Top 10 NBA Draft Steals of All Time

The NBA Draft is all about potential, but sometimes, greatness hides in plain sight. Every so often, a team selects a player late in the draft who ends up outperforming nearly everyone picked before them. These steals become franchise cornerstones, defy expectations, and remind the league that scouting is far from an exact science.

Tricia Quitales
June 17, 2025
4 min read

Top 10 NBA Draft Steals of All Time — © Brendan Maloney-Imagn Images

Throughout the history of the NBA, some of the biggest stars didn’t hear their names called early. While top picks often get the spotlight, many future Hall of Famers and All-Stars were passed over multiple times. From second-round legends to late first-round surprises, these players changed the fortunes of franchises and reshaped how teams evaluate talent. Their journeys were filled with perseverance, work ethic, and a chip on their shoulder that pushed them to greatness. Here’s a countdown of the top 10 NBA Draft steals of all time, based on value, impact, and legacy.

10. Michael Redd

Michael Redd was taken late in the second round by the Milwaukee Bucks and quickly proved to be one of the best pure shooters of his era. He averaged over 20 points per game for six seasons and made the All-Star team in 2004. Redd became the face of the franchise and even earned a spot on Team USA. For a 43rd pick, his scoring output and consistency were remarkable.

9. Carlos Boozer

Boozer was a second-round pick who developed into a two-time All-Star and consistent double-double threat. He provided efficient scoring and tough rebounding throughout his time with the Cavaliers, Jazz, and Bulls. Despite being overlooked in the draft, he became a central figure on playoff teams. His inside game and durability made him a valuable presence for over a decade.

8. Kyle Lowry

Kyle Lowry bounced around early in his career but became a true star after landing in Toronto. He played a key role in the Raptors’ first-ever NBA title in 2019 and earned six All-Star selections. Known for his grit, leadership, and clutch plays, Lowry turned into the heart and soul of the franchise. His impact went far beyond his draft position at 24th overall.

7. Marc Gasol

Originally a throw-in piece in the trade for his brother Pau, Marc Gasol blossomed into a Defensive Player of the Year and three-time All-Star. He became the backbone of the Memphis Grizzlies’ “Grit and Grind” era. Gasol also helped the Raptors win their first title in 2019 with elite defense and high-IQ passing. Not bad for someone drafted 48th overall.

6. Draymond Green

Draymond Green was labeled a tweener coming out of college but became the glue of a dynasty in Golden State. A three-time All-Star and former Defensive Player of the Year, he helped lead the Warriors to four championships. Green’s versatility, leadership, and defensive brilliance have defined the modern era. His selection at 35 changed the course of NBA history.

5. Gilbert Arenas

Gilbert Arenas came out of nowhere to become one of the league’s most explosive scorers. Drafted early in the second round, he quickly became a three-time All-Star and averaged over 25 points per game in multiple seasons. Arenas had a fearless attitude and a clutch gene that made him a fan favorite. His rise from the 31st pick to NBA stardom was unforgettable.

4. Dennis Rodman

Dennis Rodman was overlooked due to his unorthodox game but became a Hall of Famer and one of the greatest rebounders in NBA history. He won five NBA championships and earned two Defensive Player of the Year awards. Rodman’s energy, hustle, and intensity brought success wherever he played. His impact on winning far outweighed his draft spot at 27.

3. Nikola Jokić

Nikola Jokić was drafted during a Taco Bell commercial, but he ended up becoming a two-time MVP and one of the most unique players the league has ever seen. His passing, vision, and efficiency as a center redefined the position. Jokić led the Nuggets to their first-ever NBA title in 2023. At 41st overall, his rise is one of the most unlikely in sports.

2. Tony Parker

Tony Parker was an unknown teenager from France who went on to become a six-time All-Star and four-time NBA champion. As the point guard of the Spurs dynasty, he consistently delivered in the playoffs and earned a Finals MVP in 2007. Parker’s quickness and leadership made him one of the most respected guards of his generation. Getting that kind of production at pick 28 was a major win for San Antonio.

1. Manu Ginóbili

No player picked this late has ever had a bigger impact than Manu Ginóbili. Drafted 57th overall, he became a cornerstone of four NBA titles and brought creativity, toughness, and leadership to the Spurs. Ginóbili also had a legendary international career, influencing countless players around the world. His success from nearly the bottom of the draft makes him the ultimate draft steal in NBA history.