Basketball runs in the blood for some of the NBA’s greatest players. It’s one thing to be the top pick in the NBA Draft, but it’s another level of pride when your kid follows in your footsteps and makes it to the league. Whether it’s watching their sons carve out their own paths or teaming up for unforgettable father-son moments, these No. 1 overall picks have seen their offspring shine on the hardwood. Let’s dive into the stories of eight such families where the basketball legacy is alive and thriving.
- Jimmy Walker (1967 No. 1 Pick) & Jalen Rose (1994 No. 13 Pick)
- Bill Walton (1974 No. 1 Pick) & Luke Walton (2003 No. 32 Pick)
- John Lucas II (1976 No. 1 Pick) & John Lucas III (Undrafted In 2006)
- Mychal Thompson (1978 No. 1 Pick) & Klay Thompson (2011 No. 11 Pick)
- Patrick Ewing (1985 No. 1 Pick) & Patrick Ewing Jr. (2008 No. 43 Pick)
- Glenn Robinson (1994 No. 1 Pick) & Glenn Robinson III (2014 No. 40 Pick)
- Kenyon Martin (2000 No. 1 Pick) & Kenyon Martin Jr. (2020 No. 52 Pick)
- LeBron James (2003 No. 1 Pick) & Bronny James (2024 No. 55 Pick)
Jimmy Walker (1967 No. 1 Pick) & Jalen Rose (1994 No. 13 Pick)
Jimmy Walker was the first overall pick in the 1967 NBA Draft, selected by the Detroit Pistons. During his career, he was known for his scoring ability and tenacity on the court. Walker played in the NBA for nine seasons, where he averaged 16.7 points, 3.5 assists, and 2.7 rebounds per game. He was a two-time NBA All-Star (1970, 1972) and spent most of his career with the Pistons before playing for the Houston Rockets and Kansas City-Omaha Kings.
Jalen Rose, Walker’s son, was selected 13th overall in the 1994 NBA Draft by the Denver Nuggets. Rose’s versatility and charismatic personality made him a standout player during his time in the league. Over his 13-year NBA career, Rose averaged 14.3 points, 3.8 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game. He is perhaps best known for his time with the Indiana Pacers, where he played a crucial role in the team reaching the 2000 NBA Finals. Rose won the NBA Most Improved Player Award in 2000 and became a prominent media personality post-retirement.
While Jimmy Walker and Jalen Rose never shared a bond, their legacies are forever intertwined in NBA history, showcasing the incredible talent and influence that can run through generations. It wasn’t until after Walker’s death in 2007 that Rose publicly expressed his feelings about their lack of connection, acknowledging the complicated dynamics and expressing a sense of closure and understanding.
Bill Walton (1974 No. 1 Pick) & Luke Walton (2003 No. 32 Pick)
Bill Walton was selected as the first overall pick in the 1974 NBA Draft by the Portland Trail Blazers. A dominant center with incredible skills, Walton quickly made a name for himself in the league. He led the Trail Blazers to their only NBA Championship in 1977 and was named the Finals MVP for his outstanding performance. Walton’s career averages include 13.3 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game. Despite his career being marred by injuries, he also won another championship with the Boston Celtics in 1986 and was named the NBA Sixth Man of the Year the same season. Walton’s accolades include two NBA championships, an MVP award (1978), and two All-Star selections.
Luke Walton, Bill’s son, was drafted 32nd overall in the 2003 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers. Although not as individually decorated as his father, Luke carved out a solid role for himself in the NBA, known for his high basketball IQ and team-first mentality. Over his 10-year playing career, Luke averaged 4.7 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game. He played a key role in the Lakers’ back-to-back championships in 2009 and 2010. After retiring as a player, Luke transitioned into coaching and has served as the head coach for both the Lakers and the Sacramento Kings.
