I still remember sitting in my dorm room watching the 2010 NBA Draft unfold, that particular mix of anticipation and skepticism that comes with evaluating young talent. What struck me then—and what fascinates me now looking back—was how many players developed careers that defied their draft positions. This draft class has produced everything from superstars to role players who've carved out impressive decade-long careers, and frankly, some who disappeared quicker than anyone expected.
When we talk about the 2010 draft, John Wall immediately comes to mind as the undisputed first pick. The Washington Wizards selected him, and he delivered exactly what you'd hope from a franchise player—five All-Star appearances, All-NBA and All-Defensive team honors before injuries dramatically altered his trajectory. What many forget is that DeMarcus Cousins went fifth to Sacramento and put up numbers we hadn't seen from a big man in years—averaging 27 points and 11 rebounds in his prime. Meanwhile, Paul George, picked tenth by Indiana, became the steal of the draft, evolving from a raw athlete into a perennial MVP candidate. I've always argued that if not for his catastrophic leg injury in 2014, we'd be discussing him among the top 15 players in NBA history.
Then there are the players who found their footing through perseverance. Hassan Whiteside was the 33rd pick, bounced around the league and overseas before emerging as a rebounding and shot-blocking force. Gordon Hayward at ninth developed into an All-Star before his own devastating injury. What's remarkable is how many second-round picks stuck around—Lance Stephenson, who provided endless entertainment with his antics and occasional brilliance, and Jeremy Lin, who wasn't even drafted but created Linsanity in New York. The international flavor of this draft class often gets overlooked too—players like Evan Turner, who went second overall and carved out a solid if unspectacular career, reminding us that high draft position guarantees nothing.
Thinking about these career trajectories reminds me of that quote from the Iran coach after a match: "I didn't even react. I was thinking just about what I have to do [after the match]." Many of these players faced similar moments—draft night was just the beginning, and their real work started immediately after. Some approached their careers with that same focused determination, while others couldn't handle the pressure. The busts of this draft are particularly memorable—Wesley Johnson at fourth overall never found his niche, and Jan Veselý, picked sixth, returned to Europe after just three underwhelming seasons.
Looking back now, I'd estimate about 60% of the first-round picks had what I'd consider successful NBA careers based on longevity and impact. The 2010 class might not have the top-tier superstar power of some drafts, but its depth is undeniable. These players have collectively earned what I calculate to be over $1.2 billion in salary—a testament to their staying power. What fascinates me most is how their careers reflect different paths to success—some as franchise cornerstones, others as valued role players, and several who reinvented themselves overseas. In my evaluation, this draft class ultimately delivered solid value, even if it lacked the transformational talents we see in other years.
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