The 2012 NBA Draft class is considered one of the most talented in recent memory, featuring several players who have become All-Stars, MVPs, and NBA champions. This class, selected on June 28, 2012, at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, has produced remarkable talent, leaving a lasting impact on the league. Let's take a look back at some of the top picks and see where they are now.
The Top Picks and Their Journeys
The 2012 NBA Draft was rich with talent, and the early selections set the stage for a potentially transformative era in the league. From franchise cornerstones to valuable role players, the top picks have carved out diverse paths in their NBA careers. Here, we delve into the journeys of some of the most notable players selected early in the draft, examining their initial promise, achievements, and current status in the basketball world.
Anthony Davis: The No. 1 Overall Pick
Anthony Davis, selected first overall by the New Orleans Hornets (now Pelicans), was the consensus top prospect coming out of Kentucky. Davis quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier big men, showcasing exceptional talent on both ends of the court. His ability to score, rebound, block shots, and even handle the ball made him a unique force in the NBA. Davis’s impact was immediate, earning him multiple All-Star selections and All-NBA honors during his time in New Orleans.
After several seasons with the Pelicans, Davis was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers in 2019, where he teamed up with LeBron James. This partnership proved to be fruitful, as the Lakers won the NBA championship in 2020. Davis played a crucial role in the championship run, demonstrating his dominance in the playoffs. Currently, Anthony Davis remains a cornerstone player for the Lakers, consistently performing at an All-Star level and striving to add more titles to his resume. His journey from a highly touted prospect to an NBA champion underscores the potential and impact of the 2012 draft class.
Michael Kidd-Gilchrist: The Early Disappointment
Selected second overall by the Charlotte Bobcats (now Hornets), Michael Kidd-Gilchrist was touted for his defensive prowess and athleticism. While he showed flashes of potential, Kidd-Gilchrist's offensive limitations hampered his development. Despite his defensive abilities, he struggled to become a consistent scorer, which limited his overall impact on the team. His jump shot, in particular, was a point of concern, and he never quite developed into the offensive threat many had hoped for.
Kidd-Gilchrist spent several seasons with the Hornets before being traded and eventually finding himself out of the league. His career serves as a reminder of how crucial offensive development is for a player’s longevity in the NBA. Though he brought energy and defensive intensity, the inability to evolve his offensive game proved to be a significant barrier. Currently, Kidd-Gilchrist’s journey highlights the unpredictable nature of NBA careers, even for high draft picks with promising defensive skills.
Bradley Beal: A Scoring Powerhouse
Bradley Beal was drafted third overall by the Washington Wizards, where he quickly became a key player. Known for his exceptional scoring ability and shooting touch, Beal formed a dynamic backcourt partnership with John Wall, leading the Wizards to multiple playoff appearances. His scoring prowess and ability to create his own shot made him a valuable asset, and he consistently improved his game over the years. Beal’s dedication to his craft and his offensive capabilities have made him one of the league’s premier scorers.
Beal has earned multiple All-Star selections and All-NBA honors, solidifying his status as one of the top shooting guards in the league. After spending over a decade with the Wizards, Beal was traded to the Phoenix Suns in 2023, where he joined forces with Kevin Durant and Devin Booker. This move created a formidable offensive trio, and Beal is now aiming to contend for an NBA championship with the Suns. His journey showcases the success that can come from developing offensive skills and forming strong partnerships on the court.
Dion Waiters: The Confident Scorer
Drafted fourth overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers, Dion Waiters was known for his confidence and scoring ability. While he had moments of brilliance, Waiters struggled with consistency and efficiency early in his career. His bold playing style and scoring mentality were evident, but he often faced challenges in fitting into team structures and maintaining a high level of play. Despite his undeniable talent, Waiters' career was marked by a series of ups and downs. — Notre Dame Fighting Irish Football: 2025 Roster Preview
After stints with the Cavaliers, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Miami Heat, Waiters' career has seen periods of inactivity. His time with the Heat showed promise, but various factors, including injuries and off-court issues, have impacted his ability to maintain a consistent role in the league. Currently, Waiters' journey illustrates the challenges players face in maintaining a long and successful NBA career, even with natural scoring talent.
Thomas Robinson: The Bouncing Career
Thomas Robinson was selected fifth overall by the Sacramento Kings, bringing energy and rebounding skills to the court. Despite his physical gifts and potential, Robinson struggled to find a consistent role early in his career. He was traded multiple times in his first few seasons, playing for the Kings, Houston Rockets, and Portland Trail Blazers, among others. This frequent movement made it challenging for him to establish a stable footing in the league.
