The 2004 NBA Draft Class: Where Are They Now and Their Greatest Career Highlights

Looking back at the 2004 NBA draft class always brings a mix of nostalgia and professional curiosity for me. Having followed basketball both as a fan and analyst for over two decades, I’ve seen draft classes come and go, but this one stands out for its unique blend of star power, longevity, and underrated contributors. It’s fascinating to see where these players ended up—some became household names, while others carved out quiet but meaningful careers. I remember watching the draft that year, thinking about the potential these young athletes held. Now, nearly two decades later, we can truly assess their impact, both on and off the court. In many ways, this class embodies what former coach Jong Uichico once highlighted about the satisfaction of making the playoffs on a winning note. It wasn’t just about being the top pick; it was about building a legacy through perseverance and team success.

When you think of the 2004 draft, Dwight Howard immediately comes to mind. Selected first overall by the Orlando Magic, Howard quickly established himself as a dominant force in the league. I’ve always admired his athleticism and energy—those thunderous dunks and relentless rebounding made him a fan favorite. Over his career, he racked up eight All-Star appearances, three Defensive Player of the Year awards, and led the Magic to the NBA Finals in 2009. That Finals run was something special; Howard averaged 20.6 points and 13.8 rebounds per game in the playoffs, showcasing his ability to carry a team. But what sticks with me is how he evolved later in his career, embracing a role player position to win an NBA championship with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020. It’s a testament to his adaptability, something not every star manages gracefully. On the other hand, Emeka Okafor, the second pick, had a solid if less flashy career. He won Rookie of the Year, averaging 15.1 points and 10.9 rebounds, and was a reliable big man for years. Though injuries cut his prime short, I respect how he maximized his skills—strong defense and efficient scoring—without the same spotlight.

Then there’s the international flavor of this draft, which I find particularly intriguing. Players like Luol Deng and Andre Iguodala, picked third and ninth respectively, brought a global perspective that enriched the NBA. Deng, hailing from South Sudan via the UK, became a two-time All-Star and was known for his tireless work ethic. I recall watching him play for the Chicago Bulls; his versatility on both ends of the floor was a coach’s dream. He averaged over 18 points per game in his prime and was a key part of those gritty Bulls teams that always seemed to overachieve. Iguodala, though, might be the ultimate success story from this class in terms of team achievements. Winning four championships with the Golden State Warriors and earning Finals MVP in 2015, he exemplified the value of a player who does the little things. His defense, leadership, and clutch performances remind me of Uichico’s point about playoff satisfaction—it’s not always the stats that matter, but the wins. I’ve always been a bit biased toward players like Iguodala who prioritize team success over individual accolades.

Moving down the draft board, we find gems like Al Jefferson at pick 15, who had a stellar career as a low-post scorer, averaging 15.7 points and 8.4 rebounds over 14 seasons. I loved watching his old-school game; in an era shifting toward three-pointers, he stuck to his roots and dominated in the paint. Then there’s Kevin Martin, the 26th pick, who quietly became a scoring machine, putting up over 17 points per game for his career. But let’s not forget the second-round steals. Trevor Ariza, picked 43rd, turned into a quintessential 3-and-D player and won a championship with the Lakers in 2009. His journey resonates with me because it shows how draft position isn’t destiny. In fact, I’d argue that the 2004 class had a higher than average number of players who outperformed their draft slots, contributing to playoff runs across the league. For instance, Jameer Nelson, though not a high pick, became an All-Star in 2009 and was instrumental for the Magic alongside Howard. His story ties back to that idea of playoff satisfaction—Nelson didn’t always get the headlines, but he was crucial in big moments.

As we fast-forward to today, many of these players have transitioned into retirement or new roles. Howard last played in the NBA in 2022, and I’ve seen him explore opportunities overseas and in media. Iguodala recently retired after a storied career, and he’s now involved in business and broadcasting, which doesn’t surprise me given his sharp basketball IQ. Others, like Deng, have taken on leadership roles off the court, with him being involved in humanitarian work. Reflecting on their journeys, it’s clear that the 2004 draft class left a lasting imprint. They combined individual brilliance with collective success, much like Uichico emphasized—whether you’re the first pick or a late-round find, making the playoffs on a high note is what truly defines a career. From my perspective, this class teaches us that longevity and adaptability are just as important as early hype. They gave us unforgettable moments, from Howard’s Superman dunks to Iguodala’s Finals heroics, and their legacies continue to inspire the next generation. In the end, it’s not just about where they started, but how they navigated the twists and turns of professional basketball.