The 2009 NBA Draft was a pivotal year for the league, bringing in a crop of talent that would go on to shape the landscape of professional basketball for years to come. This guide delves into the top picks of the draft, their backgrounds, and how they have fared in the NBA.
Introduction to the 2009 NBA Draft
The 2009 NBA Draft took place on June 25, 2009, at Madison Square Garden in New York City. The draft featured a mix of international and domestic prospects, each with their own unique story and potential to contribute to their respective teams.
Top Picks of the 2009 NBA Draft
1. Blake Griffin (Oklahoma City Thunder)
Selected as the first overall pick, Blake Griffin was a dominant force in college basketball at Oklahoma. Known for his athleticism and ability to finish around the rim, Griffin quickly became a fan favorite and All-Star in the NBA.
Background:
- College: Oklahoma
- Position: Power Forward
- Height: 6’10”
- Weight: 251 lbs
Career Highlights:
- Seven-time NBA All-Star
- Two-time NBA All-NBA First Team
- Two-time NBA All-Defensive First Team
2. Stephen Curry (Golden State Warriors)
Stephen Curry was the second overall pick in the 2009 NBA Draft and has since become one of the greatest shooters in the history of the league. Curry’s three-point shooting has revolutionized the game and has helped the Golden State Warriors dominate the NBA for years.
Background:
- College: Davidson
- Position: Point Guard
- Height: 6’3”
- Weight: 185 lbs
Career Highlights:
- Four-time NBA MVP
- Nine-time NBA All-Star
- Four-time NBA All-NBA First Team
3. James Harden (Oklahoma City Thunder)
James Harden was the third overall pick in the 2009 NBA Draft and has developed into one of the best scorers in the league. Known for his playmaking and scoring ability, Harden has won multiple scoring titles and has been a key player in leading the Houston Rockets to the NBA Finals.
Background:
- College: Georgia Tech
- Position: Shooting Guard
- Height: 6’4”
- Weight: 220 lbs
Career Highlights:
- Seven-time NBA All-Star
- Two-time NBA All-NBA First Team
- Two-time NBA All-Defensive First Team
- Two-time NBA scoring champion
4. Davis Bertans (Washington Wizards)
Davis Bertans was the fourth overall pick in the 2009 NBA Draft and has emerged as a reliable three-point shooter for the Washington Wizards. Bertans has been a consistent contributor for the Wizards and has helped them improve their offensive efficiency.
Background:
- College: Latvia
- Position: Shooting Guard/Small Forward
- Height: 6’10”
- Weight: 230 lbs
Career Highlights:
- Two-time NBA All-Star
5. Ty Lawson (Denver Nuggets)
Ty Lawson was the fifth overall pick in the 2009 NBA Draft and has been a steady presence for the Denver Nuggets. Known for his speed and playmaking ability, Lawson has been a key player for the Nuggets throughout his career.
Background:
- College: North Carolina
- Position: Point Guard
- Height: 6’0”
- Weight: 180 lbs
Career Highlights:
- Five-time NBA All-Star
Conclusion
The 2009 NBA Draft was a talent-rich year, producing some of the league’s best players. The top picks, including Blake Griffin, Stephen Curry, James Harden, Davis Bertans, and Ty Lawson, have all made significant impacts on their teams and the NBA as a whole. This guide provides a comprehensive look at the top picks of the 2009 NBA Draft, their backgrounds, and their careers in the league.