One of those five first-rounders played in an NBA All-Star Game. Gerald Wallace had opened the decade as Alabama’s Mr. Basketball f7, 27 players with Alabama basketball roots entered the NBA as first-round picks in the 23 drafts. Eleven first-round choices in the 1980s and 10 in the 1990s had played at Alabama high schools or colleges.

Part of the reason why the NBA Draft is one of the most exciting events on the basketball calendar every year is the drama. The rumors and mock drafts in the weeks and months leading up to the main event create a suspenseful environment every time NBA commissioner Adam Silver takes the podium to announce the selection.