Golden State Warriors: Ranking the top-5 second-round picks in team history

By Justin Lee | Nov 24, 2020

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 27: Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors celebrates after making a three-point basket in the second half against the Phoenix Suns at Chase Center on December 27, 2019 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

Gilbert Arenas, 31st Pick (2001)

Many people do not know that Gilbert Arenas started his career with the Golden State Warriors.

He was selected in the second round from Arizona as a sophomore. How did such a talented scorer fall so low in the draft? Well, Arenas was known for his attitude, and the Warriors wanted to take a flyer on that.

Golden State was high on him throughout the draft process, and rightfully so. As a freshman at Arizona, Arenas averaged 15 points a game, five rebounds, and two assists, all in 34 games.

Entering into the NBA, the second-rounder immediately was a spark off the bench, averaging ten points and three assist a game in 47 games. In the next season, Arenas would have his breakout year with Golden State.

Starting all 82 games, the 6-foot-3 guard averaged 18 points a game and six assists. The Warriors didn’t finish the season with a championship, but their record dramatically improved to 38-44 under head coach Eric Musselman who now coaches the Arkansas Razorbacks.

After leaving Golden State, Arenas would go on to Washington, solidifying himself as a fantastic scorer and making three All-Star teams.

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