The NBA has seen its fair share of draft busts throughout its history. While opinions may vary on the exact ranking, here are ten players who are often regarded as some of the biggest busts in NBA draft history, along with some details about their careers:
Greg Oden (2007):
Oden was selected first overall by the Portland Trail Blazers, but his career was derailed by multiple knee injuries. He played only 82 games in the NBA, averaging 8.0 points and 6.2 rebounds per game before retiring in 2016.
Kwame Brown (2001):
Brown was infamously selected first overall by the Washington Wizards straight out of high school. He failed to live up to the lofty expectations and struggled with consistency throughout his career. Brown played for several teams, but never averaged more than 11.4 points per game in a season.
Darko Miličić (2003):
Miličić was selected second overall by the Detroit Pistons ahead of future Hall of Famers like Carmelo Anthony, Chris Bosh, and Dwyane Wade. Darko’s limited playing time and lackluster performances contributed to his reputation as a draft bust.
Adam Morrison (2006):
Morrison was drafted third overall by the Charlotte Bobcats but struggled to adapt to the NBA’s level of play. Despite a successful college career, Morrison’s professional stint was hampered by injuries, and he never found his rhythm in the league.
Hasheem Thabeet (2009):
Thabeet was chosen second overall by the Memphis Grizzlies based on his shot-blocking ability, but he failed to make a significant impact. His lack of offensive skills and limited court awareness led to him bouncing around several teams before leaving the NBA.
Michael Olowokandi (1998):
Olowokandi was the first overall pick by the Los Angeles Clippers, but he struggled with consistency and failed to develop into a dominant force. He averaged only 8.3 points and 6.8 rebounds per game over his career.
Joe Alexander (2008):
Alexander was selected eighth overall by the Milwaukee Bucks but couldn’t find his footing in the NBA. He spent only two seasons in the league, averaging a mere 4.2 points per game before being waived by the Chicago Bulls.
Jonny Flynn (2009):
Jonny Flynn was chosen ahead of notable players such as Stephen Curry and DeMar DeRozan in the 2009 NBA Draft. However, his NBA career was hampered by injuries, and he struggled to find consistent success. Flynn played just three seasons, averaging 9.2 points and 3.9 assists per game.
Anthony Bennett (2013):
Anthony Bennett became the first Canadian player to be selected first overall in the NBA Draft. Unfortunately, he failed to make an impact and was widely regarded as a bust. Bennett bounced around multiple teams and ended up averaging 4.4 points and 3.1 rebounds per game over his four-year NBA career.
LaRue Martin (1972):
Martin was chosen first overall by the Portland Trail Blazers but had an underwhelming career. He played only four seasons in the NBA, averaging just 5.3 points and 4.6 rebounds per game before retiring.
It’s important to note that being labeled a “bust” doesn’t necessarily mean these players were devoid of talent, but rather that they did not live up to the expectations set for them based on their draft position and potential. Factors like injuries, lack of development, and various other circumstances can contribute to a player’s classification as a draft bust.