Former NBA star Gilbert Arenas had high hopes for the 2001 NBA Draft. Despite a standout college career, the Golden State Warriors selected him 31st overall in the second round, falling short of his expectation of being a first-round pick.
For this reason, Arenas has long harbored mixed feelings about the draft process. On a recent episode of his Gil’s Arenas Show, Arenas shared his ongoing dissatisfaction with it and proposed a radical idea to improve it.
“They should test the theory out. You have the draft, so we know who’s picking. Whoever is considered my draft, and number one, number two, you asking what team you want. Right now, you have to take the pay,” Arenas said.
“Let’s say you want to go to the Lakers and play with LeBron. And you’re supposed to be the number one pick. That pick is 17th. And that’s 17th money. Are you going to take that 17th money?” he added.
With the Warriors, Arenas’ rookie season wasn’t much notable. The former player, who labeled Michael Jordan as the “GOAT,” averaged 10.9 points, 3.7 assists, and 2.8 rebounds in his rookie season.
Gilbert Arenas’ Unconventional NBA Draft Proposal Sparks Debate Among Fans
Gilbert Arenas’ idea challenges the traditional draft system. It suggests that the prospect’s preference for a team should influence their placement and contract details.
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral NBA stories via Google! Follow Us
This approach could potentially align a player’s ambitions with their career trajectory. Some fans see it as a great move, which can provide more satisfaction and motivation.
Nevertheless, many fans expressed their dissatisfaction with the idea. In their eyes, it is one of the worst ideas, and some even slammed Arenas’ podcast.
Arenas’ suggestion aims to give players more control over their careers and potentially reduce draft-day disappointments. It’ll remain to be seen if the league considers their former player’s idea.
Also Read: Isiah Thomas Gives Reality Check To Gilbert Arenas After He Glorifies Individual Stats.
