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How many rounds are in the NBA Draft?

The NBA has fewer roster spots per team — 15 — than other major sports. Consequently, it has only two rounds for its draft. Each NBA team is allotted one pick in both rounds of the draft; it can trade its picks if it chooses. To be draft-eligible, a player must be 19 in the year the draft is held.

How long has the NBA had a two-round draft?

The NBA Draft has been in its current format since 1989. It lasted three rounds in 1988, and from 1974-87, the draft was 10 rounds. In 1960 and 1968, the draft was 21 rounds, a record unlikely to be matched. The league had far fewer teams then — eight in 1960 and 14 in 1968.

How many draft rounds do other major sports have?

The MLB Draft has 40 rounds. At seven rounds, the NFL and NHL drafts are much shorter. Each of these leagues has more roster space than the NBA. The NFL has 53 players to a team, and MLB and the NHL have 25 and 23, respectively. 

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