(3) Kareem Abdul-Jabbar- 6 Time NBA Champion, Two Time Finals MVP, 6 Time NBA MVP, 19 Time All Star, One Time Rebounding Leader, Two Time Scoring Leader, 4 Time Blocks Leader, Hall of Famer.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar can only be described as a dominant winner, given the fact that he dominated the college game with 3 NCAA Championships, to the point they dominated dunking to limit his dominance. In the NBA, he also managed to capture 6 Championships. He began tearing up competition in the Milwaukee Bucks, where he won 3 NBA MVP Awards by averaging 31.2 Points and 15.6 Rebounds during those three MVP Seasons. However, Kareem's reputation as a winner took a huge hit, since he was only able to win one championship with the Bucks, where he took Finals MVP honors by averaging 27.0 Points and 18.5 Rebounds. For most players this would be enough for a career, but do to Kareem's high standards, one championship wouldn't be enough, which is why he took sail to Los Angeles, California and put the Los Angeles Lakers back to the map and the Finals, this time with more backup in the name of Magic Johnson.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar can only be described as a dominant winner, given the fact that he dominated the college game with 3 NCAA Championships, to the point they dominated dunking to limit his dominance. In the NBA, he also managed to capture 6 Championships. He began tearing up competition in the Milwaukee Bucks, where he won 3 NBA MVP Awards by averaging 31.2 Points and 15.6 Rebounds during those three MVP Seasons. However, Kareem's reputation as a winner took a huge hit, since he was only able to win one championship with the Bucks, where he took Finals MVP honors by averaging 27.0 Points and 18.5 Rebounds. For most players this would be enough for a career, but do to Kareem's high standards, one championship wouldn't be enough, which is why he took sail to Los Angeles, California and put the Los Angeles Lakers back to the map and the Finals, this time with more backup in the name of Magic Johnson.
Ground Rules
(49) Russell Westbrook- 2017 MVP, Two Time All-Star MVP, 7 Time All Star, 2 Time Scoring Leader
If I made this list a couple years ago, there's no way he would be included. But ever since Westbrook became the first player since 1962 to average a triple double (double digits on three statistical categories) he has changed his reputation and earned his status a future hall of famer, but he's still young. Along with that, he's one of the most ferocious players in history and can still add a couple more accolades to his resume, expect him to be higher on everyone's list when his career is over.
(48) Dwight Howard- 3 Time Defensive Player of The Year, 5 Time Rebounding Leader, Two Time Blocks Leader, Eight Time All Star
It's sad that most people think of Dwight Howard for his Superman gimmick, how he gets coaches fired, how his teammates hate him, how much they miss the old Dwight Howard, or he's not a true center because most of his points come from dunks. But he's one of only three players in history to win three Defensive Player of the Year awards, and he did it three years in a row. He's a no doubt Hall of Fame that will end up with 20,000 points, 10,000 rebounds, and 2,000 blocks.
(47) Dominique Wilkins- 9 Time All Star, One Time Scoring Leader, 2 Time Slam Dunk Champion, Hall of Famer.
The man they called "The Human Highlight Film", Dominique Wilkins was perhaps the first player that earned fame due to his ferocious dunks. Along with that, he's one of the top scorers in league history, as he has a little over 26,000 points in his career. Yes he didn't win a championship, but he did give us lots of memories, none more significant than the four slam dunk contests he competed in.
(46) Ray Allen- 2 Time Champion, 10 Time All Star, Three Point Shootout Champion, Most Three Pointers Made in NBA History, Hall of Famer.
Young Ray Allen was a do it all type of player that made many All Star Teams, but failed during the Playoffs. Older Ray Allen is one of the top shooters in history as he has the most three pointers made with 2,973 and he's as clutch as they come. In this picture, with the Miami Heat down three points, Ray Allen hit a corner three off an offensive rebound to force overtime, which is what I consider the greatest shot in NBA history.
(45) James Worthy- 3 Time Champion, 1988 Finals MVP, 7 Time All Star, Hall of Famer.
Known as "Big Game James", James Worthy is often overlooked when it comes to greats in this game, since he played alongside Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. But Worthy is worthy (get it) of earning recognition, as he led the Los Angeles Lakers in the 1988 Finals, and he's one of only three players (LeBron James and Jerry West) to earn a triple double during a game 7 of the NBA finals.
(44) Kawhi Leonard- One Time Champion, 2014 Finals MVP, Two Time Defensive Player of The Year, One Time Steals Leader, Two Time All Star.
Yep, I just put Kawhi Leonard at 44 above the players we just mentioned and all the greats that didn't make the list, but he has done almost everything a player can hope for. He's already a champion, a finals MVP, and he's one of nine players in history to win two Defensive Player of The Year awards and one of eight to win them back to back. Now he's in the Toronto Raptors, where he will get more of an opportunity to possibly win more, including a championship, so it wouldn't surprise me having him in the top 20-25 if he does that.
Yep, I just put Kawhi Leonard at 44 above the players we just mentioned and all the greats that didn't make the list, but he has done almost everything a player can hope for. He's already a champion, a finals MVP, and he's one of nine players in history to win two Defensive Player of The Year awards and one of eight to win them back to back. Now he's in the Toronto Raptors, where he will get more of an opportunity to possibly win more, including a championship, so it wouldn't surprise me having him in the top 20-25 if he does that.
(43) Paul Pierce-One time Champion, 2008 Finals MVP, Ten Time All Star.
Nicknamed "The Truth" Paul Pierce is the most underrated superstar in NBA history. He's an average defender, but he shot lights out day in and day out, especially from three point range. Pierce is 15th in total points and 7th in three pointers made. He was a big, if no the biggest piece to that Celtics superteam established in the 2000s that won the NBA Championship in 2008 and he did all of it his way with his many clutch performances as well as with all the trash talking he used to do.
(42) Gary Payton- One Time NBA Champion, 9 Time All Star, One Time Steals Leader, Hall of Famer.
Gary Payton was known as the "The Glove" for his defense. He is the best "little defender" in history, as he's the only point guard to ever win the Defensive Player of The Year Award. What gets missed is that he was also an excellent passer during his prime with the Seattle Supersonics and his partner in crime, Shawn Kemp. He didn't win a championship until he was a member of the Miami Heat when he was riding the bench, but Payton's defense is just subpar to any other guard in history, and he's also the greatest trash talker in history.
(41) Bob Cousy- 6 Time NBA Champion, 13 Time All Star, 2 Time All Star MVP, 1957 NBA MVP, 8 Time Assist Leader, Hall of Famer.
I'm not big on praising those who played in the 50s, because the level of competition or talent wasn't the best, but Bob Cousy revolutionized what it meant to be a pass first point guard and do what's best for the team, and it's clear he did that given that he led the league in assists eight times. His unselfishness mentality along with Bill Russell's all around presence resulted in them winning 6 titles for the Boston Celtics.