Robinson's NBA journey included stints with several teams, and he eventually played professionally overseas. His career is a testament to the difficulties some players face in finding the right fit and maintaining a long-term presence in the NBA. Currently, Robinson's story underscores the importance of adaptability and perseverance in professional basketball, where not all high draft picks achieve lasting success.
Damian Lillard: The Draft Steal
Damian Lillard, drafted sixth overall by the Portland Trail Blazers, has become one of the NBA’s premier point guards. His exceptional scoring ability, deep shooting range, and clutch performances have made him a fan favorite and a perennial All-Star. Lillard's leadership and dedication have been instrumental in the Trail Blazers’ success, leading them to multiple playoff appearances and establishing himself as the franchise cornerstone.
Lillard has consistently demonstrated his loyalty to Portland while achieving numerous individual accolades, including multiple All-NBA selections. Traded to the Milwaukee Bucks in 2023, he now aims to contend for an NBA championship alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo. His journey from a mid-lottery pick to a superstar underscores the potential for draft success beyond the top five selections. Currently, Lillard's career highlights the impact of hard work, skill development, and unwavering commitment to excellence. — NBA's Lowest Scoring Games: A Statistical Deep Dive
The Standout Players Beyond the Lottery
While the top lottery picks often garner the most attention, the 2012 NBA Draft class was also notable for the talent found in later rounds. Several players selected outside the lottery have gone on to have significant NBA careers, demonstrating the depth and potential of this draft class. These players have proven that success in the NBA is not solely determined by draft position but also by hard work, skill development, and the right opportunities.
Harrison Barnes: A Consistent Contributor
Selected seventh overall by the Golden State Warriors, Harrison Barnes has carved out a solid NBA career as a versatile forward. His ability to score, defend multiple positions, and play within a team concept has made him a valuable asset to several franchises. Barnes's consistency and adaptability have allowed him to thrive in various roles, contributing to winning teams throughout his career.
Barnes played a key role in the Warriors' championship run in 2015 and has since become a reliable player for the Dallas Mavericks and Sacramento Kings. His journey showcases the value of versatility and consistent performance in the NBA. Currently, Barnes remains a key player for the Sacramento Kings, demonstrating his ability to adapt and contribute to team success.
Andre Drummond: A Rebounding Machine
Drafted ninth overall by the Detroit Pistons, Andre Drummond has established himself as one of the league’s premier rebounders. His dominance on the boards and scoring ability around the basket have made him a valuable asset to multiple teams. Drummond’s knack for grabbing rebounds and his physical presence inside have allowed him to carve out a significant role in the NBA.
Drummond has earned multiple All-Star selections and has led the league in rebounding several times. He has played for the Pistons, Cavaliers, Lakers, 76ers, and Bulls, consistently providing a strong interior presence. Currently, Drummond’s career highlights the importance of specialized skills and physical dominance in the NBA, particularly for big men.
Austin Rivers: A Fixture in the League
Austin Rivers, selected tenth overall by the New Orleans Hornets, has had a lengthy and productive NBA career as a combo guard. His scoring ability, ball-handling skills, and defensive tenacity have allowed him to carve out a role with several teams. Rivers' journey has seen him play for multiple franchises, showcasing his adaptability and resilience in the league.
Rivers has played for the Hornets, Clippers, Wizards, Rockets, Knicks, Nuggets, and Timberwolves, among others, demonstrating his ability to contribute in various team contexts. Currently, Rivers' career highlights the importance of versatility and perseverance for guards in the NBA, particularly those who can contribute on both ends of the court.
Terrence Ross: A Scoring Spark
Terrence Ross, drafted eighth overall by the Toronto Raptors, has made a name for himself as a high-flying scorer and three-point threat. His athleticism and shooting ability have made him a valuable offensive weapon off the bench for multiple teams. Ross's knack for scoring in bunches and his highlight-reel dunks have made him a fan favorite and a consistent contributor in the NBA.
Ross has played for the Raptors, Magic, and Suns, consistently providing a scoring punch off the bench. His journey showcases the value of specialized offensive skills in the NBA, particularly for players who can come in and provide instant offense. Currently, Ross remains a valuable scoring threat, demonstrating the impact of athleticism and shooting ability in the league.
Draymond Green: The Steal of the Draft
Draymond Green, selected 35th overall by the Golden State Warriors, has become one of the most impactful players in the NBA. His defensive versatility, playmaking ability, and leadership qualities have been instrumental in the Warriors’ success. Green’s ability to guard multiple positions, facilitate the offense, and provide vocal leadership have made him an invaluable part of the team’s core.
