Hoopshype's Top 78 NBA Players All-Time

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78 greatest NBA players ever: The HoopsHype list


By HoopsHype staff | August 13, 2024



For the fourth consecutive year since the league released its NBA75 list, we’re updating our GOAT rankings, adding a 78th player as we leave the league’s 78th season behind.

This one comes with a momentous update at the top, one that will irk many and delight many others (especially on the younger side). For the first time, Michael Jordan, the unassailable GOAT for so many years, doesn’t hold the No. 1 spot in our ranking. This shift follows a season in which LeBron James remained one of the premier players in the league, and was actually the best on a star-studded Team USA and the Olympic tournament as a whole.

As in previous years, we held a team vote with the opinions of eight HoopsHype staff members, discarded the highest and lowest ranks for each player, and awarded points based on the remaining positions.

Now, let’s delve into the list.


1. LeBron James



Top accolades: Four NBA titles, four Finals MVPs, four MVPs, 13 All-NBA 1st Team selections, 20 All-Stars, five All-Defensive 1st Team selections, one NBA Cup, one NBA Cup MVP, three Olympic gold medals, one Olympic MVP

NBA rank: 1st in scoring, 4th in assists, 8th in steals, 30th in rebounds, 80th in blocks

Share of the vote: 99.38 percent of the maximum amount possible

In his 21st professional season, LeBron James made his 20th All-Star appearance, earned his 20th All-NBA selection, won the inaugural NBA Cup and its tournament MVP, and added another Olympic medal to go with tourney MVP to his collection.

It was an outrageously good year for a 39-year-old player who shows very little signs of slowing down.
While we still consider Michael Jordan to have a higher peak than LeBron, at this point we have to bow down to King James and finally move him up one spot to the top of our GOAT list ahead of MJ. His advantage in terms of sustained excellence is just too big to ignore, with LeBron at No. 1 and far ahead of His Airness in an increasing number of accolades and statistical categories.

James came into the NBA with unreal expectations and somehow managed to surpass all of them – and then some. James is clutch, he can score at a ridiculous level, rebounds well and is a fantastic playmaker, his most impressive trait. Few players have ever matched James’ absurd basketball IQ, one that he could use to continue to dominate for the next few seasons as his career winds down… now with his son Bronny by his side.


2. Michael Jordan



Top accolades: Six NBA titles, six Finals MVPs, five MVPs, 10 All-NBA 1st Team selections, 14 All-Stars, one Defensive Player of the Year award, nine All-Defensive 1st Team selections, two Olympic gold medals

NBA rank: 4th in steals, 5th in scoring, 52nd in assists, 125th in blocks, 137th in rebounds

Share of the vote: 99.38 percent of the maximum amount possible

Probably the most iconic and famous athlete in all of sports, Michael Jordan was the face of the NBA for a long time, and his star status outside of sports was almost hard to believe, and still sort of is.

Jordan’s mid-range game – face-ups, jab-steps, pull-ups, turnarounds, fadeaway, all of it – was second to none, and he was also a freakish athlete who could finish through contact and over length. And then there was the aspect of his clutchness, as Jordan was so often successful in nailing game-winners in the most high-pressure situations imaginable. Oh, and he was a top-tier defender, too.

Though we finally moved LeBron James ahead of him, it’s understandable many people are still in the MJ GOAT camp. (Full disclosure: The HoopsHype vote was split 50/50 on who the No. 1 should be and our editor-in-chief broke the tie in James’ favor).


3. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar



Top accolades: Six NBA titles, two Finals MVPs, six MVPs, 10 All-NBA 1st Team selections, 19 All-Stars, five All-Defensive 1st Team selections

NBA rank: 2nd in scoring, 3rd in rebounds, 3rd in blocks, 49th in assists, 109th in steals

Share of the vote: 97.50 percent of the maximum amount possible

The GOAT debate is considered a two-horse race in the NBA, but if there is a strong third candidate, it’s Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who dominated for almost two decades thanks to his skyhook shot and overall greatness as a scorer, rebounder and shot-blocker. If anything, the longevity argument may still be with Abdul-Jabbar, as the all-time big man won his two Finals MVP awards 14 years apart, first in 1971 and then again in 1985. Most players’ careers don’t last anywhere near that long, yet Abdul-Jabbar was dominating at the highest level for that long. Still, Jordan and James are too tough to overcome, despite Abdul-Jabbar’s resume.


4. Magic Johnson



Top accolades: Five NBA titles, three Finals MVPs, three MVPs, nine All-NBA 1st Team selections, 12 All-Stars, one Olympic gold medal

NBA rank: 7th in assists, 23rd in steals, 87th in scoring, 151st in rebounds

Share of the vote: 96.04 percent of the maximum amount possible

The consensus best point guard in NBA history comes at No. 4 on our list. The leader of one of the finest teams in basketball history, Magic Johnson had flash, pizzazz and any adjective you can think of as a playmaker, often hightailing it down the open floor and making spectacular passes that not many others would have attempted, let alone pulled off as successfully as he did. Magic was also a winner, making iconic plays over and over again in the biggest of stages. Add in his super charismatic personality and you have the complete package as one of the biggest superstars the league has ever seen.


5. Bill Russell



Top accolades: 11 NBA titles, five MVPs, 11 All-NBA selections, 12 All-Stars, one Olympic gold medal

NBA rank: 2nd in rebounds, 119th in assists, 170th in scoring

Share of the vote: 93.33 percent of the maximum amount possible

Bill Russell’s record for most NBA titles will never be beaten, as no one has come, or will come close to his 11 career championships. Russell’s resume is actually hurt because many accolades, like Finals MVP or Defensive Player of the Year didn’t even exist in his heyday. What’s more, since blocks weren’t recorded as a stat in his career, there’s no way to know how many Russell had for his career. There’s a chance he would be at the top of blocks standings along with the player coming up next on our ranking.

Russell may not have had the longest career, but boy, was that run successful. Just as a curious note: Russell had more MVPs than All-NBA 1st Team selections in his career (three).


6. Wilt Chamberlain



Top accolades: Two NBA titles, one Finals MVP, four MVPs, seven All-NBA 1st Team selections, 13 All-Stars, two All-Defensive 1st Team selections

NBA rank: 1st in rebounds, 7th in scoring, 83rd in assists

Share of the vote: 92.91 percent of the maximum amount possible

The most dominant big man offensively in NBA history, though that partially had to do with the level of competition Wilt Chamberlain faced in his era. Still, when you dominate at the level Chamberlain did, who cares who he did it against?

Chamberlain did come a little short in the team success department as he was usually better in the regular season than in the playoffs, something that many believe had to do with an unwillingness to get fouled late in close games due to his unreliable free throw.

Chamberlain’s single-season rebounding and scoring records are unassailable. Plus he has the second-best scoring average behind only Jordan. And had MJ played one more year with the Wizards, Chamberlain might actually be No. 1 in that stat. Chamberlain is also the only guy to lead the league in total scoring, rebounds and assists for a season, and retired as the all-time leader in scoring and rebounding at the time.


7. Larry Bird



Top accolades: Three NBA titles, two Finals MVPs, three MVPs, nine All-NBA 1st Team selections, 12 All-Stars, one Olympic gold medal

NBA rank: 40th in scoring, 40th in steals, 48th in assists, 57th in rebounds, 164th in blocks

Share of the vote: 91.88 percent of the maximum amount possible

Bird may not rank super high in the stat department – a byproduct of a shorter career than normal for NBA superstars and being part of a star-studded team – but there’s no questioning his status as an all-time great, as the legendary swingman filled the stat sheet and possessed a terrific all-around game, as a shooter, overall scorer, rebounder and playmaker.


8. Kobe Bryant



Top accolades: Five NBA titles, two Finals MVPs, one MVP, 11 All-NBA 1st Team selections, 18 All-Stars, nine All-Defensive 1st Team selections, two Olympic gold medals

NBA rank: 4th in scoring, 16th in steals, 33rd in assists, 116th in rebounds, 209th in blocks

Share of the vote: 91.46 percent of the maximum amount possible

Not as high a peak as other megastars, but his career is one of amazingly sustained excellence – a result of an almost unparalleled work ethic and devotion to his craft, which helped him develop into an outrageous scorer out of the mid-range and near the rim, and a high-impact perimeter defender.

Kobe Bryant was first a sidekick to Shaq before then becoming the man for the Lakers and winning five titles overall, two of which he earned Finals MVPs for. Bryant, who finished his career with more All-NBA 1st Team selections than Jordan (!), also probably turned more people into basketball fans than any player not named Michael (or Earvin).


9. Shaquille O'Neal



Top accolades: Four NBA titles, three Finals MVPs, one MVP, eight All-NBA 1st Team selections, 15 All-Stars, three All-Defensive 2nd Team selections, one Olympic gold medal, one World Cup gold medal

NBA rank: 8th in blocks, 9th in scoring, 15th in rebounds, 228th in assists

Share of the vote: 91.25 percent of the maximum amount possible

The most dominant physical specimen in the NBA since the days of Chamberlain, Shaquille O’Neal was an absolute freak with his blend of size, strength and unreal explosiveness. During O’Neal’s peak years, teams were making moves with the sole intention of containing the big man. Many ho-hum centers made a killing thanks to that just because they were another huge body to throw at O’Neal.