(40) George Mikan- 5 Time NBA Champion, 4 Time All Star, One Time All Star MVP, One Time Rebounding Leader, 3 Time Scoring Champ, Hall of Famer
George Mikan was at his time, the most dominant center in the league. He oftens gets forgotten
due to the new era filled with way more talent than the one before, but just remember that he's one of only eight NBA players to be have three scoring titles under his belt, and he did it on back-to-back-to-back
seasons.
(39) George Gervin- 9 Time All Star, One Time All Star MVP, 4 Time Scoring Champ, Hall of Famer.
Known as the "Iceman", George Gervin was played with the most finesse during his time. He's commonly known for his insane finger roll where he would put spins on the basketball in order to make the most contested layups. It's also safe to say that he's one of the most proficient scorers in history, as he led the league in scoring four times, and once he dropped 63 points in the final regular season game in order to win the title over David Thompson, who was .13 points away of claiming the title. Although he didn't win a championship, The Iceman still deserves recognition due to his scoring ability.
(38) Elvin Hayes- One Time NBA Champion, 12 Time All Star, One Time Scoring Champ, Two Time Rebounding Leader, Hall of Famer.
Elvin Hayes is one of the forgotten great scorers on the game due to his insane rebounding numbers (6th all time in rebounding while only standing at 6'9). But people forget that he's the man that dropped a double-double against Kareem Abdul-Jabbar during the NCAA tournament. He also led the league in scoring during his rookie year, was the key piece to the Washington Bullets title run, and is the ultimate Iron Man, as the least number of games he played for a season was 80 games out of 82.
(37) Rick Barry- One Time NBA Champion, 1975 Finals MVP, 12 Time All Star, One Time All Star Game MVP, Rookie of The Year, One Time Scoring Champ, Hall of Famer.
If looking like a complete idiot shooting free throws "granny style" and somehow making most of them to the point you're making 90% of them doesn't make you great, then I don't know what does. This man finished at number seven with the most free throws made by shooting UNDERHAND! Aside from that, he was the first superstar who moved from the NBA to the ABA, where he became as equally dominant. Another one of those forgotten scorers in history, but it's his fault because he shot free throws UNDERHANDED!
(36) Walt Frazier- 2 Time NBA Champion, 7 Time All Star, One Time All Star Game MVP, Hall of Famer.
There should be a Finals MVP in his resume, but apparently limping from the locker room into the court and playing seven minutes was enough to give Willis Reed the award. Anyway, Frazier was one of the top defensive guards at his time, which resulted in him leading the New York Knicks towards two NBA Championships, something that the Knicks today haven't done since Frazier, and somehow fans remember him for his crazy sideburns and suits.
(35) Bob Pettit- Two Time MVP, One Time Champion, Two Time Scoring Leader, 11 Time All Star, 4 Time All Star Game MVP, Rookie of The Year, Hall of Famer.
Not going to lie, I hate when people talk about this guy or any other player that played in the 50s. I always felt that he's overrated and he's another one of players that benefited from playing in the weaker era, he's always on the NBA 2K and they praise him with high ratings even though he's by far not the most talented, he for sure wasn't going to be on my list. But then I saw all his accomplishments, most notably his 4 time All Star MVPs which are a record and he was the first ever MVP of the NBA, so I need to tip my hat to Pettit and put him on the list at 35.
(34) Patrick Ewing- NCAA Champion, Rookie of The Year, 11 Time All Star, Olympic Gold Medalist, Hall of Famer.
The most unappreciated big man in history. Patrick Ewing is now remembered as another player who didn't get a championship because he played in the Jordan era, even New York Knicks fans give him a hard time for getting dunked on nonstop. But Patrick Ewing dominated college basketball and led Georgetown to the promised land. In the NBA, he was still a brutal force at the center position who had unlimited post moves, could run the fast break better than most big men, and he was still a decent defensive force (#7 All Time in blocked shots). As far as talent, Ewing would be far higher on this list, but it doesn't help that he didn't win a championship and all of his rivals in his position (Shaquille O'Neal, Hakeem Olajuwon, David Robinson, and Alonzo Mourning) all won championships when he didn't.
(33) Steve Nash- 2 Time MVP, 7 Time All Star, 5 Time Assist Leader, Hall of Famer.
Steve Nash didn't have the craziest numbers, as he averaged 14.3 Points and 8.5 Assists for his career, but he gets the nod because of his historic back-to-back MVP winning seasons, where averaged 17.2 Points and 11 Assists per game. Yes one of those awards could have gone to someone else, but let's not take away from his greatness. He was great for his team's system of playing fast paced on what became known as the "Seven Second Offense" and is one of the most unselfish players of all time, which is why he's third All Time in Assists with 10,335. He also revolutionized the game, he was the first Steph Curry, a guy who is consistently flashy and can shoot lights out. Sadly, he didn't win a championship, which is why I have this next guy ahead of him.
(32) Jason Kidd- One time NBA Champion, 10 Time All Star, 5 Time Assists Leader, Hall of Famer.
During an era that included great point guards such as Steve Nash and Gary Payton, Jason Kidd clearly separated himself from the two. Jason Kidd is the exact definition of a floor general he easily controls the offense and has no problem getting people involved, which is why he is second all time in career assists with 12,091. What also gets forgotten is that he's also second all time in steals with 2,684. It's rare to see a point guard who leads the league in assists almost every year, yet they're also elite defenders. At a certain point, it seemed that the only thing Kidd needed to get even more recognition was a championship and he got that being the vocal leader for the 2011 Dallas Mavericks that ultimately upset the Miami Heat Super Team.
(31) Clyde Drexler- One Time NBA Champion, 10 Time All Star, Olympic Gold Medalist, Hall of Famer.
Clyde was nicknamed "The Glyde" for his impressive leap and hangtime ability that earned him the right to be claimed one of the top dunkers of all time. He's also such a great scorer that one time during his career, people would question if Michael Jordan was at his level, which is clearly saying something. After two NBA Finals losses, one of them to Jordan, he joined the Houston Rockets to reunite with his college teammate Hakeem Olajuwon and won a championship. Drexler doesn't get his just do, as he's one of many players that was overshadowed by Michael Jordan at the two guard position.
(30) Chris Paul- 9 Time All Star, 1 All Star MVP, 4 Time Assists Leader, 6 Time Steals Leader, Rookie of The Year, Olympic Gold Medalist.
There's no denying that Chris Paul is one of the true point guards in the game, as he plays team first and that talent was in full display during his time with the Los Angeles Clippers, where they became known as Lob City for Paul's passes leading to countless dunks. There's also no denying that Paul is one of the top defenders at his position with a career average of 2.25 steals per game in a career. There's also no denying that Paul is one of the top leaders in history. But there's also no denying that although he's one of the best point guards ever, his postseason failures prevent him from being higher. It took him 13 years to reach the Conference Finals after years of injuries and blowing leads. Last year his Houston Rockets were one win away to reaching the Finals, which they would have won against the Cleveland Cavaliers, but after an injury the team ended up losing in seven games. Until Paul wins a championship, it seems that this is as high as he will go when it comes to the all time greats.
