The NBA Draft consists of two rounds. Each of the 30 NBA teams typically has one pick in each round, making a total of 60 picks. However, the number of picks can vary slightly due to trades or forfeitures. For example, in the 2025 NBA Draft, there were 59 picks instead of 60 because the New York Knicks forfeited a second-round pick. Historically, the NBA Draft had more rounds. In the 1960s, drafts could last up to 21 rounds, and later it was reduced to 10 rounds in the 1970s, then 7 rounds in 1985, 3 rounds in 1988, and finally settled at the current two rounds from 1989 onwards. The draft is held over two nights, with the first round on the first night and the second round on the next night. This structure allows teams to add young talent to their rosters through a lottery and regular order selection process. In summary:
- Number of rounds in the current NBA Draft: 2
- Total picks (ideally): 60 (30 picks per round)
- Draft format has been two rounds since 1989
This information applies to the latest drafts, including the 2024 and 2025 events.