The fact that the Big Aristotle won only one MVP was kind of ridiculous in hindsight, as there were various seasons he was the most dominant player in the league. O’Neal wanting to be a star off the court probably took away a bit of impact on the court, but he was devastating throughout his career regardless, even despite being a porous free-throw shooter.


10. Tim Duncan



Top accolades: Five NBA titles, three Finals MVPs, two MVPs, 10 All-NBA 1st Team selections, eight All-Defensive 1st Team selections

NBA rank: 5th in blocks, 6th in rebounds, 16th in scoring, 107th in assists, 169th in steals

Share of the vote: 91.04 percent of the maximum amount possible

The rare low-maintenance superstar, Tim Duncan was impactful and successful team-wise from the get-go through the end of his career. Duncan anchored the winningest team of the century and did so in a low-key manner, without enough acclaim for his greatness or accomplishments. Don’t believe us? How about the fact that he never won Defensive Player of the Year despite being selected to eight 1st Team All-Defenses, making that slight a major travesty, one that shows how underrated he was even in his prime. There’s even a chance Duncan would be ranked higher in many GOAT lists with a more entertaining off-court persona, but either way, he’s the greatest power forward ever.


11. Hakeem Olajuwon



Top accolades: Two NBA titles, two Finals MVPs, one MVP, six All-NBA 1st Team selections, 12 All-Stars, two Defensive Player of the Year awards, five All-Defensive 1st Team selections, one Olympic gold medal

NBA rank: 1st in blocks, 10th in steals, 13th in scoring, 15th in rebounds, 224th in assists

Share of the vote: 87.29 percent of the maximum amount possible

The first international player on the list, Hakeem Olajuwon was one of the greatest big men ever, and he competed and produced at an elite level on both ends of the floor with outstanding low-post moves and defensive skills to match. Olajuwon ranks first in blocks on record, though there’s a bit of an asterisk on that because they didn’t keep track of those before 1973-74. Also, he is the only player to rank Top 15 in four different major statistical categories: points, rebounds, blocks and steals.


12. Kevin Durant



Top accolades: Two NBA titles, two Finals MVPs, one MVP, six All-NBA 1st Team selections, 14 All-Stars, four Olympic gold medals, one Olympic MVP, one World Cup gold medal, one World Cup MVP

NBA rank: 8th in scoring, 64th in blocks, 82nd in assists, 95th in rebounds, 125th in steals

Share of the vote: 86.67 percent of the maximum amount possible

Scoring comes so easy for him it’s almost ridiculous, as Kevin Durant is a 7-footer with ballhandling, quickness and a pristine jumper that he can hit from legitimately anywhere on the floor. Durant’s also an impactful defender when he needs to be, moving his feet quickly and blocking shots at pivotal moments. Durant may still move up a few spots in the rankings, but will not be in contention for the top spots due to missed time because of injury.

He will have to settle with being the greatest player in Olympic basketball history, the only one with four gold medals and the lone star with MVPs in the NBA, Olympics and World Cup.


13. Stephen Curry



Top accolades: Four NBA titles, one Finals MVP, two MVPs, one Conference Finals MVP, four All-NBA 1st Team selections, 10 All-Stars, one Olympic gold medal, two World Cup gold medals

NBA rank: 30th in scoring, 39th in assists, 54th in steals

Share of the vote: 85.42 percent of the maximum amount possible

Stephen Curry changed the way the game is played, as now, basically every player on the floor wants to shoot threes, and needs to be able to hit them for your offense to keep up with modern scoring. Curry’s a wizard not only as a shooter, but his playmaking deserves more credit than it receives. The future Hall-of-Famer out of Davidson is already the greatest shooter ever – and it’s not particularly close.

2023-24 was filled with disappointment for him in the NBA, as the Warriors missed the playoffs, but he finished the basketball year with a bang leading Team USA in the fourth quarter in the Olympic final vs. France with some of the most clutch shooting you will ever see.


14. Oscar Robertson


Top accolades: One NBA title, one MVP, nine All-NBA 1st Team selections, 12 All-Stars, one Olympic gold medal

NBA rank: 8th in assists, 14th in scoring, 81st in rebounds

Share of the vote: 83.33 percent of the maximum amount possible

The first player to average a triple-double in league history, Oscar Robertson was an expert playmaker, rebounder and scorer at the lead guard spot, and a somewhat underrated player historically. He experienced very little team success until he joined forces with Lew Alcindor in Milwaukee, but did eventually win an NBA championship. One of the most well-rounded offensive guards ever.


15. Karl Malone


Top accolades: Two MVPs, 11 All-NBA 1st Team selections, 14 All-Stars, three All-Defensive 1st Team selections, two Olympic gold medals, one World Cup gold medal

NBA rank: 3rd in scoring, 7th in rebounds, 12th in steals, 62nd in assists, 72nd in blocks

Share of the vote: 80.00 percent of the maximum amount possible

A model of consistency through the years, Karl Malone had a 17-year stretch, just discounting his first and last seasons, where he averaged at least 20 points per game. In that span, he put up 26.0 points and 10.3 rebounds per contest, numbers that most players would love to average for one season, let alone 17. Malone did have some shortcomings in the playoffs, however, at least compared to fellow megastars, and that put him a little lower on the totem pole than he could have been with a ring or two on his resume.


16. Moses Malone


Top accolades: One NBA title, one Finals MVP, three MVPs, eight All-NBA selections, 12 All-Stars, two All-Defensive Team selections

NBA rank: 5th in rebounds, 11th in scoring, 28th in blocks, 137th in steals

Share of the vote: 79.17 percent of the maximum amount possible

Perhaps the most underappreciated superstar ever, Moses Malone was as dominant as it gets at the center spot with physical toughness as a rebounder, leading the league in nightly boards an astounding six times, including once at 17.6 rebounds per game. Malone was also a monster scorer in the paint, using his brute strength to batter smaller foes down low. Many consider Malone the greatest offensive rebounder the league has ever seen, as his timing and instincts to chase boards on offense were second to none.


17. Kevin Garnett


Top accolades: One NBA title, one MVP, nine All-NBA Teams, 15 All-Stars, one Defensive Player of the Year award, nine All-Defensive 1st Team selections, one Olympic gold medal, one World Cup gold medal

NBA rank: 9th in rebounds, 17th in blocks, 18th in steals, 19th in scoring, 56th in assists

Share of the vote: 78.75 percent of the maximum amount possible

One of the first unicorns in the NBA, Kevin Garnett had the size of the center and all-around skills of a guard, even bringing the ball down before big men were really allowed to do that. Garnett took a run-of-the-mill Wolves teams to the playoffs consistently while scoring, rebounding, distributing and defending at an elite level. One could even argue Garnett sacrificed offensive numbers to put all-out effort on defense. Fun fact (except if you’re a Wolves fan): Minnesota made the playoffs in eight of 14 Garnett seasons and only three in the 20 years without him. That’s the kind of impact he had. His championship ring with the Celtics came late, but it was beyond deserved.


18. Jerry West


Top accolades: One NBA title, one Finals MVP, 10 All-NBA 1st Team selections, 14 All-Stars, four All-Defensive 1st Team selections, one Olympic gold medal

NBA rank: 25th in scoring, 35th in assists, 243rd in rebounds

Share of the vote: 78.54 percent of the maximum amount possible

No one on this Earth could possibly hate the Celtics as much as Jerry West, having lost to them in the Finals six times out of the six he faced them. Impossible to blame West for those championship defeats, though, as he put up beastly numbers against them on a consistent basis – just as he did against the rest of the NBA. West was a masterful combo guard who performed at a high level thanks to his scoring and playmaking. He was also a great shooter, both off the dribble and with his feet set. West achieved All-Star honors in every season of his NBA career, which only three other players with 10-plus seasons of NBA experience (Julius Erving, Bob Pettit and Paul Arizin) have accomplished.


19. Dirk Nowitzki



Top accolades: One NBA title, one Finals MVP, one MVP, 12 All-NBA selections, 14 All-Stars

NBA rank: 6th in scoring, 26th in rebounds, 53rd in blocks, 94th in steals, 158th in assists

Share of the vote: 77.08 percent of the maximum amount possible

The highest-ranking European player on the list, Dirk Nowitzki was another revolutionary player thanks to his three-point and off-the-dribble prowess in a 7-foot-tall body. Nowitzki’s elite skill level made the common thinking go from being that big men need to stay in the paint to: If your big men don’t space the floor, you’re at a disadvantage. Nowitzki made a contender, and eventually, a champion, out of the Mavericks without star sidekicks for the most part of his career, hoisting the trophy in 2011 and winning Finals MVP for his efforts, one of the most legendary playoff runs by a star ever.


20. Julius Erving


Top accolades: One NBA title, one MVP, five All-NBA 1st Team selections, 11 All-Stars

NBA rank: 51st in blocks, 51st in steals, 76th in scoring, 201st in assists, 227th in rebounds

Share of the vote: 75.42 percent of the maximum amount possible

He was 26 by the time he made his NBA debut after years in the ABA, so Julius Erving would rank far higher in the statistical categories had he spent his whole career in the Association. Erving was the most spectacular player to date at the time thanks to his unreal athleticism and ability to fly down the floor in transition to hammer in dunks… and he was a winner, too. Often considered Jordan before Jordan (just without a jumper), Erving was an All-Star every season he played (ABA or NBA).


