10 Best NBA Players Drafted As Juniors In College

Career Stats: 24.8 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 6.4 APG, 1.7 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Career Honors and Awards: 2x NBA MVP, 10x NBA All-Star, 4x NBA Champion, NBA Finals MVP (2022), 2x NBA scoring champion, NBA steals leader (2016), NBA Three-Point Contest champion (2015), NBA Sportsmanship Award (2011), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2010)

Draft Details: Drafted as a 21-year-old by the Warriors with the No. 7 pick in the 2010 NBA draft.

Stephen Curry's journey to stardom began in college, where he made waves as a Junior at Davidson College as a top scorer who is currently in the NBA. Leading the nation in scoring, he showcased his exceptional shooting prowess and leadership, propelling his team to unprecedented success, including an Elite Eight appearance in the NCAA tournament.

Transitioning to the NBA, Curry wasted no time in making an impact. Known for his unprecedented shooting range and impeccable ball-handling skills, he quickly rose to prominence as one of the league's most electrifying players. Curry's statistical achievements speak volumes about his dominance on the court, with multiple seasons averaging over 20 points per game and leading the league in scoring twice, winning the 2016 MVP along the way.

However, Curry's impact extends beyond individual accolades. He played a pivotal role in the Golden State Warriors' dynasty, leading the team to three NBA championships in 2015, 2017, 2018, and 2022. Alongside his teammates, Curry revolutionized the game of basketball with his unparalleled shooting ability and team-oriented play, earning him the title of NBA MVP in both 2015 and 2016.

Curry's influence extends far beyond his statistical achievements. He has redefined the point guard position, inspiring a new generation of players with his unselfishness, work ethic, and dedication to the game. As he continues to etch his name in the annals of basketball history, Curry's legacy as one of the greatest players of all time is indisputable.

2. Klay Thompson

Career Stats: 19.6 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 2.3 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Career Honors and Awards: 5x NBA All-Star, 4x NBA Champion, NBA Three-Point Contest champion (2016), 2x All-NBA Third Team

Draft Details: Drafted as a 21-year-old by the Warriors with the No. 11 pick in the 2011 NBA draft.

Klay Thompson's journey to NBA greatness traces back to his college years at Washington State University. As a Junior, he solidified his reputation as a sharpshooter and defensive stalwart, earning recognition as one of the top prospects in the country.

Upon entering the NBA, Thompson seamlessly transitioned into a key role for the Golden State Warriors. His remarkable shooting ability, combined with his tenacious defense, proved instrumental in the team's success. Thompson played an essential part in the Warriors' dynasty, contributing to four NBA championships in 2015, 2017, 2018, and 2022.

Thompson's statistical achievements underscore his impact on the court. With seven seasons averaging over 20 points per game, he has consistently been among the league's top scorers. His remarkable shooting display during the 2016 NBA Three-Point Contest further solidified his reputation as one of the premier shooters in NBA history.

Despite enduring injuries that sidelined him for significant stretches, Thompson's resilience and determination have never faltered. His return to the court following rehabilitation has been eagerly awaited by fans, who recognize his value to the Warriors' success.

As a five-time NBA All-Star and four-time NBA champion, Klay Thompson's legacy is etched in basketball lore. His contributions to the sport, both on and off the court, serve as a testament to his dedication and passion for the game.

3. Khris Middleton

Career Stats: 16.9 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 3.9 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Career Honors and Awards: NBA Champion (2021), 3x NBA All-Star

Draft Details: Drafted as a 21-year-old by the Detroit Pistons with the No. 39 pick in the 2012 NBA draft.

Khris Middleton's journey to NBA prominence began during his college tenure at Texas A&M University. As a Junior, he showcased versatility on both ends of the floor, earning recognition for his scoring ability and defensive prowess.

Transitioning to the NBA, Middleton carved out a niche for himself as a reliable scorer and playmaker. His smooth shooting stroke and ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates quickly caught the attention of NBA scouts. Despite being selected in the second round of the draft, Middleton's impact on the court was undeniable.

Middleton's statistical accomplishments reflect his importance to the Milwaukee Bucks. With consistent scoring outputs and well-rounded contributions across multiple categories, he has played a crucial role in the team's success. His performances have earned him three NBA All-Star selections in 2019, 2020, and 2022, solidifying his status as one of the league's premier players.

Beyond his individual accolades, Middleton's leadership and professionalism have endeared him to teammates and fans alike. He epitomizes hard work and perseverance, attributes that have propelled him to success in the NBA.

As Middleton continues to excel on the court, his impact on the Milwaukee Bucks and the broader NBA landscape remains significant. With his multifaceted skill set and unwavering commitment to excellence, he is poised to make even greater contributions to the game in the years to come.

