NBA - In the same path that there are more NBA-caliber players on the planet than there are list spots in the Association, there are ordinarily more than 60 participants in the NBA draft every year who are deserving of sharpening their skills to the highest level.

It's unavoidable, then, that some better than average prospects become lost despite a general sense of high potential, as the case will probably end up being for the class of 2015.

Luckily for them, being ignored on draft night is a long way from a passing ring for somebody's profession in basketball. Ben Wallace, Brad Miller and John Starks are perfect examples of undrafted All-Star ballots. Bruce Bowen ricocheted around France and the CBA before he landed in the NBA in 1997, and he didn't accept a spot on the wing for the San Antonio Spurs, with whom he won three titles, until four years after that.

Among current constituents, Wesley Matthews, Jose Calderon, Udonis Haslem, Timofey Mozgov, Jeremy Lin and J.J. Barea made their impact in the NBA despite being relative unknowns before.

These seven youngsters may all emulate their example. On the other hand, they could simply wash out of an association that didn't call their names on Thursday.

1. Christian Wood, PF, Houston Rockets

2. Cliff Alexander, F, Brooklyn Nets

3. Aaron Harrison, G, Charlotte Hornets

4. Terran Petteway, G, Atlanta Hawks

5. T.J. McConnell, PG, Philadelphia 76ers

6. Brandon Ashley, F, Atlanta Hawks

7. Robert Upshaw, C, Los Angeles Lakers