The Untold Stories of the Six Players Drafted Before Stephen Curry

In the 2009 NBA Draft, Stephen Curry was selected as the seventh overall pick by the Golden State Warriors.

However, six players were picked before him, each with their own unique journey and fate in the league.

As Curry has risen to become one of the greatest players in NBA history, it’s intriguing to explore what happened to the players who were drafted ahead of him.

Let’s delve into the careers of these six individuals and see where they are now.

1. Blake Griffin: The High-Flying Superstar

Blake Griffin was selected first overall by the Los Angeles Clippers in the 2009 NBA Draft.

Born on March 16, 1989, in Oklahoma City, Griffin showcased his talent early on, becoming a standout player at the University of Oklahoma.

His explosive athleticism and powerful dunks made him an immediate fan favorite.

In his rookie season, Griffin won the NBA Rookie of the Year award, establishing himself as one of the most electrifying players in the league.

Throughout his career, Griffin played a pivotal role in the Clippers’ resurgence, leading them to multiple playoff appearances alongside Chris Paul.

However, injuries began to plague his career, forcing him to miss significant time on the court.

In 2018, Griffin was traded to the Detroit Pistons, where he continued to impress, even scoring a career-high 50 points in a game.

In 2021, he signed with the Brooklyn Nets, bringing excitement to a star-studded roster.

As of 2023, Griffin has transitioned to the Boston Celtics, where he continues to contribute as a veteran presence on and off the court.

2. Hasheem Thabeet: The Tallest Tale of Promise

Hasheem Thabeet was drafted second overall by the Memphis Grizzlies.

Born on February 16, 1987, in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, Thabeet had a late start in basketball but quickly made a name for himself due to his towering height of 7’3″.

He played college basketball at the University of Connecticut, where he earned accolades for his shot-blocking ability and defensive prowess.

Despite being the second overall pick, Thabeet struggled to find his footing in the NBA.

His rookie season showed flashes of potential, but he was often criticized for his lack of offensive skills.

After a few seasons with the Grizzlies, Thabeet was traded to several teams, including the Houston Rockets and Portland Trail Blazers.

His journey took him through the NBA D-League and international leagues, where he found success in Taiwan, leading the league in rebounding and blocks.

As of 2023, Thabeet continues to play professionally, representing Tanzania in international tournaments, showcasing his skills on a global stage.

3. James Harden: The Beard’s Rise to Stardom

James Harden was selected third overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Born on August 26, 1989, in Los Angeles, California, Harden quickly rose through the ranks, showcasing his scoring ability and playmaking skills.

At Arizona State University, he was a standout player, earning numerous accolades and becoming a top prospect.

Harden’s NBA career began with the Thunder, where he played a crucial role in their success, helping the team reach the NBA Finals in 2012.

After winning the Sixth Man of the Year award, Harden was traded to the Houston Rockets, where he transformed into one of the league’s most prolific scorers.

His unique style, characterized by crafty ball handling and an ability to draw fouls, made him a nightmare for defenders.

Harden has since earned multiple MVP awards, All-Star selections, and has solidified his place among the greatest shooting guards in NBA history.

In 2024, he continues to make an impact with the Los Angeles Clippers.

4. Tyreke Evans: The Rising Star Turned Cautionary Tale

Tyreke Evans was drafted fourth overall by the Sacramento Kings.

Born on September 19, 1989, in Chester, Pennsylvania, Evans showcased immense talent during his high school years, drawing comparisons to NBA legends.

He had an impressive college career at the University of Memphis, where he was named the Conference USA Rookie of the Year.

Evans made an immediate impact in the NBA, winning the Rookie of the Year award in 2010, becoming just the fourth player in history to average 20 points, five rebounds, and five assists per game as a rookie.

However, his career faced numerous challenges, including injuries and off-court issues.

In 2019, Evans was banned from the NBA for violating the league’s anti-drug policy.

After being reinstated in 2022, he signed with the Wisconsin Herd in the G League but was waived shortly after.

Evans’s journey serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining focus and discipline in the competitive world of professional sports.

5. Ricky Rubio: The Spanish Sensation

Ricky Rubio was selected fifth overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Born on October 21, 1990, in El Masnou, Spain, Rubio made history as one of the youngest players to debut in the ACB League at just 14 years old.

His exceptional passing skills and basketball IQ made him a standout player in Europe, earning him accolades and recognition.

Rubio finally made his NBA debut in 2011, showcasing his flashy playmaking and court vision.

However, injuries plagued his career, including a devastating torn ACL that cut short his rookie season.

Despite the setbacks, Rubio continued to make an impact, playing for teams like the Utah Jazz and Phoenix Suns.

In 2021, he returned to the Timberwolves but faced further injury challenges.

As of 2024, Rubio announced his retirement from the NBA, later signing with FC Barcelona, marking a return to his roots in European basketball.

6. Johnny Flynn: The Forgotten Point Guard

Johnny Flynn was drafted sixth overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Born on February 6, 1989, in Niagara Falls, New York, Flynn had a stellar high school career, leading his team to a state championship.

He continued his success at Syracuse University, where he earned co-Big East Rookie of the Year honors.

In his rookie season, Flynn showcased his skills, averaging 13.5 points and 4.4 assists per game.

However, injuries hampered his progress, and he struggled to maintain consistency in the league.

Flynn played for several teams, including the Houston Rockets and Portland Trail Blazers, but never found the same success he had in college.

His career ultimately came to an end in 2014 due to a hamstring injury, but he remains a testament to the unpredictability of professional sports.

Conclusion: The Paths Not Taken

The stories of the six players drafted before Stephen Curry illustrate the unpredictable nature of the NBA.

While Curry has become a household name and a two-time MVP, the journeys of Blake Griffin, Hasheem Thabeet, James Harden, Tyreke Evans, Ricky Rubio, and Johnny Flynn highlight the challenges and triumphs that come with pursuing a professional basketball career.

Each player faced unique obstacles and milestones, shaping their paths in the league.

As fans continue to celebrate Curry’s legacy, it’s essential to remember the diverse narratives of those who came before him, each contributing to the rich tapestry of NBA history.

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