There's no denying that Chris Paul is one of the true point guards in the game, as he plays team first and that talent was in full display during his time with the Los Angeles Clippers, where they became known as Lob City for Paul's passes leading to countless dunks. There's also no denying that Paul is one of the top defenders at his position with a career average of 2.25 steals per game in a career. There's also no denying that Paul is one of the top leaders in history. But there's also no denying that although he's one of the best point guards ever, his postseason failures prevent him from being higher. It took him 13 years to reach the Conference Finals after years of injuries and blowing leads. Last year his Houston Rockets were one win away to reaching the Finals, which they would have won against the Cleveland Cavaliers, but after an injury the team ended up losing in seven games. Until Paul wins a championship, it seems that this is as high as he will go when it comes to the all time greats.
29-20 (11/16/2018)
(29 Allen Iverson- 2001 NBA MVP, 11 Time All Star, Two Time All Star MVP, 4 Time Scoring Leader, 3 Time Steals Leader, Rookie of The Year, Hall of Famer.
I wish I could put him way higher on the list. Allen Iverson was a cultural icon that did it his way. Standing barely at 6'0, Iverson used his speed and THE GREATEST CROSSOVER AND HANDLES IN HISTORY to get to the bucket and become one of five players in history to win four scoring titles.He's the shortest player to win a scoring title, and also the shortest to ever win the MVP award, which he did in 2001 by averaging 31.1 Points, 4.6 Assists, and 2.7 Steals per game. Yes, I know Allen Iverson is a better basketball player than many of the players ahead of him, but what hurts him is that he was never a part of a winning team, other than that MVP season where he dragged his Philadelphia 76ers team against the Lakers only to lose in five quick games. You can hold him accountable for his "lack of passing" but nevertheless, he's one of the most impactful, fun, and talented players to watch, which is why he's one of my top five FAVORITE players of all time.
(28) David Robinson- 2 Time NBA Champion, 10 Time All Star, One Time MVP, One Time Defensive Player of The Year, One Time leader in Points, Rebounds, and Blocks, Rookie of The Year, Hall of Famer.
Now we begin to get into the stacked up resumes, and who better than David Robinson. Robinson made an instant impact on the San Antonio Spurs, and basically began their success as a franchise. Robinson would average 27 Points, 10 Rebounds, and 3 Blocks on his MVP Season, which was later overshadowed by the fact that Hakeem Olajuwon embarrassed Robinson with his footwork. Later on his career, he would take a reduced role and win a championship with the Spurs while Tim Duncan ran the show, which is why many criticize Robinson for not winning on his time. Nevertheless, few players have led the league in multiple categories, and is one of the top scorers at the center position.
(27) John Havlicek- Eight Time NBA Champion, 13 Time All Star, One Time Finals MVP, Hall of Famer.
The man has EIGHT rings. I don't care what era you played, but being a big part on eight championship teams is quite remarkable. John "Hondo" Havlicek is one of the few players I actually acknowledge as a great from that era. He is known as possibly the best sixth man of all time (even though he didn't win the award because it didn't exist) and he averaged around 21 points for an entire 16 season career. He's one of the most skilled scorers of his era who was always automatically from mid-range... and he has EIGHT rings.
The man has EIGHT rings. I don't care what era you played, but being a big part on eight championship teams is quite remarkable. John "Hondo" Havlicek is one of the few players I actually acknowledge as a great from that era. He is known as possibly the best sixth man of all time (even though he didn't win the award because it didn't exist) and he averaged around 21 points for an entire 16 season career. He's one of the most skilled scorers of his era who was always automatically from mid-range... and he has EIGHT rings.
(26) John Stockton- 10 Time All Star, One Time All Star Game MVP, 9 Time Assists Leader, Two Time Steals Leader, Olympic Gold Medalist, Hall of Famer.
John Stockton is perhaps the most underappreciated superstar of all time. He was the true definition of a point guard, he completely controlled the offense, he had a pass first mentality, and he sacrificed his reputation by dishing dimes to his longtime running mate Karl Malone in order to be successful. Stockton was tough minded, could drive past anybody, and had a jump shot, he could have easily earned more points and recognition if he wasn't so unselfish. Stockton is also a top class defender, as he's number one all time in career steals (3,265) and in assists (15,806). This remarkable achievement alone shows how talented of a basketball player he really was, even though he's not often recognized of that. The only thing he couldn't accomplish was winning a championship, as the great Michael Jordan denied many great players from that feat, and Stockton's reputation might have been hurt the most by that.
John Stockton is perhaps the most underappreciated superstar of all time. He was the true definition of a point guard, he completely controlled the offense, he had a pass first mentality, and he sacrificed his reputation by dishing dimes to his longtime running mate Karl Malone in order to be successful. Stockton was tough minded, could drive past anybody, and had a jump shot, he could have easily earned more points and recognition if he wasn't so unselfish. Stockton is also a top class defender, as he's number one all time in career steals (3,265) and in assists (15,806). This remarkable achievement alone shows how talented of a basketball player he really was, even though he's not often recognized of that. The only thing he couldn't accomplish was winning a championship, as the great Michael Jordan denied many great players from that feat, and Stockton's reputation might have been hurt the most by that.
(25) Elgin Baylor- One Time NBA Champion, 11 Time All Star, One Time All Star Game MVP, Rookie of The Year, Hall of Famer.
Elgin Baylor has had a tough time during his basketball career to say the least. After not winning an NCAA championship, Baylor arrived to the NBA and did the same thing for 14 NBA Seasons, mainly because Bill Russell and the Celtics were too good back then. The only reason he won a ring was because after he retired mid-season, the Lakers went on to win a championship without him on the roster, but he still got a ring. With all that being said, Baylor was arguably the most versatile player on his time, as he averaged 27 Points for his career. Had Baylor had more postseason success, there's no doubt he would be top 15 for sure, because he was truly ahead of his time.
Elgin Baylor has had a tough time during his basketball career to say the least. After not winning an NCAA championship, Baylor arrived to the NBA and did the same thing for 14 NBA Seasons, mainly because Bill Russell and the Celtics were too good back then. The only reason he won a ring was because after he retired mid-season, the Lakers went on to win a championship without him on the roster, but he still got a ring. With all that being said, Baylor was arguably the most versatile player on his time, as he averaged 27 Points for his career. Had Baylor had more postseason success, there's no doubt he would be top 15 for sure, because he was truly ahead of his time.
(24) Dwyane Wade- 3 Time NBA Champion, 2006 Finals MVP, 12 Time All Star, 2010 All Star Game MVP, One Time Scoring Leader.
Future Hall of Famer Dwayne Wade was known as "The Flash" due to his incredible speed and no-look layups early on his career. Nowadays, he's remembered as one of the top shooting guards ever, but people give him a hard time for not being on top for a long period of time. Wade's true coming came in the 2006 season, where he won the championship with the Heat. Yes, he did have Shaquille O'Neal who finished second in MVP voting that season, but Wade was the leader during their playoff journey, as he recorded 28-5-5 during the playoffs along with 2.2 steals and 1.1 blocks. Sadly for him, the next two years he would only play 51 games each season and after only playing 49 games in 2012, it was clear that he needed help. Enter LeBron James and Chris Bosh, who along with Wade formed the most hated super team in NBA history. They would end up winning two championships, to give Wade a total of three, but people criticize him for not being the main guy who led them there, even though he still averaged a respectable 19 points per game during those games. Never forget that LeBron needed Wade to win his first championship, which indicates how good Wade was past his prime and how valuable he is as well.
