Josh Cohen’s Analysis (Jan. 26, 2014): San Antonio made a somewhat bold decision in 1987 when it chose David Robinson first overall. It wasn’t daring because of Robinson’s basketball potential, but rather because he wouldn’t be allowed to begin his NBA career until another two years. Robinson was required fulfill his active-duty obligation in the Navy.
Patience eventually paid off as Robinson had an immediate impact on the Spurs once he arrived. The delay also allowed San Antonio to stack up on additional high draft picks, which included eventual All-Star Sean Elliot.
If not for the draft lottery, however, Robinson would have turned a different franchise around…
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