When it comes to the world of basketball, the NBA is the pinnacle of talent and competition. Throughout the years, we have witnessed some truly remarkable athletes showcasing their skills on the court. From high-flying dunks to clutch three-pointers, these players have left an indelible mark on the game. But who are the best of the best? Who can claim the title of being one of the greatest NBA players of all time? It's a tough question, and one that sparks endless debates among fans and analysts alike.
There are always the top favourites of both fans and experts alike, like Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O’Neal, Larry Bird, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Magic Johnson, to name a few. But the exact order in which the players should be listed is always a point of contention!
No list can ever please every basketball fan out there, but it can give some insights and spark discussions. So, let’s talk about ranking these incredible NBA players!
Methods for Determining the Best Players
How can one even determine the best NBA players? There are so many facets to playing basketball that stats alone are sometimes not a clear view of the full picture.
There will always be nuance and points of contention when it comes to credentials used to measure the greatness of any list of people, either in basketball or in any other group of things ever.
Keeping this in mind, here are some of the different approaches you can take when talking about the rankings of NBA players and teams.
Pure Stats: Play in the Regular Season
Regular season stats can be a powerful tool in determining the greatness ranking of NBA players. One important factor to consider is the number of points an individual player scores throughout the season. Points are a direct reflection of a player's offensive skills and their ability to put the ball in the basket. A high-scoring player typically indicates dominance on the court, showcasing mastery in play, agility and/or sheer power, and basketball IQ.
However, it's crucial to look beyond points alone.
Greatness in the NBA isn't just about scoring; it's also about how well a player can defend. Looking at regular season stats such as steals, blocks, and defensive rebounds can provide valuable insights into a player's defensive contributions. A player who consistently defends well and disrupts opponents' scoring attempts can greatly impact the game and elevate their team's chances of winning.
Offensive players and defensive players rely on each other, so if you measure by scores alone, the defensive players miss out on well-earned recognition.
Here are some of the most common stats to compare players.
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| GP | Games Played - Number of games the player participated in |
| GS | Games Started - Number of games the player was in the starting lineup |
| MIN | Minutes - The cumulative number of minutes the player spent on the court over the course of a set period of time (ex: season, career) |
| MPG | Minutes Per Game - The average number of minutes the player spent on the court over the course of a set period of time (ex: season, career) |
| FG% | Field Goal Percentage - Percentage of field goals that a player makes (field goals made / field goals attempted) |
| 3P% | 3-Point Field Goal Percentage - The percentage of 3-point field goals that a team or player makes (3-point field goals made / 3-point field goals attempted) |
| FT% | Free Throw Percentage - The percentage of free thow attempts that a player makes (free throws made / free throws attempted) |
| REB | Rebounds - The cumulative number of times a player recovers the ball after a missed shot attempt |
| RPG | Rebounds Per Game - The average number of times a player recovers the ball after a missed shot attempt |
| DREB | Defensive Rebounds - The number of rebounds a player collects while on defense |
| OREB | Offensive Rebounds - The number of rebounds a player collects while on offense. |
| AST | Assists - The cumulative number of passes that lead directly to a made basket by a player |
| APG | Assists Per Game - The average number of passes that lead directly to a made basket by a player |
| STL | Steals - The cumulative number of times a player legally takes the ball away from an opponent, intercepts a pass, or otherwise gains possession following an opponent turnover |
| SPG | Steals Per Game - The average number of times a player legally takes the ball away from an opponent, intercepts a pass, or otherwise gains possession following an opponent turnover |
| BLK | Blocks - The cumulative number of blocks by a player |
| BPG | Blocks Per Game - The average number of blocks by a player |
| PTS | Points - The cumulative number of points scored by a player |
| PPG | Points Per Game - The average number of points scored by a player |
Awards: MVPs, All-Stars, Champions, and Hall-of-Famers
One of the most important factors when ranking NBA stars is the player's career accomplishments, including awards and accolades. These achievements provide a clear indication of a player's impact and success in the league over their career.
The MVP award, for instance, is given to the most outstanding player in the league each season. Being named an MVP means that a player has been recognized as the best of the best for that year, which speaks volumes about their skill and contribution to the game.
Similarly, being selected for the All-Star game is a prestigious honour that highlights a player's talent and popularity among fans and peers.