The Walton family has made a significant impact on the NBA. Bill Walton, with his dominance on the court and two championships, and Luke Walton, with his crucial role in the Lakers’ titles and his coaching career, exemplify how talent and success have been passed down from one generation to the next.
John Lucas II (1976 No. 1 Pick) & John Lucas III (Undrafted In 2006)
John Lucas II was the first overall pick in the 1976 NBA Draft, selected by the Houston Rockets. Known for his quickness and playmaking ability, Lucas enjoyed a solid NBA career spanning 14 seasons. He played for several teams, including the Rockets, Golden State Warriors, Washington Bullets, San Antonio Spurs, and Milwaukee Bucks. Lucas averaged 10.7 points, 7.0 assists, and 2.6 rebounds per game throughout his career. He was particularly notable for his skills as a floor general and his ability to distribute the ball effectively. After retiring as a player, Lucas transitioned into coaching and player development, earning respect for his contributions off the court.
John Lucas III, the son of John Lucas II, went undrafted in 2006 but managed to carve out a respectable NBA career through perseverance and hard work. Lucas III played for several NBA teams, including the Houston Rockets, Chicago Bulls, Toronto Raptors, Utah Jazz, and Detroit Pistons. Known for his scoring ability and leadership off the bench, he averaged 4.7 points, 1.5 assists, and 1.0 rebounds per game over his career. His most notable stint was with the Chicago Bulls, where he provided valuable minutes and had several standout performances.
Mychal Thompson (1978 No. 1 Pick) & Klay Thompson (2011 No. 11 Pick)
Mychal Thompson was selected as the first overall pick in the 1978 NBA Draft by the Portland Trail Blazers. Known for his versatility and strong presence in the paint, Thompson had a successful NBA career. He played for the Trail Blazers, San Antonio Spurs, and Los Angeles Lakers over 13 seasons. Thompson’s career averages include 13.7 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game. He won two NBA championships with the Lakers in 1987 and 1988, playing a crucial role as a key member of the “Showtime” Lakers during their dominant run in the late 1980s.
Klay Thompson, Mychal’s son, was selected 11th overall in the 2011 NBA Draft by the Golden State Warriors. Renowned for his sharpshooting ability, Klay has established himself as one of the best shooters in NBA history. Over his career, Klay has averaged 19.5 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game. He has been a pivotal part of the Warriors’ dynasty, helping the team win four NBA championships (2015, 2017, 2018, and 2022). Klay is a five-time NBA All-Star and has been named to the All-NBA Third Team twice. His ability to catch fire and score in bunches has led to numerous memorable performances, including his record-setting 37 points in a single quarter.
Most recently, Klay Thompson signed a three-year, $50 million contract with the Dallas Mavericks in a sign-and-trade deal involving the Golden State Warriors and Charlotte Hornets. This move marks the end of his 13-season tenure with the Warriors. The Mavericks acquired Thompson to bolster their roster alongside Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, despite concerns about Thompson’s defensive decline following his severe injuries. The Warriors received two second-round picks in the trade.
Patrick Ewing (1985 No. 1 Pick) & Patrick Ewing Jr. (2008 No. 43 Pick)
Patrick Ewing was selected as the first overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft by the New York Knicks. Ewing is regarded as one of the greatest centers in NBA history. Over his illustrious 17-year career, primarily with the Knicks, Ewing averaged 21.0 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game. He was an 11-time NBA All-Star and was named to the All-NBA First Team once and the All-NBA Second Team six times. Ewing led the Knicks to two NBA Finals appearances (1994 and 1999) and was a key player in the 1992 “Dream Team” that won Olympic gold in Barcelona. His number 33 was retired by the Knicks, and he was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2008.
Patrick Ewing Jr., son of the legendary Patrick Ewing, went No. 43 in 2008 but had brief stints in the NBA. He played for the New Orleans Hornets during the 2010-11 season, averaging 0.4 points and 0.3 rebounds per game in seven appearances. Ewing Jr. also had a diverse career overseas and in the NBA D-League, playing for teams in Germany, Spain, and Greece, among others. After his playing career, he transitioned into coaching and is currently an assistant coach in the NBL1 North with the South West Metro Pirates.