Future Hall of Famer Dwayne Wade was known as "The Flash" due to his incredible speed and no-look layups early on his career. Nowadays, he's remembered as one of the top shooting guards ever, but people give him a hard time for not being on top for a long period of time. Wade's true coming came in the 2006 season, where he won the championship with the Heat. Yes, he did have Shaquille O'Neal who finished second in MVP voting that season, but Wade was the leader during their playoff journey, as he recorded 28-5-5 during the playoffs along with 2.2 steals and 1.1 blocks. Sadly for him, the next two years he would only play 51 games each season and after only playing 49 games in 2012, it was clear that he needed help. Enter LeBron James and Chris Bosh, who along with Wade formed the most hated super team in NBA history. They would end up winning two championships, to give Wade a total of three, but people criticize him for not being the main guy who led them there, even though he still averaged a respectable 19 points per game during those games. Never forget that LeBron needed Wade to win his first championship, which indicates how good Wade was past his prime and how valuable he is as well.
(23) Scottie Pippen- 6 Time NBA Champion, 7 Time All Star, 1994 All Star Game MVP, One Time Steals Leader, Olympic Gold Medalist Hall of Famer.
Chicago Bulls Scottie Pippen is one of the most versatile and athletic defenders of all time. He's 6th all time in career steals and just like Wade, Pippen was the all-star someone needed to finally win a championship, this time it was Michael Jordan. 18 Points per game is what he averaged in his 11 seasons with the Chicago Bulls, and you can argue he was robbed of a Defensive Player of the Year Award, as he had many seasons where he averaged almost 3 steals and a block. The reason he can't get higher on this list is simple, he was a sidekick during his prime years in the NBA, which is the main reason he won 6 rings, because he had Michael Jordan on his side. This is why Pippen might be slightly overlooked when it comes to greats, it would have been interesting what he would accomplish if he didn't play under Jordan's shadow.
Chicago Bulls Scottie Pippen is one of the most versatile and athletic defenders of all time. He's 6th all time in career steals and just like Wade, Pippen was the all-star someone needed to finally win a championship, this time it was Michael Jordan. 18 Points per game is what he averaged in his 11 seasons with the Chicago Bulls, and you can argue he was robbed of a Defensive Player of the Year Award, as he had many seasons where he averaged almost 3 steals and a block. The reason he can't get higher on this list is simple, he was a sidekick during his prime years in the NBA, which is the main reason he won 6 rings, because he had Michael Jordan on his side. This is why Pippen might be slightly overlooked when it comes to greats, it would have been interesting what he would accomplish if he didn't play under Jordan's shadow.
(22) Charles Barkley- 1993 MVP, 11 Time All Star, 1991 All Star Game MVP, One Time Rebounding Leader, Olympic Gold Medalist, Hall of Famer.
"The Round Mound of Rebound" is a perfect nickname for "Sir" Charles Barkley. Standing at 6'4 while playing the Power Forward position, Barkley would use his size and leaping ability to grab rebounds from the giants in the game. In fact, Barkley would average 11.7 Rebounds per game in his whole career, and he only averaged less than ten rebounds per game in one of sixteen seasons! Aside from his out of this world rebound ability, Barkley would become a very efficient inside presence and mid range game, which was in display in 1993 when he won his only MVP. He would average 25.6 Points, 12.2 Rebounds, 5.1 Assists, 1.6 Steals and 1 Block during that season. But like so many others, he was denied a championship by Michael Jordan, who beat his Phoenix Suns during the 1993 NBA Finals. As far as players in his position, Barkley is more talented and overall a better player than most of them, but most of them would win championships. Still, Barkley proved that nobody how your stature or weight, you can still become an NBA legend, a legend that started his career eating a large pizza before tip-off, but eventually cut it down to two fish-filet and a diet coke! What a legend.
"The Round Mound of Rebound" is a perfect nickname for "Sir" Charles Barkley. Standing at 6'4 while playing the Power Forward position, Barkley would use his size and leaping ability to grab rebounds from the giants in the game. In fact, Barkley would average 11.7 Rebounds per game in his whole career, and he only averaged less than ten rebounds per game in one of sixteen seasons! Aside from his out of this world rebound ability, Barkley would become a very efficient inside presence and mid range game, which was in display in 1993 when he won his only MVP. He would average 25.6 Points, 12.2 Rebounds, 5.1 Assists, 1.6 Steals and 1 Block during that season. But like so many others, he was denied a championship by Michael Jordan, who beat his Phoenix Suns during the 1993 NBA Finals. As far as players in his position, Barkley is more talented and overall a better player than most of them, but most of them would win championships. Still, Barkley proved that nobody how your stature or weight, you can still become an NBA legend, a legend that started his career eating a large pizza before tip-off, but eventually cut it down to two fish-filet and a diet coke! What a legend.
(21) Kevin Garnett- One Time NBA Champion, 2004 MVP, 15 Time All Star, 2003 All Star Game MVP, 2004 MVP, 2008 Defensive Player of The Year, Four Time Rebounding Leader.
Kevin Garnett was so good that he became the only reason why the Minnesota Timberwolves sold tickets, which is why he's known as "The Big Ticket". People forget how good he was, as he was constantly being matched with Tim Duncan, and that he's also one of the best trash talkers in history. At one point, he screamed at the team doctor for eating out of the player's food, in which the doctor responded by almost crying and never going near the food again. During his 2004 MVP campaign, Garnett put up 24.2 Points, 13.9 Rebounds, 5 Assists, 1.5 Steals, and 2.2 Blocks. For Garnett to win a championship, it wouldn't come as easy. The Timberwolves front office failed to pair Garnett with an All Star, so he decided to join the Celtics, and form the first known super team that included him alongside Paul Pierce, Ray Allen, and Rajon Rondo, where he would excel on the defensive end and take home the Defensive Player of The Year. After beating Kobe and the Lakers, the Celtics would win their 17th championship, which was the first for Garnett. And we all know about his "Anything Is Possible" cry after the victory.
Kevin Garnett was so good that he became the only reason why the Minnesota Timberwolves sold tickets, which is why he's known as "The Big Ticket". People forget how good he was, as he was constantly being matched with Tim Duncan, and that he's also one of the best trash talkers in history. At one point, he screamed at the team doctor for eating out of the player's food, in which the doctor responded by almost crying and never going near the food again. During his 2004 MVP campaign, Garnett put up 24.2 Points, 13.9 Rebounds, 5 Assists, 1.5 Steals, and 2.2 Blocks. For Garnett to win a championship, it wouldn't come as easy. The Timberwolves front office failed to pair Garnett with an All Star, so he decided to join the Celtics, and form the first known super team that included him alongside Paul Pierce, Ray Allen, and Rajon Rondo, where he would excel on the defensive end and take home the Defensive Player of The Year. After beating Kobe and the Lakers, the Celtics would win their 17th championship, which was the first for Garnett. And we all know about his "Anything Is Possible" cry after the victory.