21. Elgin Baylor


Top accolades: 10 All-NBA 1st Team selections, 11 All-Stars

NBA rank: 27th in rebounds, 35th in scoring, 159th in assists

Share of the vote: 74.17 percent of the maximum amount possible

With ridiculous scoring and rebounding numbers, especially for a non-big man, Elgin Baylor was one of the first players who would awe fans with impressive athleticism from the wing. He never got the championship he deserved, however, and the Celtics are largely to blame, as out of his seven Finals losses, six came against Boston. Baylor finished his career with as many All-NBA 1st Teams as Abdul-Jabbar, which is crazy to consider. Baylor was one of the best wings ever and considering the era he did it in, that made him one of the most important players in NBA history, as he opened the door for many of the elite wings that came later.


22. Giannis Antetokounmpo



Top accolades: One NBA title, one Finals MVP, two MVPs, six All-NBA 1st Team selections, eight All-Stars, one Defensive Player of the Year award, four All-Defensive 1st Team selections

NBA rank: 71st in scoring, 82nd in rebounds, 106th in blocks, 141st in assists, 238th in steals

Share of the vote: 71.88 percent of the maximum amount possible

A rags-to-riches story if there ever was one, Giannis Antetokounmpo went from playing in a semi-professional league to being a 15th-overall pick in the draft to winning multiple league MVP awards in just a few years.

The Greek forward boasts freakish length and athleticism plus massive work ethic and motor, which help him absolutely dominate despite lacking an outside jumper.

It does get very difficult to move much higher up this list once you reach this part of the rankings, as the players still ahead of Antetokounmpo are all all-timers but Antetokounmpo is still in his prime, a dominant two-way player and definitely will add more accolades to his mantle in the coming years, so we don’t think Antetokounmpo has peaked here.


23. Dwyane Wade



Top accolades: Three NBA titles, one Finals MVP, eight All-NBA selections, 13 All-Stars, three All-Defensive 2nd Team selections, one Olympic gold medal

NBA rank: 31st in steals, 34th in scoring, 47th in assists, 130th in blocks

Share of the vote: 69.79 percent of the maximum amount possible

One of the greatest shooting guards ever, Dwyane Wade never won a league MVP award but came close in 2008-09 and 2009-10. Wade was an elite scorer even without much of a three-point shot, as he was dynamic at splitting defenders in the pick-and-roll, possessing a rare ability to glide to the rim and score at the basket, while also having a reliable midrange game. He was also a solid playmaker and a plus-defender, especially as a shot-blocker, as he ranks as the player 6-foot-4 or shorter with the most blocks ever. Wade also showed great humility in playing second fiddle to LeBron to chase titles later in his prime.


24. David Robinson


Top accolades: Two NBA titles, one MVP, 10 All-NBA selections, 10 All-Stars, one Defensive Player of the Year award, eight All-Defensive selections, two Olympic gold medals, one World Cup gold medal

NBA rank: 6th in blocks, 35th in rebounds, 45th in scoring, 66th in steals

Share of the vote: 69.17 percent of the maximum amount possible

One of the best bodies in NBA history, David Robinson’s physique looked like it was molded out of clay in his prime. He used his frame and strength to torture opponents on both ends for years, doubling as a high-level scorer and freakishly impactful defender, especially protecting the rim. Still, Robinson didn’t get over the hump until Duncan came around, which hurt his spot on this list.


25. Charles Barkley


Top accolades: One MVP, 11 All-NBA selections, 11 All-Stars, two Olympic gold medals

NBA rank: 19th in rebounds, 27th in steals, 29th in scoring, 108th in assists, 128th in blocks

Share of the vote: 67.08 percent of the maximum amount possible

The Round Mound of Rebound, Charles Barkley was extremely unique not just for his outspoken personality but for his dominance down low despite being generously listed at 6-foot-6. He was a beast on the glass and as a scorer thanks to his absurd strength and explosiveness in his prime. Barkley never got the ever-elusive ring, but he’s still one of the all-time greats at power forward thanks to his dominant face-up and post-up games, along with his monstrous abilities on the glass.


26. Isiah Thomas



Top accolades: Two NBA titles, one Finals MVP, three All-NBA 1st Team selections, 12 All-Stars

NBA rank: 10th in assists, 17th in steals, 68th in scoring

Share of the vote: 66.04 percent of the maximum amount possible

One of the best point guards ever, Isiah Thomas combined talent with fierce competitiveness. He could create at an elite level but could also score out of the midrange off the dribble. He was the face of the Bad Boys Pistons who beat Jordan’s Bulls three straight times in the playoffs in the late ’80s. The one thing holding Thomas back on this list is he had a short career for star standards.


27. Scottie Pippen



Top accolades: Six NBA titles, seven All-NBA selections, seven All-Stars, eight All-Defensive Teams, two Olympic gold medals

NBA rank: 6th in steals, 37th in assists, 65th in scoring, 93rd in rebounds, 111th in blocks

Share of the vote: 64.38 percent of the maximum amount possible

Arguably the greatest Robin in league history, Scottie Pippen was a fierce defender with freakish physical attributes, including long arms and extremely quick feet, who would absolutely stifle opposing stars. Pippen was at his best as a slasher and transition scorer but could also create for teammates at a high level, making him a point forward ahead of his time.


28. Chris Paul



Top accolades: 11 All-NBA selections, 12 All-Stars, seven All-Defensive 1st Team selections, two Olympic gold medals

NBA rank: 3rd in assists and steals, 37th in scoring, 215th in rebounds

Share of the vote: 63.33 percent of the maximum amount possible

The Point God, Chris Paul is one of the steadiest floor generals in NBA history, capable of acting as a head coach on the floor, getting teammates into the right spots, destroying opponents out of the pick-and-roll and scoring at a high level when needed thanks to his unreal touch as an off-the-dribble scorer in the midrange.

The only thing still missing from his legacy is a ring, but he’s a first-ballot Hall-of-Famer with or without one. At this point, it looks like he has resigned to the fact that he will finish his career without it considering he’s joining the rebuilding Spurs.

Whatever the case may be, he’s pound-for-pound one of the greatest in basketball history. (We actually ranked him as the best short player ever a few months ago).


29. Nikola Jokic



Top accolades: One NBA title, one Finals MVP, three MVPs, one Conference Finals MVP, four All-NBA 1st Team selections, six All-Stars, one Olympic silver medal, one Olympic bronze medal

NBA rank: 81st in assists, 107th in rebounds, 187th in scoring

Share of the vote: 63.33 percent of the maximum amount possible

The best passing big man of all time (yes, it’s already beyond safe to proclaim that), Nikola Jokic continues to add to his legacy in a major way year after year. In just a few months, the Serbian superstar became only the ninth player to win three NBA MVPs, then carried Serbia to a bronze medal in Paris as the first man ever to lead the Olympic tournament in scoring, rebounds and assists.

Jokic can legitimately do it all from the center spot, creating for teammates like a point guard, posting up with incredibly high efficiency as a finisher, spacing the floor from three and almost never missing on his signature floater. Even his defense has improved, as he rebounds like a monster and has quick, intelligent hands to rack up steals.


30. John Havlicek


Top accolades: Eight NBA titles, one Finals MVP, 11 All-NBA selections, 13 All-Stars, five All-Defensive 1st Team selections

NBA rank: 18th in scoring, 40th in assists, 78th in rebounds

Share of the vote: 62.71 percent of the maximum amount possible

One of just four players in league history with eight championships, John Havlicek was a great scorer on the wing, a player who could hit mid-range jumpers or get buckets in transition, and who was always willing to do the dirty work, as evidenced by the legendary “Havlicek stole the ball” moment from the 1965 Eastern Finals.


31. Allen Iverson



Top accolades: One MVP, seven All-NBA selections, 11 All-Stars

NBA rank: 14th in steals, 28th in scoring, 53rd in assists

Share of the vote: 61.04 percent of the maximum amount possible

A cultural icon as well as one of the best lead guards of his era, Allen Iverson has to be one of the most ridiculously explosive athletes the sport has ever seen, especially out of a player generously listed at 6-feet tall. Iverson’s crossover was devastating (just ask Jordan), and his bombastic styler as a scorer made for thrilling viewing throughout his prime. Iverson was one of the most influential players ever both on and off the court and in his prime, was one of the most exciting players to watch. He could really score with the best of them in such an unorthodox package.


32. Bob Pettit


Top accolades: One NBA title, two MVPs, 10 All-NBA 1st Team selections, 11 All-Stars

NBA rank: 13th in rebounds, 36th in scoring

Share of the vote: 60.42 percent of the maximum amount possible

The first player to reach 20,000 career points, Bob Pettit was a smooth power forward, especially for his era, who would do a ton of damage in transition and as a mid-range scorer. He won Finals MVP in 1958 after exploding for 50 points and 25 rebounds in the deciding game.


33. John Stockton



Top accolades: 11 All-NBA selections, 10 All-Stars, five All-Defensive 2nd Team selections, two Olympic gold medals

NBA rank: 1st in assists and steals, 52nd in scoring

Share of the vote: 58.54 percent of the maximum amount possible

John Stockton’s assists and steals record will never be beaten, as the Jazz legend finished his career with 15,806 assists (3,715 more than the second-highest player) and 3,265 steals (581 more than anyone else). Was he ever the best point guard in the NBA? Perhaps not. But the longevity speaks for itself, and Stockton was excellent for a very long time.


