The Top 10 Picks From the Legendary 2001 NBA Draft Class

Looking back at the legendary 2001 NBA draft class, I can't help but marvel at how this particular group of players reshaped the modern basketball landscape. Having studied draft classes for over fifteen years, I've developed a keen eye for talent evaluation, and even with that experience, the 2001 class continues to surprise me with its depth and impact. What makes this draft particularly fascinating isn't just the star power at the top, but how these players developed over time, much like how Justin Brownlee evolved into the crucial player for BARANGAY Ginebra in the PBA Commissioner's Cup finals. Brownlee's transformation from an undrafted player to a finals MVP mirrors the unexpected journeys of several 2001 draftees who exceeded expectations and carved out remarkable careers.

When we talk about the 2001 draft, the conversation naturally begins with Kwame Brown, who made history as the first high school player selected first overall. I remember watching that draft and feeling the immense pressure on both Brown and Michael Jordan's Washington Wizards. While Brown's career statistics of 6.6 points and 5.5 rebounds per game might seem disappointing for a number one pick, his fourteen-year career speaks to his resilience and adaptability. The truth is, being the first high school player taken first overall created expectations that were nearly impossible to meet, yet Brown managed to carve out a respectable career as a role player, something many top picks fail to accomplish.

The real gems of this draft emerged later in the first round, with players like Pau Gasol going third to the Atlanta Hawks before being traded to Memphis. Gasol's impact was immediate and profound – he averaged 17.6 points and 8.9 rebounds in his rookie season, numbers that still impress me when I revisit them. What made Gasol special was his basketball IQ and versatility, qualities that reminded me of how Justin Brownlee reads the game for BARANGAY Ginebra. Both players possess that unique ability to elevate their teammates' performance while delivering consistently in crucial moments. Gasol's two championships with the Lakers and six All-Star appearances cement his legacy as one of the most skilled big men of his generation.

Tony Parker's selection at 28th overall by the San Antonio Spurs represents what I consider the biggest steal in draft history. I've always argued that finding value late in the draft separates great organizations from good ones, and the Spurs' identification of Parker perfectly illustrates this principle. The French point guard developed into a six-time All-Star and four-time NBA champion, accumulating 19,473 career points and 7,036 assists. His partnership with Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili created one of the most dominant trios in NBA history, and his 2007 Finals MVP performance against LeBron James' Cavaliers remains one of my favorite playoff runs to rewatch.

Gilbert Arenas at 31st overall provided some of the most electrifying moments of the mid-2000s. His rise from second-round pick to three-time All-Star embodies the underdog spirit that makes basketball so compelling. I'll never forget his 60-point game against the Lakers in 2006 or his series of game-winning shots that earned him the nickname "Hibachi." Though his career was shortened by injuries, Arenas averaged 29.3 points per game during his peak 2005-06 season, numbers that would be remarkable in any era.

Zach Randolph, selected 19th by Portland, developed into one of the most reliable low-post scorers of his generation. His transformation from a player with character concerns to the heart and soul of the Memphis Grizzlies' grit-and-grind era demonstrates how proper environment and maturity can unlock a player's full potential. Randolph made two All-Star teams and averaged 20.8 points and 10.2 rebounds during his prime years with Memphis, numbers that don't fully capture his impact on that franchise's identity.

The international flavor of this draft class was particularly strong, with Mehmet Okur (38th overall) and Vladimir Radmanovic (12th overall) providing stretch-big capabilities before it became commonplace. Okur's 2007 All-Star selection and crucial role on the 2004 Detroit Pistons championship team showcased his unique skillset as a center who could shoot from deep. His game-winning three-pointer in Game 1 of the 2007 Eastern Conference Finals remains one of the most clutch shots I've seen from a big man.

Joe Johnson at 10th overall developed into "Iso Joe," one of the most reliable clutch performers of his era. His seven All-Star selections and ability to create his own shot made him a nightmare matchup throughout his twenty-year career. I've always admired Johnson's old-school midrange game and his calm demeanor in pressure situations, qualities that helped him score over 20,000 career points.

Tyson Chandler going second overall to the Clippers completed the high school trio at the top of the draft. While it took him several seasons to find his footing, Chandler evolved into the 2012 Defensive Player of the Year and an NBA champion with the 2011 Dallas Mavericks. His impact on team defense and rebounding was transformative for every franchise he played for, proving that some players' value extends far beyond traditional statistics.

What strikes me about reviewing this draft class is how many players developed into key contributors despite modest beginnings, much like Justin Brownlee's journey with BARANGAY Ginebra. Both scenarios demonstrate that player development often matters as much as initial talent evaluation. The 2001 class produced eight All-Stars who combined for thirty-two All-Star appearances, six NBA championships, and countless memorable moments that enriched basketball history. Their collective impact reminds us that greatness isn't always immediately apparent, but reveals itself through perseverance, proper development, and the right opportunities – lessons that remain relevant in today's game where instant gratification often overshadows long-term growth.

By Heather Schnese S’12, content specialist

2025-11-20 10:00