Bronny James is constantly making headlines even if he is a young player looking to make a name for himself outside of his father’s shadow. Bronny was taken No. 55 overall by the Los Angeles Lakers and his summer league performances have led to mixed opinions, but there is no denying the guard is showing glimpses of potential.
- 1. Patty Mills – 55th Pick, 2009 NBA Draft
- 2. Mark Blount – 55th Pick, 1997 NBA Draft
- 3. Kenny Gattison – 55th Pick, 1986 NBA Draft
- 4. E’Twaun Moore – 55th Pick, 2011 NBA Draft
- 5. Bird Averitt – 55th Pick, 1973 NBA Draft
- 6. Jeremy Evans – 55th Pick, 2010 NBA Draft
- 7. Jerry Eaves – 55th Pick, 1982 NBA Draft
- 8. Marc Iavaroni – 55th Pick, 1978 NBA Draft
- 9. Aaron Wiggins – 55th Pick, 2021 NBA Draft
- 10. Joffrey Lauvergne – 55th Pick, 2013 NBA Draft
Looking back throughout NBA history, we have collected the 10 greatest No. 55 overall picks (with a minimum of 100 appearances) to get an idea about Bronny’s competition from a historical standpoint.
1. Patty Mills – 55th Pick, 2009 NBA Draft
Seasons: 2010-2024
Career Stats: 8.8 PPG, 1.6 RPG, 2.2 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Patty Mills has carved out a remarkable career since the Portland Trail Blazers drafted 55th overall in the 2009 NBA Draft. Over his 14-year career, Mills has played for several teams, including the Atlanta Hawks, Brooklyn Nets, Miami Heat, and San Antonio Spurs, where he won an NBA Championship in 2014. Known for his exceptional three-point shooting and high basketball IQ, Mills has been a reliable scorer off the bench, often providing a spark with his quick shooting and energetic play.
Although he has not made any All-NBA teams or All-Star appearances, Mills’ impact on the court has been significant, particularly during his time with the Spurs, where he was a key role player in their deep playoff runs. Mills has maintained impressive shooting percentages throughout his career, with a career three-point shooting percentage of 38.6% and a free-throw percentage of 85.6%.
2. Mark Blount – 55th Pick, 1997 NBA Draft
Seasons: 2000-2009
Career Stats: 8.2 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 0.8 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.8 BPG
Mark Blount was selected 55th overall by the Seattle SuperSonics in the 1997 NBA Draft but made his mark in the NBA starting in the 2000 season. He played for several teams, including the Boston Celtics, Denver Nuggets, Miami Heat, and Minnesota Timberwolves. Blount was known for his efficient scoring and solid rebounding, becoming a reliable starting center during his career.
Blount’s best years came with the Boston Celtics, where he established himself as a starter and a dependable contributor. His career field goal percentage of 50.4% reflects his ability to score efficiently around the basket. Blount’s physicality and work ethic allowed him to carve out a respectable NBA career, making him one of the more successful players taken at the 55th overall pick.
3. Kenny Gattison – 55th Pick, 1986 NBA Draft
Seasons: 1986-1996
Career Stats: 7.9 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 0.9 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.7 BPG
Kenny Gattison was drafted 55th overall by the Phoenix Suns in the 1986 NBA Draft and enjoyed a solid 10-year career in the NBA. Gattison played for the Charlotte Hornets, Phoenix Suns, and Vancouver Grizzlies. Known for his scoring efficiency and rebounding, Gattison became a reliable forward/center, particularly during his time with the Hornets.
Gattison’s ability to score inside and his rebounding prowess helped him carve out a niche in the league. He was a consistent performer, with a career field goal percentage of 52.0%. Gattison’s work ethic and toughness on the court were hallmarks of his career, and he remains a respected figure among his peers.
4. E’Twaun Moore – 55th Pick, 2011 NBA Draft
Seasons: 2011-2021
Career Stats: 7.9 PPG, 2.0 RPG, 1.8 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.2 BPG
E’Twaun Moore played for several teams, including the Celtics, Chicago Bulls, New Orleans Pelicans, Orlando Magic, and Phoenix Suns. Known for his scoring ability and three-point shooting, Moore was a valuable role player, providing solid contributions off the bench and occasionally as a starter. Despite not earning any All-NBA or All-Star accolades, Moore’s consistent play and professionalism made him a respected figure in the league.
Moore’s ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting (38.8% career 3P%) and his steady scoring made him a reliable option for his teams while his versatility allowed him to play multiple positions and adapt to different roles as needed. Moore was always reliable as a backup guard and that made him a solid No. 55 pick.
