Looking back at the NBA 2020 Draft, I still get that familiar mix of excitement and skepticism that comes with every draft night. As someone who’s followed basketball both as a fan and an analyst for over a decade, I’ve learned that draft classes are rarely what they seem at first glance. Some players skyrocket past expectations, while others—despite the hype—fade into the background. This draft, held under the unusual circumstances of the pandemic, was no exception. If anything, the lack of a traditional combine and in-person evaluations made it even more unpredictable. I remember watching from my living room, notebook in hand, thinking how this could either be one of those legendary drafts or one full of what-ifs.

One of the most talked-about top picks, of course, was Anthony Edwards going first to the Minnesota Timberwolves. At the time, I’ll admit I had my doubts. Edwards had all the physical tools—explosive athleticism, a strong frame, and the ability to score in bunches—but his motor and consistency on defense worried me. Fast forward to today, and it’s clear he’s silenced a lot of critics, myself included. He’s averaged over 24 points per game in the last two seasons and has become the face of a Timberwolves team that’s finally finding its footing. Then there was James Wiseman, selected second by the Golden State Warriors. I thought he’d be a perfect fit alongside Steph Curry, offering rim protection and a lob threat, but injuries and a crowded frontcourt have limited his impact. It’s a reminder that even the most promising prospects can struggle to find their rhythm in the right system.

The surprises, though, are what make the draft so compelling. Take Tyrese Haliburton, for example. He slipped to 12th, picked by the Sacramento Kings, and I still can’t figure out why. His basketball IQ and playmaking were off the charts in college, and he’s proven to be a steal, averaging nearly 16 points and 8 assists in his rookie year alone. On the flip side, Killian Hayes going seventh to the Detroit Pistons felt like a reach to me. He’s shown flashes, but his shooting struggles—hovering around 38% from the field—have made it hard for him to live up to that lottery status. I’ve always believed that fit matters as much as talent, and in Hayes’ case, the pressure of a high pick might have stunted his growth early on.

What’s interesting is how this draft mirrors some of the dynamics we see in other leagues, like the PBA, where roster chemistry can make or break a team. I was reminded of this when I came across a quote from Coach Tim Cone discussing Blackwater’s lineup changes. He said, “I think we are kinda underrating Blackwater because Barefield and David have been playing major minutes and they have been in and out of the line-up. [The game against Rain or Shine] was really the first game they kinda played together, but they came off the bench.” That sentiment resonates deeply with the NBA draft—sometimes, it’s not just about individual talent, but how players gel over time. In the 2020 class, we’ve seen this with picks like Desmond Bane, who went 30th to the Memphis Grizzlies. Nobody expected him to become a 20-point-per-game scorer, but his fit with Ja Morant and the Grizzlies’ system turned him into one of the biggest steals. It’s a lesson in patience; teams that invest in development and chemistry often reap the rewards later.

From my perspective, the late-round gems are what separate good drafts from great ones. Beyond Bane, players like Immanuel Quickley (25th pick) and Jaden McDaniels (28th pick) have outperformed their draft positions significantly. Quickley, for instance, put up 14 points per game in his second season and finished runner-up for Sixth Man of the Year—a testament to the Knicks’ scouting. On the other hand, some early picks haven’t panned out as hoped. Obi Toppin, selected eighth by the New York Knicks, has shown flashes of athleticism but hasn’t found a consistent role, averaging just around 10 points in limited minutes. I can’t help but think that in a different system, he might have flourished sooner.

As I reflect on the 2020 draft now, three years later, it’s clear that its legacy is still unfolding. The top picks have had their moments, but the real story might be in the depth of this class. Over 15 players from this draft are already averaging double figures in scoring, and at least five have made All-Rookie teams. In my opinion, that’s what makes it a success—not just the stars at the top, but the contributors found throughout. For teams and fans alike, it’s a reminder to look beyond the hype and trust the process. After all, as we’ve seen in leagues worldwide, whether it’s the NBA or the PBA, patience and the right environment can turn surprises into superstars.