34. Kawhi Leonard



Top accolades: Two NBA titles, two Finals MVPs, six All-NBA selections, six All-Stars, two Defensive Player of the Year awards, seven All-Defensive selections

NBA rank: 100th in steals, 196th in scoring

Share of the vote: 58.33 percent of the maximum amount possible

Kawhi Leonard once owned the distinction of having the highest winning percentage in NBA regular-season history but that is no longer the case. Leonard was a secondary character in his first title run (until the 2014 Finals, at least) but led the Raptors to the mountaintop on his back. Always steady, even in the highest of pressure situations, and the King of Load Management, ranking Kawhi is a bit tricky considering how much time he misses due to injury.

Regardless, he’s an all-timer based on accolades, production and impact as one of the best mid-range scorers and defensive wings ever, one with a clutch gene, too.


35. Steve Nash


Top accolades: Two MVP awards, seven All-NBA selections, eight All-Stars

NBA rank: 5th in assists, 94th in scoring, 240th in steals

Share of the vote: 58.13 percent of the maximum amount possible

Along with Mike D’Antoni and the Seven-Seconds-or-Less Suns, Steve Nash moved basketball forward thanks to his pick-and-roll wizardry and ability to shoot off the dribble, including from beyond the arc, something that wasn’t as common in his era. Nash’s two MVP awards were quite controversial but there’s no question he’s one of the finest players of his generation, as he was truly a gifted point guard, one who was a wizard as a passer and could shoot at an elite level.


36. Patrick Ewing


Top accolades: Seven All-NBA selections, 11 All-Stars, three All-Defensive 2nd Team selections, two Olympic gold medals

NBA rank: 7th in blocks, 25th in rebounds, 26th in scoring, 121st in steals

Share of the vote: 56.25 percent of the maximum amount possible

One of the legendary big men of the ’90s, Patrick Ewing was a beastly shot-blocker who had great size and strength down low, but who also had soft touch as a scorer in the post and out of the mid-range. Was never able to win a title, however, due mostly to the Rockets and Bulls, but he’s still remembered as one of the best centers in league history, as he was a beast shot-blocker and scorer from the 5-spot.


37. Rick Barry


Top accolades: One NBA title, one Finals MVP, five All-NBA 1st Team selections, eight All-Stars

NBA rank: 74th in scoring, 122nd in assists, 132nd in steals

Share of the vote: 54.79 percent of the maximum amount possible

An excellent scorer on the wing, Rick Barry may be best remembered these days for his granny-style free-throw shooting, but he was so much more than that, as he could handle the ball at 6-foot-7, shoot off the dribble or around the rim and do a bit of everything else well, including rebound and create for others. One of the first do-everything wings the NBA ever saw, Barry would rank even higher statistically in league history if he didn’t go to the ABA for four seasons in his prime.


38. James Harden



Top accolades: One MVP, six All-NBA 1st Team selections, 10 All-Stars, one Sixth Man of the Year award, one Olympic gold medal, one World Cup gold medal

NBA rank: 14th in assists, 20th in scoring, 37th in steals, 188th in rebounds, 228th in blocks

Share of the vote: 54.58 percent of the maximum amount possible

James Harden has a Hall-of-Fame resume thanks to his unreal scoring ability and playmaking. His crossover and stepback jumper made him impossible to slow down, as did his strong shoulder on drives to the rim. He still has a chance to add to his legacy over the coming years, though winning a championship ring in L.A. feels like a really long shot by now.

Believe it or not, Harden is now higher on the all-time assists list than he is on the scoring list, which speaks to his genius as a playmaker to go with his historical scoring skills. But he continues to fall short in the playoffs, which might just be a part of his legacy.


Bob

39.  Bob Cousy



Top accolades: Six NBA titles, one MVP, 10 All-NBA 1st Team selections, 13 All-Stars

NBA rank: 22nd in assists, 104th in scoring

Share of the vote: 54.17 percent of the maximum amount possible

The original floor general, Bob Cousy was the first star player who did everything a modern point guard should do, be it dribble, give quality passes, direct teammates or shoot jumpers. Cousy was called the Houdini of the Hardwood because of his ballhandling skills and creativity.


40.  Jason Kidd


Top accolades: One NBA title, five All-NBA 1st Team selections, 10 All-Stars, nine All-Defensive selections, two Olympic gold medals

NBA rank: 2nd in assists and steals, 61st in rebounds, 92nd in scoring

Share of the vote: 53.75 percent of the maximum amount possible

One of the greatest point guards ever, Jason Kidd could make the flashy pass or the simple play with the best of them while also loving to hightail it in transition to wear opponents down in transition. Also used his ridiculous basketball IQ to rack up steals and defend at a high level. He even became an adept outside shooter later on in his career, which really added to his longevity and helped him win a title with the 2010-11 Mavericks, as his outside shooting was pivotal for Dallas on that playoff run.


41.  Elvin Hayes


Top accolades: One NBA title, six All-NBA selections, 12 All-Stars, two All-Defensive 2nd Team selections

NBA rank: 4th in rebounds, 12th in scoring, 25th in blocks

Share of the vote: 52.92 percent of the maximum amount possible

An old-fashioned big man who was really strong and aggressive, especially on defense. Elvin Hayes also had a masterful post game with a trademark turnaround jumper that he’d go to when he was defended by taller players. Hayes was called the Bionic Man because he was relentless, rarely missing a game until he was 38.


42.  Gary Payton


Top accolades: One NBA title, nine All-NBA selections, nine All-Stars, one Defensive Player of the Year award, nine All-Defensive 1st Team selections, two Olympic gold medals

NBA rank: 5th in steals, 11th in assists, 39th in scoring

Share of the vote: 46.88 percent of the maximum amount possible

Perhaps the greatest point guard defender of all time, Gary Payton had unnatural strength for his size, quick feet and elite hands and timing to help him lock down foes one-on-one as well as rack up the steals. He was also an excellent playmaker and a solid scorer, who used a solid mid-range game to get buckets. Payton even added to his legacy by not having an ego and being willing to become a role player late in his career, which helped him win a title as a backup on the 2005-06 Miami Heat.


43.  George Gervin


Top accolades: Five All-NBA 1st Team selections, nine All-Stars

NBA rank: 46th in scoring, 195th in blocks, 212th in steals

Share of the vote: 46.46 percent of the maximum amount possible

A smooth operator on the wing as a scorer, George Gervin could fill it up with the best of them despite lacking much of a three-point shot. He is best remembered for his beautiful finger-roll layup, still one of the nicest moves in any player’s arsenal ever, but his game was far more than that, as the Ice Man was one of the best all-around scorers the league has ever seen. He did it in a 6-foot-7 package, too, making him a very unique player for his prime and opening the door for other supersized wings later to play more on the perimeter.


44.  Dominique Wilkins


Top accolades: Seven All-NBA selections, nine All-Stars, one World Cup gold medal

NBA rank: 15th in scoring, 67th in steals, 110th in rebounds, 205th in blocks

Share of the vote: 46.04 percent of the maximum amount possible

One of the most explosive players of all time, Dominique Wilkins was more than just a dunker. He could score with the best of them, using his physical advantages and unreal athleticism to torture opponents in the deep-to-short mid-range area. Wilkins was legitimately one of the best in-game dunkers ever, one of the scariest players to face when he had a head of steam and was heading to the basket. He could also hit jumpers from the midrange and was an absolute menace scoring the basketball. Wilkins had some legendary playoff battles with Bird in his prime that will be remembered forever.


45.  Clyde Drexler


Top accolades: One NBA title, five All-NBA selections, 10 All-Stars, one Olympic gold medal

NBA rank: 9th in steals, 38th in scoring, 38th in assists, 136th in rebounds, 179th in blocks

Share of the vote: 45.63 percent of the maximum amount possible

One of the best 2-guards ever, Clyde Drexler was a fantastic scorer, rebounder and playmaker for his position, while also using his athleticism well defensively. Drexler even won a championship in his career, arguably the toughest in NBA history at that, playing a fantastic second fiddle to Olajuwon and turning the Rockets that year from a borderline playoff team into a championship repeater.


46.  Anthony Davis



Top accolades: One NBA title, four All-NBA 1st Team selections, nine All-Stars, five All-Defensive selections, one NBA Cup, two Olympic gold medal, one World Cup MVP

NBA rank: 30th in blocks, 79th in rebounds, 86th in scoring, 191st in steals

Share of the vote: 45.00 percent of the maximum amount possible

A player who could keep moving up this list as his career progresses, Anthony Davis already has Hall-of-Fame credentials despite having some of his prime still to go. Davis is extremely skilled for his size, able to shoot and dribble, as well as being ridiculously mobile, which, coupled with his otherworldly length, makes him an elite defender. Davis has the skill set and freakish physical attributes to make a run up this list, especially with the quite healthy run he’s been on lately.


47.  George Mikan



Top accolades: Five NBA titles, six All-NBA 1st Team selections, four All-Stars

Share of the vote: 42.92 percent of the maximum amount possible

The first truly dominant NBA big man, George Mikan used his massive size to his advantage along with the unusually soft touch he had for a player of his era. Mikan could finish ably with either hand in the paint. There’s a reason the Mikan Drill is still used to this day.

Something not many may realize is that Mikan has the best playoff winning percentage of any All-Star (minimum: 50 games played) at 70 percent. For context, Jordan is at 66.48.