4. Al Horford

Career Stats: 13.9 PPG, 8.3 RPG, 3.3 APG, 0.9 SPG, 1.2 BPG

Career Honors and Awards: 5x NBA All-Star, All-NBA Third Team (2011), NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2018)

Draft Details: Al Horford was drafted as a 21-year-old by the Atlanta Hawks with the No. 3 pick in the 2007 NBA draft.

Al Horford's basketball journey began to flourish during his collegiate years at the University of Florida. As a standout player for the Gators, Horford played a pivotal role in leading his team to two consecutive NCAA Championships in 2006 and 2007. His dominance on both ends of the floor earned him recognition as one of the top prospects in college basketball.

Selected by the Atlanta Hawks with the third overall pick in the 2007 NBA Draft, Horford seamlessly transitioned to the professional ranks. Throughout his NBA career, he has been revered for his versatility, leadership, and defensive prowess. Horford's ability to score in the paint, rebound with tenacity, and protect the rim has made him a perennial All-Star and a respected figure in the league.

5. Victor Oladipo

Career Stats: 16.9 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 3.9 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Career Honors and Awards: 2x NBA All-Star, All-NBA Third Team (2018), NBA All-Defensive First Team (2018), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2014), Most Improved Player (2018)

Draft Details: Victor Oladipo was drafted as a 21-year-old by the Orlando Magic with the No. 2 pick in the 2013 NBA draft.

Victor Oladipo's basketball journey is a story of perseverance and dedication. After a successful collegiate career at Indiana University, where he earned numerous accolades and showcased his athleticism and defensive prowess, Oladipo entered the NBA as one of the top prospects in his draft class.

Since joining the league, Oladipo has continued to impress with his scoring ability, defensive tenacity, and leadership on and off the court. Despite facing setbacks due to injuries, he has remained resilient and determined to make an impact at the highest level. His two NBA All-Star selections are a testament to his talent and hard work, and he continues to strive for greatness as he pursues success in the NBA.

6. Nikola Vucevic

Career Stats: 17.1 PPG, 10.6 RPG, 3.4 APG, 0.9 SPG, 1.0 BPG

Career Honors and Awards: 2x NBA All-Star

Draft Details: Nikola Vucevic was drafted as a 21-year-old by the Philadelphia 76ers with the No. 16 pick in the 2011 NBA draft.

Nikola Vucevic's journey to NBA stardom began during his collegiate career at the University of Southern California (USC). As a Junior, he demonstrated exceptional skill and versatility, earning him recognition as one of the top prospects in the country.

Selected by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2011 NBA draft, Vucevic embarked on his professional career with high expectations. Although his early years in the league were marked by adjustments and development, he soon found his footing and established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the paint.

Throughout his NBA tenure, Vucevic has been known for his scoring ability, rebounding prowess, and deft passing. His well-rounded skill set has earned him multiple All-Star selections and made him a focal point of the Orlando Magic's offense during his tenure with the team.

In 2021, Vucevic was traded to the Chicago Bulls, where he continued to excel as a dominant presence in the paint. His impact on both ends of the floor helped bolster the Bulls' playoff aspirations and solidify his status as one of the premier big men in the league.

7. Jalen Brunson

Career Stats: 16.7 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 4.7APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Career Honors and Awards: NBA All-Star (2024)

Draft Details: Drafted as a 21-year-old by the Dallas Mavericks with the No. 33 pick in the 2018 NBA draft.

Jalen Brunson's journey to NBA prominence began during his collegiate career at Villanova University, where he showcased his leadership and versatility on the court. As a Junior, Brunson played an instrumental role in leading Villanova to NCAA success, earning recognition as one of the top point guards in the country.

Upon entering the NBA, Brunson quickly established himself as a reliable and steady presence for the Dallas Mavericks. His basketball IQ, decision-making, and scoring ability made him a valuable asset to the team. However, in 2022, Brunson made the decision to join the New York Knicks, seeking a new opportunity to lead and contribute to a competitive team.

In New York, Brunson embraced his role as the leader of the Knicks' new competitive project. His exceptional play on both ends of the floor and his ability to elevate the performance of his teammates quickly endeared him to fans and earned him recognition as the team's franchise player.

In the 2023-24 NBA season, Brunson's stellar performance and leadership culminated in his selection as an NBA All-Star. His contributions to the Knicks' success, both on and off the court, have been instrumental in the team's resurgence and emergence as a contender in the league.

8. Mikal Bridges

Career Stats: 14.3 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 2.6 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Career Honors and Awards: NBA All-Defensive First Team (2022)

Draft Details: Mikal Bridges was drafted as a 21-year-old by the Philadelphia 76ers with the No. 10 pick in the 2018 NBA draft.