Glenn Robinson (1994 No. 1 Pick) & Glenn Robinson III (2014 No. 40 Pick)
Glenn Robinson, known as “Big Dog,” was the first overall pick in the 1994 NBA Draft by the Milwaukee Bucks. He had an impressive 11-year career, averaging 20.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game. Robinson was a two-time NBA All-Star (2000, 2001) and won an NBA championship with the San Antonio Spurs in 2005. He played for the Bucks, Hawks, 76ers, and Spurs, known for his scoring ability and physical presence.
Glenn Robinson III was drafted 40th overall in the 2014 NBA Draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves. He carved out a role as a reliable wing player, known for his athleticism and three-point shooting, averaging 5.9 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 0.7 assists per game. He played for multiple teams, including the Timberwolves, 76ers, Pacers, Pistons, and Warriors. His most notable achievement was winning the NBA Slam Dunk Contest in 2017.
Glenn Robinson III has not reached the same heights as his father, but he has shown resilience and talent throughout his career. In the G League with the Wisconsin Herd, he averaged 14.3 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, demonstrating his continued commitment to the game and potential for a successful NBA comeback.
Kenyon Martin (2000 No. 1 Pick) & Kenyon Martin Jr. (2020 No. 52 Pick)
Kenyon Martin, selected first overall in the 2000 NBA Draft by the New Jersey Nets, had a notable 15-year career. Known for his athleticism and defensive prowess, Martin averaged 12.3 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game. He earned NBA All-Star honors in 2004 and played for the Nets, Denver Nuggets, Los Angeles Clippers, New York Knicks, and Milwaukee Bucks. Martin was renowned for his intensity and highlight-reel dunks, contributing significantly to the Nets’ back-to-back NBA Finals appearances in 2002 and 2003.
Kenyon Martin Jr., also known as KJ, was drafted 52nd overall in the 2020 NBA Draft by the Sacramento Kings but was traded to the Houston Rockets. KJ has made a name for himself with his explosive athleticism and dunking ability, reminiscent of his father’s style. Over his career, he has averaged 8.9 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game. Martin Jr. has played for the Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Clippers, and is currently with the Philadelphia 76ers following a trade in November 2023. He has also been a standout in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest, showcasing his leaping ability and creativity.
Kenyon Martin Jr. has yet to reach the same level of prominence as his father, but his athleticism and determination have made him a valuable role player in the NBA. His performances continue to evolve, and he remains a player to watch for his potential to impact games, especially with his impressive dunking skills.
LeBron James (2003 No. 1 Pick) & Bronny James (2024 No. 55 Pick)
LeBron James, selected as the first overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers, has had a legendary career. Over his 21-year career, LeBron has averaged 27.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 7.3 assists per game. He is a four-time NBA champion, four-time NBA MVP, and a 19-time NBA All-Star. LeBron is widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, holding the record for the most points scored in NBA history.
Bronny James, LeBron’s eldest son, was drafted 55th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers. Bronny has faced significant scrutiny and pressure due to his father’s legacy. During his freshman season at USC, he averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, showing potential but also facing challenges, including a cardiac arrest incident that limited his playing time. Despite this, Bronny has demonstrated strong defensive skills and a promising three-point shot, projecting as a valuable 3-and-D guard in the NBA.
LeBron and Bronny James are set to make NBA history as the first father-son duo to potentially play together in the league. This unique situation underscores the blend of legacy and talent, with Bronny aiming to carve out his own path while learning from one of the greatest players ever.
Although Bronny has not yet achieved the same level of success as his father, his defensive prowess and basketball IQ position him well for a productive NBA career. The excitement surrounding their potential on-court partnership adds a historic and heartwarming element to their shared journey in the NBA.