Another key factor to consider is the number of championship titles a player holds. While winning a championship is a team effort, each player is an integral part of that win. Winning a championship requires exceptional skill, teamwork, and determination. It is the ultimate goal for every player and being able to lead a team to victory (or be led by a teammate) demonstrates both leadership and cooperative qualities and a winning mentality.
Lastly, a player's induction into the Hall of Fame provides greater insight into their overall importance in the game. This recognition is reserved for the elite few who have made significant contributions to the sport throughout their careers. It serves as a testament to a player's impact on the game and their lasting legacy.
The Glue: Team Morale Boosters
In addition to stats, it's essential to consider a player's overall impact on the team's success. Regular and playoff season stats like assists, rebounds, and efficiency ratings can help gauge a player's overall contribution to the team's performance. A great player not only scores and defends but also elevates the play of their teammates. By analyzing these stats, we can understand how well a player facilitates ball movement, creates scoring opportunities for others, and maximizes their team's chances of winning.
Impact: Off-Court Cultural Icons
An NBA player's commitment to giving back to their community and making a positive difference can greatly elevate their cultural impact. Whether it's building schools, funding scholarships, or organizing charitable events, players who use their platform for philanthropy are often seen as icons in the eyes of the public, boosting their perceived status as best players in a moral sense.
In terms of pop culture, being a star on the court is one thing, but transcending the world of basketball and becoming a household name is another. Players who have successfully made an impact outside of basketball by appearing in movies, commercials, or even launching their own fashion lines are often seen as cultural icons. Their ability to connect with a wider audience and leave a lasting impression is what sets them apart from other players and makes people think of them as iconic.
Who Are the 20 Best NBA Players of All Time?
Considering all the different ways of ranking players, it's difficult (or even impossible) to come up with a definitive ranked list of all the most influential NBA players. But we can try! Here are the top 20 players who exhibit the most impressive regular season and playoff stats, awards and accolades, team support and leadership, and status off the court.
All figures are as of March 2024.
1. Michael Jordan
Is there even any other way to start a list like this?
Michael Jordan’s basketball and pop culture legacy is simply untouchable.
If Michael Jordan hadn’t retired early, who knows how many more records he would have broken before his career ended!
I don't regret my decision at all [to retire]. I think it's the appropriate one or else no one else would have an opportunity to win if I keep playing.
Michael Jordan
Stats: 32,292 points (30.1 PPG: record), 6,672 rebounds (6.2 RPG), 5,633 assists (5.3 APG), 2,514 steals (2.3 SPG), 214 Win Shares, one of 10 players who have ever scored more than 60 points in one game more than once (69, 64, 61, 61 pts)
Awards: 6 NBA championships, 6 NBA Finals MVP awards (record), 5 time NBA MVP, Rookie of the Year, 14-time All-Star, 3 All-Star MVP, 10-time scoring champion (record), NBA Anniversary Team (50th, 75th), 2 Olympic golds, 2 Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame inductions, one United States Olympic Hall of Fame, one North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame, 2 FIBA Hall of Fame inductions.
Team: A natural leader, Jordan inspired his teammates and worked with them closely in a “Dream Team”-like style while on the Chicago Bulls. Working with key players like Jordan, Pippen, Rodman, and Kukoč along with the coaches, Jordan helped lead the team to multiple championship wins. He is the most clutch player of all time.
Impact: Even though he left the game for a short while, when he came back he was just as good as before; it was like he never left. Outside the arena, MJ is known for Air Jordans, numerous sponsorships over the years, and for his role in “Space Jam” which was essentially a movie about how good at basketball he is. He and his wife Juanita have also donated generously to many charitable causes over the years.
2. LeBron James
What truly separates James from the rest is his incredible basketball IQ. He has an uncanny ability to read the game and make the right decisions in crucial moments. Whether it's orchestrating a play, finding an open teammate, or taking the last shot, James consistently displays a high level of basketball intelligence. This allows him to not only excel individually but also elevate the performance of his teammates. At this rate, he may surpass MJ in more ways than what he already has.
Don't be afraid of failure. This is the way to succeed.
LeBron James
Stats: 40,154 points-record (27.2PPG), 11,091 rebounds (7.5 RPG), 10,895 assists (7.4 APG), 2,260 steals (1.5 SPG), 261.6 Win Shares, one of 36 players who have ever scored more than 60 points in one game (61 pts).
