Who was drafted before Michael Jordan? This question often sparks curiosity among basketball enthusiasts, as the Chicago Bulls legend’s impact on the sport is unparalleled. To understand the context of Jordan’s draft position, it’s essential to delve into the history of the NBA draft and explore the players who were selected before the “Air Jordan.”
The NBA draft is a pivotal event in the basketball world, where the most talented high school and college players are selected by teams to join their rosters. In the 1984 NBA draft, Michael Jordan was selected third overall by the Chicago Bulls, marking the beginning of his iconic career. However, there were several notable players who were drafted before him, each with their own unique story and contributions to the sport.
One of the players drafted before Michael Jordan was Sam Bowie, who was selected second overall by the Seattle SuperSonics. Bowie, a towering 7’1″ center, was considered one of the top prospects in the draft class. However, his career was marred by injuries, and he never reached the potential that many expected. Despite his shortcomings, Bowie remains a memorable figure in the draft class of 1984.
Another player who was drafted before Jordan was Hakeem Olajuwon, who was selected first overall by the Houston Rockets. Olajuwon, a Nigerian-American center, went on to become one of the greatest players in NBA history. His unique skill set, which included a dominant inside presence and a remarkable ability to play the passing lanes, made him a formidable opponent. Olajuwon’s career was filled with accolades, including two NBA championships and two MVP awards.
While Michael Jordan was the third overall pick in the 1984 NBA draft, there were other talented players who were selected before him. One such player was Terry Tyler, who was drafted fourth overall by the Dallas Mavericks. Tyler, a 6’9″ forward, had a solid career in the NBA but never reached the same level of fame as his draftmates. Despite his modest success, Tyler’s name remains etched in the history of the 1984 NBA draft.
The 1984 NBA draft was a highly competitive year, with several players who were drafted before Michael Jordan going on to have successful careers. The draft class included other notable players such as Dominique Wilkins, a dominant scorer who was selected second by the Atlanta Hawks, and Akeem Olajuwon’s teammate, Clyde Drexler, who was selected fifth by the Portland Trail Blazers.
In conclusion, the 1984 NBA draft was a highly competitive year, with several talented players being selected before Michael Jordan. While Jordan’s career has become synonymous with the sport, it’s important to recognize the contributions of the players who were drafted before him. From Sam Bowie to Hakeem Olajuwon, each of these players left their mark on the NBA and helped shape the landscape of the league.
