The G League Ignite was sold as a program to develop top high school prospects for one year before they were likely selected in the NBA Draft, and this sales pitch has been followed to a T. 3 players from the Ignite team that played in the bubble were selected in this year’s NBA Draft.
First up was Jalen Green, the most highly regarded prospect on the team. Green was selected 2nd overall by the Houston Rockets, falling only behind Cade Cunningham. Green had a fantastic year for the Ignite, as he showed of his star potential while averaging 17.9 points per game. Green’s teammate, Jonathan Kuminga, was also a lottery pick in the draft, going to Golden State at number 7. Kuminga demonstrated his athleticism throughout the entire 2021 G League season, averaging 15.8 points and 7.2 rebounds per game.
However, the draft was not over for the rest of the Ignite squad. Forward Isaiah Todd was selected as the first pick of second round (31st overall), making him the 3rd and final member of the inaugural Ignite team to be drafted. G League Ignite point guard Daishen Nix went undrafted.
The success of the Ignite program was on full display during this year’s draft, and it is sure to produce more top picks in future years.
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