Often as a child, I grew up playing sports games such as NHL, FIFA, and NBA 2k on my PlayStation. Many of my friends we’re apt to play online, but that never really intrigued me. What intrigued me was the “Be a GM” game mode, which would allow you to take control of a franchise and build it your way. Often a choice you had was a fantasy draft, which was basically a reset of the league, allowing you to draft new players.
I was thinking about what would happen if I was given the reins to an NBA franchise, and how I would go about building it. Who would be my first overall pick? Well, depending on the draft order, this would obviously differ, but for entertainment purposes, I’ll say I have the first overall pick. So, who would be my choice to start my franchise? Without further ado, let’s jump right into it, and see who gets to be my franchises #1.
I’ve narrowed the list down to five players who would intrigue me the most; Giannis Antentokoumpo, Luka Doncic, Ja Morant, Jayson Tatum, and Devin Booker. Obviously, one of the most important factors when starting a franchise from scratch is having your cornerstone player be young and hungry. The oldest player on this list is Giannis, who’s only 27 and has already accomplished so much in the league.
Ja Morant would bring a certain swagger and flair to the franchise if we were to choose him first overall. Morant proved this season that he is the future of the NBA, and was one of the most consistent, efficient, and clutch players under the age of 25. The kid is more than solid and would be the perfect player to market as well, as he is a wholesome player who loves to win.
Luka Doncic intrigues me as the player with the most natural talent and skill, and that’s always good to have when you’re starting a franchise. Doncic is a legend in my books because before he came to the NBA, he was dominating the EuroLeague, and even won MVP…before he turned 18! Doncic is a straight-up baller and would be a welcome addition to any franchise starting anew.
Devin Booker and Jayson Tatum are two of the most fierce young players in the NBA, and the main reason I am intrigued by them is their ability to score, and make clutch shots in big games (maybe not this year for Booker as he got blown out by the Mavs), and their winning attitudes. Their affinity for Kobe Bryant is apparent in their play, and if you want to take anybody, why not take players who model their games after the G.O.A.T Kobe Bryant.
All these players would be great starting pieces, but nobody can beat Giannis, who is the complete package. At just 27 years of age, Giannis has already done so much; winning two league MVPs, a Larry O’Brien trophy, a Finals MVP, and multiple DYOP awards. How can you beat that? It’s not just what he does on the court, but his leadership mentality and his never-quit attitude. Giannis is a coach’s dream and a new franchise’s Golden Ticket to the promised land.