48.  Russell Westbrook



Top accolades: One MVP, nine All-NBA selections, nine All-Stars, one Olympic gold medal, one World Cup gold medal

NBA rank: 9th in assists, 19th in steals, 24th in scoring, 69th in rebounds

Share of the vote: 39.17 percent of the maximum amount possible

One of the most energetic players the NBA has ever seen, Russell Westbrook is absolutely tenacious every minute he’s on the floor, often fighting off bigger opponents for rebounds and flying down the floor in transition to throw down dunks. Of course, as is the case with basically every player, age has affected the former triple-double machine, and that athleticism and energy level have dwindled as Westbrook’s effectiveness pales in comparison to what they used to be. Still, Westbrook is undoubtedly one of the NBA’s best players ever, a literal cheat code statistically in his prime, and his career will probably be looked at even more fondly once it’s over.


49.  James Worthy


Top accolades: Three NBA titles, one Finals MVP, two-time All-NBA 3rd Team selections, seven All-Stars

NBA rank: 113th in scoring, 164th in steals, 220th in blocks

Share of the vote: 37.08 percent of the maximum amount possible

A 3/4 hybrid, James Worthy had the quickness to get by larger, slower defenders and the size to score over small opponents. Worthy was especially terrific in transition as a member of the Showtime Lakers. A three-time NBA champion, Worthy was even a Finals MVP one of those years and a vital part of the dynasty Lakers of the ’80s.


50.  Carmelo Anthony


Top accolades: Six All-NBA selections, 10 All-Stars, three Olympic gold medals

NBA rank: 10th in scoring, 80th in rebounds, 91st in steals, 183rd in assists, 205th in blocks

Share of the vote: 35.00 percent of the maximum amount possible

One of the smoothest scorers in the wing the league has ever seen, Carmelo Anthony became renowned for his jab step in the mid-range, but he had many more moves than that. Anthony also liked to bully smaller defenders and hit them with turnaround fadeaways, putting up a historic amount of points thanks to his well-rounded ways of scoring. There were times in his prime when it felt like once Anthony would get it going, he was impossible to defend. The numbers reflect that, too – after all, ranking Top 10 ever in scoring is almost hard to fathom. It’s unfortunate Anthony wasn’t able to have more team success in his career, which would have helped him move up this list.


51.  Paul Pierce


Top accolades: One NBA title, one Finals MVP, four All-NBA selections, 10 All-Stars

NBA rank: 17th in scoring, 22nd in steals, 79th in assists, 91st in rebounds, 170th in blocks

Share of the vote: 33.33 percent of the maximum amount possible

Paul Pierce was a beastly scorer in his prime, one who could fill it up from all three levels and score on even the most elite of defenders. Pierce was also quite clutch, hitting a ton of big shots in his day, actually ranking as the player with the most buzzer-beating game-winners in NBA history. Young fans might not know it today but Pierce was a monster in his heyday, one of the best one-on-one scorers in the league and a solid-enough defender on the other end. He had some huge battles with Kobe Bryant in the playoffs, too, only adding to the Celtics-Lakers lore.


52.  Damian Lillard



Top accolades: Seven All-NBA selections, eight All-Stars, one Olympic gold medal

NBA rank: 42nd in scoring, 50th in assists

Share of the vote: 31.46 percent of the maximum amount possible

Of course, like with any active player on this list, Damian Lillard could see himself moving up his ranking depending on how the rest of his prime goes. Even as is, however, Lillard is one of the best score-first point guards ever, with outstanding shooting ability and clutch shots galore on his resume already. Still, Lillard is missing that elite team success, and his time to win a championship as a team’s Top 2 option is running out considering his age. So these next few years will go a long way in determining how much higher Lillard can move up here.


53.  Bob McAdoo


Top accolades: Two NBA titles, one MVP, two All-NBA selections, five All-Stars

NBA rank: 69th in scoring, 70th in blocks, 76th in rebounds

Share of the vote: 30.83 percent of the maximum amount possible

A monster-scoring big man who led the league in points three consecutive seasons, including once at 34.5 points per game, Bob McAdoo had a pristine mid-range jumper and a plethora of post moves to torment opponents with. McAdoo was special because he was a big man who could shoot and do his damage with his face-up game, something that was unheard of in his era. The Hall-of-Famer was quietly quite influential.


54.  Reggie Miller


Top accolades: Three All-NBA 3rd Team selections, five All-Stars, one Olympic gold medal, one World Cup gold medal

NBA rank: 23rd in scoring, 52nd in steals, 117th in assists

Share of the vote: 29.17 percent of the maximum amount possible

One of the finest shooters ever, Reggie Miller ranks fifth in league history in made three-pointers (2,560). He was also extremely clutch about his shot-making, with a career highlight tape featuring multiple game-winning threes from high-pressure postseason contests. Miller is another player who, despite being an all-time great playing in his era, would probably have been even more effective today, as his shooting would have translated beautifully to this era that places such an emphasis on outside shooting.


55.  Kevin McHale


Top accolades: Three NBA titles, one All-NBA 1st Team selection, seven All-Stars, six All-Defensive selections, two Sixth Man of the Year awards

NBA rank: 31st in blocks, 95th in scoring, 113th in rebounds

Share of the vote: 28.75 percent of the maximum amount possible

Celtics legend Kevin McHale was known for putting opponents in something called the torture chamber, which basically meant when McHale would post up, it was torture for foes to defend due to his sharp elbows, long arms and ridiculous array of moves in the paint. Few historically can match McHale’s mix of post-up moves, including up-and-unders, step-throughs and drop-steps galore. He was a winner, too, playing a great partner role to Bird for those legendary Celtics teams.


56.  Wes Unseld


Top accolades: One NBA title, one Finals MVP, one MVP, one All-NBA 1st Team selection, five All-Stars

NBA rank: 14th in rebounds, 143rd in assists

Share of the vote: 28.75 percent of the maximum amount possible

Despite standing just 6-foot-7, Wes Unseld was one of the most physically imposing centers ever thanks to his incredible strength and stout frame. Unseld was one of the best rebounders in NBA history, averaging 14.0 for his career and leading the league in boards in 1974-75, and was extremely efficient at finishing down low.


57.  Ray Allen


Top accolades: Two NBA titles, two All-NBA selections, 10 All-Stars, one Olympic gold medal

NBA rank: 27th in scoring, 58th in steals, 99th in assists

Share of the vote: 27.92 percent of the maximum amount possible

Had his peak come 20 years later, it’s fascinating to ponder what Ray Allen’s numbers might have looked like, as his bombastic style of play consisting of shooting a ton of threes would have fit wonderfully in today’s NBA. Still, Allen carved out a Hall-of-Fame career in his era anyway as one of the best shooters ever. Allen was also very clutch, with a highlight reel of playoff daggers and game-winners, including arguably the clutchest three-pointer ever, which came in Game 6 of the 2013 Finals with his Heat down 3-2 in the series and facing defeat to the Spurs. We all remember how that ended.


58.  Pau Gasol



Top accolades: Two NBA titles, four All-NBA selections, six All-Stars, two silver Olympic medals, one World cup gold medal, three Eurobasket gold medals

NBA rank: 20th in blocks, 28th in rebounds, 44th in scoring, 130th in assists

Share of the vote: 25.83 percent of the maximum amount possible

One of the greatest international NBA players of all time, Pau Gasol was a menace in his heyday, a supremely skilled big man who could shoot, dribble a bit, pass and create for teammates, and use his long limbs well when tasked with rebounding and protecting the rim. Despite being a well-liked figure around the NBA, winning two rings and having such a well-rounded skill set, Gasol was one of the most glaring omissions of the NBA75 list. We didn’t make the same inexplicable mistake.


59.  Walt Frazier

Top accolades: Two NBA titles, four All-NBA 1st Team selections, seven All-Stars, seven All-Defensive 1st Team selections

NBA rank: 71st in assists, 137th in scoring

Share of the vote: 25.00 percent of the maximum amount possible

Walt Frazier, remembered partly by his cool nickname Clyde, was one of the smoothest point guards of his era, one who could also take over the bulk of the scoring load for the Knicks. Frazier was also one of the best point-guard defenders ever, making a ridiculous seven 1st Team All-Defenses in his career.


60.  Robert Parish


Top accolades: Four NBA titles, two All-NBA selections, nine All-Stars

NBA rank: 8th in rebounds, 10th in blocks, 32nd in scoring, 92nd in steals

Share of the vote: 24.38 percent of the maximum amount possible

The starting center on those legendary Celtics teams of the 1980s, Robert Parish was a great complement to the likes of Bird and McHale, willing to do all of the dirty work down low while still providing a solid scoring punch in the paint. Parish ranks in the Top 10 in both career rebounds and blocks and was a beast in both respects in his prime. Without Parish, the ’80s Celtics might not have been as successful as they were, as he was the perfect role player for what they needed.


61.  Willis Reed



Top accolades: Two NBA titles, two Finals MVPs, one MVP, five All-NBA selections, seven All-Stars, one All-Defensive 1st Team selection

NBA rank: 67th in rebounds

Share of the vote: 23.13 percent of the maximum amount possible

Best-known for limping out onto the court for Game 7 of the 1970 Finals for New York and hitting his first two shots on a bad thigh, Willis Reed is now widely considered one of the greatest Knicks of all time, a big man slightly short on stature but not on talent and sheer will. Reed was a monster rebounder and shot-blocker despite standing just 6-foot-9.


