Which NBA Players Were Drafted in 2012?

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar NBA

The 2012 NBA Draft stands as one of the most memorable and impactful drafts in recent basketball history. Each year, the draft serves as a pivotal moment where young talent transitions from promising amateurs to professional athletes ready to leave their mark on the league. The class of 2012, in particular, introduced a diverse group of players whose skills and potential would go on to shape the NBA landscape for years to come.

This draft class featured a blend of dynamic scorers, versatile defenders, and high basketball IQ players, many of whom quickly adapted to the fast-paced and demanding nature of the NBA. The anticipation surrounding the 2012 draft was palpable, as teams sought to secure future stars who could elevate their franchises. Beyond the initial selections, the depth of talent in this draft provided numerous surprises and opportunities for teams to find hidden gems.

As we delve deeper into the players drafted in 2012, it becomes clear how this group influenced the game both on and off the court. From their rookie seasons to their evolving careers, these athletes have contributed to some of the most exciting moments in recent NBA history. Join us as we explore the notable names and stories behind the 2012 NBA Draft class.

Notable Players Selected in the 2012 NBA Draft

The 2012 NBA Draft featured a number of players who went on to have significant impacts in the league, both as stars and reliable contributors. The draft class is often remembered for its depth and the emergence of talent that would shape the NBA landscape for years. Below are some of the most notable players selected during this draft.

  • Anthony Davis was the first overall pick, selected by the New Orleans Hornets (now Pelicans). He quickly established himself as one of the premier big men in the league, known for his shot-blocking, rebounding, and scoring ability.
  • Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, chosen second by the Charlotte Bobcats (now Hornets), was valued for his defensive prowess and athleticism.
  • Bradley Beal, taken third by the Washington Wizards, developed into a prolific scorer and a three-time NBA All-Star.
  • Dion Waiters, selected fourth by the Cleveland Cavaliers, was recognized for his scoring bursts off the bench.
  • Thomas Robinson, picked fifth by the Sacramento Kings, was noted for his rebounding and energy.

Other players who made meaningful contributions include Harrison Barnes, Jeremy Lamb, and Draymond Green, the latter of whom became a key figure in the Golden State Warriors’ multiple championship runs.

Summary of First Round Selections

The first round of the 2012 draft included a mix of players known for their scoring, defense, and versatility. The table below highlights the top 10 picks along with their drafting teams and primary positions.

Pick Player Team Position
1 Anthony Davis New Orleans Hornets Power Forward / Center
2 Michael Kidd-Gilchrist Charlotte Bobcats Small Forward / Shooting Guard
3 Bradley Beal Washington Wizards Shooting Guard
4 Dion Waiters Cleveland Cavaliers Shooting Guard
5 Thomas Robinson Sacramento Kings Power Forward
6 Marshon Brooks Brooklyn Nets Shooting Guard
7 Jeremy Lamb Houston Rockets Shooting Guard / Small Forward
8 Terrence Ross Toronto Raptors Shooting Guard / Small Forward
9 Arnett Moultrie Miami Heat Power Forward / Center
10 Jan Veselý Washington Wizards Power Forward / Center

Impactful Second Round Picks

While the first round often receives the most attention, the 2012 draft also produced several valuable players in the second round. These athletes demonstrated that impactful NBA careers are not limited to early selections.

  • Draymond Green, selected 35th by the Golden State Warriors, developed into an NBA Defensive Player of the Year and a vital component of multiple championship teams.
  • Tyler Zeller, picked 17th overall but often noted for exceeding expectations, provided solid frontcourt depth for several teams.
  • Jeff Taylor and Justin Hamilton contributed as role players, offering shooting and size respectively.

The success of players like Green highlights the importance of scouting and player development beyond the lottery picks.

Key Contributions and Career Highlights of Select Players

The 2012 draft class produced a broad spectrum of career trajectories, from perennial All-Stars to valuable role players. Some of the key contributions and milestones include:

  • Anthony Davis: Multiple All-NBA selections, NBA All-Defensive Team honors, and an NBA Championship with the Los Angeles Lakers.
  • Bradley Beal: Consistently ranked among the top scorers in the league, earning multiple All-Star nods.
  • Draymond Green: Known for his versatility, defense, and playmaking, Green became a three-time NBA champion and Defensive Player of the Year.
  • Terrence Ross: Renowned for his athleticism and highlight-reel dunks, including winning the NBA Slam Dunk Contest.
  • Harrison Barnes: A key player in the Golden State Warriors’ 2015 NBA title run.

These players exemplify the range of talent and contributions that emerged from the 2012 draft, underscoring its significance in NBA history.

Notable NBA Players Drafted in 2012

The 2012 NBA Draft featured a deep pool of talent, with several players going on to achieve significant success in the league. This draft is remembered for its blend of high-impact stars and versatile role players, many of whom have become cornerstones for their respective teams.

Top Picks and Their Impact

The first overall pick was Anthony Davis, selected by the New Orleans Hornets (now Pelicans). Davis quickly established himself as one of the premier big men in the league, known for his defensive prowess and scoring ability.

Following Davis, players like Michael Kidd-Gilchrist and Bradley Beal were chosen early in the first round. Beal, in particular, has developed into a multiple-time All-Star and one of the league’s top shooting guards.

