The NBA Draft Class of 2013, with its mix of promising talent and diverse skill sets, stands as a pivotal chapter in the league’s history. The anticipation surrounding this draft was heightened by the prospect of unearthing future stars who would shape the landscape of professional basketball.
Led by the transcendent talent of Giannis Antetokounmpo, this class would produce a remarkable array of players, each contributing to the league in their own unique way. From the defensive dominance of Rudy Gobert to the offensive prowess of CJ McCollum and Victor Oladipo, the 2013 draft class showcased the depth and versatility that would define these athletes’ careers.
Tier 1
Giannis Antetokounmpo
Giannis Antetokounmpo, the transformative force known as the “Greek Freak,” reigns supreme in Tier 1. Over his illustrious career, Giannis has become a two-time NBA MVP, a seven-time NBA All-Star, and a seven-time All-NBA Team selection. His statistical brilliance includes career averages of 23.1 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game. Beyond the numbers, Giannis led the Milwaukee Bucks to an NBA Championship in 2021, earning NBA Finals MVP honors. His impact transcends conventional positions, blending athleticism, skill, and a relentless work ethic. Giannis stands as a beacon of excellence, symbolizing a new era in basketball dominance.
Tier 2
Rudy Gobert, CJ McCollum, Victor Oladipo
Rudy Gobert, the towering French center, anchors Tier 2 with his defensive prowess. A three-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year, Gobert has revolutionized rim protection. His career statistics boast impressive averages of 12.6 points, 11.7 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game. Gobert’s impact goes beyond the stat sheet, shaping the Minnesota Timberwolves into a defensive juggernaut this season. As a three-time NBA All-Star, Gobert’s contributions extend far beyond individual accolades, solidifying him as a linchpin for team success.
CJ McCollum, the dynamic shooting guard for the New Orleans Pelicans, shines in Tier 2 with his scoring ability and offensive finesse. Throughout his career, McCollum has maintained averages of 19.4 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game. His scoring proficiency, coupled with a smooth shooting stroke, has made him a crucial part of the Pelicans’ offensive scheme. McCollum’s impact isn’t solely statistical; he’s a vital component of New Orleans’ success, earning him recognition as a key contributor in their new reconstruction.
Victor Oladipo, a two-way guard with a well-rounded skill set, joins Tier 2 with notable accomplishments. An NBA All-Star and All-Defensive First Team selection, Oladipo has averaged 16.9 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game over his career. Despite facing injury challenges, Oladipo’s impact on both ends of the floor is undeniable. His journey, including stints with the Indiana Pacers, Orlando Magic, and Miami Heat, underscores his resilience and ability to influence the game positively.
Tier 3
Steven Adams, Otto Porter Jr., Dennis Schroder
Steven Adams, the robust New Zealand center, anchors Tier 3 with his physical play in the paint. Averaging 9.2 points and 8.2 rebounds per game, Adams has been a consistent force for the Oklahoma City Thunder, the New Orleans Pelicans, and now a member of the Memphis Grizzlies. Beyond statistics, Adams’ impact is felt through his tenacious rebounding, rugged defense, and veteran leadership, making him an invaluable asset to any team.
Otto Porter Jr., a versatile forward with a balanced skill set, occupies Tier 3. Throughout his career, Porter has posted averages of 10.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game. His ability to contribute on both ends of the floor, including three-point shooting and perimeter defense, has made him a sought-after player. Despite injury setbacks, Porter’s basketball IQ and versatility continue to make him a valuable asset after a championship with the Warriors in 2022.
Dennis Schroder concludes Tier 3 with his scoring and playmaking abilities. Averaging 14.0 points and 4.8 assists per game, Schroder has showcased his offensive prowess with various teams. His journey includes impactful stints with the Atlanta Hawks and Oklahoma City Thunder, where he demonstrated an ability to orchestrate offenses and make timely plays. In his latter stages, he was part of the Los Angeles Lakers and currently plays in Toronto. Schroder’s resilience and skill set position him as a valuable contributor to the upcoming trade deadline.
