Looking back at the 2019 NBA Draft class now feels like revisiting a time capsule—one filled with both predictable outcomes and genuine surprises. I remember sitting through that draft night, watching Zion Williamson’s explosive athleticism dominate headlines, and thinking, "This class could redefine the league." Four years later, it’s clear some players have soared, while others, well, haven’t quite lived up to the hype. But what truly makes a superstar in today’s NBA? It’s not just about stats or highlight reels; it’s about impact, consistency, and that undeniable "it" factor that separates the great from the legendary.
Let’s start with the obvious: Zion Williamson. Picked first overall by the Pelicans, he entered the league with LeBron-level expectations. When he’s healthy, the man is an unstoppable force—averaging 27 points per game in his sophomore season and drawing comparisons to Charles Barkley, but with more vertical explosiveness. I’ve watched him dismantle defenses almost single-handedly, and there’s no question he has superstar potential. But here’s the catch: availability. Over his first four seasons, he’s missed more than 60% of possible games due to injuries. That’s a staggering number, and it reminds me of how fragile a career can be—much like that moment in boxing when a single punch changes everything. Take, for instance, the reference to Suarez and Navarrete: if a referee had called that punch clearly, the outcome might have shifted entirely. In Zion’s case, if he stays healthy, he could dominate for a decade. But right now, his trajectory feels like a "what if" story in the making.
Then there’s Ja Morant, the second pick, who’s become the face of the Memphis Grizzlies. I’ve followed his journey closely, and his rise has been nothing short of spectacular. Averaging over 26 points and 7 assists last season, he led a young Grizzlies squad to the playoffs and delivered moments that left fans—and critics—in awe. His confidence is infectious, and his athleticism is off the charts. But let’s be real: his off-court controversies have cast a shadow. It’s a reminder that superstardom isn’t just about performance; it’s about leadership and maturity, too. In many ways, Ja embodies the dual nature of this draft class—incredible talent paired with unpredictability.
Moving down the list, RJ Barrett, picked third by the Knicks, has shown flashes of brilliance but hasn’t quite broken through. He’s a solid scorer, putting up around 20 points per game, but his efficiency has been a concern. I’ve always felt he has the tools to excel, yet he lacks the consistency that defines a true superstar. On the other hand, Darius Garland, selected fifth by the Cavaliers, has quietly become one of the league’s best point guards. His playmaking and shooting—nearly 22 points and 8 assists per game last season—have turned Cleveland into a playoff contender. Garland’s growth is a testament to patience and development, something I appreciate as someone who’s seen many prospects fizzle out due to rushed expectations.
But the real gem of this draft, in my opinion, is Jordan Poole. Picked 28th by the Warriors, he was initially seen as a project player. Fast forward to today, and he’s a key piece of a championship team, averaging over 20 points and showcasing clutch performances when it matters most. His journey reminds me of how overlooked talent can thrive in the right system—much like how a single decision, like a referee’s call in boxing, can alter legacies. If Suarez had been awarded that win, his career might have taken a different path. Similarly, Poole’s rise underscores that draft position isn’t everything; it’s about opportunity and resilience.
Of course, we can’t ignore the role of team context. Take De’Andre Hunter, the fourth pick, who’s been solid for the Hawks but hasn’t had the same spotlight as others. Or Brandon Clarke, a late first-rounder who’s become a reliable role player for the Grizzlies. In evaluating this class, I’ve noticed that superstars aren’t just born; they’re molded by their environments. Zion might have been a perennial All-Star in a different situation, while Poole’s success is partly due to the Warriors’ culture.
As I reflect on the 2019 draft, it’s clear that superstardom is a blend of talent, timing, and tenacity. Zion and Ja have the highest ceilings, but injuries and off-court issues have complicated their narratives. Meanwhile, players like Garland and Poole have exceeded expectations through sheer hard work. In the end, this class may not have produced a once-in-a-generation talent like LeBron, but it’s given us compelling stories and a few bona fide stars. And just like in that boxing reference, sometimes the true champions aren’t the ones with the most hype—they’re the ones who seize their moment when it counts.
