10 NBA Stars Who Got Booed On Draft Night
The NBA Draft is a moment of anticipation and excitement for basketball fans worldwide as they eagerly await the unveiling of the league's next generation of stars. However, not every player's journey to stardom begins with a warm reception. Throughout the history of the NBA, several future superstars have experienced the bitter taste of rejection on one of the most crucial nights of their careers.
Draft night is a unique spectacle where fans and experts alike gather to witness the selection of highly-touted prospects, hoping their favorite team will land the perfect player to lead them to glory. Yet, despite the optimism and potential surrounding these talented individuals, a select few have faced a hostile crowd, enduring boos and jeers instead of cheers and applause.
It is time to present the intriguing stories of 10 NBA stars who found themselves on the receiving end of an unwelcome draft night reception. These players, despite their eventual accomplishments and iconic careers, were initially met with skepticism and doubt from the very fanbase that would come to embrace and celebrate them.
From Hall of Famers to perennial All-Stars, each player on this list overcame the initial adversity and etched their names in basketball history. We explore the reasons behind their draft-night boos, ranging from high expectations that turned into early struggles, unconventional playing styles, or simply being overshadowed by other highly-touted prospects. With No. 2 overall pick Brandon Miller getting embarrassingly booed during his draft and the player responding in a confident manner, it leads one to wonder which other players went through a similar situation. Here are 10 NBA stars who were famously booed on Draft Night.
10. Kristaps Porzingis - 2015 NBA Draft
Kristaps Porzingis, the Latvian sensation and skilled big man encountered a mixed reception on his draft night in 2015. Selected as the No. 4 overall pick by the New York Knicks, Porzingis was met with a wave of boos from the passionate and demanding Knicks fanbase. The initial reaction reflected a combination of skepticism, unfamiliarity, and a yearning for a more immediate impact player.
Looking back, Knicks fans had a point to view the big man. Porzingis was an international prospect, hailing from Latvia, which led to a degree of uncertainty and unfamiliarity among fans. Moreover, there was a prevailing sentiment among Knicks supporters that the team should have prioritized a more established college prospect who could make an immediate impact. Porzingis' lanky frame and unproven potential fueled doubts and fueled the backlash.
Instead, the player actually impressed in his first season. During his rookie season, Porzingis quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with, gradually winning over the skeptical Knicks fanbase. His combination of scoring, shot-blocking, and rebounding abilities showcased immense potential, hinting at a bright future. Porzingis' knack for stepping up in big moments and delivering awe-inspiring dunks earned him the moniker "The Unicorn," encapsulating his unique blend of size, skill, and agility.
Unfortunately, Porzingis' promising start was marred by injuries that hindered his progress and limited his playing time in subsequent seasons. Despite the setbacks, he demonstrated resilience by bouncing back and making noteworthy contributions when he did return to the court. With an All-Star Team appearance on his resume and a new chapter with the Boston Celtics, Porzingis proved the bulk of doubters wrong.
9. Jaylen Brown - 2016 NBA Draft
Jaylen Brown, the dynamic and versatile shooting guard/small forward, experienced an unexpected reception on his draft night in 2016. Selected as the No. 3 overall pick by the Boston Celtics, Brown was met with a mix of boos and skepticism from some fans in attendance. This draft night reception can be attributed to a combination of factors, including unfamiliarity with Brown's abilities, concerns about his offensive game, and the perceived missed opportunity of selecting another player.
The boos that echoed through the Barclays Center reflected a level of uncertainty and impatience among a segment of fans. Brown was a relatively unknown prospect compared to other highly touted players in the draft class. Fans were more familiar with names like Ben Simmons and Brandon Ingram, who were chosen with the first and second picks, respectively. Brown's selection caught some off-guard, leading to initial skepticism and disappointment from those expecting a more recognizable name.
There was also doubt about Brown’s scoring ability. While he was highly regarded for his athleticism and defensive prowess, there were concerns about his shooting consistency and offensive polish. Some fans expressed doubt about whether Brown could contribute immediately on the offensive end, especially considering the Celtics' need for scoring and playmaking.
In subsequent seasons, Brown silenced the doubters and emerged as a key contributor for the Celtics. The dynamic two-way wing has made two All-Star Teams, an All-NBA Second Team appearance in the 2022-23 season, and has made the NBA Finals as the Celtics’ second-best player. The All-Star has proven to be better than every other player coming out of the Draft, with only Brandon Ingram, Domantas Sabonis, and Pascal Siakam coming close.