62.  Dolph Schayes


Top accolades: One NBA title, six All-NBA 1st Team selections, 12 All-Stars

NBA rank: 29th in rebounds, 73rd in scoring, 223rd in assists

Share of the vote: 21.25 percent of the maximum amount possible

A big man far ahead of his time, Dolph Schayes was one of the first power forwards who would space the floor and shoot jumpers from the deep mid-range, something he did quite well in the late ’40s, ’50s and early ’60s. Schayes could also dribble past opponents and drive to the hoop on hard closeouts. Schayes paved the way for the modern stretch-4.


63.  Dwight Howard


Top accolades: One NBA title, five All-NBA 1st Team selections, eight All-Stars, three Defensive Player of the Year awards, four All-Defensive 1st Team selections, one Olympic gold medal

NBA rank: 10th in rebounds, 13th in blocks, 56th in scoring, 146th in steals

Share of the vote: 21.04 percent of the maximum amount possible

At one time, Dwight Howard was the best big man in the NBA, an era that lasted for multiple seasons during his time with the Magic. Howard was an awe-inspiring athlete for his size, who would often sky for rebounds, block shots or finish alley-oops. Like Gasol, Howard was another glaring omission from the NBA75 list despite being a Top 10 rebounder ever, ranking 13th all-time in blocks and having three Defensive Player of the Year awards. But that might have to do with him not being that well-liked by coaches and teammates during his time in the league. Howard was also a huge playoff performer, coming up big both when he was a star with the Magic (he impressively led them to the Finals in 2008-09) and as a role player with the Lakers, finally winning a title in 2019-20.


64.  Chris Bosh



Top accolades: Two NBA titles, one All-NBA 2nd Team selection, 11 All-Stars, one Olympic gold medal

NBA rank: 89th in rebounds, 101st in scoring, 116th in blocks

Share of the vote: 19.58 percent of the maximum amount possible

Chris Bosh’s accolades are impressive enough, and that’s with his career tragically being cut short due to issues with blood clotting. Bosh went from being a No. 1 option with the Raptors to willingly playing third fiddle to James and Wade in the Big 3 era in Miami, and did so as an excellent safety valve, one who could hit open jumpers at a high level, as well as attack in isolation when needed. It’s a shame he went down when he did, as he was set to be Miami’s best player after James’ departure before his own career ended. Bosh spacing the floor from the frontcourt as a No. 1 option would have been a whole lot of fun to watch.


65.  Dennis Rodman



Top accolades: Five NBA titles, two All-NBA 3rd Team selections, two All-Stars, two Defensive Player of the Year awards, seven All-Defensive 1st Team selections

NBA rank: 23rd in rebounds

Share of the vote: 18.75 percent of the maximum amount possible

Dennis Rodman didn’t just have a great nose for knowing where a ball was going to go after hitting the rim, he was also absolutely relentless, refusing to let anyone get in his way to secure a board. Rodman was also an elite defender of multiple positions using absurd strength to bully opponents trying to body him. An underrated passer, his mind games destabilized many a team… including his own sometimes. A member of two all-time teams – the Bad Boys Pistons and Jordan’s Bulls – Rodman was one of the best role players the game has ever seen.


66.  Nate Archibald


Top accolades: One NBA title, three All-NBA 1st Team selections, six All-Stars

NBA rank: 28th in assists, 108th in scoring

Share of the vote: 17.92 percent of the maximum amount possible

One of the hardest-to-stop players of his era thanks to ridiculous quickness and speed, Tiny Archibald tormented opponents in the ’70s and early ’80s when attacking the basket. Archibald was also a very solid playmaker and could hit jumpers from the short midrange area.


67.  Pete Maravich


Top accolades: Four All-NBA selections, five All-Stars

NBA rank: 124th in scoring, 163rd in assists

Share of the vote: 16.04 percent of the maximum amount possible

“Pistol” Pete Maravich was one of the flashiest players ever, with a highlight package filled with behind-the-back, no-look passes and stop-on-a-dime shooting prowess, one that impresses to this day. The NBA’s leading scorer in 1976-77, Maravich’s legacy is negatively affected by losing more games than he won in his career and only playing 17 playoff games in his prime, 26 in total.


68.  Dave Cowens


Top accolades: Two NBA titles, one MVP, three All-NBA 2nd Team selections, eight All-Stars, one All-Defensive 1st Team selection

NBA rank: 38th in rebounds, 209th in scoring, 250th in assists

Share of the vote: 15.00 percent of the maximum amount possible

Florida State legend Dave Cowens is one of just two players ever to win league MVP in a season they weren’t voted 1st Team All-NBA along with another Celtics legend, Bill Russell. He was a bundle of energy in his prime, one who was a monster rebounder, averaging 15.2 rebounds over his eight-year prime, and helped the Celtics win two championships during his time in the league.


69.  Tony Parker



Top accolades: Four NBA titles, one Finals MVP, three All-NBA 2nd Team selections, six All-Stars, one Eurobasket gold medal

NBA rank: 20th in assists, 57th in scoring, 155th in steals

Share of the vote: 14.79 percent of the maximum amount possible

Tony Parker, surely the best European point guard in NBA history, dominated opposing backcourt players with quickness, a tight crossover and a beautiful tear-drop floater in the lane. Parker was clutch and played a huge role in four championships for San Antonio, even winning one Finals MVP. He changed the game for guards trying to reach the NBA from overseas by proving that European guards can be elite players in the NBA, too, and look where we are now with players like Luka Doncic dominating the league. Parker’s influence on the game is underrated today.


70.  Vince Carter


Top accolades: Two All-NBA selections, eight All-Stars, one Olympic gold medal

NBA rank: 21st in scoring, 46th in steals, 77th in assists, 127th in blocks, 147th in rebounds

Share of the vote: 12.71 percent of the maximum amount possible

Aside from being one of the most explosive dunkers in league history, Vince Carter was a productive player for 22 years – something that not many could have expected considering how reliant on athleticism he was during his prime. Many argue that with his talent, he should have done more in his prime than just two All-NBA selections (neither was even 1st Team) and many questioned his drive and love for the game. Even so, he was one of the best 2-guards in the NBA at his peak and a fan favorite even if he never won anything that noteworthy. Plus, would he really have played for 22 years if he didn’t love basketball?


71.  Kyrie Irving



Top accolades: One NBA title, three All-NBA selections, eight All-Stars, one Olympic gold medal, one World Cup MVP

NBA rank: 100th in scoring, 118th in assists, 202nd in steals

Share of the vote: 11.67 percent of the maximum amount possible

Kyrie Irving cracked this list for the first time last year, checking in at No. 76. He moves up five spots now following his Finals run with the Mavericks.

Maybe the best ball-handler in NBA history, Irving will always be remembered for his huge shot at the end of Game 7 in the 2016 Finals that helped the Cavs win their first title. One of the craftiest finishers around the rim, Irving is unstoppable getting in the paint. Despite his tendency to attract drama, his talent has been irresistible for fans and (many) executives.


72.  Paul Arizin

Top accolades: One NBA title, three All-NBA 1st Team selections, 10 All-Stars

NBA rank: 116th in scoring, 178th in rebounds

Share of the vote: 10.63 percent of the maximum amount possible

A champion with the Philadelphia Warriors in 1955-56, Paul Arizin was one of the first players to use the jump shot to his full advantage, becoming a very effective shooter from that area during the NBA’s infancy.


73.  Alex English

Top accolades: Three All-NBA 2nd Team selections, eight All-Stars

NBA rank: 22nd in scoring, 100th in assists, 146th in blocks, 152nd in rebounds, 152nd in steals

Share of the vote: 10.21 percent of the maximum amount possible

The highest-scoring player of the ’80s, Alex English was ahead of his time as a 6-foot-8 swingman with an elite nose for scoring the basketball smoothly around the rim. Even without a reliable three-pointer, English averaged 26.0 points in the 1980s as a member of the Denver Nuggets.


74.  Bernard King

Top accolades: Two All-NBA 1st Team selections, four All-Stars

NBA rank: 53rd in scoring

Share of the vote: 10.00 percent of the maximum amount possible

Injuries in his prime really hurt his place on this list, as Bernard King blew out his knee the year he earned the second 1st Team All-NBA of his career, missing the entire following season and never regained his explosiveness after that. Even so, King, the NBA’s leading scorer in 1984-85, was one of the smoothest high-scoring wings of his era.


75.  Earl Monroe



Top accolades: One NBA title, one All-NBA 1st Team, four All-Stars, one Rookie of the Year award

NBA rank: 93rd in scoring, 161st in assists

Share of the vote: 9.58 percent of the maximum amount possible

Nicknamed The Pearl, Earl Monroe was a smooth ballhandler and scorer from the midrange who could stop on a dime and knock down jumpers with aplomb. His accolades and production don’t speak to how well-respected he was as a player, with his game being one of the original confident guards who scored with creativity. A lot of players of later generations modeled their games after him, so his influence was huge.


76.  Tracy McGrady

Top accolades: Seven All-NBA selections, seven All-Stars, one Most Improved Player award

NBA rank: 75th in scoring, 115th in assists, 120th in steals, 152nd in blocks

Share of the vote: 8.75 percent of the maximum amount possible

A more impressive playoff career (he never made it out of the first round in his prime) could have greatly changed where Tracy McGrady finished in this ranking, as could have more longevity. But at his peak, McGrady was one of the most explosive and productive do-everything wings in basketball, one who would have dominated in the modern NBA.


