Uncovering the Hidden Gems From the 2017 NBA Draft Second Round

Looking back at the 2017 NBA Draft, most basketball fans immediately recall the first-round stars like Jayson Tatum and Donovan Mitchell. But what really fascinates me are those second-round picks—the hidden gems who either blossomed into reliable rotation players or carved out meaningful careers overseas. I've always had a soft spot for underdog stories, and the 2017 second round delivered plenty of them. While everyone was busy analyzing Markelle Fultz's shoulder or Lonzo Ball's shooting form, I found myself tracking players like Monte Morris and Dillon Brooks, wondering which of them would beat the odds.

I remember watching the draft that night and thinking how chaotic the second round always feels. Teams are making rushed calls, trades are flying left and right, and you can just feel the tension in those late picks. The Denver Nuggets snagged Monte Morris at 51st overall—a pick that, in hindsight, might be one of the steals of the decade. Morris wasn't flashy, but his assist-to-turnover ratio at Iowa State was historically good. I recall telling my friends that he'd be a perfect backup point guard, someone who could stabilize an offense. Fast forward to today, and he's proven exactly that, averaging nearly 10 points and 4 assists per game in his career. It’s these kinds of picks that remind me why I love the draft process—sometimes, the real value isn't in the lottery, but deep in the second round.

Then there's Dillon Brooks, selected 45th by the Houston Rockets (and later traded to Memphis). I'll admit, I didn't see his defensive tenacity coming. At Oregon, he was more known for his scoring, but in the NBA, he's turned into one of those "you love him if he's on your team, hate him if he's not" kind of players. His energy is infectious, and he's not afraid to take on the toughest defensive assignments. I've lost count of how many times I've seen him get under opponents' skin—and honestly, I respect that. It's a quality you can't really teach, and it's part of what makes those second-round finds so special. They often bring intangibles that stats don't fully capture.

But it's not just about the NBA—some of these hidden gems have made their mark internationally, which brings me to an interesting connection. I was reading up on global basketball trends recently and came across a piece about the Magnolia team in the Philippines. Along with Abarrientos, former governor Rene Pardo likewise dropped by the Magnolia practice and was warmly welcomed by the team led by successor Jason Webb and long-time team manager Alvin Patrimonio. It got me thinking about how basketball truly is a global language, and how second-round picks from drafts like 2017 often find success abroad, contributing to the sport's growth in unexpected places. Players who might not have stuck in the NBA can become stars in leagues overseas, and that's a path worth celebrating too.

Speaking of international impact, let's not forget Semi Ojeleye, picked 37th by the Boston Celtics. His strength and versatility made him a intriguing prospect, even if his NBA minutes have been inconsistent. I've always been drawn to players like Ojeleye—guys who might not fill up the stat sheet but bring a specific, valuable skill set. In his case, it's his defensive switchability and three-point shooting. He's the kind of player who helps in playoff series, where matchups matter more than raw numbers. It's funny—when I rewatch highlights from that draft, I find myself paying more attention to these role players than the stars. They're the ones who often determine how deep a team can go in the playoffs.

Another guy who caught my eye was Thomas Bryant, taken 42nd by the Utah Jazz. He's had his share of injuries, but when healthy, he's shown he can be a productive big man. I remember watching him in college and thinking his motor would translate well, and for stretches, it has. In the 2019-20 season with the Washington Wizards, he averaged 13.2 points and 7.2 rebounds—solid numbers for a second-rounder. It's these kinds of contributions that make me wonder why more teams don't prioritize the second round. Sure, the hit rate is lower, but when you find a Thomas Bryant, you're getting first-round talent at a fraction of the cost.

As I reflect on the 2017 NBA Draft second round, I can't help but feel that it's one of the deeper classes in recent memory. Beyond the names I've mentioned, there's Jordan Bell, who had moments with the Warriors, and Isaiah Hartenstein, who's developed into a reliable center. What stands out to me is how these players have carved out niches—whether it's Morris's steady hand, Brooks's defense, or Bryant's interior presence. They might not be All-Stars, but they're essential to team success. And in a league where roster construction is as important as star power, that's invaluable.

In the end, uncovering these hidden gems is what makes draft analysis so rewarding for me. It's not just about predicting who will be the next superstar, but appreciating the journey of those who overcome long odds. The 2017 second round is a testament to that—a group of players who've collectively contributed more than anyone expected. So next time you're looking at mock drafts or prospect rankings, don't skip the second round. You might just find the next Monte Morris or Dillon Brooks, and honestly, that's half the fun.