The NBA has evolved dramatically over the years, transitioning into a league that increasingly favors youthful talent. In recent decades, teams have opted to draft players straight out of high school or at a remarkably young age, shifting away from the previous norm of selecting collegiate athletes in their early twenties. This trend has led to the emergence of some incredibly talented young players who have made their mark in the league. Below, we explore the youngest players ever drafted into the NBA, highlighting their achievements and contributions to the game.
1. Andrew Bynum: 17 years and 245 days
Selected by the Los Angeles Lakers as the 10th overall pick in the 2005 NBA Draft, Andrew Bynum made history as one of the youngest players ever to be drafted. Over his eight-season career, he averaged 11.5 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game, becoming a crucial part of the Lakers’ success during his tenure.
2. Jermaine O’Neal: 17 years and 256 days
Jermaine O’Neal was picked 17th overall by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 1996 Draft. Over his 18-year career, he developed into a dominant force, averaging 13.2 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game. His time in the league showcased his versatility and skill, making him a fan favorite.
3. Kobe Bryant: 17 years and 307 days
Kobe Bryant, drafted 13th overall by the Charlotte Hornets in 1996, is undoubtedly one of the most iconic figures in NBA history. After being traded to the Los Angeles Lakers shortly after the draft, he went on to have a legendary career, averaging 25.0 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.7 assists over 20 seasons. His impact on the game and his five NBA championships solidify his legacy.
4. Darko Miličić: 18 years and 6 days
Selected by the Detroit Pistons as the 2nd overall pick in the 2003 Draft, Darko Miličić had a unique journey in the NBA. While his career averages of 6.0 points and 4.2 rebounds per game may not reflect his draft position, he played a significant role in the Pistons’ championship run in 2004.
5. Bill Willoughby: 18 years and 14 days
Bill Willoughby was chosen 19th overall by the Atlanta Hawks in the 1975 Draft. Over his eight seasons, he averaged 6.0 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 0.8 assists, showcasing his potential as a young player in the league.
6. Tracy McGrady: 18 years and 32 days
Tracy McGrady was selected 9th overall by the Toronto Raptors in the 1997 Draft. He became a two-time scoring champion and a seven-time NBA All-Star, averaging 19.6 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.4 assists during his 15-year career. His ability to score and create plays made him one of the most electrifying players of his generation.
7. Ersan Ilyasova: 18 years and 44 days
Drafted 36th overall by the Milwaukee Bucks in 2005, Ersan Ilyasova has had a solid career, averaging 10.1 points and 5.6 rebounds over 13 seasons. His shooting ability and versatility have made him a valuable asset to multiple teams.
8. Yaroslav Korolev: 18 years and 52 days
Selected 12th overall by the Los Angeles Clippers in 2005, Yaroslav Korolev faced challenges in the NBA, with career averages of 1.1 points, 0.5 rebounds, and 0.4 assists over two seasons. His journey reflects the difficulties young players can face in adapting to the league.
9. Amir Johnson: 18 years and 58 days
Amir Johnson was drafted 56th overall by the Detroit Pistons in 2005. Over his 14-year career, he averaged 7.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.0 block per game, showcasing his development as a reliable role player.
10. Andris Biedrins: 18 years and 83 days
Selected 11th overall by the Golden State Warriors in 2004, Andris Biedrins had a productive career, averaging 6.3 points and 7.0 rebounds over ten seasons. His rebounding and shot-blocking abilities made him a key contributor for the Warriors.
11. CJ Miles: 18 years and 102 days
Drafted 34th overall by the Utah Jazz in 2005, CJ Miles enjoyed a lengthy NBA career, averaging 9.6 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.1 assists over 15 seasons. His scoring ability and experience have made him a valuable veteran presence on multiple teams.
12. Al Harrington: 18 years and 128 days
Selected 25th overall by the Indiana Pacers in 1998, Al Harrington had a successful career, averaging 13.5 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.7 assists over 16 seasons. His scoring prowess and versatility made him a sought-after player.
13. Andrei Kirilenko: 18 years and 132 days
Drafted 24th overall by the Utah Jazz in 1999, Andrei Kirilenko was known for his defensive skills and all-around game. He averaged 11.8 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.7 assists during his 13-year career, earning a reputation as a versatile forward.
14. Bruno Sundov: 18 years and 135 days
Bruno Sundov was selected 35th overall by the Dallas Mavericks in 1998. His career stats reflect the challenges young players can face, with averages of just 1.7 points and 1.0 rebound over seven seasons.
15. Maciej Lampe: 18 years and 141 days
Drafted 30th overall by the New York Knicks in 2003, Maciej Lampe had a brief NBA career, averaging 3.4 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 0.3 assists over three seasons.
16. Darryl Dawkins: 18 years and 143 days
Darryl Dawkins was picked 5th overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 1975 Draft. Known for his powerful dunks and personality, he averaged 12.0 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks over 14 seasons.
17. Jonathan Bender: 18 years and 151 days
Selected 5th overall by the Toronto Raptors in 1999, Jonathan Bender had a career marked by injuries, averaging 5.5 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 0.6 assists over eight seasons.
18. LeBron James: 18 years and 178 days
LeBron James was selected 1st overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2003 Draft. Widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, he has averaged 27.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 7.4 assists over 22 seasons, winning four NBA championships and numerous accolades.
19. Sekou Doumbouya: 18 years and 179 days
Drafted 15th overall by the Detroit Pistons in the 2019 Draft, Sekou Doumbouya has shown promise, averaging 5.6 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 0.7 assists in three seasons.
20. Ulrich Chomche: 18 years and 179 days
Selected 57th overall by the Toronto Raptors in the 2024 Draft, Ulrich Chomche had a brief stint in the NBA, averaging 0.8 points, 0.8 rebounds, and 0.2 assists in one season.
21. Cooper Flagg: 18 years and 186 days
Cooper Flagg was chosen as the 1st overall pick by the Dallas Mavericks in the 2025 Draft, showcasing the league’s continued trend of selecting young talent with high potential.
22. GG Jackson: 18 years and 187 days
Drafted 45th overall by the Memphis Grizzlies in the 2023 Draft, GG Jackson made an immediate impact, averaging 14.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.2 assists in his rookie season.
23. Dwight Howard: 18 years and 198 days
Selected 1st overall by the Orlando Magic in the 2004 Draft, Dwight Howard is a three-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year and has averaged 15.7 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks over 18 seasons.
24. Josh Smith: 18 years and 201 days
Drafted 17th overall by the Atlanta Hawks in the 2004 Draft, Josh Smith was known for his athleticism and versatility, averaging 14.5 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 3.1 assists during his 13-year career.
25. Robert Swift: 18 years and 203 days
Selected 12th overall by the Seattle SuperSonics in the 2004 Draft, Robert Swift faced challenges in his career, averaging 4.3 points and 3.9 rebounds over four seasons.
26. Giannis Antetokounmpo: 18 years and 203 days
Giannis Antetokounmpo was drafted 15th overall by the Milwaukee Bucks in 2013. Known as “The Greek Freak,” he has become one of the league’s premier players, averaging 23.7 points, 11.6 rebounds, and 5.9 assists over 12 seasons.
The trend of drafting young talent continues to shape the NBA landscape, as teams look for the next generation of superstars to lead them to success. As fans, we eagerly anticipate the impact these young players will have on the future of basketball.