Kenyon Martin was selected first overall in the 2000 NBA Draft by the New Jersey Nets, marking a shift in the league’s approach to evaluating college seniors. Drafted out of the University of Cincinnati, Martin became the first Bearcat to be taken with the top pick, signaling a departure from the trend of prioritizing younger, high-potential prospects during that era.
The 2000 NBA Draft Context
On June 28, 2000, at the Target Center in Minneapolis, the New Jersey Nets utilized the first overall pick to select Kenyon Martin. According to NBA records, the draft class was defined by a heavy reliance on experienced collegiate players rather than the prep-to-pro movement that had dominated previous years.
Martin entered the draft as a senior, having earned the 2000 National College Player of the Year award. His selection by the Nets was a calculated move to anchor the team’s defense and frontcourt. While the 2000 draft is often criticized by analysts for its lack of long-term superstar depth, Martin provided immediate utility, earning an NBA All-Star selection in 2004 and appearing in two consecutive NBA Finals with New Jersey in 2002 and 2003.
Comparing the 2000 Draft Class
The 2000 draft is frequently cited in sports media as one of the weakest in modern NBA history. When comparing the top of the 2000 draft to the preceding 1999 class or the following 2001 class, the difference in star power is notable.
| Draft Year | 1st Overall Pick | Notable Peers |
|---|---|---|
| 1999 | Elton Brand | Baron Davis, Lamar Odom |
| 2000 | Kenyon Martin | Jamal Crawford, Mike Miller |
| 2001 | Kwame Brown | Pau Gasol, Tony Parker |
While Martin’s career spanned 15 seasons, the lack of franchise-altering talent in the 2000 pool forced teams to prioritize role-specific production. Martin’s defensive intensity and athleticism served as the primary justification for his top status, as noted in contemporary New York Times reporting from the night of the event.
Why the 2000 Selection Matters
Martin’s selection remains a historical marker for how the NBA values college maturity. In the years surrounding the 2000 draft, the league saw a massive influx of high school players. By selecting a four-year college player who had overcome a significant leg injury during his senior season, the Nets prioritized proven production over raw, unrefined potential.
The strategy yielded short-term success for the franchise. The Nets transformed from a lottery team into a legitimate Eastern Conference contender within two years. Martin’s role as a defensive specialist and secondary scorer became the blueprint for the team’s identity under head coach Byron Scott.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the first player selected in the 2000 NBA Draft?
Kenyon Martin was the first overall pick, selected by the New Jersey Nets.
What college did Kenyon Martin attend?
Martin played four seasons at the University of Cincinnati before entering the NBA.
Did Kenyon Martin win an NBA championship?
No. While Martin reached the NBA Finals with the New Jersey Nets in both 2002 and 2003, the team lost to the Los Angeles Lakers and the San Antonio Spurs, respectively.
How many seasons did Kenyon Martin play in the NBA?
Martin played 15 seasons in the NBA, finishing his career with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2015.