The Ten Worst No. 1 Picks from the NBA Draft Ever
The NBA Draft is where franchises place their bets on future stars. While some No. 1 picks have become legends, others fell far short of expectations. Here are the ten worst No. 1 picks in NBA history.
10. Markelle Fultz (2017)
The Philadelphia 76ers traded up to draft Fultz, expecting him to be a franchise cornerstone. Instead, injuries and a mysterious shooting form issue derailed his career. Though he has found some success in Orlando, Fultz has yet to live up to the immense expectations of a top pick.
9. Anthony Bennett (2013)
When the Cleveland Cavaliers selected Bennett, the world was stunned. His underwhelming college stats made him a reach at No. 1, and his NBA performance was even worse. Bennett lasted just four years in the league, averaging 4.4 points per game.
8. Pervis Ellison (1989)
Nicknamed “Never Nervous Pervis” in college, Ellison’s pro career was plagued by injuries. Drafted by the Sacramento Kings, he played only one season there before being traded. Despite flashes of potential, Ellison never justified his No. 1 selection.
7. Andrea Bargnani (2006)
The Toronto Raptors’ gamble on the 7-foot Italian didn’t pay off. Bargnani showed scoring ability but was a defensive liability and lacked consistency. His tenure in Toronto was underwhelming, and his career fizzled after leaving the Raptors.
6. Kwame Brown (2001)
Kwame Brown’s selection by Michael Jordan and the Washington Wizards was the start of a tumultuous career. While he lasted 12 years in the league, his production never matched expectations. Brown became synonymous with draft busts.
5. LaRue Martin (1972)
The Portland Trail Blazers picked Martin over future Hall of Famers Bob McAdoo and Julius Erving. His NBA career was brief and unremarkable, lasting just four seasons and producing only 5.3 points per game.
4. Michael Olowokandi (1998)
The Los Angeles Clippers selected Olowokandi, a relative unknown, expecting him to become a dominant center. Despite his size, he lacked the skills and work ethic to thrive in the NBA. His career became a cautionary tale.
3. Joe Barry Carroll (1980)
Dubbed “Joe Barely Cares,” Carroll was drafted by the Golden State Warriors but lacked the passion for the game. Though he had solid stats, his indifferent attitude made him a disappointment compared to other stars from his draft class.
2. Darko Milicic (2003)
Drafted by the Detroit Pistons between LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony, Milicic’s career was an enormous letdown. He never developed into more than a bench player, making the Pistons’ decision one of the biggest draft blunders.
1. Anthony Bennett (2013)
Yes, Bennett earns another mention because his bust status is unparalleled. As the first Canadian to go No. 1, the Cavaliers’ pick was baffling from the start. His brief career and lack of impact solidified him as the worst No. 1 pick in history.