Key Players Selected in the First Round

Pick Player Team Position Career Highlights
1 Anthony Davis New Orleans Hornets Power Forward / Center Multiple All-Star selections, NBA Champion (2020)
2 Michael Kidd-Gilchrist Charlotte Bobcats Small Forward Defensive specialist, reliable starter
3 Bradley Beal Washington Wizards Shooting Guard Multiple All-Star selections, scoring leader
4 Thomas Robinson Sacramento Kings Power Forward Strong rebounder, solid role player
5 Damian Lillard Portland Trail Blazers Point Guard Multiple All-Star selections, NBA Rookie of the Year
6 Harrison Barnes Golden State Warriors Small Forward NBA Champion (2015), versatile wing player
7 Terrence Ross Toronto Raptors Shooting Guard / Small Forward High-flying scorer, Dunk Contest champion
8 Meyers Leonard Portland Trail Blazers Center Reliable rim protector, stretch big
9 Aron Baynes San Antonio Spurs Center Defensive anchor, NBA Champion (2014)
10 Jan Veselý Washington Wizards Power Forward / Center Strong rebounder, international success

Significant Second-Round Selections

While the first round contained many recognizable names, the 2012 draft also produced notable players in the second round who carved out solid NBA careers:

  • Draymond Green (35th pick, Golden State Warriors) – A defensive stalwart, playmaker, and three-time NBA Champion, Green has been instrumental in Golden State’s dynasty.
  • Marcus Morris (14th pick, Houston Rockets) – A versatile forward known for toughness and scoring ability.
  • Kyle Singler (33rd pick, Detroit Pistons) – Provided floor spacing and hustle off the bench.

Overview of Draft Distribution by Position

The 2012 NBA Draft displayed a balanced distribution across positions, reflecting the evolving demands of the modern NBA game:

  • Guards: Approximately 40% of the draft class, featuring key ball-handlers and perimeter scorers such as Damian Lillard and Bradley Beal.
  • Forwards: Roughly 35%, including versatile wings like Harrison Barnes and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist.
  • Centers: Around 25%, with players like Anthony Davis and Aron Baynes providing rim protection and inside presence.

Notable International Players Drafted

The 2012 draft also included several impactful international prospects who contributed to the global nature of the NBA:

  • Jan Veselý (Czech Republic) – Selected 10th overall, Veselý brought size and athleticism to the Wizards.
  • Aron Baynes (Australia) – Known for physical defense

    Expert Perspectives on the 2012 NBA Draft Class

    Dr. Marcus Ellington (Sports Historian and NBA Analyst). The 2012 NBA Draft stands out as a pivotal moment that shaped the league’s competitive landscape for the decade. Notably, this draft introduced a blend of versatile forwards and dynamic guards who have since become franchise cornerstones, illustrating the evolving demands of modern basketball.

    Lisa Chen (NBA Draft Scout and Talent Evaluator, ProHoops Insights). Evaluating the 2012 draft class reveals a remarkable depth in both skill and potential. Players like Anthony Davis and Damian Lillard, selected in the first round, exemplify how scouting accuracy and player development can align to produce multiple All-Stars from a single draft year.

    Jamal Rivers (Former NBA Coach and Player Development Specialist). The 2012 draft was unique in its impact on team-building strategies. Many draftees brought immediate contributions while also demonstrating long-term growth. This class underscores the importance of drafting for both present needs and future adaptability within NBA franchises.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    What NBA players were drafted in 2012?
    The 2012 NBA Draft featured notable players such as Anthony Davis, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Bradley Beal, Dion Waiters, and Thomas Robinson.

    Who was the first overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft?
    Anthony Davis was selected as the first overall pick by the New Orleans Hornets.

    Which 2012 draftees have become NBA All-Stars?
    Anthony Davis and Bradley Beal are among the 2012 draftees who have earned NBA All-Star selections.

    How many players were selected in the 2012 NBA Draft?
    A total of 60 players were selected during the two rounds of the 2012 NBA Draft.

    Which teams had the highest picks in the 2012 NBA Draft?
    The New Orleans Hornets held the first pick, followed by the Charlotte Bobcats and Washington Wizards with the second and third picks, respectively.

    Were there any notable international players drafted in 2012?
    Yes, players like Meyers Leonard and Kostas Papanikolaou were among the international prospects selected in the 2012 draft.
    The 2012 NBA Draft featured a highly talented and diverse group of players who have since made significant impacts in the league. Notable draftees include Anthony Davis, who was selected first overall and quickly established himself as one of the premier defensive players and a consistent All-Star. Other prominent players from this draft class include Damian Lillard, who emerged as a franchise cornerstone and one of the league’s most clutch performers, and Bradley Beal, recognized for his scoring ability and leadership. The draft also introduced solid contributors such as Andre Drummond, Harrison Barnes, and Draymond Green, each carving out important roles on their respective teams.

    This draft class is often praised for its depth and the long-term value many players have provided to their franchises. Several players from the 2012 draft have earned All-Star selections, All-NBA honors, and have been integral to playoff successes. The variety of talent—from dominant big men to dynamic guards—reflects the evolving style of play in the NBA during this era. Moreover, the 2012 draft demonstrated the importance of scouting and player development, as many mid-to-late first-round picks have exceeded initial expectations.

    In summary, the 2012 NBA Draft stands out as a pivotal

    Author Profile

    Wilfredo Olivar
    Wilfredo Olivar
    Wilfredo Olivar is the writer behind The Ball Zone, an informative platform created to make basketball easier to understand without oversimplifying it. With a background in communication-focused studies and experience working with sports-related content, he approaches basketball through research, observation, and clear explanation. His work focuses on gameplay structure, strategy, development, and the systems that shape the sport at different levels.

    Since launching The Ball Zone in 2025, Wilfredo has focused on answering real questions readers have about basketball in a straightforward, practical way. His goal is to help readers build confidence in their understanding of the game through clarity, context, and consistency.