When it comes to building a championship-caliber roster, the Golden State Warriors have long relied on the NBA draft as their secret weapon. From superstar picks to hidden gems unearthed in later rounds, the annual selection event has shaped the franchise's identity. While many fans instantly think of blue-blood programs when they picture Warriors draft picks, some of the most intriguing players have come from smaller schools—including Eastern Michigan.

Over the years, the Warriors have dipped into the Mid-American Conference talent pool exactly once, selecting a player from Eastern Michigan. Let's step back in time and explore that unique draft choice, adding a bit of context to the Warriors' history of scouting beyond the spotlight.

The lone Eastern Michigan draftee
The Warriors selected an Eastern Michigan player in the 1970 NBA Draft. It was the third round, with the second pick (36th overall), a time when the draft stretched much deeper than today's two-round format. Despite the selection, this player never suited up for Golden State—he did not make the team's final roster.

While it's a brief chapter in Warriors lore, it highlights how the franchise has always been willing to take chances on talent from every corner of college basketball. Even if this particular pick didn't pan out, the draft has delivered legends like Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green—showing that every selection, no matter how obscure, is part of the team's rich tapestry.

All stats and data courtesy of Basketball Reference. Whether you're a die-hard Dubs fan or just love the game's history, it's fascinating to see how every draft pick—even those from Eastern Michigan—adds a thread to the Warriors' story.