THE STORY
In the 2012 NBA Draft on June 28, the Sacramento Kings selected Thomas Robinson with the fifth overall pick, passing over Damian Lillard, who was chosen sixth by the Portland Trail Blazers. Robinson, a power forward from Kansas, averaged 17.7 points and 11.9 rebounds per game in his junior season. (nba.com) Lillard, a point guard from Weber State, went on to win Rookie of the Year honors with the Trail Blazers. (en.wikipedia.org)
TEAMS / PEOPLE:
Sacramento Kings, Damian Lillard
WHY IT MATTERS
The Kings' decision to draft Robinson over Lillard is often cited as a significant misstep, as Lillard developed into a multiple-time All-Star and franchise player for Portland, while Robinson's NBA career was less impactful.