(20) Isiah Thomas- 2 Time NBA Champion, 1990 Finals MVP, 12 Time All Star, Two Time All Star Game MVP, 1985 Assists Leader, Hall of Famer.
Forget about how he was the instigator of the "Bad Boys" Detroit Pistons who dirtied up the game a bit with their defensive schemes, dirty play, and hard fouls. Instead, remember Thomas as the smaller version of Magic Johnson, a man who has handles better than anybody, he's as tough as they come, and he has the ability to score and defend in an elite level. After his career seemed to be taking a bad turn after he turned the ball away to Larry Bird and loosing against him two years in a row, Thomas would end the Celtics dynasty, only to sprain his ankle during Game 6 of the NBA Finals and lose to the Lakers. The next two years where far more promising, as he won led his team to back-to-back championships and cementing his team as one of the best ever. Yes, the classless act of walking out of the game without congratulating the Chicago Bulls who have just beat them (Although it was deserved because the Bulls were publicly calling them dirty) forever hurt his reputation among players and fans, but Isiah Thomas is still as good as they come from the Point Guard position, who barely missed the cut in the top 20.
Forget about how he was the instigator of the "Bad Boys" Detroit Pistons who dirtied up the game a bit with their defensive schemes, dirty play, and hard fouls. Instead, remember Thomas as the smaller version of Magic Johnson, a man who has handles better than anybody, he's as tough as they come, and he has the ability to score and defend in an elite level. After his career seemed to be taking a bad turn after he turned the ball away to Larry Bird and loosing against him two years in a row, Thomas would end the Celtics dynasty, only to sprain his ankle during Game 6 of the NBA Finals and lose to the Lakers. The next two years where far more promising, as he won led his team to back-to-back championships and cementing his team as one of the best ever. Yes, the classless act of walking out of the game without congratulating the Chicago Bulls who have just beat them (Although it was deserved because the Bulls were publicly calling them dirty) forever hurt his reputation among players and fans, but Isiah Thomas is still as good as they come from the Point Guard position, who barely missed the cut in the top 20.
19-11 (12/10/2018)
(19) Karl Malone- Two Time MVP, Olympic Gold Medalist, 14 Time All Star, 2 Time All Star MVP, 2nd All TIme in Career Points, Hall of Famer.
"The Mailman" Karl Malone was the true definition of a Power Forward. He lived up to that position, as with his freak strength and unheard of agility for a man of his side was nearly impossible to guard, which is why he was the best Power Forward during the 80s and 90s. Alongside the most unselfish point guard, John Stockton, Stockton and Malone would become one of the best duos in NBA history, as Stockton's court vision always came into existence when the Mailman was running the fast break. While also forming and unstoppable pick-and-roll, Malone and Stockton would make the Finals in 1996 and 1997. However, that would appear to be Malone's greatest accomplishment, as he lost both finals to Michael Jordan and the Bulls. Later on his career he would form a superteam in LA with Shaq and Kobe, but they lost to the Detroit Pistons. The fact that Malone didn't win a championship has left a huge gap when looking at his accomplishments. Malone was easily the best Power Forward ever when it comes to playing ability, but winning matters, which is sad that Malone is behind many of the Power Forwards he has better game than, but they all won.
(18) Dirk Nowitzki- One Time NBA Champion, One Time Finals MVP, 2007 MVP, 13 Time All Star.
Dirk Nowitzki revolutionized the Power Forward position, as he was the first and best 7 foot shooter of all time. He also paved the way for international players to come play for the NBA. His unstoppable and unguardable fadeaway, which is one of the best signature moves of all time, helped him achieve so much in this league. After a few hard years with the Dallas Mavericks, which included taking the Dallas Mavericks to the 2006 Finals, but ended up loosing to Dwayne Wade, Shaquille O'Neal, and the Miami Heat. The next year however, after averaging 24.6 Points, 8.9 Rebounds, and leading the Mavericks to the best record on the West, he would be awarded the MVP award. During that same season, the Mavericks choked and lost to the eight-seeded Warriors during the playoffs. It seemed like his career was over, but out of nowhere, a veteran Dirk with some company met the "Big Three" in Miami and somehow beat the best superteam of all time, a team that included three future hall of famers in LeBron James, Dwayne Wade, and Chris Bosh. Nowitzki would score 48 points in Game 1 and make 24 free throws in a row, which is an NBA record. After the championship, Nowitzki's legacy was already cemented, and when you add the fact that he's in his 20th NBA season and is the 7th All Time in Career Points, there's no question that Dirk's unique game has earned him a place with the All-Time Greats.
Dirk Nowitzki revolutionized the Power Forward position, as he was the first and best 7 foot shooter of all time. He also paved the way for international players to come play for the NBA. His unstoppable and unguardable fadeaway, which is one of the best signature moves of all time, helped him achieve so much in this league. After a few hard years with the Dallas Mavericks, which included taking the Dallas Mavericks to the 2006 Finals, but ended up loosing to Dwayne Wade, Shaquille O'Neal, and the Miami Heat. The next year however, after averaging 24.6 Points, 8.9 Rebounds, and leading the Mavericks to the best record on the West, he would be awarded the MVP award. During that same season, the Mavericks choked and lost to the eight-seeded Warriors during the playoffs. It seemed like his career was over, but out of nowhere, a veteran Dirk with some company met the "Big Three" in Miami and somehow beat the best superteam of all time, a team that included three future hall of famers in LeBron James, Dwayne Wade, and Chris Bosh. Nowitzki would score 48 points in Game 1 and make 24 free throws in a row, which is an NBA record. After the championship, Nowitzki's legacy was already cemented, and when you add the fact that he's in his 20th NBA season and is the 7th All Time in Career Points, there's no question that Dirk's unique game has earned him a place with the All-Time Greats.
(17) Stephen Curry- 3 Time NBA Champion, 5 Time All Star, Two Time MVP, 2016 Leading Scorer, 2016 Steals Leader.
Trust me I don't want to put him this high, since I'm a LeBron fan and a Curry hater, so let's keep this short. Just know that Stephen Curry rose to the scene out of nowhere and is on his way to becoming the greatest shooter of all time, as he's easily expected to be number one on three pointers made in a career. He was also (undeservedly) the first unanimous MVP selected and is one of only three Point Guards to win two MVP awards. The only thing that's missing is for him to capture a Finals MVP, which is possible considering that the Warriors won 73 games and after BLOWING A 3-1 LEAD, they decide to break the NBA by signing KEVIN DURANT AND DEMARCUS COUSINS. He's Ight.
