The Sixers insisted they would take the best guard available—regardless of position—despite seemingly needing a point more because unrestricted free agent Andre Miller can leave after July 1 and there is no replacement on the roster.

At No. 17, the Sixers went with UCLA guard Jrue Holiday. Holiday, who declined to work out for Philly because he expected to go much earlier, impressed them with his defense, athleticism, decision-making and his maturity despite just turning 19.

"We're thrilled," said team president Ed Stefanski. "We liked Jrue Holiday, but we didn't think he was going to get to us. You sit there and you're patient. There was no discussion among the group. ...More