Looking back at the 2020 NBA Draft now, I can’t help but feel a mix of admiration and surprise at how this class has unfolded. When I first watched the virtual draft unfold in November of that unusual year, I remember thinking how much uncertainty hung over every pick—no combine, limited workouts, and a disrupted college season. But three years in, we’ve seen enough to confidently break down the top performers and analyze what made them stand out. I’ve always believed draft success hinges not just on talent, but fit, opportunity, and a player’s mental toughness. And in this class, that’s proven truer than ever.
Let’s start with Anthony Edwards, the number one overall pick by the Minnesota Timberwolves. From day one, he brought an explosive scoring ability that was impossible to ignore. I recall watching his rookie year highlights—the powerful dunks, the improving three-point shot—and thinking Minnesota had something special. But what really won me over was his charisma and how he embraced big moments. By his third season, Ant was averaging around 26 points per game and had become the face of the franchise. He’s the kind of player who makes you tune in every night, and honestly, I see MVP potential in his future if he continues refining his playmaking and defense.
Then there’s LaMelo Ball, selected third by the Charlotte Hornets. I’ll admit, I had my doubts early on about the flashy style and the spotlight that followed his family, but LaMelo quickly silenced critics like me with his elite court vision and flair. He snagged Rookie of the Year honors and has been a walking highlight reel since, averaging roughly 20 points, 7 rebounds, and 8 assists per game in his sophomore season. What stands out to me is how he’s transformed Charlotte’s offense—they’re just more fun and dynamic with him running the show. Sure, his defense needs work, but offensively, he’s a gem.
James Wiseman, the second pick, has had a rockier path, and it’s one I’ve followed with a bit of sympathy. Golden State seemed like a perfect fit initially, but injuries and fit issues limited his impact. He only played 39 games in his first two seasons combined, which is a shame because his athleticism and size are undeniable. I think he’ll eventually find his groove, maybe in a system that gives him more minutes, but his start highlights how crucial team context is for big men.
Tyrese Haliburton, picked 12th by the Sacramento Kings and later traded to the Indiana Pacers, is a personal favorite of mine. I remember watching his Iowa State tapes and being impressed by his IQ and unselfishness, but even I didn’t expect him to blossom into an All-Star so quickly. In Indiana, he’s put up stellar numbers—about 21 points and 10 assists per game—and he’s the engine of that team. His story reminds me that sometimes the best picks aren’t the flashiest ones; they’re the ones with the right mindset.
Other notables include Desmond Bane, who went 30th to the Memphis Grizzlies and has become a lethal shooter, and Patrick Williams, the fourth pick by the Chicago Bulls, who shows flashes of two-way brilliance. But if I had to pick a sleeper, it’s Immanuel Quickley—selected 25th by the New York Knicks—who’s developed into a reliable scorer and Sixth Man of the Year candidate. On the flip side, I’ve been a bit disappointed with Killian Hayes (7th pick) and his struggles to find consistency, though I’m not giving up on him yet.
Reflecting on this, the 2020 class teaches us that scouting goes beyond stats; it’s about resilience and adaptability. In a way, it reminds me of how sports organizations globally strive to connect with fans, much like the approach Suzara mentioned about boosting marketing and promotional efforts to make events more accessible. For the NBA, drafting isn’t just about picking talent—it’s about building a brand and engaging audiences, whether through star power or smart under-the-radar moves. As a fan and analyst, I’m excited to see how these players evolve, and I’d bet we’ll see at least three more All-Stars emerge from this group in the next five years. Ultimately, this draft class has already left a mark, and in my view, it’s one of the more intriguing groups in recent memory.