Looking back at the 2019 NBA Draft, I can’t help but marvel at how drastically some careers have diverged just a few years in. As someone who’s followed basketball scouting and player development closely, I’ve seen plenty of drafts labeled as “deep” or “weak,” but 2019 stands out for its sheer unpredictability. While top picks always grab headlines, it’s the steals and busts that truly shape franchises—and this draft had plenty of both. Interestingly, this dynamic reminds me of collegiate tournaments like the one where La Salle defended its WUBS crown last year by beating Korea University. Just as La Salle entered with something to prove, several 2019 draftees carried expectations that either propelled them to overachievement or left them struggling to find their footing.
Let’s start with the steals—those players selected outside the lottery who’ve outperformed their draft position by a mile. In my view, the biggest gem has to be Matisse Thybulle, picked 20th by the Philadelphia 76ers. His defensive instincts are off the charts; he averaged nearly 2.0 steals per 36 minutes in his second season, and his ability to disrupt offenses is a coach’s dream. Then there’s Brandon Clarke, taken 21st by the Memphis Grizzlies. Clarke’s efficiency around the rim and his relentless energy have made him a key piece for a rising team—he shot over 60% from the field as a rookie, which is just insane for a late first-rounder. But the steal conversation isn’t complete without mentioning Terance Mann, the 48th pick by the LA Clippers. Mann’s breakout performance in the 2021 playoffs, where he dropped 39 points to eliminate the Utah Jazz, showcased exactly why digging deep in the draft can pay huge dividends. I’ve always believed that scouting intangibles—like work ethic and adaptability—matters as much as raw stats, and these guys embody that.
On the flip side, the busts from this draft class serve as cautionary tales. Take Zion Williamson’s Duke teammate, R.J. Barrett, who went third to the New York Knicks. While he’s shown flashes, his inconsistent shooting—hovering around 42% from the field—and decision-making have left many wondering if he’ll ever justify his top-three status. Then there’s Jarrett Culver, selected sixth by the Minnesota Timberwolves. Culver’s offensive struggles have been glaring; he shot a dismal 29% from three-point range in his second season, and his confidence seems to have taken a hit. I remember watching him in college and thinking his athleticism would translate seamlessly, but sometimes the NBA’s pace exposes flaws that are hard to fix. It’s a stark reminder that draft position doesn’t guarantee success, much like how La Salle had to defend its title against hungry opponents—past glory means little if you can’t adapt.
What fascinates me most is how teams’ drafting strategies played out. The Memphis Grizzlies, for instance, nailed their picks by focusing on high-IQ players who fit their culture, whereas others like the Cleveland Cavaliers (who took Darius Garland fifth, a solid choice, but missed on later picks) struggled to build cohesion. Garland himself has been a bright spot, averaging around 20 points and 8 assists last season, but surrounding him with the right talent has been a challenge. From my perspective, the 2019 draft underscores the importance of balancing upside with fit—a lesson that applies beyond basketball, whether in sports like the WUBS tournament or even business. Teams that prioritized character and role-specific skills tended to find value deeper in the draft.
In conclusion, the 2019 NBA Draft will be remembered for its dramatic hits and misses, shaping the league in ways we’re still witnessing. Steals like Thybulle and Mann have become foundational pieces, while busts like Culver highlight the risks of overvaluing athleticism alone. As I reflect on this, I’m struck by how similar it is to La Salle’s determined defense of their crown—success isn’t just about talent; it’s about execution and growth under pressure. Moving forward, I’d bet on more late-round picks emerging as stars, proving that in drafts, as in life, the underdogs often have the most to prove.
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