Deandre Ayton was drafted over Luka Dončić as the first overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft by the Phoenix Suns.
The Top of the 2018 NBA Draft
The 2018 NBA Draft was a highly anticipated event, with teams looking to secure future stars. The Phoenix Suns held the top pick, followed by the Sacramento Kings at second, and the Atlanta Hawks at third.
Below is a summary of the top selections:
| Pick No. | Player | Team (Drafting) | Team (Post-Trade, if applicable) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Deandre Ayton | Phoenix Suns | Phoenix Suns |
| 2 | Marvin Bagley III | Sacramento Kings | Sacramento Kings |
| 3 | Luka Dončić | Atlanta Hawks | Dallas Mavericks |
The Phoenix Suns' Decision
The Phoenix Suns ultimately selected Deandre Ayton, a center from the University of Arizona, with their first overall pick. At the time, Ayton was widely regarded for his athleticism, size, and potential as a dominant presence in the paint. The Suns' decision aimed to establish a strong frontcourt foundation, complementing their young guard, Devin Booker. This choice meant passing on other top prospects, including Luka Dončić, who had just concluded an impressive season by winning the EuroLeague MVP award.
Luka Dončić's Journey to the NBA
Following Ayton's selection, the Sacramento Kings drafted Marvin Bagley III at second overall. Luka Dončić was then chosen by the Atlanta Hawks with the third pick. However, Dončić's draft rights were immediately traded to the Dallas Mavericks in a pivotal move that sent Trae Young and a future first-round pick to the Hawks. This trade set the stage for Dončić's rise in the Western Conference.
The Aftermath and Hindsight
In the years following the 2018 draft, the decisions made at the top of the board have been a frequent subject of discussion and debate among NBA fans and analysts. While Ayton has contributed to the Suns' success, including a run to the NBA Finals, Luka Dončić rapidly ascended to become one of the league's most impactful players. Dončić's consistent high-level performance, including multiple All-NBA selections and leading the Mavericks deep into the playoffs, has led to significant retrospective analysis and often criticism on social media regarding the teams that passed on him.
