"And with the third pick, I made the earth sick, M.J., hem Jay, fade away perfect.."
Jay-Z, "Hola' Hovito"
Salutations world,
This right here, has been my brain child ever since I could remember. From the first day I ever picked up a basketball I was a student of the game first. As a kid growing up, I studied and admired the games of the greats from the 1984 draft class such as John Stockton, Hakeem Olajuwon, Charles Barkley, and of course Michael Jordan. Many never thought a draft class could rival that one...Then came 1996...Then came 2003. So while sitting in front of the TV last night watching the Davidson vs. Duke game (A game in which Duke won, but received a valiant effort from the Wildcats and Stephen Curry), My cousin and I began a rather heated discussion on which draft class did we think was the best. Ladies and Gentleman, I give you each classes argument..
First, 1984s ultimate claim to fame is they boast the greatest player to ever play the game. The passion and excellence that defined Michael's game may never be seen in another athlete in any sport, period! The aforementioned John Stockton went on to become the leagues all time leader in assists and steals. While all Hakeem Olajuwon did was win 2 NBA championships (One versus Patrick Ewing and the other versus "Baby" Shaquille O'Neal) while displaying one of the smoothest games you will ever see from a center. And well, Charles Barkley is Chuck. The "Round Mound of Rebound", a "Power" forward who could step outside and shoot the 3! This draft class was the foundation of the Dream Team, a group which is consider the first ambassadors of the NBA and who undoubtedly lead to the increasing interest in basketball overseas. All worthy accolades, but lets hear the other guys arguments as well..
Fast forward to 1996, when cats was bumpin California Love by 2pac, and I know one of y'all had a fade of some sorts. This draft class brought style and flare to the game and helped usher it into the giant that the sport is today. This draft was praised by SLAM magazine as the best draft ever, and rightfully so. I mean the draft produced "The Answer", Jesus (Shuttlesworth that is), and the 2nd best player to ever hit the court, "The Mamba"! Nuff Said. A collection of talent that has been tough to match top to bottom, including numerous NBA All-First teamers, MVPs, Defensive Players of The Year, etc. Man, just take a look at this video..
Now shoot to 2003, were I was now sporting facial hair, and a rather decent jump shot, and LeBron, Carmelo, D Wade, and C Bosh were among the first 5 selected in the draft. The class that was tasked with the responsibility of restoring USA's name in international competition. And the members of the Redeem Team did not disappoint. Not to mention they already have amongst them an NBA title, NBA first team selections, All Star game selections and MVP, and for a period from 2006 until the Beijing games, many considered Carmelo Anthony the best international player in the world. All worth accolades as well, check their vid out..
Now, in my personal opinion, the Jordan factor puts the '84 draft class at the top, followed by '03, then '96. I could be wrong, but nonetheless, all three were phenomenal classes that helped shape basketball, not only the NBA but basketball internationally forever..
Until Later,
Peace.