Tier 4
Nerlens Noel, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Trey Burke, Cody Zeller, Tim Hardaway Jr., Mason Plumlee, Reggie Bullock
Nerlens Noel has established himself as a reliable shot-blocker and rim protector. Averaging 7.1 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game, Noel’s defensive impact goes beyond traditional statistics. His journey has seen him contribute to teams like the Philadelphia 76ers, Dallas Mavericks, and New York Knicks. Noel’s presence in the paint and ability to alter shots make him a valuable asset for any team.
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, a proficient three-and-D player, occupies Tier 4 with his defensive prowess and three-point shooting. A key contributor for championship-winning teams like the Los Angeles Lakers or Denver Nuggets, Caldwell-Pope has averaged around 11.4 points per game throughout his career. His ability to defend elite perimeter players and knock down timely three-pointers has been instrumental in the success of the teams he’s played for.
Trey Burke, a skilled point guard with a scoring touch, stands out in Tier 4. Averaging 9.6 points per game, Burke has showcased his offensive capabilities throughout his career. From his early days with the Utah Jazz to his contributions with the Dallas Mavericks, Burke has been a reliable spark plug off the bench, providing scoring and playmaking when needed.
Cody Zeller makes his presence felt with his scoring efficiency and rebounding. Averaging 8.1 points and 5.7 rebounds per game, Zeller has been a consistent contributor in the paint. His ability to finish around the rim and provide a solid interior presence has been valuable for teams like the Charlotte Hornets and now the New Orleans Pelicans.
Tim Hardaway Jr., a scoring wing with a smooth shooting stroke, adds to the talent in Tier 4. Averaging 14.2 points per game, Hardaway has been a reliable perimeter scorer throughout his career. His contributions to the Dallas Mavericks include timely three-point shooting and offensive versatility, making him a valuable asset on the wing.
Mason Plumlee, a skilled and athletic big man, contributes with his rebounding and playmaking abilities. Averaging 8.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game, Plumlee’s versatility has been on display with teams like the Portland Trail Blazers, Denver Nuggets, and Detroit Pistons. His ability to facilitate offense from the frontcourt adds an extra dimension to his game as a rotational player for the Los Angeles Clippers.
Reggie Bullock, a three-and-D specialist, rounds out Tier 4 with his perimeter shooting and defensive capabilities. Averaging 7.5 points per game, Bullock’s journey through multiple teams showcases his consistent impact on both ends of the floor. His ability to stretch the floor and defend opposing wings makes him a valuable asset for any team in need of perimeter support.
Tier 5
Michael Carter-Williams, Shabazz Muhammad, Alex Len, Ben McLemore, Tony Snell, Kelly Olynyk, Gorgui Dieng, Andre Roberson, Raul Neto
Michael Carter-Williams, the versatile guard, finds himself in Tier 5. A product of Syracuse University, Carter-Williams burst onto the NBA scene by earning Rookie of the Year honors in 2014. Throughout his career, he has displayed a knack for contributing across the stat sheet, with averages of 10.2 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game. Carter-Williams’ journey includes stops with various teams, and his ability to impact the game defensively and as a playmaker remains a valuable asset.
Shabazz Muhammad, known for his scoring instincts, averaged 9.0 points per game over his career. While his journey included multiple teams, his ability to provide scoring off the bench has been evident. Muhammad’s knack for putting points on the board adds depth to his contributions in various roles.
Alex Len, the Ukrainian center, contributes to Tier 5 with his presence in the paint. Averaging 7.3 points and 5.6 rebounds per game, Len’s career has seen him provide interior scoring and rebounding for teams like the Phoenix Suns, Atlanta Hawks, and Sacramento Kings. His size and rebounding ability make him a valuable rotational big man in the league.
Ben McLemore, a skilled shooting guard, adds to the talent pool. McLemore’s career has been marked by his three-point shooting, athleticism, and scoring ability. With averages of 9.0 points per game, he has showcased his perimeter scoring for teams like the Sacramento Kings and Houston Rockets. McLemore’s ability to stretch the floor and provide a scoring punch from the wing makes him a valuable asset.
