It’s been a little over a decade since the 2010 NBA Draft took place. This draft class consisted of potentially game-changing athletes who were expected to shape the future of the league in their own unique ways. It was an event filled with anticipation and promise. Fast forward to today: most of the class has either hung up their jerseys or transitioned into different roles outside of the hardwood.
Interestingly enough, amidst this gradual fading away of the 2010 generation from mainstream basketball action, two names still continue to shine brightly on NBA rosters.?
Who are the last two men standing from the 2010 NBA Draft?
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The 2010 NBA Draft Class, which came seven years after LeBron James was drafted, featured a promising lineup. From Greg Monroe and Eric Bledsoe to Derrick Favors and Evan Turner; this draft did provide strong role players during the 2010s. But thirteen years later, most of these hoopers are out of the NBA’s running order. Except for two.
The Indiana Pacers selected Paul George, a young forward from Fresno State University as the #10 overall pick. Across the country, a versatile small forward out of Butler University, Gordon Hayward was moving to Utah.
Paul George and Gordon Hayward are the ONLY players from the 2010 draft still on a NBA roster.. pic.twitter.com/gxWRmPXteU
— Khiz (@KhizHoop) July 18, 2023
They are the last men standing from their batch still actively involved with an NBA team.
It’s strange because this?was a class filled with potential, with players like John Wall, DeMarcus Cousins, and Avery Bradley. All eager to make their mark. Yet, as the years rolled by, many of these promising talents found themselves outside the NBA roster.
Picking up from LeBron?s career longevity, George and Hayward still navigate their way in the league.?
Paul George and Gordon Hayward battled injuries
PG13, initially PG24, played a vital role in the Pacers’ success. He helped lead the team deep into the playoffs. His performances earned him 8? NBA All-Star selections and a reputation as one of the league’s premier two-way players. However, In 2014, a gruesome leg injury threatened to derail his career. Nevertheless, he returned strong despite breaking his leg while donning the USA jersey.
While he continued to excel with the Pacers, the allure of playing for his hometown team, the Los Angeles Lakers, tempted him. Despite intense speculation, George ultimately found himself with Russell Westbrook and the OKC before joining forces with Kawhi Leonard and the Clippers in 2019.
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Gordon Hayward’s path wasn’t without its challenges either. After a steady start to his career in Utah, Hayward decided to test the free agency waters in 2017. He left the Jazz to join the Boston Celtics, hoping to lead them back to championship glory.
Unfortunately, during his Celtics debut, he suffered a major injury that kept him sidelined for the entire season.?
Despite facing some ups and downs, he remained a vital part of the Celtics’ roster. In 2020, Hayward made a surprising move to the Charlotte Hornets, where he continues to display the skills and leadership that have defined his career.
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In an era where player movement is common, and careers can be cut short by injuries, George and Hayward’s longevity is commendable. As they continue to make their mark on the NBA, fans can’t wait to see them again during the upcoming season!