Leading up to the 2011 NBA Draft, the Cleveland Cavaliers made it clear that they were choosing between selecting Duke PG Kyrie Irving or Arizona PF Derrick Williams with the No. 1 overall pick (the Cavs also had the 4th overall pick that year). But many insiders knew the Cavs were going to pick Irving, which they did. Most analysts thought taking Kyrie was the right call. However, there were folks who favored Williams and believed the Cavs were making a mistake passing on him (he ended up going 2nd to Minnesota). They were obviously wrong. Kyrie has turned into of the premier scorers in the NBA and played an integral role in helping Cleveland win its first NBA title. Williams’ first six seasons were underwhelming; and he’s now on his fourth team (the Miami Heat) playing only 15 minutes a game. Here are some of the people who were on Team Williams.
Fox Sports’ Colin Cowherd’s choice was D-Will…
If cavs take Derrick Williams–my choice—what do T-wolves do? Pick ANOTHER point guard. Minny better be ready to make a trade…
— Colin Cowherd (@ColinCowherd) June 23, 2011
At least you sounded somewhat skeptical of your opinion here Joey…
https://twitter.com/joeyrkaufman/status/84036290814808064
The Cavs boldly ignored the “clear” play…
https://twitter.com/jkatzenstein/status/83919244013735936
They also didn’t heed warnings…
I warn you Cleveland…taking Kyrie Irving will be a HUGE mistake…take Derrick Williams…WAY more upside
— Anthony DiMoro (@AnthonyDiMoro) June 22, 2011
Baron Davis? Ramon Sessions?…
When Conventional Wisdom trumps logic. WHY is Kyrie Irving a lock to be picked ahead of Derrick Williams? Cavs have Baron & Sessons.
— Dave Zirin (@EdgeofSports) June 16, 2011
These turned out to be incorrect…
https://twitter.com/JhTV3/status/70877271078080512
Personally, I'd take Derrick Williams 1st overall.
— Leigh Ellis (@LeighEllis) June 23, 2011
Let the record reflect this tweet…
For the record, if I was cavs gm I'd be taking derrick williams and b knight
— Dr. A (@docktora) June 21, 2011
Cleveland is glad you aren’t Cleveland. Then again, you are probably thrilled that you aren’t Cleveland…
If I'm Cleveland I take Derrick Williams and Kemba Walker.
— jon greenberg (@jon_greenberg) June 23, 2011
Stick to football, Travis #justsayin
I want the #Cavs to pick Derrick Williams at #1 and Kemba walker at #4!!! #justsayin
— Travis Kelce (@tkelce) June 23, 2011
OK these guys were off. Although, to be fair, Kemba is really good.
I guess I am nuts, I would pick Kemba Walker over everyone except maybe Derrick Williams. Walker is a winner gets no love
— Bob Fescoe (@bobfescoe) June 23, 2011
If I were a team with first pick in NBA draft, I'd be taking Derrick Williams. And I'd take Kemba Walker second.
— David O'Brien (@DOBrienATL) June 23, 2011
