The NBA draft is a highly anticipated event each year, with teams vying for the top picks to secure their future. However, not all of the future stars come from the first round. In fact, several second-round picks from the 2021 NBA draft have already signed rookie contracts and are ready to make an impact in the league.

One of the standouts from the second round is Sharife Cooper, selected 48th overall by the Atlanta Hawks. Cooper played college basketball at Auburn and was the SEC Freshman of the Year in 2021. He signed a standard rookie contract with the Hawks in August, which is a four-year deal worth a little over $6 million. Cooper is expected to compete for minutes at the backup point guard position behind Trae Young.

Another second-round pick who signed a rookie contract is Joe Wieskamp, selected 41st overall by the San Antonio Spurs. Wieskamp played college basketball at Iowa and was known for his shooting ability. He signed a two-way contract with the Spurs, which allows him to spend time with both the NBA team and their G League affiliate. The contract is for two years and has a starting salary of $449,115.

One of the surprises of the draft was the New York Knicks selecting Miles McBride with the 36th overall pick. McBride played college basketball at West Virginia and was known for his toughness and defensive ability. He signed a standard rookie contract with the Knicks in August, which is a four-year deal worth just under $7 million. McBride is expected to compete for minutes at the backup point guard position.

Other notable second-round picks who have signed rookie contracts include Kessler Edwards (taken 44th overall by the Brooklyn Nets), Jeremiah Robinson-Earl (taken 32nd overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder), and JT Thor (taken 37th overall by the Charlotte Hornets).

In conclusion, while the first round of the NBA draft receives most of the attention, several second-round picks from the 2021 draft have already signed rookie contracts and are ready to make an impact in the league. These players may have slipped down the draft board, but they have the talent and potential to become key contributors for their respective teams. Keep an eye on these second-round picks as the NBA season approaches.