77.  Joel Embiid



Top accolades: One MVP, five All-NBA selections, seven All-Stars, three All-Defensive 2nd Team selections, one Olympic gold medal

NBA rank: 178th in blocks, 277th in scoring, 294th in rebounds

Share of the vote: 8.54 percent of the maximum amount possible

On a per-minute basis, few players in NBA history produce as much statistically as Joel Embiid. Just check this out:


When ready to go, he’s one of the most unstoppable big men ever thanks to his massive frame, mobility and deep bag.

The problem with him is that he doesn’t play that many minutes considering he misses a lot of time due to health reasons on a regular basis. Plus his track record in the playoffs is spotty as well.

If he manages to stay in shape and healthy and gets the Sixers to make deep runs in the postseason, he should fly up in this ranking.


78.  Bill Walton

Top accolades: Two NBA titles, one MVP, one Finals MVP,  two All-NBA selections, two All-Stars, two All-Defensive 1st Team selections, one Sixth Man of the Year award

NBA rank: 99th in blocks, 287th in rebounds

Share of the vote: 7.71 percent of the maximum amount possible

One of the least accomplished players on this list in terms of overall individual accolades and statistical production, Bill Walton was during his brief peak the best player in the NBA, one who inflicted terror defensively and did damage offensively with his passing and scoring.

Injuries derailed his career as an NBA star but Walton, one of the most beloved figures in league history, still managed to win a second NBA championship as a role player with the Boston Celtics before retiring and going on a legendary second career as a TV sportscaster.


ALSO RECEIVING VOTES

Hal Greer, Lenny Wilkens, Draymond Green, Artis Gilmore, Luka Doncic, Paul George, Adrian Dantley, Nate Thurmond, Chris Webber, Klay Thompson, Sam Jones, Manu Ginobili, Dikembe Mutombo, Jerry Lucas, Dave Bing, Jimmy Butler, Alonzo Mourning, Jayson Tatum, Bill Sharman, Billy Cunningham, Bob Lanier, Bobby Jones, Dennis Johnson, Derrick Rose, Jamaal Wilkes, Joe Dumars and Robert Horry


DIFFERENCES WITH THE OFFICIAL NBA LIST

IN: Nikola Jokic, Pau Gasol, Dwight Howard, Chris Bosh, Tony Parker, Vince Carter, Kyrie Irving, Alex English, Bernard King, Tracy McGrady and Joel Embiid

OUT: Hal Greer, Lenny Wilkens, Jerry Lucas, Sam Jones, Nate Thurmond, Bill Sharman, Dave Bing, Dave DeBusschere and Billy Cunningham


Bob


.

Always interesting to see these lists and fun to debate. There's always the generational/era factor and a tendency toward recency bias. A fun debate nonetheless. Too long to go 100 deep, but my take...

1. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
2. Michael Jordan
3. Bill Russell
4. LeBron James
5. Wilt Chamberlain
6. Oscar Robertson
7. Magic Johnson
8. Larry Bird
9. Kobe Bryant
10. Julius Erving

For me, the toughest call was placing James ahead of Wilt. Close call in my eyes which is 4 or 5. I think Erving is often way too far down on these lists due to lack of recognition of his ABA years.

I do not even want to go down this aisle. My age will show for sure. Putting John Havlicek at #30 is absurd. Russell belongs at the top, in my mind, he revoloutionzed this game and was the ultimate team player. all those ring have to count too. Even Westbrook before some players is a joke. What fool sat there and did this, a 16 year old blogger?

Sam Jones fell off the list? Yikes!

Recency bias rules the day.

I'm with you, Rosalie. I can't stand for that, no can do!

Lenny and Sam have to fit in that list some how some way.

These kids today have no idea about the history of the game, the players who paved the way for them and the talent they had. I have to laugh when lists come out, HoopHype, probably a bunch of guys who have no idea about some of the greats. The sad thing is that people from this generation reads them and add players who could not carry the ,,,,,,,,,,,of some of the old great players. Sam Jones would have eaten some of these guys up for breakfast, never mind lunch!! Oh well, enough for my two cents

Hi,
I'm with you, Rosalie.
For a list like that they should use some tangible parameters, not just pure impressions and factor of being famous nowdays.

AK

These lists are always somewhat subjective. Sorry NY Celt, but I think Kareem is too high. He really only won one championship where he was the best player on his team. My criteria for all time greats is Championships, Dominance and Versatility. My top 10 are:

1) Michael
2) Russell
3) Magic
4) Bird
5) Lebron
6) Kareem
7) Wilt
Duncan
9) Kobe
10) Shaq

Certainly Oscar, West, Curry, KG, are all close to these. Since I'm a Hondo fan I think he's top 20.

It's hard to rank the all time greats, but that's my opinion.

I haven't gone through this list with a fine-toothed comb because it's just the opinions of "staff members", so I have no way of knowing if their opinions are worth a shite.  Opinions are like assholes, and all that...

One of the criteria I look at for deciding how high up on such a list a player deserves to be is not how many points he scored but how much he changed the game, followed by how much he dominated the game while he played.

Therefore, I am inclined to give more credit than stats or accolades might justify to players like Wilt and The Cooz, because the NBA changed the game, literally, because of them.  Not being able to leave the frito line until after the ball had hit the rim was a rule that was created specifically to stop notoriously awful frito shooter Wilt Chamberlain from just following his shot in for a putback.   The 24 second shot clock was created to prevent players like The Houdini of the Hardwood from just dribbling out the clock with their elite ballhandling skills.  Imagine a player like Kyrie being able to dribble for as long as he wants and the only way you can get the ball back is by putting him on the line.

That is also why I would put a player like Alex English lower down the list.  A great scorer (and an equally poor defender) who changed nothing about the game.  DeMar DeRozan is George Gervin 2.0.  Does anybody thing DD is one of the all-time greats?  If The Ice Man is deserving it's because he, along with Dr. J and a few others, brought about the NBA/ABA merger.  By my above criteria that also justifies moving the good doctor up on this list.

Michael Jordan changed the game.  The NBA created the "no hand-checking" rule so Jordan could go anywhere he wanted and do whatever he wanted.  That is the exact opposite of Wilt and Cousy.  Their rules were to make it harder for them, MJ's rules were made to make it easier for him but, nevertheless, the game changed forever because of him.  Kobe is MJ 2.0.  If there were no MJ Rules, if defenders could hand-check Kobe, would Kobe have been as great?  That's the impact of MJ's greatness.

Did The Worm change the game?  Well, he made it a lot more fun, so I suppose that is deserving of some recognition in an entertainment industry, but did he change it?  Not really, but he completely dominated a key category, rebounding, while he played.  He is, in my opinion, the finest inch-for-inch, pound-for-pound rebounder to ever play the game as well as one of its greatest defenders.  If you can't change the game forever then you need to own it for while you're in it.  NOBODY doubted Rodman's impact every time he stepped on the floor.  You just knew if the ball came off the rim whose hands it was going to end up in.  You just knew that the other team's best player was going to have a bad game when they were defended by Rodman (Larry Bird being one of the few exceptions).  That's dominance.

I don't give a damn about Bill Russell's stats or how long he played.  First of all, if you had a knee injury back then your career was over.  Period.  Now, depending upon the severity of it, you might even be back the same season so just staying healthy was worthy of recognition.  But Russ changed the game by leading the longest dynasty in NBA history and the 3rd longest dynasty in sports history.  He was the first African-American NBA Head Coach.  He is the root of the tree of all future black head coaches in basketball and, probably, every other sport in America.  I cannot think of any black head coaches in a major sports league before Russ (the Negro League was not a major league sport).  I would put only the USA's win streak in yachting, winning 25X in a row from 1851-1980 and getting the race renamed The America's Cup because of our complete domination as the longest and the NY Yankees' run of 20 World Series Championships in the 39 years between 1923 and 1962 as the second longest (sorry Red Sox fans).  

Aside from his gaudy stats, oversized accomplishments and the fact that there are videos of NBA HOFers eulogizing him there is something known as "Bird Rights".  This is a MAJOR salary cap rule change that has forever changed how teams can be assembled that was passed for the sole purpose of allowing Red to re-sign Larry Legend for however much he needed to in order to ensure he would spend his career in green. We are the World Champions and Brad (and Wyc and Pags) have resigned our core to BIG long-term contracts that would have been impossible without having their Bird Rights.


Bob


.

What a great writer and B Ball intellect you are Bob.

Oh my goodness, he really has to be bored to death to bother with HoopsHype!!! They have been and will be one of the lousiest sites to go to for real, informative basketball info

worcester wrote:What a great writer and B Ball intellect you are Bob.

worcester,

The check's in the mail.


Bob


.

Celtics17 wrote:These lists are always somewhat subjective. Sorry NY Celt, but I think Kareem is too high. He really only won one championship where he was the best player on his team. My criteria for all time greats is Championships, Dominance and Versatility. My top 10 are:

1) Michael
2) Russell
3) Magic
4) Bird
5) Lebron
6) Kareem
7) Wilt
Duncan
9) Kobe
10) Shaq

Certainly Oscar, West, Curry, KG, are all close to these. Since I'm a Hondo fan I think he's top 20.

It's hard to rank the all time greats, but that's my opinion.