Tony Snell, a three-and-D wing, finds his place in Tier 5. Known for his perimeter shooting and defensive capabilities, Snell has averaged 6.1 points per game throughout his career. His journey includes stints with the Chicago Bulls, Milwaukee Bucks, and Atlanta Hawks, where he has contributed as a reliable three-point shooter and perimeter defender.
Kelly Olynyk, the skilled big man, adds to the depth of Tier 5. Averaging 10.2 points and 5 rebounds per game, Olynyk’s versatility has been on display with the Boston Celtics, Miami Heat, and Utah Jazz this season. His ability to stretch the floor as a big man and contribute both inside and outside the paint makes him a valuable asset for teams in need of frontcourt versatility.
Gorgui Dieng, the Senegalese center, brings his interior presence. Averaging 7.3 points and 5.6 rebounds per game, Dieng has showcased his shot-blocking and rebounding abilities with the Minnesota Timberwolves and Memphis Grizzlies. His defensive impact in the paint adds depth to his contributions as a rotational big man.
Andre Roberson, an elite perimeter defender, was outstanding in his time. Known for his defensive prowess, Roberson’s career has been hindered by injuries. Despite limited offensive contributions, his ability to lock down opposing wings has been invaluable. Roberson’s impact goes beyond traditional statistics, and his defensive tenacity has left a lasting impression for the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Raul Neto, the Brazilian point guard, rounds out Tier 5. Averaging 5.7 points and 2 assists per game, Neto has been a steady presence as a backup point guard for teams like the Utah Jazz and Cleveland Cavaliers. His ability to run an offense and provide depth at the guard position makes him a valuable asset off the bench.
Tier 6
Anthony Bennett, Shane Larkin, Solomon Hill, Archie Goodwin, Nemanja Nedovic, Lucas Nogueira, Isaiah Canaan
Anthony Bennett, the first overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft, struggled to find his footing in the league. Over his career, he averaged 4.4 points and 3 rebounds per game, facing challenges in establishing a consistent role. Bennett’s journey took him through multiple teams, and while his NBA path didn’t unfold as expected, his resilience remains a notable aspect of his basketball narrative.
Shane Larkin, a crafty point guard, left an imprint on the league with his playmaking abilities. Posting averages of 5.5 points and 2.9 assists per game, Larkin showcased flashes of his talent during his tenure. Despite a relatively brief stint in the NBA, his journey involved adapting to different teams and leagues in Europe, contributing to the diverse tapestry of global basketball.
Solomon Hill, a versatile forward revered for his defensive prowess, quietly contributed to various NBA squads. With averages of 5.5 points and 3 rebounds per game, Hill’s impact transcends traditional statistics. His adaptability to different roles on the court, coupled with a formidable defensive presence, added a distinctive dimension to his career.
Archie Goodwin, an explosive shooting guard, experienced the peaks and valleys of an NBA career. Sporting averages of 6.3 points per game, Goodwin displayed sporadic flashes of scoring brilliance. Navigating through different teams, he sought to establish a lasting presence in the league, showcasing glimpses of potential and athleticism along the way.
Nemanja Nedovic, a Serbian guard with international experience, brought a unique perspective to Tier 6. While his NBA stint was relatively short-lived, averaging 1.1 points per game, Nedovic’s journey extended beyond the league. His global basketball background made him a true star on the international stage, as one of the key figures of the Euroleague.
Lucas Nogueira, the Brazilian shot-blocking maestro, made his mark with averages of 3.2 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks per game. Renowned for his shot-blocking prowess, Nogueira’s energetic style left an indelible impression, particularly during his tenure with the Toronto Raptors. Despite grappling with challenges in securing a permanent role, his shot-blocking finesse added a distinctive element to his contributions.
Isaiah Canaan, the tenacious point guard, finds his place in Tier 6. Boasting career averages of 8.1 points and 1.9 assists per game, Canaan exhibited glimpses of scoring prowess and playmaking abilities. His journey underscored the competitive nature of the NBA, where players navigate hurdles to etch their mark on the league’s landscape.
