Looking Back at the 2011 NBA Draft: Where Are the Top Picks Now?

Looking back at the 2011 NBA Draft feels like flipping through an old photo album where some faces became superstars while others faded into the background. I remember watching that draft live, thinking about how these young talents would reshape the league. Fast forward over a decade, and it’s fascinating—and a bit sobering—to see where those top picks landed. As someone who’s followed basketball for years, both as a fan and an analyst, I’ve always been drawn to stories of potential versus reality. This draft class, in particular, stands out not just for its hits but for the dramatic twists in its narrative.

Let’s start with Kyrie Irving, the number one pick by the Cleveland Cavaliers. Back then, I was skeptical—partly because of the limited college tape due to his Duke stint being cut short by injury. But man, was I wrong. Irving didn’t just live up to the hype; he soared past it. Think about his career: an NBA championship in 2016, eight All-Star selections, and that unforgettable shot in Game 7 against the Warriors. He’s averaged around 23 points and 6 assists per game over his career, and even now, with the Dallas Mavericks, he’s putting up solid numbers. Yet, it hasn’t all been smooth sailing. His stints with the Celtics and Nets were rocky, and his off-court controversies sometimes overshadowed his brilliance. Personally, I’ve always admired his handles and clutch performances, but I can’t ignore how his journey reflects the pressure top picks face to balance talent with team dynamics.

Then there’s Derrick Williams, picked second by the Minnesota Timberwolves. Oh, what could have been. I recall the buzz around his athleticism and versatility, but he never quite found his footing in the NBA. Over seven seasons, he bounced between six teams, averaging a modest 8.9 points per game. It’s a classic case of a player who shone in college—Arizona Wildcats fans will remember his dominance—but struggled to adapt to the pros. In my view, the league’s shift toward positionless basketball might have favored him today, but back then, he was often miscast. Watching his career unfold felt like seeing a puzzle with missing pieces; you root for the guy, but the fit just wasn’t right.

The third pick, Enes Kanter (now Enes Freedom), brought a different kind of drama. Known for his rebounding and post skills, he put up decent stats—like his 2015-16 season with the Thunder, where he averaged a double-double. But what sticks with me is his outspoken activism, which eventually led him to change his name and focus off the court. It’s a reminder that draft picks aren’t just athletes; they’re people with convictions that can shape their paths. I respect his courage, even if it cost him some NBA opportunities. On the court, though, his defense was often a liability, and as the game evolved toward spacing and switchability, his role diminished.

Now, this is where that quote from the knowledge base comes in—it’s not directly about the NBA, but it echoes the mindset many players have. “I was really eyeing for it. Sabi ko nga sa mga nagma-manage, puwede ako Game Two. Pero meron na silang napili. Sabi ko, in case wala talaga, I can. In-ano ko naman sa oras eh. Kung babanga talaga sa oras na hindi ako aabot sa laro, hindi ko ‘yun iko-compromise,” said Belga. Translated, it’s about being ready to step up when called upon, even if plans change. That resilience resonates with so many in the 2011 class. Take Tristan Thompson, picked fourth by the Cavaliers—he wasn’t the flashiest, but he carved out a role as a reliable big man, crucial to that 2016 title run. Or Kawhi Leonard, the 15th pick who became a two-time Finals MVP; he embodied that readiness, transforming from a defensive specialist into a superstar. I’ve always been a sucker for underdog stories like his—it’s why I think the draft’s later rounds often hide the real gems.

But let’s not forget the misses. Jan Veselý, picked sixth by the Wizards, lasted only three seasons in the NBA, averaging a paltry 3.6 points. I remember scratching my head at that pick; his European style didn’t translate well, and it highlights how risky international scouting can be. On the flip side, players like Klay Thompson (11th pick) and Jimmy Butler (30th pick) exceeded expectations. Butler’s rise from a junior college to Miami Heat leader is stuff of legends—I’ve followed his workouts and mentality, and it’s no surprise he’s thrived. Data-wise, he’s averaged over 20 points per game in his prime, and his playoff performances are clutch.

Reflecting on all this, the 2011 draft teaches us that success isn’t just about draft position; it’s about fit, development, and a bit of luck. As a fan, I lean toward valuing longevity and impact over flashy starts. Irving and Leonard are the stars, but guys like Isaiah Thomas (last pick in 2011) who briefly shone bright remind me how fleeting careers can be. In the end, this class is a mosaic of what-ifs and triumphs, and revisiting it feels like catching up with old friends—some you’re proud of, others you wish had more time in the spotlight. For anyone in sports management, it’s a lesson in patience and scouting depth, not just top-tier talent.