28. Tony Parker (2001)
When the Spurs took a point guard from France, they didn’t know that Parker would develop into an All-NBA player who would help lead the franchise to four more titles in the coming years. A six-time All-Star, Parker became part of the Spurs’ big three. He was a force immediately, shining as one of the league’s best rookies in 2002. Parker would be named 2007 NBA Finals MVP. Between 2005 and 2013 he averaged more than 18 ppg while also creating offense for Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, and the rest of the Spurs team. Few words need to be said about the impact Parker had on this franchise, though many teams regret letting him fall to the 28th pick.
Gilbert Arenas was taken three picks later, but I’m sure the Spurs are satisfied with their selection. When you consider names like Trenton Hassell, Omar Cook, and Will Solomon were taken just a few picks later, the Spurs were right to trust an international prospect like Parker. His development was outstanding and he truly shined in San Antonio.
Honorable mentions: Tiago Splitter (SAS – 2007), Leandro Barbosa (SAS – 2003)
27. Kyle Kuzma (2017)
There have been some intriguing players taken with the 27th pick over the years, though none of these players have had the immediate impact as former Utah forward Kyle Kuzma. He was taken by the Nets before heading to the Lakers on a draft-day trade. Kuzma was one of the best rookies in 2018 and averaged more than 18 ppg in his sophomore season last year. His long-range shooting slumped this season, though he’s started to develop into a better all-around power forward. The Lakers’ future is in doubt, but wherever Kuzma ends up he’ll be a great option at forward.
It’s hard to judge the players taken just two seasons ago in the draft, though few players taken late in the first round have developed as quickly as Kuzma. Tony Bradley, Derrick White, and Josh Hart were the three picks taken after him. Donovan Mitchell is the only 2017 draft pick averaging more points per game than Kuzma.