Mikal Bridges ascended to basketball prominence during his collegiate tenure at Villanova University. As a pivotal member of the Villanova Wildcats, Bridges played a decisive role in the team's triumphs, including their crowning achievement, the NCAA Championship victory in 2018. Known for his defensive prowess and expanding offensive repertoire, Bridges proved indispensable to Villanova's ascent to the pinnacle of college basketball.

Upon entering the NBA, Bridges embarked on his professional journey as a member of the Philadelphia 76ers. However, on the very night of his selection, he was swiftly traded to the Phoenix Suns. There, he carved out a niche as a defensive linchpin, earning plaudits as one of the league's preeminent perimeter defenders. His innate defensive instincts and versatility in guarding various positions garnered widespread acclaim, culminating in his inclusion in the NBA All-Defensive First Team in 2022.

Bridges' impact extended beyond his defensive prowess. He played a pivotal role in the Suns' remarkable run to the NBA Finals in 2021, underscoring his versatility and indispensability to the team's fortunes. Despite their eventual defeat in the Finals, Bridges' stellar performance solidified his standing as a burgeoning star in the league.

In 2023, Bridges found himself part of a significant trade to the Brooklyn Nets, with Kevin Durant heading in the opposite direction. This move positioned Bridges as a cornerstone in the Nets' reconstruction efforts, who are actively planning to build a team around him.

9. Kyle Kuzma

Career Stats: 17.3 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 2.7 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Career Honors and Awards: NBA Champion (2020), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2018)

Draft Details: Kyle Kuzma entered the NBA as a 21-year-old prospect, selected by the Brooklyn Nets with the No. 27 pick in the 2017 NBA draft.

Kyle Kuzma's basketball odyssey began long before his NBA debut, honing his skills at the University of Utah. As a Junior, Kuzma showcased a multifaceted game, adept at scoring from various spots on the floor and contributing on the glass. His standout performances caught the attention of NBA scouts, leading to his selection by the Nets and immediate trade to the Lakers.

Upon arriving in Los Angeles, Kuzma wasted no time making his mark. In his rookie season, he emerged as a revelation, earning a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team in 2018. His scoring prowess and ability to stretch the floor as a forward quickly endeared him to Lakers fans.

One of the defining moments of Kuzma's early career came during the Lakers' championship run in 2020. Playing alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis, Kuzma played a pivotal role off the bench, providing scoring punch and energy to help secure the NBA title.

Throughout his tenure in Los Angeles, Kuzma continued to evolve as a player, showcasing his versatility and willingness to adapt to different roles. Despite facing challenges and fluctuations in playing time, he remained a valuable contributor, known for his offensive firepower and tenacity on the court.

In 2021, Kuzma's journey took a new turn as he was traded to the Washington Wizards as part of a blockbuster deal involving Russell Westbrook. In Washington, he embraced the opportunity for a fresh start, determined to make an impact and help elevate the team's fortunes.

As Kuzma continues to progress in his NBA career, his dedication to improvement and commitment to success remain unwavering. With his scoring ability, rebounding prowess, and championship experience, he is poised to make significant contributions to his team's success for years to come.

10. Isaiah Thomas

Career Stats: 17.5 PPG, 2.4 RPG, 4.8 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Career Honors and Awards: 2x NBA All-Star, All-NBA Second Team (2017), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2012)

Draft Details: Isaiah Thomas was drafted as a 21-year-old by the Sacramento Kings with the No. 60 pick in the 2011 NBA draft.

Isaiah Thomas's journey to NBA stardom is a testament to his resilience and determination. Despite being overlooked as the last pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, Thomas quickly proved his worth with his scoring prowess and fearless attitude. His collegiate career at the University of Washington prepared him for the challenges of the NBA, where he showcased his ability to score from anywhere on the court and lead his team with confidence.

Throughout his NBA career, Thomas has faced adversity with injuries but has continued to persevere with a relentless work ethic and unwavering belief in his abilities. His electric performances and clutch shot-making have endeared him to fans and earned him two NBA All-Star selections. Thomas's journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere, proving that hard work and determination can overcome any obstacle.

Honorable Mentions

Jordan Clarkson

Career Stats: 16.0 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 2.9 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Career Honors and Awards: NBA Sixth Man of the Year (2021), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2015)

Draft Details: Jordan Clarkson was drafted as a 21-year-old by the Washington Wizards with the No. 46 pick in the 2014 NBA draft.