Green has earned multiple All-Star selections, Defensive Player of the Year honors, and NBA championships with the Warriors. His journey from a second-round pick to a cornerstone player underscores the potential for draft success beyond the lottery. Currently, Green’s career highlights the importance of versatility, basketball IQ, and leadership in the NBA, particularly for players who can contribute in multiple facets of the game.
Where Are They Now: The 2012 Draft Class Today
Looking back, the 2012 NBA Draft class continues to make its presence felt across the league. While some players have become perennial All-Stars and championship contenders, others have carved out valuable roles as consistent contributors. The journeys of these players highlight the diverse paths that NBA careers can take, underscoring the importance of adaptability, skill development, and the right opportunities.
Current Status of Key Players
- Anthony Davis: Remains a cornerstone player for the Los Angeles Lakers, aiming for more championships.
- Bradley Beal: Traded to the Phoenix Suns, where he forms a potent offensive trio with Kevin Durant and Devin Booker.
- Damian Lillard: Traded to the Milwaukee Bucks, seeking a championship alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo.
- Harrison Barnes: Continues to be a reliable player for the Sacramento Kings.
- Andre Drummond: Provides a strong interior presence for the Chicago Bulls.
- Draymond Green: Remains a key player for the Golden State Warriors, continuing his impactful career.
The 2012 NBA Draft class stands as a testament to the depth of talent that can emerge from a single draft. The ongoing success of these players highlights the enduring impact of this class on the league. From franchise cornerstones to valuable role players, the contributions of the 2012 draftees continue to shape the landscape of the NBA.
FAQ About the 2012 NBA Draft Class
What made the 2012 NBA Draft class so special and highly regarded?
The 2012 NBA Draft class is considered special due to the high number of players who became All-Stars, MVPs, and NBA champions. This draft produced several franchise cornerstones and impactful players, making it one of the most talented classes in recent memory, with significant long-term contributions to various teams.
Which players from the 2012 NBA Draft have won NBA championships?
Several players from the 2012 NBA Draft class have won NBA championships. Anthony Davis and Draymond Green are among the most notable, with Davis winning a title with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020 and Green winning multiple championships with the Golden State Warriors. Harrison Barnes also won a championship with the Warriors in 2015.
How did the expectations for Michael Kidd-Gilchrist compare to his actual NBA career?
Michael Kidd-Gilchrist was drafted second overall with high expectations for his defensive abilities and athleticism. However, his offensive limitations hindered his development, and he did not achieve the level of success many had anticipated. His career highlights the challenges that players face in meeting high draft expectations without a well-rounded game.
Why is Damian Lillard often referred to as a draft steal from the 2012 NBA Draft?
Damian Lillard is often called a draft steal because he was selected sixth overall and has since become one of the league's premier point guards. His exceptional scoring ability, clutch performances, and leadership have exceeded the expectations typically associated with the sixth pick, making him a standout player from this draft class.
What impact has Draymond Green had on the Golden State Warriors' dynasty?
Draymond Green has been instrumental in the Golden State Warriors' dynasty due to his defensive versatility, playmaking ability, and leadership. Selected 35th overall, Green has earned multiple All-Star selections and Defensive Player of the Year honors, contributing significantly to the Warriors' championships and solidifying his status as a key player.
Which players from the 2012 draft were known for their scoring abilities?
Several players from the 2012 draft were known for their scoring abilities. Bradley Beal, drafted third overall, has become one of the league’s premier scorers. Damian Lillard is also renowned for his exceptional scoring and deep shooting range. Dion Waiters, despite an inconsistent career, was known for his scoring mentality and confidence on the offensive end. — Strasbourg Vs. Nantes: Key Match Preview
How did Anthony Davis's move to the Los Angeles Lakers affect his career?
Anthony Davis's move to the Los Angeles Lakers in 2019 significantly impacted his career, as he teamed up with LeBron James and won an NBA championship in 2020. This partnership allowed Davis to showcase his dominance on a bigger stage, further solidifying his status as one of the league's top players and achieving team success.
What lessons can be learned from the various career trajectories of the 2012 NBA Draft class?
The diverse career trajectories of the 2012 NBA Draft class highlight the importance of adaptability, skill development, and opportunity. Some players exceeded expectations, while others faced challenges, underscoring that draft position alone does not guarantee success. Factors such as work ethic, fit with a team, and the ability to evolve one's game play a crucial role in shaping an NBA career.
