In the summer before the 2004-2005 season, many thought Chris Taft of Pitt was the likely choice for the overall #1 pick in the June Draft.  After being named Big East Rookie of the Year in 2004, the big athletic Taft seemed to riding high. But his sophomore season was a disappointment and his workouts lackadaisical. 

The 6'10" PF got picked in the 2005 Draft, but fell all the way down to #42, just ahead of Mile Ilic. After beginning the season in the Warriors rotation, back problems turned into a herniated disk. Then, he was diagnosed with a rare disease that required him to take an entire year off. After joining the D-League in 2008, he turned an ankle, the cast was badly set and he developed a bone infection. He hasn't played since.

In an interview seven weeks ago, Taft, now 26, told Ridiculous Upside, "I'm finally healthy, I'm humble and I'm hungry." Now, he is the property of the Springfield Armor and will be coached and trained by Nets employees. Did we mention he's from Brooklyn?

• Chris Taft Is On The NBA Comeback Trail - Scott Schroeder - Ridiculous Upside
• Jamal Sampson, Chris Taft And Jamaal Tinsley Compelling Comeback Stories In D-League Draft - Ridiculous Upside - Scott Schroeder - Ridiculous Upside