Last Updated on January 8, 2025 by Mathew Diekhake
The 1991 NBA Draft took place on June 26, 1991, at the Felt Forum in New York City. This draft class included several players who made a significant impact on the NBA. Here’s an overview:
First Overall Pick
- Larry Johnson (Charlotte Hornets): A power forward from UNLV, Johnson became Rookie of the Year (1992) and a 2-time All-Star. Known as “Grandmama,” he was a dynamic scorer and rebounder in his prime.
Other Notable Players
- Dikembe Mutombo (4th overall, Denver Nuggets): A dominant defensive center, Mutombo was an 8-time All-Star, a 4-time Defensive Player of the Year, and ranks among the all-time leaders in blocked shots.
- Steve Smith (5th overall, Miami Heat): A smooth-scoring guard/forward who became an NBA Champion (2003) with the San Antonio Spurs and an All-Star in 1998.
- Terrell Brandon (11th overall, Cleveland Cavaliers): A crafty point guard who made 2 All-Star appearances and was considered one of the league’s best floor generals in the mid-1990s.
- Chris Gatling (16th overall, Golden State Warriors): Known for his scoring off the bench, Gatling earned an All-Star selection in 1997.
- Greg Anthony (12th overall, New York Knicks): A gritty point guard who later became a respected basketball analyst.
Underrated Gems
- Rick Fox (24th overall, Boston Celtics): A solid role player who became a key contributor to the Lakers’ early-2000s championship teams.
Other Notable Players
- Stacey Augmon (9th overall, Atlanta Hawks): Known as “Plastic Man” for his defensive versatility.
- Billy Owens (3rd overall, Sacramento Kings): A skilled forward who had a solid, though not spectacular, career.