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Ranking the best No. 1 overall draft picks in NBA history

nqajqrqw7months ago (05-16)Basketball Hub240

San Antonio Spurs No. 1 overall pick Victor Wembanyama isarguably the most hyped-up draft prospects in NBA history, and alleyes will be on him throughout his rookie season.

Being the No. 1 pick in the NBA Draft isn't easy; it comes witha ton of pressure and attention. Some players are able to overcomethis and become superstars, while others aren't able to live up tothe extreme expectations.

Today, let's take a look back at the best No. 1 overall picks inNBA history.

1. LeBron James, 2003 NBA Draft, ClevelandCavaliers

LeBron James entered the league with unparalleled hype andsomehow lived up to the immense expectations. James possesses aunique combination of size, athleticism and basketball IQ. Withfour NBA championships, four MVP awards and numerous All-NBAselections, James has solidified his place as arguably the greatestplayer to ever pick up a basketball, and certainly the best No. 1overall pick of all-time. LeBron is the NBA's all-time leadingscorer, surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar last season.

2. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, 1969 NBA Draft, MilwaukeeBucks

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, formerly known as Lew Alcindor, was thefirst overall pick in the 1969 NBA Draft by the Milwaukee Bucks.Standing at an impressive 7-foot-2, Abdul-Jabbar possessedexceptional skills and athleticism. Throughout his illustriouscareer, he amassed six NBA championships and six MVP awards. Hisiconic skyhook shot and dominant presence in the paintrevolutionized the game and cemented his status as one of thegreatest players ever.

3. Magic Johnson, 1979 NBA Draft, Los AngelesLakers

Magic Johnson, selected as the first overall pick by the LosAngeles Lakers in the 1979 NBA Draft, brought a new style of playto the league and helped usher in the Showtime era of Lakersbasketball. At 6-foot-9, Johnson possessed exceptional court visionand ball-handling skills as well as terrific leadership abilities.He led the Lakers to five championships and was a three-time MVP.His rivalry with Larry Bird captivated fans and elevated thepopularity of the NBA, making him one of the most influentialplayers in basketball history.

4. Tim Duncan, 1997 NBA Draft, San AntonioSpurs

Tim Duncan, selected as the first overall pick by the SanAntonio Spurs in 1997, exemplified consistency and excellencethroughout his career. Known for his fundamental skills, basketballIQ and unassuming demeanor, Duncan led the Spurs to five NBAchampionships and earned two MVP awards. His dominance in thepaint, defensive prowess and exceptional leadership made him thecornerstone of the Spurs' dynasty for nearly two decades.

5. Shaquille O'Neal, 1992 NBA Draft, OrlandoMagic

Drafted as the top pick by the Orlando Magic in 1992, Shaq'scombination of size, strength and agility was unprecedented.Standing at 7-foot-1 and weighing over 300 pounds, he dominated thepaint with his powerful dunks and sheer force. O'Neal's impact wasundeniable, leading the Magic to their first-ever NBA Finalsappearance in 1995. Throughout his career, he won four NBAchampionships and was a three-time Finals MVP. Shaq'slarger-than-life personality and dominant style of play made him afan favorite and an iconic figure in the sport. He's widelyregarded as one of the most dominant players in NBA history.

Will Wemby be able to crack this list someday? Let us know what you think by tweeting at us!

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