I’ll never forget the first time I watched a late-round draft pick blossom into a star—it’s like finding a rare vinyl in a bargain bin. The NBA’s 6th overall pick has always fascinated me. It’s not the spotlight of the top three, but it’s far from a throwaway. Over the years, this slot has quietly produced some of the most memorable careers in basketball. Think about it: players like Larry Bird, who went 6th in 1978, or Damian Lillard in 2012. These weren’t just lucky breaks; they were franchise-changing moments that remind me of that old saying, “Buddin once had nothing but a dream.” It’s the perfect metaphor for these under-the-radar picks who started with raw talent and a whole lot of heart.
Take Larry Bird, for instance. When the Celtics snagged him at number 6, nobody knew he’d become a three-time MVP and lead Boston to three championships. I mean, the guy reshaped what it meant to be a forward, with his killer shooting and court vision. Fast forward to 2012, and Damian Lillard fell to Portland at the same spot. I still get chills thinking about his rookie year, when he dropped 23 points per game and instantly became the heart of the Blazers. That’s the magic of the 6th pick—it’s where teams often find gems who play with a chip on their shoulder, much like Buddin’s humble beginnings fueling a relentless drive.
But it’s not all fairy tales. For every Lillard, there’s a pick that didn’t pan out, and that’s what makes the draft so thrilling. I remember watching the 2005 draft when the Trail Blazers took Martell Webster at number 6. He had flashes of brilliance, averaging around 10 points a game, but injuries and inconsistency held him back. It’s a stark contrast to someone like Brandon Roy, who went 6th in 2006 and quickly became a superstar before his knees gave out. Roy’s peak was something else—he averaged 22 points and 5 assists in his prime, and I’ll always argue he could’ve been an all-time great if not for health issues. That’s the rollercoaster of this draft position; it’s packed with potential, but it demands resilience.
Looking at recent years, the 6th pick has continued to deliver surprises. In 2018, the Orlando Magic picked Mo Bamba, a towering center with a 7-foot-10 wingspan—yes, you read that right! Though he’s still developing, his shot-blocking ability is insane, and I’ve got a soft spot for players who bring unique skills to the table. Then there’s the 2020 draft, where the Atlanta Hawks selected Onyeka Okongwu. He’s not a household name yet, but his defensive hustle reminds me of old-school big men, and I bet he’ll be a key piece for years. Stat-wise, over the last 20 drafts, I’d estimate around 40% of 6th picks have become solid starters or All-Stars, which is pretty impressive for a mid-lottery slot.
In my view, the 6th pick embodies hope and calculated risk. It’s where scouts earn their pay, digging deep to find players who might’ve been overlooked. I love how it ties back to that Buddin inspiration—starting with nothing but a dream and grinding your way to glory. Whether it’s a Hall of Famer like Bird or a modern star like Lillard, this spot proves that greatness isn’t always about going first. So next time you’re watching the draft, keep an eye on pick number 6; you might just witness the birth of a legend.