2014 NBA Draft: Who Was The #1 Pick?

The 2014 NBA Draft is a significant event in basketball history, particularly for the players selected and the teams that made those crucial decisions. When we talk about the first pick in any draft, it immediately piques interest. It's a moment of high anticipation, as the team with the coveted top spot gets to choose who they believe will be a franchise cornerstone. Guys, let's dive into who that lucky player was back in 2014!

Andrew Wiggins: The Chosen One

In 2014, the Cleveland Cavaliers held the number one overall pick, and they selected Andrew Wiggins from the University of Kansas. This pick was met with considerable excitement and high expectations. Andrew Wiggins had an outstanding freshman year with the Kansas Jayhawks, showcasing his incredible athleticism, scoring ability, and defensive potential. These qualities made him the consensus top prospect in that year's draft class. Scouts and analysts lauded Wiggins for his smooth game, versatility, and the potential to become a dominant two-way player in the NBA.

Pre-Draft Hype

Before the draft, Wiggins was drawing comparisons to NBA stars like Tracy McGrady and even a young LeBron James, mainly due to his exceptional athleticism and all-around game. His ability to drive to the basket, shoot from the perimeter, and defend multiple positions made him an incredibly attractive prospect. The Cavaliers, fresh off another disappointing season, were desperate for a player who could help turn their fortunes around. Drafting Wiggins seemed like the perfect move to inject some much-needed talent and excitement into the franchise. The anticipation surrounding his arrival in Cleveland was palpable, with fans eagerly awaiting the start of the new season to see their potential savior in action.

A Change of Plans

However, things took an unexpected turn. Before Wiggins could even suit up for a regular-season game with the Cavaliers, he was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves as part of a blockbuster deal to bring Kevin Love to Cleveland. This trade was a significant gamble for the Cavaliers, as they were essentially betting on Love's established NBA stardom to help them compete for a championship immediately. For the Timberwolves, acquiring Wiggins represented a long-term investment in a young, high-potential player who they hoped would become the face of their franchise.

Wiggins' Career in Minnesota

Following the trade, Andrew Wiggins joined the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he was expected to be a central figure in their rebuilding process. In his first season, Wiggins quickly established himself as a key player, showcasing the skills and potential that had made him the number one pick. He averaged an impressive 16.9 points per game, demonstrating his scoring ability and earning him the NBA Rookie of the Year award in 2015. This accolade validated the Timberwolves' decision to acquire him and reinforced the belief that he could become a star in the league.

Early Promise

Wiggins continued to develop his game over the next few seasons, increasing his scoring output and becoming a more efficient player. He formed a promising young core with other talented players like Karl-Anthony Towns and Zach LaVine, giving Timberwolves fans hope for a bright future. During the 2016-2017 season, Wiggins averaged a career-high 23.6 points per game, solidifying his status as a leading scorer in the league. His athleticism and scoring prowess were on full display, as he consistently made highlight-reel plays and demonstrated his ability to take over games. The Timberwolves appeared to be on the verge of becoming a playoff contender, with Wiggins playing a crucial role in their potential success.

Challenges and Growth

Despite his individual success, Wiggins faced challenges in translating his scoring ability into team success. The Timberwolves struggled to consistently win games, and questions arose about Wiggins' overall impact on the team. Critics pointed to his defensive deficiencies and inconsistent effort as areas that needed improvement. While he showed flashes of brilliance, he often failed to consistently perform at an elite level, leading to frustration among fans and analysts. The pressure to live up to his number one pick status weighed heavily on Wiggins, and he faced scrutiny for not fully realizing his immense potential.

Trade to the Golden State Warriors

After spending several seasons with the Timberwolves, Andrew Wiggins was traded to the Golden State Warriors in February 2020. This move provided him with a fresh start and an opportunity to play alongside established stars like Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson. Joining the Warriors marked a significant turning point in Wiggins' career, as he transitioned from being the primary scorer on a rebuilding team to a complementary player on a championship-caliber roster.

A New Role

In Golden State, Wiggins embraced a different role, focusing on improving his defense and contributing in other areas besides scoring. He became a valuable asset on the defensive end, using his athleticism and length to guard some of the league's top players. While his scoring numbers decreased, his overall efficiency and impact on the game improved. The Warriors recognized his potential to be a key role player and worked with him to refine his skills and integrate him into their system.

Championship Success

The 2021-2022 season proved to be a defining moment for Wiggins and the Warriors. He played a crucial role in the Warriors' run to the NBA championship, showcasing his versatility and two-way ability. Wiggins averaged 18.3 points and 8.8 rebounds per game during the playoffs, and his defense on players like Luka Dončić in the Western Conference Finals was particularly noteworthy. His contributions were essential to the Warriors' success, and he finally silenced many of his doubters by proving that he could thrive in a winning environment. Winning the championship with the Warriors validated his journey and demonstrated his ability to adapt and excel in a new role.

Other Notable Picks from the 2014 NBA Draft

The 2014 NBA Draft wasn't just about Andrew Wiggins. Several other players from that draft class have gone on to have successful and impactful NBA careers. Let's take a look at some of the notable names:

Joel Embiid

Selected with the third overall pick by the Philadelphia 76ers, Joel Embiid has become one of the league's top centers and a perennial MVP candidate. His combination of size, skill, and athleticism makes him a dominant force on both ends of the court. Embiid's journey to stardom was delayed by injuries early in his career, but he has since emerged as a franchise player and a leader for the 76ers. His impact on the game is undeniable, and he is widely regarded as one of the best players in the NBA.

Nikola Jokić

Nikola Jokić, drafted 41st overall by the Denver Nuggets, is another standout from the 2014 class. Jokić has become a two-time MVP and is considered one of the most skilled and unique players in the league. His exceptional passing ability, basketball IQ, and scoring touch make him a nightmare matchup for opposing defenses. Jokić's rise to stardom is a testament to his hard work and dedication, and he has transformed the Nuggets into a perennial playoff contender.

Zach LaVine

Zach LaVine, picked 13th overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves, has developed into a high-scoring guard known for his incredible athleticism and highlight-reel dunks. After being traded to the Chicago Bulls, LaVine has blossomed into an All-Star and one of the league's premier offensive threats. His scoring ability and electrifying play style have made him a fan favorite, and he continues to improve his game each season.

Final Thoughts

The 2014 NBA Draft produced a mix of successes and surprises. While Andrew Wiggins' career has had its ups and downs, he has ultimately found his place in the league and achieved championship success. The draft class also boasts other notable players like Joel Embiid, Nikola Jokić, and Zach LaVine, who have all made significant contributions to their respective teams and the NBA as a whole. The draft serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of talent evaluation and the importance of player development and fit within a team's system. So, to answer the question, the first pick was indeed Andrew Wiggins, and his journey is a testament to the twists and turns that can define an NBA career.