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Basketball is a game defined by its stars. The superstars—LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, and Giannis Antetokounmpo—dominate headlines and highlight reels. These players, who often dictate the direction of the league, are synonymous with championship success. But beyond the fame and fortune of the basketball elite, there’s a group of players who often fly under the radar, yet have an outsized impact on their teams’ success. These unsung heroes are the NBA’s most phenomenal draft steals—players who defied expectations, exceeded their draft positions, and transformed their teams.

From unassuming mid-to-late first-round picks to second-round gems and even undrafted talents, the NBA has seen a growing list of players who have made their mark despite initial skepticism. Among these players, names like Nikola Jokić, Jalen Brunson, and others have etched their stories into the league’s rich history. In this post, we will explore the incredible journeys of some of the most astonishing draft steals in NBA history, and how they have shaped the narrative of modern basketball.

Nikola Jokić: The Unlikely MVP

Nikola Jokić’s rise to superstardom is one of the most remarkable stories in the NBA. Drafted 41st overall by the Denver Nuggets in 2014, Jokić was largely overlooked by scouts, who didn’t see the potential in his unathletic frame and slow, methodical style of play. His performance in the Euroleague and the Serbian leagues was solid but not eye-catching enough to warrant the attention of top teams in the draft. Fast forward to today, and Jokić has emerged as one of the most unique and dominant players in NBA history.

The Serbian big man’s blend of size, vision, and basketball IQ has transformed the Nuggets into perennial contenders in the Western Conference. His court awareness, passing ability, and ability to score from all areas on the floor make him one of the most versatile players in the game. Jokić’s MVP awards in 2021 and 2022, along with his leading role in the Nuggets’ first-ever championship in 2023, solidify his place among the game’s greats. Jokić’s story is a testament to the idea that true basketball greatness isn’t always about athleticism or popularity; sometimes, it’s about skill, smarts, and the ability to see the game differently from others.

Jalen Brunson: Rising Through the Ranks

When Jalen Brunson was drafted 33rd overall by the Dallas Mavericks in 2018, many didn’t expect him to make a major impact. The 6-foot-1 guard had a strong college career at Villanova, but scouts questioned his ability to translate his success to the NBA, where size and athleticism are paramount. Despite these doubts, Brunson quickly proved himself to be a valuable piece for the Mavericks, especially as a steady hand next to star player Luka Dončić.

In 2022, Brunson signed with the New York Knicks as a free agent, and that’s when he truly blossomed. He took on the role of the team’s primary playmaker, helping lead the Knicks to a surprising deep playoff run. Brunson’s poise, scoring ability, and leadership made him a key figure in New York’s resurgence, and his continued growth as a player suggests that the Knicks’ decision to sign him will be remembered as one of the best moves in recent franchise history.

Brunson’s journey also reflects a broader trend in the NBA—a shift toward undersized guards being valued for their skill and smarts rather than just athleticism. His ability to impact games in a variety of ways, both as a scorer and a facilitator, makes him a perfect example of how draft steals can come from unexpected places.

Draymond Green: The Heart of the Warriors Dynasty

Draymond Green is another prime example of an underappreciated talent who turned into an NBA legend. Selected 35th overall in the 2012 NBA Draft by the Golden State Warriors, Green’s career trajectory was anything but certain. He was viewed by many as a defensive specialist with limited offensive upside. However, Green’s unique skill set—his versatility, playmaking, and defensive prowess—has played a pivotal role in the Warriors’ dynastic run over the last decade.

Green’s ability to guard multiple positions, facilitate offense, and be a vocal leader on the court has made him one of the most valuable players of his generation. His impact on the Warriors’ championships in 2015, 2017, 2018, and 2022 is undeniable. He might not have the scoring numbers of other superstars, but his all-around game has cemented his place as one of the most crucial players in Golden State’s modern-day success.

Manu Ginóbili: The International Steal

Before the “big three” era of Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginóbili, the San Antonio Spurs were an incredibly successful franchise. But it was Ginóbili, a second-round pick in 1999, who would go on to become one of the NBA’s most beloved and unorthodox stars. Drafted 57th overall by the Spurs, Ginóbili’s talent was initially obscured by his relatively low draft position and the fact that he played professionally in Europe for several years before joining the NBA.

Once he made his NBA debut, Ginóbili proved himself to be a transformative player. His ability to come off the bench and provide scoring, playmaking, and high-energy defense was vital to the Spurs’ success in the 2000s and 2010s. Ginóbili became an icon in San Antonio and the NBA, known for his flashy style, crafty finishes around the rim, and clutch performances in the playoffs. He is a key reason the Spurs captured four championships during his tenure, and his impact is still felt by fans who remember his game-changing abilities.

The Impact of the Draft Steals on the NBA

The rise of players like Jokić, Brunson, Green, and Ginóbili underscores a vital point: the NBA draft is not an exact science. Every year, teams scout, evaluate, and select players in hopes of finding future stars. However, the reality is that draft picks are not guaranteed. Teams can—and do—miss out on talent, and it’s often the later-round players who have the last laugh.

What makes these draft steals even more remarkable is their ability to redefine the expectations of where talent should come from. No longer can we look at the lottery as the only place to find future stars. The NBA has become a league where skill, intelligence, and work ethic often outweigh raw athleticism or high draft status. Players who may not have fit the mold of traditional prospects, who weren’t labeled as the “next big thing,” have now become key contributors for championship-contending teams.

Conclusion

In a league filled with media-driven narratives and a spotlight on the league’s top picks, the players who weren’t considered “can’t miss” prospects often get overlooked. But it’s these players—whether drafted in the second round or undrafted altogether—who become the unsung heroes of the NBA. They remind us that talent is everywhere, not just at the top of the draft board, and that determination and skill can overcome the odds.

From Jokić’s MVP performances to Brunson’s rise in New York, from Draymond Green’s Warriors leadership to Manu Ginóbili’s Spurs legacy, the stories of these draft steals are a testament to what can happen when players are given the opportunity to prove themselves. As the NBA continues to evolve, the importance of finding hidden gems will only grow, and these unsung heroes will continue to shape the future of the league.