With the 2024 NBA Draft nearing, Colorado forward Cody Williams is close to achieving a historic milestone. If Cody is chosen in the first 30 selections, he will be among few siblings to be drafted in the first round, alongside his brother Jalen Williams, the 12th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft.
Cody Williams holds the 11th spot on CBS Sports’ NBA Draft Prospect Rankings at the moment. This outstanding role suggests that he is very likely to continue his brother’s success and maintain their family’s reputation in the NBA.
Newest Pair of Siblings to be Drafted in the First Round
The Thompson twins, Amen and Ausar, drew attention last year when they were both chosen in the top five picks of the first round. This milestone represented the initial instance where siblings were picked in the top ten together in one draft. Amen Thompson was selected as the fourth pick by the Houston Rockets, while Ausar was chosen as the fifth pick by the Detroit Pistons.
In the same vein, Kris Murray of Iowa was also picked in the first round, joining his brother Keegan Murray. Keegan was chosen as the fourth overall selection by the Sacramento Kings in 2022, while Kris was picked by the Trail Blazers at number 23 in the subsequent year. The Ball siblings, Lonzo and LaMelo, stand out as the sole brothers selected within the top three picks. Lonzo was drafted as the second pick by the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2017 NBA Draft, while LaMelo was chosen third by the Charlotte Hornets in 2020.
Famous siblings who were drafted in the first round of the NBA.
Amen and Ausar Thompson (2023) are individuals who belong to the same year group.
The Thompson brothers, who were standout prospects, both played for Overtime Elite before becoming the highest-drafted players from that program, making history. Their exceptional talent and potential is highlighted by their being chosen as the first twins in the top ten of the NBA Draft.
2024 NBA Draft: Cody Williams, Jalen Williams set to join elite group of brothers selected in first round
— Sports Schedule (@schedulesportz) June 24, 2024
Keegan and Kris Murray, the years 2022 and 2023.
At first, the Murray brothers were not considered highly rated draft prospects, but they made big improvements at Iowa. Keegan’s exceptional season in 2021-22 led him to be selected as the No. 4 pick, while Kris also had a strong showing and was drafted at No. 23 by the Trail Blazers.
Lonzo and LaMelo Ball (2017, 2020) both played basketball professionally.
Although they did not fulfill their father’s wish for all three brothers to make it to the NBA, Lonzo and LaMelo Ball have still made a considerable impact. Lonzo was a highly regarded point guard prospect in 2017, selected as the No. 2 pick by the Lakers.
Marcus and Markieff Morris in 2011.
The Morris twins shined at Kansas before both being selected in the 2011 NBA Draft as lottery picks in back-to-back years. Markieff was selected as the 13th pick by the Phoenix Suns, while Marcus was chosen as the 14th pick by the Houston Rockets. Both have had lengthy NBA tenures, with Markieff now on the Dallas Mavericks and Marcus recently moved to the Washington Wizards.
Brook and Robin Lopez in 2008.
Following two seasons playing for Stanford, the Lopez brothers declared for the 2008 NBA Draft. Brook was chosen as the 10th pick by the New Jersey Nets, whereas Robin was picked 15th by the Phoenix Suns. Brook has evolved into a strong defender and skilled three-point shooter, while Robin still contributes important playing time in the league.
Bernard and Albert King were active in 1977 and 1981.
Bernard King, who hailed from Tennessee, was selected as the seventh overall pick by the New Jersey Nets in 1977. Four years later, his brother Albert joined the Nets as the 10th pick. Bernard had a successful career in the Hall of Fame, while Albert spent nine seasons playing for four different teams.
Gene and Purvis Short were active in 1975 and 1978.
Gene Short was chosen as the ninth overall pick in the 1975 draft by the New York Knicks. Purvis, his younger brother, was also drafted into the NBA from Jackson State, being selected fifth by the Golden State Warriors in 1978. Although Purvis enjoyed a long and successful 12-year career, Gene’s stint in the NBA was short-lived.
Russ and Ron Lee (1972, 1976)3030
The Lee brothers were the inaugural siblings to be selected as top-10 picks in the NBA Draft. Russ was chosen as the sixth pick by the Milwaukee Bucks in 1972, while Ron was picked as the 10th selection by the Phoenix Suns in 1976. Ron had a successful college career at Oregon, whereas Russ’s professional career was brief.
The Influence of the Williams Brothers
Being chosen in the first round could see Cody Williams joining the ranks of prestigious sibling pairs alongside Jalen Williams. Jalen’s adventure started at the Oklahoma City Thunder, where his diverse skills and abilities have positioned him as a valuable team member. Cody, recognized for his athletic skills and knack for putting the ball in the basket, possesses the abilities to greatly influence the NBA.
The Williams brothers’ experience showcases the growing phenomenon of siblings reaching great heights in the world of basketball. Their journeys showcase the commitment, preparation, and backing from their family that have driven them to the NBA.
Anticipating the Night of the Draft
As the 2024 NBA Draft night nears, excitement grows for Cody Williams’ pick. His standout play at Colorado has caught the eye, and his position as one of the top prospects indicates a bright future in the NBA. The upcoming draft will be a significant moment, not only for Cody, but for the Williams family, as they mark another achievement in their basketball adventure.
The tradition of NBA siblings teams is expanding, as each new duo contributes to the league’s colorful history. The Williams brothers, just like their predecessors, represent the essence of competition, achievement, and family ties that distinguish the NBA Draft as a unique occasion.
The Prospects for Cody and Jalen Williams
In the future, Cody and Jalen Williams could emerge as a highly dynamic pair of siblings in the NBA. Their combination of skills and common experiences will probably help them succeed in playing basketball. Cody’s debut in the NBA will add another dimension to their ongoing narrative, which fans and analysts will closely follow.
The Williams brothers’ journey can motivate hopeful athletes by showing that it is possible to achieve dreams with dedication and backing. As Cody enters the NBA, the anticipation surrounding his potential and the ongoing progression of both his and Jalen’s careers will be a narrative to watch in the upcoming years.