Landing a top pick in the NBA Draft is often a ticket to a championship — just ask the teams on this list. Lottery picks, the cream of the crop in each draft class, have been central to the success of many title-winning squads. With the Dallas Mavericks betting on No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg to lead them to glory, here’s a look back at the 10 NBA champions who won it all with the most lottery talent on their rosters.
Tied at 7th – 6 Lottery Picks
1999-00 Los Angeles Lakers
Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant led a team filled with six lottery talents, including Ron Harper and Robert Horry, sparking the Lakers’ early 2000s three-peat.
2019-20 Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers, reeling from Kobe Bryant’s tragic death and the pandemic, rode LeBron James and Anthony Davis to a bubble title, backed by a deep roster of lottery picks like Dwight Howard and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope.
2015-16 Cleveland Cavaliers
LeBron fulfilled his promise to Cleveland in dramatic fashion, overcoming a 3-1 Finals deficit against the 73-win Warriors. Key lottery picks: Kyrie Irving, Kevin Love, and Tristan Thompson.
2003-04 Detroit Pistons
The ultimate underdog story: Chauncey Billups, Rip Hamilton, and Rasheed Wallace headlined a gritty group that stunned the star-studded Lakers.
Tied at 4th – 7 Lottery Picks
2011-12 Miami Heat
LeBron James’ first title came alongside fellow lottery stars Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh. The Heat dominated with the “Big Three” plus supporting picks like Shane Battier.
2012-13 Miami Heat
The Heat ran it back, adding Ray Allen’s clutch shooting to their core. Seven lottery picks again propelled Miami to a second straight title.
2014-15 Golden State Warriors
Golden State’s dynasty took off with Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and others drafted into a perfect system. Finals MVP Andre Iguodala and other lottery picks added championship experience.
Tied at 1st – 8 Lottery Picks
2010-11 Dallas Mavericks
Dirk Nowitzki led a veteran-heavy roster through one of the toughest championship runs ever, knocking off the LeBron-led Heat. Jason Kidd, Tyson Chandler, and Shawn Marion were among the eight lottery picks fueling Dallas.
2021-22 Golden State Warriors
After years of injuries and struggles, the Warriors returned to the top with a blend of veterans and young lottery talent like James Wiseman and Jonathan Kuminga.
2005-06 Miami Heat
A young Dwyane Wade teamed up with Shaquille O’Neal and an army of former All-Stars to deliver Miami’s first title. Eight lottery picks made up this star-studded squad.
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The Bottom Line:
Drafting well — especially in the lottery — isn’t just important; it’s often the foundation of a championship. These teams prove that building with top picks can create dynasties and unforgettable title runs.
Ranking the 10 NBA Champions Built on the Most Lottery Picks
