How Many Current NBA Players Were Drafted Right Out of High School?

As of August 2023, there were very few current NBA players drafted directly out of high school. The NBA's eligibility rules changed in 2006, requiring players to be at least one year removed from high school before entering the draft. However, a small number of players have managed to enter the league directly from high school prior to this rule change, and a few have since re-entered the league after playing overseas or in other leagues. Let's take a closer look at notable players who entered the NBA straight from high school, and explore the historical context of the NBA draft.

Historical Context

Since the 1976 NBA/ABA merger, the NBA required one year out of high school to be eligible for the draft until 2005. During this period, 39 athletes were drafted into the NBA, with 36 of them appearing in at least one NBA game. This section will delve into the impact of these players and the rule changes that allowed such athletes to enter the league.

Notable Players Who Were Drafted Out of High School

The most notable players who were drafted straight out of high school include:

LeBron James (2003): One of the most recognizable names in basketball, LeBron's journey from Akron to becoming an 18-time All-Star and a four-time NBA champion showcases the potential of high school athletes. Kobe Bryant (1996): The Black Mamba won five championships, two Finals MVPs, and is remembered as one of the greatest players in history. His career highlighted both the talent and the challenges faced by prep-to-pro players. Kevin Garnett (1995): The Big Ticket led the Minnesota Timberwolves to an NBA championship in 2004 and was a 15-time All-Star. His impact on the game from high school to the NBA is profound. Tracy McGrady (1997): Known as "T-Mac," McGrady struggled with injuries and trades but still managed to establish himself as one of the top all-around players in the league during his career. Dwight Howard (2004): Howard was a first overall pick and made a significant impact with the Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Lakers, and Houston Rockets. His eight consecutive All-Star appearances and three consecutive Defensive Player of the Year awards are testament to his skills.

The Top 5 Greatest Prep to Pro NBA Players of All Time

Based on their impact and legacy, here is a ranking of the greatest prep-to-pro NBA players of all time:

LeBron James: With four MVPs, three championships, and more consistent performance compared to Kobe Bryant, LeBron ranks as the top prep-to-pro NBA player. His residual impact on the game and ongoing career make him a strong contender for this top spot. Kobe Bryant: A five-time champion, two-time Finals MVP, and one of the greatest players of all time, Bryant's legacy is unmatched. However, his full potential may never be fully realized due to injuries and other factors. Kevin Garnett: Garnett is a 15-time All-Star, nine-time All-Defensive First Team member, and four-time All-NBA First Teamer. His contributions to the Minnesota Timberwolves and the broader basketball landscape are significant. Dwight Howard: Howard made eight consecutive All-Star teams and won three consecutive Defensive Player of the Year awards. His impact on the game, particularly his size and defensive prowess, is undeniable. Tracy McGrady: Known for his brilliance on the court, McGrady’s career was somewhat hampered by injuries. Nevertheless, his All-Star appearances and contributions to the league make him a noteworthy player in this category.

Conclusion and Future of the NBA Draft

The NBA draft has evolved over the years, with current players like LeBron James serving as a testament to the success of high school-to-NBA transitions. As the league continues to refine its rules and opening opportunities for young talent, it will be interesting to see how many more players follow in the footsteps of these pioneers. The impact of these players is not only on their teams and individual careers but also on the broader landscape of the NBA and professional basketball.