The Top 10 NBA Rookie Performances From 2016 That Changed the Game

I still remember the 2016 NBA rookie class like it was yesterday—there was something electric in the air that season. As someone who’s followed basketball for over two decades, I’ve seen plenty of promising newcomers, but this group felt different. They didn’t just play; they reshaped the game in ways we’re still talking about today. And you know what? That kind of impact reminds me of the mindset Manny Pacquiao showed when he said, "Let’s fight again if he wants. I have no problem with that." It’s that fighter’s spirit—unafraid, relentless, and ready to prove themselves again and again. These rookies brought that same energy to the court, and honestly, it changed everything.

Take Ben Simmons, for instance. Though he missed his first season due to injury, his debut year in 2016-17 was nothing short of revolutionary. Standing at 6'10", he played like a point guard, averaging around 15.8 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game. I’ve always been drawn to players who break positional molds, and Simmons did just that—his court vision was so sharp it felt like he had eyes in the back of his head. Critics argued about his shooting, but let’s be real: he forced teams to rethink how they defend versatile big men. It’s like Pacquiao’s willingness to rematch Mayweather—Simmons didn’t shy away from challenges; he leaned into them, and the league had to adapt.

Then there was Malcolm Brogdon, who snagged the Rookie of the Year honors in a bit of an upset. As a second-round pick, he defied expectations, and I’ve got a soft spot for underdogs. Brogdon averaged about 10.2 points and 3.2 assists, but his real impact was in his efficiency and defensive IQ. He shot over 40% from three-point range, which, in today’s pace-and-space era, is pure gold. Watching him, I couldn’t help but think how his steady, no-nonsense approach mirrored Pacquiao’s disciplined comeback—both showed that experience and grit can outshine flashiness any day. Brogdon’s performance didn’t just earn him accolades; it signaled a shift toward valuing two-way players who contribute without hogging the spotlight.

But let’s not forget Domantas Sabonis. Coming off the bench for the Thunder, he put up modest numbers—maybe 5.9 points and 3.6 rebounds—but his footwork and passing as a big man were ahead of their time. I remember thinking, "This guy’s going to be a problem in a few years," and boy, was I right. His ability to read the game reminded me of how Pacquiao adapts mid-fight; Sabonis didn’t rely on brute force but on smart, calculated moves. Fast forward to today, and he’s an All-Star, proving that rookie seasons can be slow burns that eventually ignite.

Of course, the 2016 class had its flashier moments, like Buddy Hield’s explosive scoring runs. He dropped 16.6 points per game on average, with a three-point percentage hovering near 39%. As a fan of shooters, I loved how he stretched defenses thin—it felt like he was pulling up from the logo before it was cool. Hield’s confidence was infectious, much like Pacquiao’s bold call-outs in boxing; both knew their strengths and weren’t afraid to flaunt them. His performance underscored how the NBA was speeding toward a perimeter-dominated game, and honestly, it made every game he played must-watch TV.

On the defensive end, players like Thon Maker brought a raw, untamed energy. Though his stats weren’t eye-popping—maybe 4.0 points and 2.0 rebounds—his shot-blocking and hustle plays were game-changers. I’ll admit, I was skeptical at first, but seeing him switch onto guards and hold his own sold me. It’s that underdog spirit again, echoing Pacquiao’s readiness for any fight; Maker didn’t need to score big to leave a mark. He embodied how rookies could influence games beyond the box score, pushing teams to prioritize length and versatility in their lineups.

Looking back, what stands out to me is how these rookies collectively pushed the NBA into its current era. They embraced versatility, much like how Pacquiao adapted his style over the years—whether it was Simmons redefining playmaking or Brogdon perfecting the 3-and-D role. The league’s pace accelerated, three-point attempts skyrocketed, and defenses had to get smarter. I’d argue that the 2016 class contributed to a 10-15% increase in overall rookie impact metrics in subsequent years, though don’t quote me on the exact math—it’s more of a gut feeling from watching the trends.

In the end, these performances weren’t just about stats; they were about shifting mindsets. Just as Pacquiao’s words carried weight beyond the ring, these rookies sent a message: the game was evolving, and they were leading the charge. As I reflect on that season, I’m reminded why I love basketball—it’s not just about wins and losses, but about those moments that change how we see the sport. And for me, the 2016 rookies delivered that in spades.