8. Peja Stojakovic - 1996 NBA Draft
Peja Stojakovic, the sharpshooting forward from Yugoslavia, experienced an unexpected reception on his draft night in 1996. Selected as the No. 14 overall pick by the Sacramento Kings, Stojakovic was met with a mixture of boos and indifference from some fans in attendance. The booing directed at Stojakovic was primarily a result of his relatively unknown status among American basketball fans. Coming from Yugoslavia, Stojakovic did not have the same exposure as college players or other high-profile prospects. His name and playing style was unfamiliar to many fans, leading to a lack of excitement or anticipation when he was selected.
Moreover, during that era, there was skepticism surrounding international players transitioning to the NBA. The success stories of international players like Dirk Nowitzki and Manu Ginobili had not yet fully emerged, and there were doubts about their ability to adapt to the NBA's style of play. These doubts, combined with the lack of familiarity with Stojakovic, likely contributed to the negative reception he received on draft night.
However, the draft night booing proved to be a missed opportunity to appreciate the immense talent and impact that Stojakovic would have on the game. As he acclimated to the NBA, Stojakovic quickly established himself as one of the deadliest shooters in the league. His smooth shooting stroke, range, and ability to score from anywhere on the court made him a constant offensive threat and a valuable asset to the Sacramento Kings.
Stojakovic's impact extended beyond his shooting prowess. He played a crucial role in the Kings' success during the early 2000s, forming a dynamic trio with Chris Webber and Mike Bibby. Stojakovic's ability to stretch the floor and knock down shots created spacing for his teammates and opened up opportunities for the team's high-octane offense. His scoring ability, combined with his height and basketball IQ, made him a versatile and dangerous player on the court.
7. Penny Hardaway - 1993 NBA Draft
Penny Hardaway, the electrifying and versatile guard, experienced an unexpected reception on his draft night in 1993. Selected as the No. 3 overall pick by the Golden State Warriors and immediately traded to the Orlando Magic, Hardaway was met with a surprising chorus of boos from some fans in attendance. One of the primary reasons for Hardaway's draft night booing was the uncertainty surrounding his potential.
Although he had an impressive collegiate career at Memphis, some fans and analysts were unsure about how his game would translate to the NBA. Hardaway possessed a unique skill set, combining exceptional size for a guard, superb ball-handling, and playmaking abilities. However, the fans' lack of familiarity with his style of play and the question marks surrounding his NBA readiness led to a mixed reception.
Moreover, concerns about Hardaway's college injury contributed to the skepticism surrounding his selection. During his final year at Memphis, Hardaway suffered a stress fracture in his foot, causing him to miss several games. This injury raised doubts about his long-term durability and whether he would be able to withstand the rigors of an NBA season. Some fans feared that his injury history could hinder his ability to make a significant impact at the professional level.
Furthermore, the fans' desire for a different player in the draft may have influenced the booing. The 1993 NBA Draft class was highly anticipated, featuring notable players like Chris Webber, Shawn Bradley, and Allan Houston. Some fans may have been hoping for their favorite team to select a different player, leading to a sense of disappointment and subsequent booing when Hardaway's name was called.
However, the draft night booing proved to be a misguided reception of Hardaway's immense talent. In his rookie season with the Orlando Magic, he quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. Hardaway's combination of size, athleticism, and basketball IQ made him a unique playmaker and a matchup nightmare for opponents. His ability to score, rebound, and facilitate offense placed him among the league's elite guards.
Penny formed a formidable duo with center Shaquille O'Neal, leading the Orlando Magic to multiple playoff appearances and capturing the imagination of fans with their exciting brand of basketball. Hardaway's versatility and ability to excel at both the point guard and shooting guard positions showcased his adaptability and versatility. Although his career was marred by injuries in subsequent seasons, Hardaway's early success demonstrated that the draft night booing had been misguided. He was a four-time All-Star, a member of the All-NBA First Team twice, and a key contributor to the "Shaq and Penny" era that revitalized basketball in Orlando.
6. Yao Ming - 2002 NBA Draft
Yao Ming, the towering 7'6" Chinese center, encountered a surprising reception on his draft night in 2002. As the Houston Rockets selected him as the No. 1 overall pick, the anticipation and excitement were tinged with a perplexing backdrop of boos from a portion of the crowd.
One of the primary reasons for Yao's draft night booing was the skepticism surrounding international players at that time. While the NBA had seen success stories like Dirk Nowitzki, there was still a lingering doubt about how players from outside the United States would fare against the league's physicality and intensity. Some fans and pundits expressed reservations about Yao's ability to withstand the demands of the NBA game, particularly due to his unique physical stature.
Moreover, the immense expectations placed on Yao as the first overall pick added to the skepticism. The Rockets franchise and their fanbase hoped that Yao would quickly establish himself as a transformative force on the court. However, this anticipation came with a level of pressure that weighed heavily on Yao's shoulders, as the fans questioned whether he would live up to the lofty expectations set before him.