Trust me I don't want to put him this high, since I'm a LeBron fan and a Curry hater, so let's keep this short. Just know that Stephen Curry rose to the scene out of nowhere and is on his way to becoming the greatest shooter of all time, as he's easily expected to be number one on three pointers made in a career. He was also (undeservedly) the first unanimous MVP selected and is one of only three Point Guards to win two MVP awards. The only thing that's missing is for him to capture a Finals MVP, which is possible considering that the Warriors won 73 games and after BLOWING A 3-1 LEAD, they decide to break the NBA by signing KEVIN DURANT AND DEMARCUS COUSINS. He's Ight.
(16) Moses Malone- One Time NBA Champion, One Time Finals MVP, 3 Time MVP, 12 Time All Star, 6 Time Rebounding Leader, Hall of Famer.
The late-great Moses Malone was a force to be dealt with during his playing career and he's the most unappreciated Center in NBA history. He won three MVPs in two different NBA teams, the Houston Rockets and the Philadelphia 76ers, becoming one of only eight NBA players ever to win three MVP awards. His best year was in 1982 where averaged 31.1 Points and 14.7 Rebounds for the Houston Rockets. However, after not having a championship under his belt, he decided to team up with Julius Erving and led the team past Magic Johnson, Kareem-Abdul-Jabbar, and the Los Angeles Lakers. This championship was everything Malone was missing, which instantly made him one of the best players to ever play this game.
The late-great Moses Malone was a force to be dealt with during his playing career and he's the most unappreciated Center in NBA history. He won three MVPs in two different NBA teams, the Houston Rockets and the Philadelphia 76ers, becoming one of only eight NBA players ever to win three MVP awards. His best year was in 1982 where averaged 31.1 Points and 14.7 Rebounds for the Houston Rockets. However, after not having a championship under his belt, he decided to team up with Julius Erving and led the team past Magic Johnson, Kareem-Abdul-Jabbar, and the Los Angeles Lakers. This championship was everything Malone was missing, which instantly made him one of the best players to ever play this game.
(15) Jerry West- One Time NBA Champion, One Time Finals MVP, 14 Time All, One Time All Star Game MVP, One Time Scoring Leader, One Time Assists Leader, Olympic Gold Medalist, Hall of Famer.
"The Logo" Jerry West was one of the greatest and now underrated shooters in NBA history. He was also one of the most clutch shooters ever, giving him the nickname "Mr.Clutch" after he made a full court shot to send a NBA finals game to overtime. However, West was another one of those players who didn't win a lot, since the 60s and 70s were dominated by the Boston Celtics. West as an NBA record of 8 Finals Losses, with just one win during his 14 years in the NBA. To be fair, the Celtics were too overpowered back then, and Jerry West might have been the best statistical player during that decade, as he averaged 27 Points and 6.7 assists during the 60s, making him the 4th leading scorer at the time. Regardless of his failures, Jerry West has respectively earned his place as a top 15 player of all time.
"The Logo" Jerry West was one of the greatest and now underrated shooters in NBA history. He was also one of the most clutch shooters ever, giving him the nickname "Mr.Clutch" after he made a full court shot to send a NBA finals game to overtime. However, West was another one of those players who didn't win a lot, since the 60s and 70s were dominated by the Boston Celtics. West as an NBA record of 8 Finals Losses, with just one win during his 14 years in the NBA. To be fair, the Celtics were too overpowered back then, and Jerry West might have been the best statistical player during that decade, as he averaged 27 Points and 6.7 assists during the 60s, making him the 4th leading scorer at the time. Regardless of his failures, Jerry West has respectively earned his place as a top 15 player of all time.
(14) Julius Erving- One Time NBA Champion, Two Time ABA Champion, One Time NBA Champion, Three Time ABA Champion, Two Time All Star Game MVP, Hall of Famer.
"Dr.J" Julius Erving played a couple of seasons for the Brooklyn Nets, which was a team for a whole different league, the ABA. During his time in the Nets, he averaged 28 Points and 12 Rebounds. Dr.J became the first player from either league to gain popularity from his dunking ability and flashiness, which is something people like in a player today. Dr.J gained huge amounts of fame from dunking from the free throw line during the 1976 ABA dunk contest, and he would also win two championships with the Nets. He would later take his talents to the more talented NBA and he would be exactly what the league needed, more talented players making more talented teams. Dr.J would flourish at the NBA, maybe not the way he did in the ABA, but he still averaged 21.9 Points during his whole NBA career, which consisted of a MVP award. The only thing that seemed to be missing from his resume was an NBA Championship, and unlike many of the greats that we have mentioned, he accomplished that by forming an unstoppable duo with Moses Malone. Dr.J will always be remembered not only for his playing ability, but for how he impacted the game by making it more fun and enjoyable for people to watch.
"Dr.J" Julius Erving played a couple of seasons for the Brooklyn Nets, which was a team for a whole different league, the ABA. During his time in the Nets, he averaged 28 Points and 12 Rebounds. Dr.J became the first player from either league to gain popularity from his dunking ability and flashiness, which is something people like in a player today. Dr.J gained huge amounts of fame from dunking from the free throw line during the 1976 ABA dunk contest, and he would also win two championships with the Nets. He would later take his talents to the more talented NBA and he would be exactly what the league needed, more talented players making more talented teams. Dr.J would flourish at the NBA, maybe not the way he did in the ABA, but he still averaged 21.9 Points during his whole NBA career, which consisted of a MVP award. The only thing that seemed to be missing from his resume was an NBA Championship, and unlike many of the greats that we have mentioned, he accomplished that by forming an unstoppable duo with Moses Malone. Dr.J will always be remembered not only for his playing ability, but for how he impacted the game by making it more fun and enjoyable for people to watch.
(13) Oscar Robertson- One Time NBA Champion, 1964 NBA MVP, 12 Time All Star, 3 Time All Star MVP, 6 Time Assists Leader, Rookie of The Year, Olympic Gold Medalist, Hall of Famer.
"The Big O" Oscar Robertson was the first versatile and "do it all" mentality player from the point guard position. When you look at his stats it's clear that he did do it all. I mean, he averaged a TRIPLE DOUBLE for a whole season, the first player to ever do it. He averaged 30.8 Points, 12.5 Rebounds, and 11.4 Assists for the 1962, and somehow he didn't win MVP. That was the only season that he statistically averaged a triple double, but many of the other seasons he decimals away from it. This is why Robertson is known as "Mr. Triple Double" a title he would claim until Russell Westbrook finally did the same thing 55 years later. Robertson would win the 1964 MVP award and would win a title with his longtime partner in crime, Kareem Abdul- Jabbar. He led the league in assists six times, which third all time for league leaders and he's sixth all time in career assists. Had he won more championships, he would be appreciated more by people from today, and he would have been perhaps the greatest point guard ever.
