Noel was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in the second round of the 2006 NBA Draft with the 39th overall pick. During his only season with the Bucks, Noel averaged 2.7 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game. On March 14, 2008, he was placed on waivers by the Bucks. He was signed by the Clippers on September 30, 2008, but was released on October 13, 2008. Noel's professional career continued in the NBA Development League where last year he averaged 20.8 ppg with the Tulsa 66ers during the 2007-2008 season.

As a junior at North Carolina, Noel was a key reserve during the 2004-05 season, contributing as a defensive stopper and helping UNC to win its fourth National Championship in men's college basketball. In his senior season of 2005-06, Noel averaged 12.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.5, assists, 1.1 steals, and 0.7 blocks per game.

Noel won the NCAA College Slam Dunk Contest during the Final Four Weekend, beating James White and Rodney Carney to the title.

Thunderbirds Head Coach John Coffino commented on Noel: "We are so excited at the chance to coach a player the caliber of David Noel. Having the opportunity to be able to select him was such a surprise to us. He was top on our list and when he was still available we were ecstatic! He will bring energy and excitement to the city of Albuquerque and his NBA experience will help the younger guys. We feel very fortunate to have David join our team. He is not only a tremendous player but will be a great ambassador for us as well."

Following is a list of players selected by the Albuquerque Thunderbirds in the 2008 NBA Development League draft:

Round 2 (Pick 19): David Monds (6'8", 245) – Forward (Oklahoma State University)
Round 3 (Pick 46): Waki Williams (6'9", 205) – Forward (University of Memphis)
Round 4 (Pick 51): Pierre Darden (6'10", 215) – Forward (Cumberlands College)
Round 5 (Pick 78): Eddie Robinson (6'9', 210) – Forward (Central Oklahoma)
Round 6 (Pick 83): Steve Allen (6'10", 250) – Center (Clemson University)
Round 7 (Pick 110): Kris Clack (6'5", 225) – Guard/Forward (University of Texas)
Round 8 (Pick 115): Lorenzo Davis (6'10", 220) – Forward/Center (Mountain State)
Round 9 (Pick 142): Mike Strawberry – (6'5", 200) - Guard/Forward (Chaffey College)
Round 10 (Pick 147): Fred Gibson (6'4", 195) – Guard (University of Georgia)

The Thunderbirds' draft picks will advance to training camp on November 16, 2008 where they will join allocated player and former UNM Lobo Mark Walters (6'2", 225), and returning Thunderbirds players:

Will Conroy
Daryl Dorsey
Ramon Dyer
Cheyne Gadson
Cory Underwood

The Thunderbirds' season begins November 28, 2008 at 7:00pm against the Colorado 14ers at Tingley Coliseum. The Thunderbirds are proud to continue their tradition of affordable family entertainment at a level of NBA excellence. Call 505.265.DUNK(3865) to reserve your tickets and see the NBA stars of tomorrow today!