Photo: Getty Images
The anticipation for the 2024 NBA Draft brings to mind some of the most memorable moments in draft history. One such moment is the 2009 Draft, which stands out for two significant reasons.
Ricky Rubio's Historic Selection
In 2009, Ricky Rubio, the talented point guard from Spain, was selected fifth overall. This was a remarkable achievement, especially for a European player in a highly competitive draft. Rubio, who currently plays for Barça, had an impressive NBA career with averages of 10.8 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 7.4 assists over 698 games. His selection was a proud moment for European basketball.
The Timberwolves' Missed Opportunity
"The Timberwolves had two consecutive picks in the 2009 Draft, selecting Ricky Rubio at fifth and Jonny Flynn at sixth."
While choosing Rubio was a solid decision, the sixth pick became one of the most debated choices in NBA history. The Timberwolves selected Jonny Flynn, a decision that had far-reaching consequences. Flynn's NBA career lasted just three seasons, a stark contrast to what could have been.
Stephen Curry: The One That Got Away
With the seventh pick, the Golden State Warriors selected Stephen Curry, who would go on to become one of the greatest point guards in NBA history. Curry's accolades include being the all-time leader in three-pointers made, winning four NBA championships, and revolutionizing the game with his shooting prowess.
A Tale of Two Careers
Ricky Rubio's NBA journey was commendable, but when compared to Curry's legendary career, the contrast is striking. Rubio's selection remains a significant moment for European players, but the Timberwolves' decision to pass on Curry is often cited as one of the biggest draft blunders.
Looking Ahead to the 2024 Draft
As we approach the 2024 Draft, teams will undoubtedly reflect on past decisions, hoping to avoid similar mistakes. The lessons from 2009 serve as a reminder of the importance of each pick and the potential for one decision to change the course of NBA history.
Editor: Emiliia Morozova
Basketball
Lauri Markkanen's Potential Move to Spurs: Game-Changer for Wembanyama?Basketball
Luka Doncic Faces Summer Setback as Derrick Jones Jr. Joins ClippersBasketball
Golden State Warriors Waive Chris Paul, Decline Zach LaVine Trade OfferBasketball
Alex Len Signs One-Year Deal with Sacramento Kings for $3.3 MillionBasketball
Klay Thompson Set to Leave Warriors: Will He Join LeBron and the Lakers?Basketball
Klay Thompson's Potential Departure to Lakers: Can Warriors Recover?Basketball
Paul George Joins Free Agency Frenzy: Potential Moves to 76ers or MagicBasketball
Bronny James Joins Lakers: Will LeBron James Wait for Bryce Before Retiring?Basketball
Royce O'Neale Signs $44 Million Deal to Stay with Phoenix SunsBasketball
Clippers' Financial Reshuffle: Brandon Boston Jr. Exits, Paul George's Future UncertainBasketball
Toronto Raptors Set to Part Ways with Gary Trent Jr.: Financial Constraints and New Additions Signal EndBasketball
Los Angeles Lakers target Jonas Valanciunas: New coach, new ambitionsBasketball
The Houston Rockets are preparing a sensational trade of Kevin Durant: what awaits the NBA?Basketball
JJ Redick took over the Los Angeles Lakers: a new phase for the legendary clubBasketball
Vitaly Stepanovskyi took charge of Estonian Pärnu: a new challenge for the Ukrainian coachBasketball
Tytanovi dominate the first game day of the Kyiv Open Championship in wheelchair basketballBasketball
Vitaly Stepanovskyi becomes the head coach of the Estonian "Pärnu"Basketball
'Luka Doncic is a warrior': Niko Harrison on Dallas Mavericks star after NBA FinalsBasketball
Chicago Bulls, Oklahoma City Thunder Make Sensational Trade: Caruso, Giddy Switch TeamsBasketball
Pascal Siakam remains with the Indiana Pacers: a new contract for $189.5 millionBasketball
Kristaps Porzingis will miss the 2024 Olympics due to a rare leg injuryBasketball
Boston Celtics win the Larry O'Brien Trophy: Jaylen Brown is Finals MVP