Take a look at past drafts and the players who would later steal the spotlight – Dwyane Wade, Kobe Bryant, Dwight Howard, Dirk Nowitzki, LeBron James…who knew they’d later be drafted into the 2009 All-NBA First team? I can see most of you nodding heads with LeBron James. As soon as Stern calls up the next players this Thursday, June 25, 2009, to get drafted in the NBA, maybe we’ll see a few of these hardworking and talented individuals make the All-NBA first team one day. Think you can predict which of these draft prospects are bound to fill D Wade, Kobe, Dwight, Dirk, and Bron’s shoes in the future? Let us know. For now, here’s a look back at the 2009 All-NBA First Team in their draft moment.

Dwayne Wade (2003, #5)

Kobe Bryant (1996, #13)

Dwight Howard (2004, #1)

LeBron James (2003, #1)

Dirk Nowitzki (1998, #9)

There is a clear distinction between the lions and lambs who play the game. And in this NBA den, the All-NBA first team isn’t intended for the weak and meager. This NBA honor is given to only the elite individual players who have measured up by panel standards, to be the best at leading the NBA all season long. When draft time comes around, think beyond which team(s) will benefit from the player(s) they select. This is the future of basketball.