Most No. 1 picks in NBA history: How Wizards can set record with 2026 draft lottery win
Washington is one of a few franchises that has historically benefitted from lottery luck.
Most No. 1 picks in NBA history: How Wizards can set record with 2026 draft lottery win originally appeared on The Sporting News . Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here .
Given its randomized nature, the NBA Draft lottery has historically worked out for some franchises better than others. Some teams have benefitted at the perfect time, landing the No. 1 pick right when they need it — such as the San Antonio Spurs landing the right to select Victor Wembanyama in 2023.
But even before the lottery was implemented, teams could utilize a No. 1 pick to bring in a potential superstar, the kind of player who can single-handedly elevate a franchise. The NBA Draft has been held in every year since 1947, with the first lottery held in 1985.
Over the years, a few franchises have held the No. 1 pick more than others — and should the Washington Wizards earn the 2026 top selection, they'll make history in that regard. Here's a look at which teams have held the No.