Jordan Clarkson's journey to NBA prominence began during his collegiate career at the University of Tulsa and later at the University of Missouri. As a Junior, he showcased his scoring ability and athleticism, catching the eye of NBA scouts with his dynamic play on the court.

Selected by the Washington Wizards in the 2014 NBA draft, Clarkson's draft rights were quickly traded to the Los Angeles Lakers. In Los Angeles, he quickly emerged as a key contributor, utilizing his scoring prowess and playmaking skills to make an impact on the court.

Throughout his NBA career, Clarkson has been known for his instant offense off the bench and his ability to energize his team with his scoring ability. His contributions were particularly noteworthy during his tenure with the Utah Jazz, where he won the NBA Sixth Man of the Year award in 2021.

Clarkson's scoring prowess, coupled with his versatility and ability to create opportunities for himself and his teammates, have made him a valuable asset to any team. As he continues to evolve as a player, his impact on the court remains undeniable, making him a vital piece of any team's rotation.

 Rui Hachimura

Career Stats: 12.7 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 1.3 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Career Honors and Awards: NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2020)

Draft Details: Rui Hachimura was drafted as a 21-year-old by the Washington Wizards with the 9th overall pick in the 2019 NBA draft.

Rui Hachimura's journey to the NBA began when he was selected by the Washington Wizards as the 9th overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft. Prior to his NBA career, Hachimura made significant strides in his collegiate career at Gonzaga University, where he showcased his versatility and athleticism on the court.

In 2023, Hachimura's career trajectory took a turn when he was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers. This move provided him with a new opportunity to contribute to a different team and further develop his game in a new environment.

Throughout his NBA tenure, Hachimura has demonstrated his ability to make an impact on both ends of the floor. He has shown flashes of brilliance as a scorer and has proven to be a capable defender, using his length and athleticism to disrupt opposing players.

As Hachimura continues to refine his game with the Lakers, his potential as a key contributor remains significant. With his work ethic and commitment to improvement, he has the opportunity to become a cornerstone player for Los Angeles as they pursue success in the NBA.

PJ Tucker

Career Stats: 6.6 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 1.4 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Career Honors and Awards: NBA Champion (2021)

Draft Details: PJ Tucker was drafted as a 21-year-old by the Toronto Raptors with the No. 35 pick in the 2006 NBA draft.

PJ Tucker's basketball journey is a testament to perseverance and determination. After a successful college career at the University of Texas, where he showcased his defensive prowess and leadership, Tucker embarked on a professional career that took him across various leagues before finding a home in the NBA.

Known for his rugged defense and relentless hustle, Tucker's impact on the court often transcends traditional statistics. He has earned a reputation as a versatile defender capable of guarding multiple positions and making crucial plays in clutch moments. Tucker's tenacity and leadership qualities have made him a valuable asset to every team he's played for, earning him recognition as one of the top defenders in the league.

Tim Hardaway Jr.

Career Stats: 14.8 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 1.8 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Career Honors and Awards: -

Draft Details: Tim Hardaway Jr. was drafted as a 21-year-old by the New York Knicks with the No. 24 pick in the 2013 NBA draft.

Tim Hardaway Jr.'s basketball journey has been defined by his passion for the game and his relentless work ethic. After a standout collegiate career at the University of Michigan, where he showcased his scoring ability and perimeter shooting, Hardaway Jr. entered the NBA as a highly touted prospect.

Since joining the league, Hardaway Jr. has continued to evolve as a player, refining his skills and making significant contributions to every team he's played for. Known for his scoring prowess and ability to stretch the floor, he has become a valuable asset for his teams, providing a scoring punch off the bench or in the starting lineup.

Jalen Williams

Career Stats: 16.6 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 3.9 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Career Honors and Awards: -

Draft Details: Drafted as a 21-year-old by the Oklahoma City Thunder with the 12th overall pick in the 2022 NBA draft.

Jalen Williams quickly made his presence felt in the NBA after being selected by the Oklahoma City Thunder as the 12th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft from Santa Clara University. His transition from collegiate to professional basketball was seamless, showcasing his versatility and impact on both ends of the court.

In just his second season with the Thunder, Williams has emerged as a vital scoring threat, averaging an impressive 19.5 points per game. His offensive firepower has been pivotal in driving Oklahoma City's offense and has solidified his position as the team's second-leading scorer.

Williams' exceptional performances have played a crucial role in Oklahoma City's competitive standing in the challenging Western Conference. His ability to consistently deliver points and create scoring opportunities has been instrumental in the team's success.

With his dynamic skill set and continued improvement, Williams has positioned himself as a player with the potential to earn All-Star recognition in the future. His contributions on both ends of the floor have not only elevated the Thunder's performance but have also raised expectations for his impact on the league as a whole.