The Legacy of the 2009 NBA Draft Class: Where Are They Now?

Looking back at the 2009 NBA draft class, I can’t help but feel a mix of nostalgia and awe. It’s been over a decade since names like Stephen Curry, James Harden, and Blake Griffin were called on that stage, and the league hasn’t been the same since. As someone who’s followed basketball both as a fan and an analyst, I’ve always been fascinated by how draft classes age—some flame out quickly, while others, like this one, leave a legacy that reshapes the game itself. Today, I want to revisit that remarkable group, not just to recap their careers, but to explore where they stand now, both on and off the court. It’s a story of superstardom, unexpected turns, and even global influence, and I’ll admit, I have a soft spot for the underdogs who carved out their own paths.

When you think of the 2009 draft, Curry immediately comes to mind—picked seventh by the Golden State Warriors, a move that many questioned at the time. Fast forward to today, and he’s a four-time NBA champion, two-time MVP, and arguably the greatest shooter in history. I remember watching his early games and thinking his style was revolutionary; now, he’s transformed how teams approach offense, emphasizing three-point shooting like never before. But it’s not just about stats—though his career averages of around 24 points and 6.5 assists per game are staggering—it’s about his impact on culture, from his philanthropic work to his media ventures. Then there’s James Harden, the third pick, who evolved from a Sixth Man in Oklahoma City to an MVP in Houston, known for his step-back threes and offensive genius. Recently, he’s bounced between teams, including the Nets and 76ers, and while his prime might be behind him, he’s still putting up solid numbers, like averaging 21 points and 10 assists last season. I’ve always admired his resilience, even if his style divides opinions among fans.

Blake Griffin, the first overall pick, brought a highlight-reel athleticism to the Clippers that defined an era. His dunks were must-see TV, and he averaged over 20 points and 8 rebounds in his prime. But injuries took their toll, and seeing him adapt his game in later years with the Pistons and Nets was a testament to his work ethic. Now, he’s transitioned into a role player and even dabbled in comedy and broadcasting—a shift I find refreshing because it shows there’s life after stardom. Other notable names include DeMar DeRozan, picked ninth, who’s aged like fine wine with his mid-range mastery, recently averaging 24 points for the Bulls and earning All-Star nods well into his 30s. And let’s not forget Jrue Holiday, the 17th pick, whose defensive prowess helped the Bucks win a championship in 2021; he’s still a key piece for contenders, proving that draft position isn’t everything.

But what fascinates me most are the international stories, like the one hinted at in that reference to Abarrientos. Though he wasn’t part of the 2009 NBA draft, his journey mirrors the global reach this class inspired. In that snippet, Abarrientos scored 20 points, with 17 coming in the second half, and ran a pick-and-roll with Brownlee—a play that screams teamwork and clutch performance. It reminds me of how players from that draft, like Ricky Rubio (picked fifth), expanded the game overseas. Rubio, for instance, started in Spain, shone in the NBA with his passing vision, and recently returned to Europe, dealing with mental health challenges that he’s openly discussed. I respect that honesty; it’s a reminder that athletes are more than their stats. Similarly, Brandon Jennings, the 10th pick, who once dropped 55 points as a rookie, now plays in China and stays connected to the game through coaching clinics. These paths show that success isn’t linear, and as a fan, I love seeing players find fulfillment beyond the NBA spotlight.

Of course, not every story is a fairy tale. Players like Hasheem Thabeet, the second overall pick, struggled to find their footing and are often cited as draft busts. He averaged just 2.2 points in his NBA career, and today, he’s involved in youth basketball programs—a humble but important role. Then there’s Tyreke Evans, the Rookie of the Year, whose career was derailed by off-court issues, though he’s working on a comeback in leagues overseas. It’s a stark contrast to the superstars, and it highlights the unpredictability of drafts. From my perspective, this class teaches us about longevity; for every Curry who dominates for years, there’s a player who reinvents themselves. I’ve always believed that the true measure of a draft isn’t just the top picks, but the depth—guys like Danny Green (46th pick) who became three-point specialists and champions, or Jeff Teague (19th pick) who now works as a analyst. Their journeys add layers to this narrative, making it richer and more human.

As I wrap this up, I’m struck by how the 2009 draft class continues to influence basketball today. Curry’s Warriors are still title contenders, Harden’s playmaking sets up new stars, and the international ripple effect—seen in players like Abarrientos—shows how the NBA’s reach has globalized the sport. In my view, this class set a benchmark for talent and adaptability, and it’s why I often refer back to it when evaluating new drafts. They’re not just athletes; they’re innovators, mentors, and global ambassadors. Whether they’re lighting up scoreboards or mentoring the next generation, their legacy is secure, and I, for one, can’t wait to see what they do next.