"The Big O" Oscar Robertson was the first versatile and "do it all" mentality player from the point guard position. When you look at his stats it's clear that he did do it all. I mean, he averaged a TRIPLE DOUBLE for a whole season, the first player to ever do it. He averaged 30.8 Points, 12.5 Rebounds, and 11.4 Assists for the 1962, and somehow he didn't win MVP. That was the only season that he statistically averaged a triple double, but many of the other seasons he decimals away from it. This is why Robertson is known as "Mr. Triple Double" a title he would claim until Russell Westbrook finally did the same thing 55 years later. Robertson would win the 1964 MVP award and would win a title with his longtime partner in crime, Kareem Abdul- Jabbar. He led the league in assists six times, which third all time for league leaders and he's sixth all time in career assists. Had he won more championships, he would be appreciated more by people from today, and he would have been perhaps the greatest point guard ever.
(12) Kevin Durant- 2 Time NBA Champion, 2 Time Finals MVP, 2014 NBA MVP, 9 Time All Star, One Time All Star Game MVP, 4 Time Scoring Leader, Rookie of The Year, Olympic Gold Medalist
Kevin Durant is the definition of a true scorer. He's absolute deadly from three point range, mid-range, he can drive whenever he wants to, he can easily shoot over anybody, he makes his free throws, and he even has a little bit of post game. He's one of only five players ever to have won 4 or more scoring titles, and he did that while playing in an era where players don't get as much opportunity to score a lot of points in a season. He's already 4th all time for scoring average in a career (27.18) and he's expected to be on track to be the all time scoring leader in history. Durant received MVP honors when he averaged 32 points a game, which seemed like he was on his way to take the best player in the league throne from LeBron James. However, Durant didn't win much with the Oklahoma City Thunder, as the best he could do was reach the finals only to loose. Durant would continue playing and when it seemed he could reach the finals again, his team chocked against the greatest regular season team in history, the Golden State Warriors. Durant would then make the weakest move in history by joining the already loaded 73-9 record Golden State Warriors. It's because of this move that Durant can't be a top ten player of all time, although he has the talent and game to do so. But until he wins one on his without the Warriors, this is as high as he will go.
Kevin Durant is the definition of a true scorer. He's absolute deadly from three point range, mid-range, he can drive whenever he wants to, he can easily shoot over anybody, he makes his free throws, and he even has a little bit of post game. He's one of only five players ever to have won 4 or more scoring titles, and he did that while playing in an era where players don't get as much opportunity to score a lot of points in a season. He's already 4th all time for scoring average in a career (27.18) and he's expected to be on track to be the all time scoring leader in history. Durant received MVP honors when he averaged 32 points a game, which seemed like he was on his way to take the best player in the league throne from LeBron James. However, Durant didn't win much with the Oklahoma City Thunder, as the best he could do was reach the finals only to loose. Durant would continue playing and when it seemed he could reach the finals again, his team chocked against the greatest regular season team in history, the Golden State Warriors. Durant would then make the weakest move in history by joining the already loaded 73-9 record Golden State Warriors. It's because of this move that Durant can't be a top ten player of all time, although he has the talent and game to do so. But until he wins one on his without the Warriors, this is as high as he will go.
(11) Hakeem Olajuwon- Two Time NBA Champion, Two Time Finals MVP, 1994 NBA MVP, Two Time Defensive Player of The Year, 12 Time All Star, Two Time Rebounding Leader, Three Time Blocks Leader, Olympic Gold Medalist, Number One in Career Blocks, Hall of Famer.
As you can tell by his accomplishments, Hakeem "The Dream" Olajuwon had done almost everything you can do in the offensive and defensive side of the ball, probably the best to do that. Not only was he more than capable of scoring 25 Points or more per game (which he did four times) but he's also the greatest defensive player in NBA History. He had 3,830 career blocks, which is number one all time for a career by the way and 600 blocks more from the second place holder (Dikembe Mutombo). Oh, and only him and Michael Jordan have won the MVP award and the Defensive Player of The Year award in the same season. Although defense was probably Olajuwon's forte, he was unstoppable to guard in the post. He had speed, footwork, and a jump shot that most 7 footers and other Centers couldn't handle. His amazing feetwork and his signature move of faking the pass and then pivoting into making a fadeaway or a hookshot is perhaps the best signature move of all time, and the best example of this is the one against David Robinson. Olajuwon would retire as one of the top centers in history, as he's won almost all the awards you can think of. He led his Houston Rockets to back to back championships and won back to back finals MVP awards. Perhaps Olajuwon's greatest accomplishment came off the court, with the fact that he was the first great international player to come to the NBA, he opened the window for so many good players from Africa including Dikembe Mutombo, Manute Bol, Luol Deng, Joel Embiid, Serge Ibaka, and hundreds of other international players that followed his footsteps.
As you can tell by his accomplishments, Hakeem "The Dream" Olajuwon had done almost everything you can do in the offensive and defensive side of the ball, probably the best to do that. Not only was he more than capable of scoring 25 Points or more per game (which he did four times) but he's also the greatest defensive player in NBA History. He had 3,830 career blocks, which is number one all time for a career by the way and 600 blocks more from the second place holder (Dikembe Mutombo). Oh, and only him and Michael Jordan have won the MVP award and the Defensive Player of The Year award in the same season. Although defense was probably Olajuwon's forte, he was unstoppable to guard in the post. He had speed, footwork, and a jump shot that most 7 footers and other Centers couldn't handle. His amazing feetwork and his signature move of faking the pass and then pivoting into making a fadeaway or a hookshot is perhaps the best signature move of all time, and the best example of this is the one against David Robinson. Olajuwon would retire as one of the top centers in history, as he's won almost all the awards you can think of. He led his Houston Rockets to back to back championships and won back to back finals MVP awards. Perhaps Olajuwon's greatest accomplishment came off the court, with the fact that he was the first great international player to come to the NBA, he opened the window for so many good players from Africa including Dikembe Mutombo, Manute Bol, Luol Deng, Joel Embiid, Serge Ibaka, and hundreds of other international players that followed his footsteps.
12/21/2018 (10-7)
(10) Larry Bird- 3 Time NBA Champion, 2 Time Finals MVP, 3 Time NBA MVP, 12 Time All Star, 1982 All Star MVP, 3 Time 3-Point Champion, Olympic Gold Medalist, Rookie of the Year, Hall of Famer.
Larry Bird was perhaps the most liked superstar at his time. He was a tremendous scorer who was equally as good in making everyone involved as well as playing defense. Bird became known for his shooting range, as he was the first player to build his game around the three point line. His shooting ability was on full display when he won three 3-Point Contest Championships, one of them he won while wearing a tight warm up jacket. Bird would also become one of the best trash talkers in NBA history, as he would constantly tell players what move he was going to do and then claim that they couldn't do anything about it. With the fact that he also had the clutch gene, there's no question that Bird deserved many MVP awards. However, he's the only NBA player in history who won three NBA MVP awards in consecutive seasons. In those three seasons, Bird averaged 26 Points, 10 Rebounds, and 6 Assists while not having the agility that many players had. Bird, along with Magic Johnson, helped shape the NBA into what it is today. His rivalry with Magic turned into must see TV and turned the NBA into a market of talented players. It was also due to this that the popularity would grow and many future players would use this as inspiration. Bird finished with three championships, twice beating the Houston Rockets and once beating his nemesis. Bird's legacy is cemented as one of the all time greats due to his clutch moments and shooting ability, which will carry on forever.
