The 2024 NBA Draft marked the 78th edition of the National Basketball Association's annual selection event, introducing a unique two-night format for the first time since 1989.
The first round took place on June 26 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, while the second round followed on June 27 at ESPN's Seaport District Studios in Manhattan.
With teams given extra time between second-round picks, the draft saw 58 players selected, with the Atlanta Hawks picking French forward Zaccharie Risacher as the first overall pick.
The most anticipated pick came late in the second round when the Los Angeles Lakers selected Bronny James at 55. Son of NBA legend LeBron James, Bronny's selection continues to generate worldwide buzz, setting up what could be the first father-son duo to play in the NBA simultaneously. Playing at USC, Bronny overcame a challenging year marked by a cardiac arrest episode, and now he joins a Lakers squad that looks likely to retain his father for another season.
Australian fans had much to celebrate, with one highly touted prospect making his way to the big league with what many believe to be a second-round steal. Johnny Furphy, a 6-8 wing from Kansas, was picked by the San Antonio Spurs at 35 and traded to the Indiana Pacers after a stellar run at the Jayhawks.
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - MARCH 21: Johnny Furphy #10 of the Kansas Jayhawks celebrates after scoring against Jaden Campbell #2 of the Samford Bulldogs during the second half in the first round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Delta Center on March 21, 2024 in Salt Lake City, Utah. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
Known for his athleticism and that typical Aussie grit, Furphy will likely be a long-term project with significant potential. He follows in the footsteps of his brother, Joe Furphy, an AFL player for the Geelong Cats, showcasing the dynamic sporting talent in the aptly named Furphy family.
Alexandre Sarr, a French prospect who played for the Perth Wildcats in the NBL, was selected second overall by the Washington Wizards. Sarr's performance in the NBL's Next Stars program showcased defensive prowess and versatility worthy enough to be ranked number one in the eyes of many notable scouts.
Guard A.J. Johnson was picked at 23 from the Illawarra Hawks, forward Bobi Klintman was taken at 37 from the Cairns Tipans, while centre Ariel Hukporti was selected with the lucky last pick of the draft from Melbourne United. These four talents highlight the growing influence the Australian league is having on the global scene and NBA prospects in recent years, following the likes of LaMelo Ball with their development down under.
Other notable selections included Tidjane Salaün, also from France, chosen sixth by the Charlotte Hornets, contributing to France's remarkable presence in the top 10 picks. This draft has underscored the immediate impact of last year's generational first pick, Victor Wembanyama, who has exponentially enhanced the growing global influence on the NBA, as international players continue to lead the charge on champion teams.