5. Rookie of the Year
Coming in as the top pick of the 2003 NBA Draft, James lived up to the advance billing by being named the league’s top rookie after his first season. He averaged 20.9 points, 5.5 rebounds and 5.9 assists, becoming the first-ever Cavalier to win the prestigious award. In addition to his individual success, he helped his team improve by 18 games from the year before.
Drafted behind Hakeem Olajuwon and Sam Bowie, Michael Jordan played in every game during his rookie season and was recognized as the preeminent rookie for that year. He averaged 28.2 points, 6.5 rebounds and 5.9 assists, setting five single-season records for the Bulls in the process. Although Chicago lost 3-1 in the first round of the playoffs, Jordan hit the game-winning shot in the one victory.
Next: All-Star Regulars
