When it comes to building a winning roster, the Brooklyn Nets have always had a keen eye for talent—whether through savvy trades or by hitting the mark in the NBA draft. Over the years, the franchise has brought in some of its most memorable players on draft night, and a surprising number of those picks have come from one powerhouse college program: the University of Arizona.
From star-caliber standouts to key role players, Arizona alumni have left their mark in Brooklyn. But it's not just the big names that tell the story; the draft history reveals a rich pipeline of talent from the desert to the borough. Some of these players became fan favorites, while others carved out solid NBA careers elsewhere—but all of them share the distinction of being drafted by the Nets out of Tucson.
So, let's dive into the full list of every Arizona Wildcat who heard their name called by the Brooklyn Nets on draft day. It's a mix of early-round gambles and late-round steals, and each pick adds a unique chapter to the team's history.
2006 NBA Draft | Second Round (24th pick, 54th overall)
This was the first—and so far only—time the Nets selected a player directly out of Arizona. While the pick may not have resulted in a long-term star for Brooklyn, it represents a notable connection between the program and the franchise.
All stats and data courtesy of Basketball Reference.
Whether you're a Nets fan looking to relive draft history or just curious about how Arizona talent has shaped the NBA, this list is a fascinating look at the intersection of college excellence and professional ambition. And who knows—the next Wildcat might just be wearing a Brooklyn jersey on draft night soon.