Interesting that we both picked a top 10 with players across multiple eras, yet neither named Hakeem Olajuwan, Karl Malone or Moses Malone. When I've seen these top lists in the past, and those of us from the baby boom generation pick, you often see at least one of those three in the top ten. When the lists are done by those going way back, watching the league in the 50s, you sometimes see George Mikan or Bob Cousy cited at least in the top 20, for originating big man and point guard roles, respectively. They're at 47 and 39 on this list.

Kevin Durant is way too high, Havlicek should be higher than him as in terms of their effect/dominance of their eras. Hondo was the most versatile scorer in his era and carried all those great Russell teams offense. 8 championships to 2 in a cowardly way that every great player and media pundit ripped him for chinches it. If Bird, Havlicek, West were emphasizing the 3 like today, add 5-6 points on their scoring ppg in their prime years. How would Barkley or Karl Malone look playing with Steph and Klay and company? I think Steph and Klay would open up the floor even more for those guys dominating in that paint. How are Bob McAdoo and Wes Unseld higher than Dave Cowens? Kyrie Irving has destroyed franchises, how is he higher than so many HoFers?

I’m always right, anyone have a problem with that?

Damien Lillard over Walt Frazier? Frazier was a do everything combo guard, could play the point as a big skilled point or SG equally well; best defensive guard of his era, used to give the great Jerry West fits. Frazier had a monster 36 point 19 assist game in a game 7 Finals game and could effect the game so many ways and was lethal in the clutch. If Lillard’s 3 point shot if off, what does he give you?

NYCelt wrote:

Celtics17 wrote:These lists are always somewhat subjective. Sorry NY Celt, but I think Kareem is too high. He really only won one championship where he was the best player on his team. My criteria for all time greats is Championships, Dominance and Versatility. My top 10 are:

1) Michael
2) Russell
3) Magic
4) Bird
5) Lebron
6) Kareem
7) Wilt
Duncan
9) Kobe
10) Shaq

Certainly Oscar, West, Curry, KG, are all close to these. Since I'm a Hondo fan I think he's top 20.

It's hard to rank the all time greats, but that's my opinion.

Interesting that we both picked a top 10 with players across multiple eras, yet neither named Hakeem Olajuwan, Karl Malone or Moses Malone. When I've seen these top lists in the past, and those of us from the baby boom generation pick, you often see at least one of those three in the top ten. When the lists are done by those going way back, watching the league in the 50s, you sometimes see George Mikan or Bob Cousy cited at least in the top 20, for originating big man and point guard roles, respectively. They're at 47 and 39 on this list.

Agree NY Celt

I started watching basketball in the mid 60's, so I missed seeing Mikan and Cousy. Even Russell, Wilt and Sam Jones were at the end of their careers when I saw them play. These lists are so subjective. Havlicek was my favorite all time player, but I can't honestly say he was better than any of the guys I have in my Top 10. West and Oscar were amazing players and could easily be top 10, but its so hard to rank them. Curry is probably the best shooter I have ever seen, but how good would he have been if he played before the three point line?

Steph is a lifetime .426 3 point shooter. His 2 point numbers lifetime are damn good too.: .526. He'd a been all right whwnever.

Cow, I agree with you on all points. Walt Frazier was a great player. - and a lover. My friend Joy was a gorgeous gal who dated him while she was a senior at Sarah Lawrence in 1968, and she was crazy about him.

Speaking as a former Boston cab driver myself, I can say that Dave Cowens deserves way more credit as both a cabbie and an NBA star.

worcester wrote:Steph is a lifetime .426 3 point shooter. His 2 point numbers lifetime  are  damn good too.:  .526. He'd a been all right whwnever.

Cow, I agree with you on all points. Walt Frazier was a great player. - and a lover. My friend Joy was a gorgeous gal who dated him while she was a senior at Sarah Lawrence in 1968, and she was crazy about him.

Speaking as a former Boston cab driver myself, I can say that Dave Cowens deserves way more credit as both a cabbie and an NBA star.

Definitely Worcester, Just loved Cowens. What a great player!!!

worcester wrote:Steph is a lifetime .426 3 point shooter. His 2 point numbers lifetime  are  damn good too.:  .526. He'd a been all right whwnever.

Cow, I agree with you on all points. Walt Frazier was a great player. - and a lover. My friend Joy was a gorgeous gal who dated him while she was a senior at Sarah Lawrence in 1968, and she was crazy about him.

Speaking as a former Boston cab driver myself, I can say that Dave Cowens deserves way more credit as both a cabbie and an NBA star.

I used to see Walt alot at an iconic bar/restaurant callled Amsterdam’s that I worked the door at in the 80’s. Place had a great crowd and food and was featured in write ups in the top magazines that covered NY nightlfe or fashion. Cafe Central, China Club and Columbus were the other iconic places on the UWS in that era. Cannot even name all the celebrities that used to frequent all those places back in the day. Walt was always a class act and was privileged to speak with him a few times.

cowens/oldschool wrote:

worcester wrote:Steph is a lifetime .426 3 point shooter. His 2 point numbers lifetime  are  damn good too.:  .526. He'd a been all right whwnever.

Cow, I agree with you on all points. Walt Frazier was a great player. - and a lover. My friend Joy was a gorgeous gal who dated him while she was a senior at Sarah Lawrence in 1968, and she was crazy about him.

Speaking as a former Boston cab driver myself, I can say that Dave Cowens deserves way more credit as both a cabbie and an NBA star.

I used to see Walt alot at an iconic bar/restaurant callled Amsterdam’s that I worked the door at in the 80’s. Place had a great crowd and food and was featured in write ups in the top magazines that covered NY nightlfe or fashion. Cafe Central, China Club and Columbus were the other iconic places on the UWS in that era. Cannot even name all the celebrities that used to frequent all those places back in the day. Walt was always a class act and was privileged to speak with him a few times.

Cow,

Was Clyde Dancing and Prancing or Humble and Humorous?


Bob


.

It is always difficult to rank players because the criteria has not been established.  Rankings are difficult to make especially when you get outside of the top 10 and even then how many top 10's can there be?

If it is a question about winning and the impact on winning Mr. Russell stands shoulders above everyone else as being the best of the best.  However,  there have been so many talented and gifted players over so very many years, that arguments can reasonably be made (GOAT) for Jordan and James and the greatest winner ever (Bill Russell)

I am leaning heavily on putting Lebron James at the peak of the mountain.   He stands out from everybody including MJ simply because he has managed to play at a very high level for the longest period of time.  No one has ever been this damn good having played for 2 decades.  No one has been able to replicate his level of play for this length of time.

bobheckler wrote:

cowens/oldschool wrote:

worcester wrote:Steph is a lifetime .426 3 point shooter. His 2 point numbers lifetime  are  damn good too.:  .526. He'd a been all right whwnever.

Cow, I agree with you on all points. Walt Frazier was a great player. - and a lover. My friend Joy was a gorgeous gal who dated him while she was a senior at Sarah Lawrence in 1968, and she was crazy about him.

Speaking as a former Boston cab driver myself, I can say that Dave Cowens deserves way more credit as both a cabbie and an NBA star.

I used to see Walt alot at an iconic bar/restaurant callled Amsterdam’s that I worked the door at in the 80’s. Place had a great crowd and food and was featured in write ups in the top magazines that covered NY nightlfe or fashion. Cafe Central, China Club and Columbus were the other iconic places on the UWS in that era. Cannot even name all the celebrities that used to frequent all those places back in the day. Walt was always a class act and was privileged to speak with him a few times.

Cow,

Was Clyde Dancing and Prancing or Humble and Humorous?


Bob


.

He was very chill, would come in usually with a small entourage and mostly just blended in among the crowd by the bar. Don’t remember him dancing up a storm, was very gracious to other bar patrons….

Objectively comparing players from different eras is almost impossible (and irresistible). If Wilt and Bill had been born 50 years later, they would have practiced shooting and dribbling as kids and developed their bodies in the weight room. Wilt might have mastered foul shooting and Bill, have played years longer. OTOH, if superbly-skilled, weight-trained modern black players had been subject to the overt racism, slammed doors and taunts of the 1950s, they might have melted down on the court. Still, everyone has an opinion, so taken at their prime: Michael, LeBron, Bill, Magic, Wilt, Kareem, Hakeem, Larry and Julius.

dboss wrote:It is always difficult to rank players because the criteria has not been established.  Rankings are difficult to make especially when you get outside of the top 10 and even then how many top 10's can there be?

If it is a question about winning and the impact on winning Mr. Russell stands shoulders above everyone else as being the best of the best.  However,  there have been so many talented and gifted players over so very many years, that arguments can reasonably be made (GOAT) for Jordan and James and the greatest winner ever (Bill Russell)

I am leaning heavily on putting Lebron James at the peak of the mountain.   He stands out from everybody including MJ simply because he has managed to play at a very high level for the longest period of time.  No one has ever been this damn good having played for 2 decades.  No one has been able to replicate his level of play for this length of time.

Dboss

Here is where the debates begin and why it is so hard to rank the all time best players. Everything you say about Lebron is correct, but my personal criteria of championships, dominance and versatility deducts because he could only win a championship when he teamed up with two all stars (Wade and Bosh). He abandoned Cleveland because he couldn't get over the hump. Now he did comeback to Cleveland and get one, so he gets points there, but overall I still have him 5th.

Its a fun exercise for the off season, but in reality there are 20 or 30 true greats that can be ranked in various positions.