Top 10 Biggest NBA Draft Steals of All-Time

By Oliver Wiener April 24, 2024 13:34

The NBA Draft is a pivotal event for teams to secure young talent and build for the future.

While many top picks have gone on to become superstars, there have been instances where players selected later in the draft have surpassed all expectations and become major contributors to their teams.

These players are often referred to as draft steals. Let's take a closer look at the top 10 biggest NBA draft steals of all time.

1. Michael Jordan (1984, 3rd Overall)

Michael Jordan is widely regarded as the greatest basketball player of all time. Surprisingly, he was not the first overall pick in the 1984 NBA Draft.

The Portland Trail Blazers selected Sam Bowie with the second pick, allowing the Chicago Bulls to pick up Jordan at number three.

Jordan went on to win six NBA championships and five MVP awards, solidifying his place as a draft steal for the ages.

2. Kawhi Leonard (2011, 15th Overall)

Kawhi Leonard was selected by the Indiana Pacers with the 15th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft and then traded to the San Antonio Spurs.

Leonard quickly developed into a defensive stalwart and eventually became a two-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year.

He played a crucial role in leading the Toronto Raptors to their first NBA championship in 2019 and was named Finals MVP.

3. Giannis Antetokounmpo (2013, 15th Overall)

Selected by the Milwaukee Bucks with the 15th pick in the 2013 NBA Draft, Giannis Antetokounmpo's journey to NBA superstardom is nothing short of remarkable.

From a relatively unknown prospect from Greece to a two-time NBA MVP and NBA champion, Antetokounmpo's impact on the game has been immense.

4. John Stockton (1984, 16th Overall)

John Stockton was drafted by the Utah Jazz with the 16th pick in the 1984 NBA Draft.

Stockton went on to become one of the greatest point guards in NBA history, holding the records for most career assists and steals.

5. Tony Parker (2001, 28th Overall)

Selected by the San Antonio Spurs with the 28th pick in the 2001 NBA Draft, Tony Parker played a vital role in the Spurs' dynasty alongside Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili.

Parker's speed, playmaking ability, and clutch performances were instrumental in the Spurs' multiple championship victories.

6. Manu Ginobili (1999, 57th Overall)

Manu Ginobili was a relatively unknown prospect from Argentina when he was selected by the San Antonio Spurs with the 57th pick in the 1999 NBA Draft.

Ginobili's arrival in the NBA brought a new level of creativity and flair to the game. His impact on the Spurs' success, including four NBA championships, cements his status as a draft steal.

7. Dennis Rodman (1986, 27th Overall)

Dennis Rodman was selected by the Detroit Pistons with the 27th pick in the 1986 NBA Draft.

Known for his tenacious rebounding and defensive prowess, Rodman played a crucial role in the Pistons' back-to-back NBA championships in 1989 and 1990.

8. Steve Nash (1996, 15th Overall)

Selected by the Phoenix Suns with the 15th pick in the 1996 NBA Draft, Steve Nash's impact on the game as a two-time NBA MVP and one of the greatest playmakers in NBA history solidifies his status as a draft steal.

Nash's ability to control the game's tempo and elevate his teammates' performance made him an invaluable asset to any team he played for.

9. Draymond Green (2012, 35th Overall)

Drafted by the Golden State Warriors with the 35th pick in the 2012 NBA Draft, Draymond Green's defensive versatility and playmaking ability have been instrumental in the Warriors' success, including three NBA championships.

10. Marc Gasol (2007, 48th Overall)

Marc Gasol was selected by the Los Angeles Lakers with the 48th pick in the 2007 NBA Draft and was later traded to the Memphis Grizzlies. Gasol's impact as a skilled and intelligent center was instrumental in the Grizzlies' success, including multiple playoff appearances.

The NBA has seen numerous draft steals throughout its history, with players selected later in the draft going on to have a significant impact on the league.

These players have defied expectations and proven that talent can be found at any point in the draft.

The top 10 draft steals listed above have left an indelible mark on the NBA and serve as a reminder that greatness can emerge from unexpected sources.