Last Updated on January 9, 2025 by Mathew Diekhake

The 1995 NBA Draft took place on June 28, 1995, at the SkyDome in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It is notable for producing several players who became All-Stars and Hall of Famers. Here are some key highlights:

First Overall Pick:

  • Joe Smith – Selected by the Golden State Warriors.

Notable Players from the Draft:

  1. Kevin Garnett (5th overall, Minnesota Timberwolves)
    • First player to be drafted directly out of high school in 20 years.
    • Hall of Famer, MVP (2004), NBA Champion (2008).
  2. Rasheed Wallace (4th overall, Washington Bullets)
    • 4x All-Star, NBA Champion (2004 with Detroit Pistons).
  3. Jerry Stackhouse (3rd overall, Philadelphia 76ers)
    • 2x All-Star, long and productive career.
  4. Antonio McDyess (2nd overall, Los Angeles Clippers – traded to Denver Nuggets)
    • 1x All-Star, known for his athleticism and resilience after injuries.
  5. Michael Finley (21st overall, Phoenix Suns)
    • 2x All-Star, NBA Champion (2007 with San Antonio Spurs).
  6. Damon Stoudamire (7th overall, Toronto Raptors)
    • Rookie of the Year (1996), key player for early Raptors teams.
  7. Theo Ratliff (18th overall, Detroit Pistons)
    • 2x NBA blocks leader, defensive specialist.

Other Noteworthy Players:

  • Brent Barry (15th overall, Denver Nuggets – traded to the Clippers)
    • NBA Slam Dunk Contest Champion (1996), NBA Champion (2005, 2007).
  • Kurt Thomas (10th overall, Miami Heat)
    • Longtime role player and tough defender.
  • Tyus Edney (47th overall, Sacramento Kings)
    • Famous for his NCAA Tournament buzzer-beater with UCLA.

The 1995 draft is remembered for introducing the legendary Kevin Garnett and other impactful players who shaped the NBA landscape for years.