NBA 2019 Draft Review: Top Picks and Surprises

The 2019 NBA draft was one of the most highly anticipated in recent memory, with a mix of talented big men, athletic wings, and savvy guards vying for the top spots. In the end, it was the New Orleans Pelicans who stole the show, selecting Zion Williamson first overall.

Williamson, a 6''7" power forward from Duke University, was widely regarded as the best prospect in the class. His impressive combination of size, strength, and athleticism made him a nightmare matchup.html">matchup for opponents, and his college stats – 22.6 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game – only added to his hype.

But while Williamson was the clear top pick, there were some surprises further down the board. The Washington Wizards'' selection of Rui Hachimura, a 6''8" forward from Gonzaga University, at ninth overall was a particularly eyebrow-raising move. Hachimura''s impressive college stats – 19.7 points and 6.5 rebounds per game – had him trending upward on draft boards late in the process.

Other notable picks included Ja Morant to the Memphis Grizzlies at second overall, Darius Garland to the Cleveland Cavaliers at fifth overall, and Jarrett Culver to the Minnesota Timberwolves at sixth overall. Each of these players.html">players brings unique skills and strengths to their respective teams, and it will be fascinating to watch them develop in the coming years.

The 2019 draft also featured a number of international players, including Hachimura, who joined the likes of Luka Doncic (Atlanta Hawks) and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Los Angeles Clippers) as top-10 picks. These players will bring an added level of diversity and talent to their teams, and could play key roles in shaping the league''s future.

In conclusion, the 2019 NBA draft was a thrilling event that featured plenty of surprises and storylines. With Williamson and company set to make their mark on the league, it''s clear that the future is bright for these young players – and for basketbal.html">basketball.html">basketball fans everywhere.