 | Lou Williams | 45th pick (2005) | 3× Sixth Man of the Year |
| 14 | Danny Green | 46th pick (2009) | 3× NBA champion |
| 15 | Hassan Whiteside | 33rd pick (2010) | Led league in blocks and rebounds |
| 16 | Monte Morris | 51st pick (2017) | Elite assist-to-turnover ratio |
| 17 | Chris Andersen | Undrafted | 2013 NBA champion, elite shot-blocker |
| 18 | Patty Mills | 55th pick (2009) | 2014 champ, Team Australia leader |
| 19 | Jeremy Lin | Undrafted | “Linsanity,” 2019 champion |
| 20 | PJ Tucker | 35th pick (2006) | NBA champion, elite defender |
| 21 | Cedric Ceballos | 48th pick (1990) | 1× All-Star, 21 PPG scorer |
| 22 | Raja Bell | Undrafted | 2× All-Defense, elite perimeter defender |
| 23 | JJ Barea | Undrafted | 2011 champ, Finals spark plug |
| 24 | Brad Miller | Undrafted | 2× All-Star, stretch big |
| 25 | Darrell Armstrong | Undrafted | 6MOY, Most Improved |
| 26 | Marcin Gortat | 57th pick (2005) | Wizards playoff anchor |
| 27 | Maxi Kleber | Undrafted | Modern stretch big |
| 28 | Lu Dort | Undrafted | Elite defender, OKC starter |
| 29 | Naz Reid | Undrafted | Starter-level production |
| 30 | Alex Caruso | Undrafted | All-Defense, 2020 champ |
