Looking back at the 2019 NBA Draft, I still get that familiar buzz of anticipation mixed with hindsight clarity. As someone who’s followed basketball scouting and player development for over a decade, I’ve come to appreciate drafts not just for the obvious stars, but for the ripple effects they create across leagues worldwide. That year, while Zion Williamson’s selection first overall was about as surprising as sunrise, the real intrigue lay in the unexpected gems and organizational strategies that unfolded—some of which resonate even today in leagues like the East Asia Super League, where teams like the Meralco Bolts navigate roster uncertainties with remarkable foresight.
Let’s start with the obvious winners. The New Orleans Pelicans landing Zion was a franchise-altering moment, and I’ll admit, even I was swept up in the hype. Standing at 6’6” and weighing around 285 pounds then, his athleticism was otherworldly—averaging 22.5 points and 6.3 rebounds in his rookie season, though injuries soon clouded that promise. But for me, the Memphis Grizzlies made one of the savviest moves by snagging Ja Morant second overall. His explosive playmaking and fearlessness reminded me of a young Russell Westbrook, and he’s since become the heart of that team, averaging over 27 points and 8 assists by his third year. Another clear winner was the Miami Heat, who picked Tyler Herro at 13th—a spot some considered a reach, but his scoring flair and clutch performances in the 2020 playoffs proved everyone wrong. I’ve always believed that drafts aren’t just about talent, but fit, and Herro’s synergy with Miami’s culture was a masterstroke.
Now, the surprises—that’s where things get juicy. Matisse Thybulle falling to 20th was a head-scratcher; his defensive instincts were off the charts at Washington, and he’s since become a lockdown defender for the Philadelphia 76ers. But the biggest shocker, in my view, was the Bol Bol slide to 44th. At 7’2” with guard skills, he was a unicorn prospect, but concerns over his durability and consistency scared teams off. I remember thinking then that someone would get a steal, and his recent flashes with the Orlando Magic have validated that hunch. What’s fascinating, though, is how these draft dynamics echo in other leagues. Take the Meralco Bolts in the East Asia Super League—they’ve built a roster where depth matters as much as star power. If a key player like Mitchell goes down, they’ve got DJ Kennedy and Ange Kouame waiting in the wings, ready to step up. It’s a lesson in preparedness that NBA teams could learn from; Kennedy’s versatility and Kouame’s rim protection offer insurance that mirrors how smart draft picks provide roster flexibility. I’ve seen firsthand how overlooked prospects, whether in the NBA or international circuits, can blossom when given the right opportunity.
Diving deeper, the 2019 draft also highlighted the global reach of basketball. Players like Rui Hachimura (ninth to the Wizards) and Goga Bitadze (18th to the Pacers) underscored the NBA’s expanding talent pool, and I love how this diversity enriches the game. But it’s not just about the draft night itself—it’s about the long-term vision. For instance, the Toronto Raptors picking Terence Davis as an undrafted free agent was a brilliant move; he contributed immediately to their rotation, showing that winners aren’t always first-round picks. Similarly, in the East Asia Super League, the Bolts’ approach with Kennedy and Kouame isn’t just about filling gaps; it’s about building a resilient system. Kennedy, with his experience in multiple leagues, brings a steady hand, while Kouame’s youth offers upside—much like how NBA teams stash prospects for future development. From my perspective, this kind of strategic depth is what separates good teams from great ones, whether you’re in the NBA or competing abroad.
Reflecting on all this, the 2019 NBA Draft was a tapestry of predictable triumphs and delightful curveballs. Zion and Ja will dominate the headlines, but the unsung heroes and strategic lessons are what make it memorable. As I wrap up, I can’t help but emphasize how drafts and roster moves, like those of the Bolts, remind us that basketball is a global chess match. The winners aren’t just the teams with the top picks, but those who read the board ahead of time. So, next time you’re analyzing a draft, look beyond the obvious—because sometimes, the biggest surprises are hiding in plain sight, waiting for their moment to shine.
