Who went before Michael Jordan in the draft? This is a question that often sparks intrigue among basketball enthusiasts and fans alike. The 1984 NBA Draft, where Michael Jordan was selected third overall by the Chicago Bulls, marked the beginning of his legendary career. However, the names that came before him in that historic draft are equally fascinating and deserve their own spotlight.
The 1984 NBA Draft was a year filled with talent, and the top of the draft class was no exception. The first overall pick, Hakeem Olajuwon, went to the Houston Rockets. Olajuwon, a Nigerian-American center, would go on to win two NBA championships and be inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. He was known for his exceptional skill, athleticism, and defensive prowess, making him a dominant force in the paint.
Right after Olajuwon, the second overall pick was Sam Bowie of the Portland Trail Blazers. Bowie, a towering 7’1″ center, was projected to be a star in the league. However, his career was plagued by injuries, and he never lived up to the expectations that came with being the second overall pick. Despite his shortcomings, Bowie was a solid player who contributed to the Trail Blazers’ success during his tenure.
Following Bowie, the Chicago Bulls selected Michael Jordan, who would go on to become the greatest basketball player of all time. Jordan’s impact on the game cannot be overstated, as he won six NBA championships, five Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards, and was named to the All-NBA First Team 10 times. His competitive spirit, work ethic, and ability to elevate his teammates set him apart from his peers.
Other notable players who went before Michael Jordan in the 1984 NBA Draft include:
– Otis Thorpe, who was selected fourth overall by the Sacramento Kings. Thorpe played for several teams during his career and was known for his scoring ability and defensive prowess.
– Joe Dumars, who was selected fifth overall by the Detroit Pistons. Dumars was a key player for the Pistons during their 1989 and 1990 NBA championship runs and was also inducted into the Hall of Fame.
– Terry Tyler, who was selected sixth overall by the Los Angeles Clippers. Tyler played for several teams during his career and was known for his scoring ability and leadership.
The 1984 NBA Draft was a pivotal moment in the history of the league, as it introduced some of the greatest players to ever grace the court. While Michael Jordan is often the focus of discussions about this draft, it’s important to recognize the contributions of the other players who went before him. Each of these players had their own unique journey and left a lasting impact on the game of basketball.
