The Albuquerque Thunderbirds won the 2009 NBA Development League’s Draft lottery and will have the first overall selection in the 2009 NBA D-League draft next month.  The lottery took place in Dallas, TX Tuesday at the League’s annual coaches meetings.

“Having the first selection in the upcoming NBA D-League Draft is an exciting start to what I’m sure will be an exciting season for the Thunderbirds,” said John Coffino, the Thunderbirds’ head coach .  “History has shown that the number one pick has been a great player, and we’re excited to use this pick to build a championship caliber team.”

The Erie BayHawks secured the second selection, while the Los Angeles D-Fenders, Bakersfield Jam and Utah Flash round out the top five.

The NBA D-League Draft utilizes a “serpentine” format, meaning the order will alternate in each of the ten rounds. For example, the team picking last in the first round will select first in the second round, giving them the 16th and 17th overall choices.

“Following this afternoon’s lottery, and with the Draft order in place, we’re one step closer to getting the 2009-10 season underway,” said Chris Alpert, Vice President of Basketball Operations and Player Personnel for the NBA D-League.  “It’s always exciting to welcome top NBA prospects into our draft and our league.”

The order of the first round will be:

1. Albuquerque Thunderbirds
2. Erie BayHawks
3. Los Angeles D-Fenders
4. Bakersfield Jam
5. Utah Flash
6. Austin Toros
7. Reno Bighorns
8. Maine Red Claws
9. Iowa Energy
10. Fort Wayne Mad Ants
11. Dakota Wizards
12. Rio Grande Valley Vipers
13. Sioux Falls Skyforce
14. Springfield Armor
15. Idaho Stampede
16. Tulsa 66ers

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