Awards: NBA Draft 1st Pick, 4-time NBA Finals MVP, 4-time NBA MVP, 20-time All-Star, 13-time 1st team All-NBA selection, 6-time Defensive 1st team, 1-time scoring champion, 1-time assists leader, 4 NBA championships, 75th Anniversary Team, 2 Olympic golds.
Team: James is a great team leader, promoting a sense of camaraderie in the team, encouraging a positive team culture, and emphasising teamwork, trust, and communication. All these things ensure synergy and success among the team.
Impact: Right from the start, King James was expected to be a great player. He has surpassed those expectations by far. Even off the court, he inspires people to be their best. With his philanthropic activism and successful business ventures, he has a reputation for being a reliable, stand-up guy.
3. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
With an unstoppable skyhook shot, Abdul-Jabbar became the league's all-time leading scorer, a title he held until LeBron James broke it on 7 February 2023. Not only was he a dominant offensive force, but he was also a defensive powerhouse, winning the NBA's Most Valuable Player award a record-breaking six times. His longevity in the league, playing for 20 seasons, is a testament to his dedication and love for the game. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's impact on the NBA is immeasurable, making him one of the greatest players to ever grace the court.
I try to do the right thing at the right time. They may just be little things, but usually they make the difference between winning and losing.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Stats: 38,387 points-record (24.6PPG), 12,369 rebounds (7.9 RPG), 5,660 assists (3.6 APG), 1,160 steals (0.7 SPG), 273.4 Win Shares
Awards: NBA Draft 1st Pick, 6-time NBA MVP, 2-time NBA Finals MVP, 4-time NBA blocks leader, Anniversary Team (35th, 50th, 75th), 6 NBA championships, Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, NYC Basketball Hall of Fame, National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame.
Team: An offensive mastermind, The Captain was a professional team member even on his bad days. He made it a point to connect with each member of the team, both on and off the court. Kareem was always approachable and willing to lend a helping hand to his teammates. He led by example, always displaying a strong work ethic and an unwavering dedication to the game.
Impact: One of the reasons for his enduring fame is his involvement in various social and political causes. Abdul-Jabbar has been an outspoken advocate for civil rights, education, and equality, even boycotting the Olympics where he would have no doubt come away with a gold medal had he competed. He’s also known for his magnetic personality that attracts people’s attention in interviews and other media appearances.
4. Bill Russell
This legendary basketball player is often hailed as one of the best to ever grace the court, and for good reason. Not only was he a formidable force on the defensive end, but his leadership skills and ability to elevate his teammates' performances set him apart from his peers. Blocks and steals weren’t tracked stats back in his day, but experts estimate that he averaged between 8-12 blocks per game.
Notable Achievements:
- 11× NBA champion
- 5× NBA Most Valuable Player
- 12× NBA All-Star
- NBA All-Star Game MVP
- 4× NBA rebounding champion
- NBA anniversary team (25th, 35th, 50th, 75th)
- 1 Olympic gold
- Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (two inductions)
- FIBA Hall of Fame
- National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame
The most important measure of how good a game I played was how much better I’d made my teammates play.
Bill Russell
5. Wilt Chamberlain
Chamberlain's 14-year-long career statistics speak for themselves, with numerous records that still stand today. He averaged an astonishing 30.1 points per game throughout his career, a feat that has only been surpassed by a handful of players. What brought his average up so high? Scoring 100 points in one game in 1962.
His rebounding and defence skills were also just as impressive as his penchant for scoring. His remarkable career totals of 23,924 points and 23,924 rebounds solidify his status as one of the best NBA players ever. The Big Dipper’s ability to score at will and dominate the paint forced opposing teams to adjust their strategies and game plans.
Notable Achievements:
- 2× NBA champion
- NBA Finals MVP
- 4× NBA Most Valuable Player
- 13× NBA All-Star
- NBA All-Star Game MVP
- NBA Rookie of the Year
- 7× NBA scoring champion
- 11× NBA rebounding champion
- NBA assist leader
- NBA anniversary team (35th, 50th, 75th)
- Mr. Basketball USA
- Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
- National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame
6. Magic Johnson
What set Magic apart from other players was his versatility. Standing at 6'9", he had the size of a forward but the skills of a guard. He could play any position on the court and excel in all of them. His court vision was unparalleled, as he had an uncanny ability to find open teammates and deliver pinpoint passes. Magic's leadership qualities were also instrumental in his success. He knew how to motivate his teammates and bring out the best in them, making everyone around him better.