5. Bird Averitt – 55th Pick, 1973 NBA Draft
Seasons: 1977-1978
Career Stats: 8.3 PPG, 1.2 RPG, 2.5 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Bird Averitt, drafted 55th overall by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 1973 NBA Draft, had a notable professional basketball career that spanned both the ABA and NBA. Before joining the NBA, Averitt made a significant impact in the American Basketball Association (ABA), where he was known for his scoring prowess and quickness.
In the NBA, Averitt played for the Buffalo Braves and the New Jersey Nets during the 1977-1978 season. While his NBA career was relatively brief, Averitt showcased his scoring ability, averaging 8.3 points per game. His dual-league experience highlights the diverse paths players can take to make their mark in professional basketball even if he only played two seasons in the NBA.
6. Jeremy Evans – 55th Pick, 2010 NBA Draft
Seasons: 2010-2018
Career Stats: 3.5 PPG, 2.6 RPG, 0.4 APG, 0.4 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Jeremy Evans was drafted 55th overall by the Utah Jazz in the 2010 NBA Draft and became known for his athleticism and highlight-reel dunks. Evans played for the Jazz, Dallas Mavericks, and Atlanta Hawks during his eight-year career. Although he did not earn any All-NBA or All-Star accolades, Evans won the NBA Slam Dunk Contest in 2012, showcasing his leaping ability and creativity.
His role as a high-energy forward off the bench provided valuable minutes for his teams, particularly with his shot-blocking and rebounding. His career field goal percentage of 56.9% reflects his efficiency around the rim. While he may not have had the most distinguished career in terms of statistics, Evans’ impact on the court was felt through his defensive efforts.
7. Jerry Eaves – 55th Pick, 1982 NBA Draft
Seasons: 1983-1987
Career Stats: 6.7 PPG, 1.2 RPG, 2.5 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.0 BPG
Playing primarily for the Jazz and the Atlanta Hawks, Eaves provided consistent backcourt support with his ability to score, distribute the ball, and play defense. His average of 6.7 points per game reflects his capability to contribute offensively, while his 2.5 assists per game highlight his playmaking skills for a forward.
Eaves’ professional journey in the NBA, albeit not filled with major accolades, demonstrated his steady performance and role-playing efficiency. Throughout his career, Eaves’ versatility and basketball IQ allowed him to adapt to various roles as needed by his teams. His tenure in the NBA was marked by his professionalism and ability to deliver when called upon, whether it was scoring, passing, or playing tough defense.
8. Marc Iavaroni – 55th Pick, 1978 NBA Draft
Seasons: 1982-1989
Career Stats: 4.4 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 1.0 APG, 0.3 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Marc Iavaroni’s career peaked with the 76ers, where he was a part of the 1983 NBA Championship team. Known for his defensive efforts and solid team play, Iavaroni was a reliable forward who contributed to the team’s overall chemistry and success. Although he did not earn any individual accolades such as All-NBA or All-Star selections, his contributions were crucial to the 76ers’ championship run.
Iavaroni’s career stats may not stand out, but his impact on the court was significant, particularly in his role as a starter during the 76ers’ championship season. His ability to play tough defense and provide steady minutes helped solidify the team’s frontcourt. Iavaroni’s work ethic and commitment to team success highlight the value of role players in achieving championship glory.
9. Aaron Wiggins – 55th Pick, 2021 NBA Draft
Seasons: 2021-2024
Career Stats: 7.3 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 1.2 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Aaron Wiggins was drafted 55th overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2021 NBA Draft and has quickly shown promise as a versatile guard/forward. In his early career, Wiggins has played for the Thunder, displaying solid scoring ability and defensive potential. Wiggins’ steady improvement and adaptability on the court have made him a valuable player for his team. His ability to contribute to various facets of the game indicates a bright future.
Wiggins’ early career highlights his potential to develop into a key player for the Thunder. His scoring, rebounding, and defensive capabilities provide a solid foundation for future growth especially after the youngster posted 6.9 points per game on 49.2% from three in the 2023-24 season.
10. Joffrey Lauvergne – 55th Pick, 2013 NBA Draft
Seasons: 2014-2018
Career Stats: 5.6 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 0.9 APG, 0.3 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Power forward and center Joffrey Lauvergne played for several teams, including the Denver Nuggets, Chicago Bulls, Oklahoma City Thunder, and San Antonio Spurs. While his career is forgotten by most, Lauvergne provided valuable minutes off the bench, contributing with his scoring, rebounding, and ability to stretch the floor.
His international experience and skill set allowed him to adapt to various roles in the NBA. Lauvergne’s best seasons came with the Denver Nuggets, where he showcased his ability to score and rebound effectively. His career field goal percentage of 47.3% reflects his efficiency on the offensive end.
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