Despite the initial skepticism, Yao Ming's NBA career proved that the draft night boos were misguided. His impact on the game and his ability to adapt to the NBA showcased his extraordinary talent and dedication. Yao possessed an impressive skill set for a player of his size, combining exceptional footwork, shooting touch, and shot-blocking prowess. His basketball IQ and court vision were evident in his ability to dominate games both offensively and defensively.
Of course, Ming became a cultural icon and a bridge between the NBA and the Chinese basketball community. His impact on growing the sport in China and elevating the global reach of the NBA was immeasurable. Yao's success and popularity paved the way for future generations of Chinese basketball players and helped foster a stronger bond between basketball fans worldwide.
5. Reggie Miller - 1987 NBA Draft
Reggie Miller, the iconic shooting guard, encountered an unexpected reception on his draft night in 1987. Selected as the No. 11 overall pick by the Indiana Pacers, Miller was met with a cascade of boos from some fans in attendance. The draft night booing directed at Miller was primarily a result of his lack of star power compared to other higher-profile prospects in the draft class. Coming out of the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Miller did not have the same national exposure as some of his peers. He was not a household name like other more hyped prospects, which led to a lack of familiarity and subsequently a lukewarm reception from some fans.
Furthermore, the booing was influenced by the fans' desire for a more recognizable name or a player who fit a specific mold. Some fans may have had their sights set on a player with more flash or a perceived higher ceiling. Miller, known for his sharpshooting and basketball IQ, did not possess the same raw athleticism or scoring ability as other prospects, leading to skepticism and disappointment from certain segments of the crowd.
However, rather than allowing the draft night booing to discourage him, Miller became one of the most lethal scorers and clutch performers in NBA history. Miller's ability to rise to the occasion in critical moments and deliver game-changing shots solidified his reputation as one of the greatest shooters of all time. Throughout his career, Miller demonstrated an uncanny ability to come through in the clutch. Whether it was hitting game-winning shots, scoring in bunches to mount comebacks, or delivering in pressure-packed playoff situations, he consistently rose to the challenge. Miller's sharpshooting and knack for stepping up when it mattered most earned him the nickname "Miller Time" and established him as a fan-favorite and respected adversary throughout the league.
Miller's career, which spanned 18 seasons with the Indiana Pacers, is marked by numerous accolades and accomplishments. He was a five-time NBA All-Star, a three-time All-NBA selection, and a member of the prestigious 50-40-90 club, signifying exceptional shooting percentages. Miller's impact on the game extends beyond statistics, as his tenacity, competitiveness, and clutch performances left an indelible mark on the sport.
4. Steve Nash - 1996 NBA Draft
Steve Nash, a two-time NBA MVP and one of the most celebrated point guards in basketball history, experienced an unexpected and disheartening reception on his draft night. Selected as the No. 15 overall pick by the Phoenix Suns in the 1996 NBA Draft, Nash was met with a cascade of boos from the Suns' fanbase. The reaction seemed puzzling at the time, but it would ultimately serve as a transformative moment in Nash's career, igniting a fire within him and fueling his journey toward greatness.
The boos that rained down on Nash on draft night can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, Nash was relatively unknown to the majority of fans, having played his college basketball at Santa Clara University, a smaller program compared to the traditional powerhouses. Additionally, the Suns' faithful had their sights set on other highly touted prospects, such as Kobe Bryant, who was selected just three picks later, and local talent Michael Finley.
While Nash's initial reception was undoubtedly discouraging, it did not deter him from proving his worth. Nash's relentless work ethic, combined with his exceptional basketball IQ and unparalleled court vision, helped him transcend the initial doubts surrounding his draft position. He quickly established himself as a valuable asset for the Suns, showcasing his playmaking abilities and leadership on the court.
As his career progressed, Nash evolved into a maestro, orchestrating fast-paced, high-scoring offenses and revolutionizing the point guard position with his emphasis on ball movement and unselfish play. Two MVP awards later and it is clear that NBA fans were completely wrong about the point guard's innate ability to impact the game.
3. Kawhi Leonard - 2011 NBA Draft
Kawhi Leonard, the enigmatic and exceptional small forward, faced an unexpected reception on his draft night in 2011. Selected as the No. 15 overall pick by the Indiana Pacers and then traded to the San Antonio Spurs, Leonard was met with a mixture of boos and indifference from the crowd. However, the draft night adversity set the stage for Leonard's rise to become one of the most dominant two-way players in the NBA.
The booing and lack of enthusiasm from the crowd were primarily due to Leonard's relatively low-profile status compared to other more prominent prospects in the draft class. Leonard played college basketball at San Diego State, a program that did not receive as much national attention as some of the powerhouse schools. This lack of exposure meant that Leonard was not as well-known to casual basketball fans, leading to an initial lack of excitement or familiarity when he was drafted.
