Zion Williamson was the first overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft.
Zion Williamson's Selection
On June 20, 2019, Zion Williamson, a highly touted forward from Duke University, was selected by the New Orleans Pelicans with the first pick of the NBA Draft. His selection was widely anticipated, as he was considered a generational talent due to his explosive athleticism, unique skill set, and dominant collegiate performance. Williamson's draft position solidified his standing as the consensus top prospect in his class.
He was notably one of three players from Duke University who were drafted as lottery picks in the 2019 NBA Draft, underscoring the strong collegiate talent produced by the program that year.
Key Selections of the 2019 NBA Draft
The 2019 NBA Draft featured a deep pool of talent, with several players going on to become significant contributors in the league. The top picks included:
Pick | Player Name | Team | College/Origin |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Zion Williamson | New Orleans Pelicans | Duke University |
2 | Ja Morant | Memphis Grizzlies | Murray State |
3 | RJ Barrett | New York Knicks | Duke University |
4 | De'Andre Hunter | Atlanta Hawks | Virginia |
5 | Darius Garland | Cleveland Cavaliers | Vanderbilt |
Impact of Top Picks
The top selections of the 2019 draft quickly made their presence felt in the NBA:
- Zion Williamson: His arrival in New Orleans brought a new level of excitement and expectations for the Pelicans franchise, with fans eager to witness his dynamic play and potential.
- Ja Morant: Selected second overall by the Memphis Grizzlies, Ja Morant quickly established himself as a future star point guard. He went on to win the NBA Rookie of the Year honors for the 2019–20 season, showcasing his immediate impact and leadership for his team.
For more detailed information on the draft class, you can refer to the 2019 NBA draft.