9. 1998
The Los Angeles Clippers whiffed big time with the top overall pick, center Michael Olowokandi, but other teams hit the jackpot with their selections. Players like Dirk Nowitzki, Paul Pierce, Vince Carter, Antawn Jamison, Rashard Lewis and Mike Bibby would (and in some cases continue to) put together Hall of Fame and standout careers. Other first rounders of note were future Cavaliers Larry Hughes and Ricky Davis, along with the Denver Nuggets’ top choice that year: Tyronn Lue from Nebraska, who went on to play 11 seasons.