Notable Achievements:
- NBA Draft 1st Pick
- 5× NBA champion
- 3× NBA Finals MVP
- 3× NBA Most Valuable Player
- 12× NBA All-Star
- NBA Lifetime Achievement Award
- NBA anniversary team (50th, 75th)
- 1 Olympic gold
- Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
- National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame
You’re the only one who can make the difference. Whatever your dream is, go for it.
Earvin "Magic" Johnson
7. Larry Bird
Bird's ability to shoot from anywhere on the court, his impeccable court vision, and his clutch performances in crucial moments make him a legend in the basketball world. Moreover, his intense rivalry with Magic Johnson added a layer of excitement to the game, further cementing his status as one of the best. He also played a pivotal role in popularizing the sport and making it a global phenomenon.
Notable Achievements:
- 3× NBA champion
- 2× NBA Finals MVP
- 3× NBA Most Valuable Player
- 12× NBA All-Star
- NBA Rookie of the Year
- 3× NBA Three-Point Contest champion
- 2× 50–40–90 club
- NBA Lifetime Achievement Award
- NBA anniversary team (50th, 75th)
- 1 Olympic gold
- Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
- National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame
A winner is someone who recognizes his God-given talents, works his tail off to develop them into skills, and uses these skills to accomplish his goals.
Larry Bird
8. Kobe Bryant
From his early days in the league, it was clear that Kobe had something special. His ability to score from anywhere on the court, his mastery of footwork, and his clutch performances in high-pressure situations made him a force to be reckoned with. But it wasn't just his physical abilities that made him great. Kobe's relentless work ethic and dedication to constantly improving his game were unmatched. He pushed himself to the limit, always striving to be better than the day before. And The Black Mamba’s mental toughness and killer instinct allowed him to rise above any challenge.
Notable Achievements:
- 5× NBA champion
- 2× NBA Finals MVP
- NBA Most Valuable Player
- 18× NBA All-Star
- 2× NBA scoring champion
- NBA 75th Anniversary Team
- 2 Olympic golds
- Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
A lot of leaders fail because they don’t have the bravery to touch that nerve or strike that chord.
Kobe Bryant
9. Shaquille O’Neal
Standing at a towering 7 feet 1 inch, Shaq dominated the game with his sheer size and strength. But it wasn't just his physical attributes that set him apart; his ability to dominate in the paint, scoring at will and grabbing rebounds with ease, made him an unstoppable force. His agility and speed for his size were unmatched. Moreover, Shaq's impact on the game extended beyond his individual performance. He was a team player who consistently elevated the play of his teammates, leading them to multiple championships.
Notable Achievements:
- NBA Draft 1st Pick
- 4× NBA champion
- 3× NBA Finals MVP
- NBA Most Valuable Player
- 15× NBA All-Star
- NBA Rookie of the Year
- 2× NBA scoring champion
- 1 Olympic gold
- Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
- FIBA Hall of Fame
- National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame
10. Tim Duncan
Tim Duncan is widely regarded as one of the best NBA players of all time, and for good reason. His career with the San Antonio Spurs spanned an impressive 19 seasons, during which he helped lead the team to five NBA championships. Duncan's skills on both ends of the court were unmatched, earning him the nickname "The Big Fundamental." His ability to prevail in the key with his impeccable footwork and post moves made him a force to be reckoned with. Not only was he an exceptional scorer, but he was also an exceptional defender, consistently blocking shots and anchoring the Spurs' defence. Off the court, Duncan was known for his humble demeanour and team-first mentality, making him a respected figure in the league.
Notable Achievements:
- NBA Draft 1st Pick
- 5× NBA champion
- 3× NBA Finals MVP
- 2× NBA Most Valuable Player
- 15× NBA All-Star
- NBA Rookie of the Year
- NBA Teammate of the Year
- NBA 75th Anniversary Team
- Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
- National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame
Good, better, best. Never let it rest. Until your good is better and your better is best.
Tim Duncan
Other Legendary NBA Players
11. Hakeem Olajuwon
12. Stephen Curry
13. Oscar Robertson
14. Kevin Durant
15. Moses Malone
16. Jerry West
17. Kevin Garnett
18. Karl Malone
19. Charles Barkley
20. Dirk Nowitzki
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