Brian Windhorst May 11, 2026, 07:00 AM ET

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ESPN.com NBA writer since 2010

Covered Cleveland Cavs for seven years

Author of two books

IT WAS TOLD to me, repeatedly, that being inside the NBA draft lottery drawing room would be boring.

After being there, I patently disagree.

Being inside the sealed room Sunday afternoon at Chicago's Navy Pier was heart-pounding, exhilarating and excruciating. I felt great happiness for some and compassion for others. In my 16 years at ESPN, I don't think I've ever written in first person, but this is the only way I feel I can try to relate it.

Each person watching the balls being drawn represented millions of fans.…