Last Updated on January 8, 2025 by Mathew Diekhake
The 1990 NBA Draft took place on June 27, 1990, at the Felt Forum in New York City. This draft class is notable for producing several impactful NBA players. Here are some highlights:
First Overall Pick
- Derrick Coleman (New Jersey Nets): A power forward/center from Syracuse University. Coleman had a solid career, earning Rookie of the Year (1991) and an All-Star selection in 1994.
Other Notable Players
- Gary Payton (2nd overall, Seattle SuperSonics): Known as “The Glove,” Payton became one of the greatest defensive guards in NBA history. He was a 9-time All-Star, the 1996 Defensive Player of the Year, and an NBA champion with the Miami Heat in 2006.
- Antonio Davis (45th overall, Indiana Pacers): A durable forward/center who became an All-Star in 2001 and had a long, productive career.
- Kendall Gill (5th overall, Charlotte Hornets): A versatile guard/forward known for his scoring and defensive skills.
- Toni Kukoč (29th overall, Chicago Bulls): Although he didn’t enter the NBA immediately, Kukoč became a key member of the Bulls’ second three-peat and won the Sixth Man of the Year Award (1996).
- Cedric Ceballos (48th overall, Phoenix Suns): A high-flying forward known for his scoring ability, including an NBA All-Star appearance (1995).
Other Key Selections
- Dennis Scott (4th overall, Orlando Magic): A sharpshooter and one of the best three-point specialists of his time.
- Chris Jackson (Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf) (3rd overall, Denver Nuggets): Known for his incredible scoring and dazzling ball-handling skills.
Undrafted Players
The 1990 draft also produced notable undrafted talent:
- John Starks: Played a significant role for the New York Knicks, becoming an All-Star in 1994.