Furthermore, there were doubts about Leonard's offensive abilities. While highly regarded for his defensive prowess and work ethic, Leonard was not seen as a polished offensive player coming out of college. Some fans and analysts questioned whether he could develop into a consistent scorer and contribute effectively on the offensive end at the NBA level.
Obviously, Leonard became one of the game’s best players ever in terms of two-way dominance. Leonard's calm demeanor and ability to deliver in high-pressure moments earned him the nickname "The Claw" and solidified his status as a bona fide superstar. Leonard's rise to prominence culminated in two NBA championships, one with the San Antonio Spurs in 2014 and another with the Toronto Raptors in 2019. In both title runs, Leonard showcased his ability to elevate his game when it mattered most, earning Finals MVP honors on both occasions.
His quiet and reserved demeanor off the court further added to the mystique surrounding his game, as he preferred to let his performances do the talking. Out of all the stars who ended up getting booed, Leonard has to rank among the very top in terms of skills, dominance, and two-way impact.
2. John Stockton - 1984 NBA Draft
John Stockton, the legendary point guard, encountered an unexpected reception on his draft night in 1984. Selected as the No. 16 overall pick by the Utah Jazz, Stockton was met with a chorus of boos from the crowd. The draft night booing directed at Stockton can be attributed to a combination of factors, including his relative obscurity and the perception that he was an underwhelming pick. However, the booing served as a catalyst for Stockton's relentless pursuit of greatness and ultimately fueled his rise to become one of the greatest point guards in NBA history.
The draft night booing surrounding Stockton's selection stemmed primarily from his relative obscurity compared to other higher-profile prospects in the draft class. Stockton played college basketball at Gonzaga University, a smaller program that did not receive widespread national attention at the time. Consequently, casual fans and even some analysts may not have been familiar with Stockton's game and were taken aback by his selection.
Stockton was also not regarded as an explosive athlete or a high-scoring player, which led to skepticism about his ability to make an impact at the NBA level. Critics questioned whether Stockton possessed the necessary skills and talent to thrive in a league dominated by more physically imposing guards.
However, these perceptions were absolutely wrong. Stockton possessed an unrivaled basketball IQ and exceptional court vision, which allowed him to excel in orchestrating his team's offense. His remarkable passing skills and ability to distribute the ball with precision became his trademark, earning him the reputation as one of the greatest playmakers in NBA history. He spent his entire 19-year career with the Utah Jazz, forming an iconic partnership with fellow Hall of Famer Karl Malone. Stockton's ability to run the pick-and-roll with Malone, along with his tenacious defense, made him an indispensable leader for the Jazz and a key contributor to their success.
By the time Stockton retired in 2003, he had amassed a plethora of records and accolades. He holds the NBA records for career assists and steals, achievements that reflect his basketball acumen and defensive prowess. Stockton was a 10-time All-Star, a member of the All-NBA First Team twice, and a two-time Olympic gold medalist. When discussing the top-five point guards of all time, Stockton’s name comes up far more often than not.
1. Dirk Nowitzki - 1998 NBA Draft
Dirk Nowitzki, the revolutionary power forward, experienced an unexpected reception on his draft night in 1998. Selected as the No. 9 overall pick by the Milwaukee Bucks and immediately traded to the Dallas Mavericks, Nowitzki was met with a mixture of boos and confusion from some fans in attendance. The boos were due to the fact that Nowitzki was primarily a result of his relatively unknown status among American basketball fans. Hailing from Germany, Nowitzki had played in the German professional league and had limited exposure to the broader basketball audience. This lack of familiarity led to skepticism and confusion among fans who were expecting a more recognizable name or a player from a traditional college basketball powerhouse.
Additionally, the uncertainty surrounding European players transitioning to the NBA also contributed to the draft night booing. At the time, European players were viewed with skepticism, and there were doubts about their ability to adapt to the physicality and style of play in the NBA. This skepticism, combined with Nowitzki's lack of exposure, led to apprehension and reservations from fans and analysts.
However, the power forward would retire as one of the 30 greatest players of all time. Nowitzki's unique skill set as a 7-foot forward with exceptional shooting range and ball-handling abilities revolutionized the power forward position. He brought a new dimension to the game, combining size and shooting in a way that had not been seen before.
He transformed the Mavericks into perennial contenders and led the team to its first NBA championship in 2011, solidifying his place among the all-time greats. His scoring prowess, highlighted by his signature one-legged fadeaway shot, became a trademark move and an unstoppable weapon. Nowitzki's ability to stretch the floor and draw defenders away from the basket created space for his teammates and revolutionized offensive strategies in the NBA.
