DETROIT — The Pistons selected point guard Killian Hayes with seventh overall pick in 2020 NBA Draft.
He is 19 years old and played most recently with Ratiopharm Ulm of the Basketball Bundesliga (BBL). Born in Lakeland, Florida, Hayes grew up in France because his father was playing professional basketball overseas. He has lived overseas most of his life.
"He knows the game of basketball, and the world of basketball, more than a lot of people," Hayes said of his father to The Players' Tribune.
Hayes is 6'5" and regarded as a playmaker. He was one of the youngest prospects in the draft.
"Everything I've done in my life has been leading to this moment," Hayes told The Players' Tribune.
Detroit's only point guard on the current roster is Derrick Rose. Hayes said he grew up admiring Rose.
New general manager Troy Weaver has not wasted time in trying to reshape the Pistons. He traded away Bruce Brown, acquired the 16th overall pick and Trevor Ariza for a future protected pick, and picked Hayes with the No. 7 overall selection.
Detroit landed Washington center Isaiah Stewart, who went 16th overall. The Pistons will formally acquire him after finalizing their trade with the Rockets.
Saddiq Bey was the third first round pick Troy Weaver added to the rebuilding Pistons on draft night.
Detroit traded Luke Kennard to the Clippers for the No. 19 overall pick.