Larry Bird was perhaps the most liked superstar at his time. He was a tremendous scorer who was equally as good in making everyone involved as well as playing defense. Bird became known for his shooting range, as he was the first player to build his game around the three point line. His shooting ability was on full display when he won three 3-Point Contest Championships, one of them he won while wearing a tight warm up jacket. Bird would also become one of the best trash talkers in NBA history, as he would constantly tell players what move he was going to do and then claim that they couldn't do anything about it. With the fact that he also had the clutch gene, there's no question that Bird deserved many MVP awards. However, he's the only NBA player in history who won three NBA MVP awards in consecutive seasons. In those three seasons, Bird averaged 26 Points, 10 Rebounds, and 6 Assists while not having the agility that many players had. Bird, along with Magic Johnson, helped shape the NBA into what it is today. His rivalry with Magic turned into must see TV and turned the NBA into a market of talented players. It was also due to this that the popularity would grow and many future players would use this as inspiration. Bird finished with three championships, twice beating the Houston Rockets and once beating his nemesis. Bird's legacy is cemented as one of the all time greats due to his clutch moments and shooting ability, which will carry on forever.
(9) Wilt Chamberlain- Two Time NBA Champion, 1972 Finals MVP, 4 Time MVP, 13 Time All Star, 1960 All Star Game MVP, 7 Time Scoring Leader, 11 Time Rebounding Leader, One Time Assists Leader, Rookie of the Year, Hall of Famer.
All of these accomplishments and records speak for themselves. Wilt "The Stilt" Chamberlain was the first elite scorer in NBA history. The seven footer used his unique athleticism to dominate his position. He was such an unique athlete that we was a track star and reportedly had a 40 inch vertical. As a scorer, Wilt averaged 30.1 Points for a career, tied for first in all time. He also averaged an insane 50.4 Points and 25.7 Rebounds for an entire season. Those 50.4 Points is an NBA record, and he also has the record of most points scored in a season (4,029). Speaking of scoring leader, this iconic photo shows Wilt with a piece of paper containing the number of points he had. Wilt's 100 point game is an NBA record for most points scored in a single game, which has and will stand for a long time. Not only is he a great scorer, but he's also a great rebounder. He recorded 23,924 Rebounds for a career, which is a record and he was the regular season rebounding leader for 11 seasons, which is a record. As you can see, Wilt's career is just a huge list of records, which also included being the tallest NBA player to lead the league in assists. Sadly for Wilt, his physical dominance didn't make up for the lack of talent he had on his teams. He was able to win two championships, which is descent, but not enough with the fact that he was constantly beaten by his nemesis...
All of these accomplishments and records speak for themselves. Wilt "The Stilt" Chamberlain was the first elite scorer in NBA history. The seven footer used his unique athleticism to dominate his position. He was such an unique athlete that we was a track star and reportedly had a 40 inch vertical. As a scorer, Wilt averaged 30.1 Points for a career, tied for first in all time. He also averaged an insane 50.4 Points and 25.7 Rebounds for an entire season. Those 50.4 Points is an NBA record, and he also has the record of most points scored in a season (4,029). Speaking of scoring leader, this iconic photo shows Wilt with a piece of paper containing the number of points he had. Wilt's 100 point game is an NBA record for most points scored in a single game, which has and will stand for a long time. Not only is he a great scorer, but he's also a great rebounder. He recorded 23,924 Rebounds for a career, which is a record and he was the regular season rebounding leader for 11 seasons, which is a record. As you can see, Wilt's career is just a huge list of records, which also included being the tallest NBA player to lead the league in assists. Sadly for Wilt, his physical dominance didn't make up for the lack of talent he had on his teams. He was able to win two championships, which is descent, but not enough with the fact that he was constantly beaten by his nemesis...
(8) Bill Russell- 11 Time NBA Champion, 5 Time NBA MVP, 12 Time All Star, 1963 All Star Game MVP, 4 Time Rebounding Leader, Hall of Famer.
The Great Bill Russell is nothing but a straight up winner. After all, he won an insane 11 championships over his career. He has more championships than he has fingers! Russell's Celtics dominated the 50s and 60s. However, people like me are often critical about the fact that he played in a league with only eight teams, making it easier to win championships. However, nobody can deny that he was a great player and that he made his mark on the defensive end. He's perhaps the best defender of all time. If the defensive player of the year award existed back then, he would have certainly won a couple. Also, if you watch the highlights, he's a rim protector, but blocks nor steals weren't recorded back then. What makes Bill Russell unique is that unlike most of the players mentioned, Russell did truly dominate his competition when it came to team play. His battles with Wilt Chamberlain is the best player vs player rivalry in history. Sure, Wilt would dominate Russell when it came to scoring and maybe rebounding, but basketball is a team game. Wilt could get the numbers, but he lost four NBA finals to Bill Russell and the Celtics, and he never beat him in the finals. This is why Russell is ranked above anyone ranked so far. He always found a way to win when it counted most, and he would have had way more awards if they existed back then.
The Great Bill Russell is nothing but a straight up winner. After all, he won an insane 11 championships over his career. He has more championships than he has fingers! Russell's Celtics dominated the 50s and 60s. However, people like me are often critical about the fact that he played in a league with only eight teams, making it easier to win championships. However, nobody can deny that he was a great player and that he made his mark on the defensive end. He's perhaps the best defender of all time. If the defensive player of the year award existed back then, he would have certainly won a couple. Also, if you watch the highlights, he's a rim protector, but blocks nor steals weren't recorded back then. What makes Bill Russell unique is that unlike most of the players mentioned, Russell did truly dominate his competition when it came to team play. His battles with Wilt Chamberlain is the best player vs player rivalry in history. Sure, Wilt would dominate Russell when it came to scoring and maybe rebounding, but basketball is a team game. Wilt could get the numbers, but he lost four NBA finals to Bill Russell and the Celtics, and he never beat him in the finals. This is why Russell is ranked above anyone ranked so far. He always found a way to win when it counted most, and he would have had way more awards if they existed back then.
(T-7) Kobe Bryant- 5 Time NBA Champion, 2 Time Finals MVP, 2008 NBA MVP, 18 Time All Star, 4 Time All Star Game MVP, Olympic Gold Medalist.
Everybody knows who the "Black Mamba" is. People used to yell "Kobe" anytime they shot for a reason. Kobe Bryant is truly an NBA Superstar who made his mark with his unbelievable work ethic and clutch gene. There are too many Kobe memories to count: the 60 point retirement game, the buzzer beater to beat the Phoenix Suns, his facial dunk on Dwight Howard, the bank shot over Dwyane Wade, and his insane 81 Point Game, which is the second best scoring amount in history. But like mentioned, Kobe's hunger for NBA greatness is perhaps the best we've ever seen. After winning three straight championships while being the sidekick to Shaquille O'Neal, he decided to become the Alpha of the Lakers. This is where we saw the transformation from flashy dunks Kobe into the deathly shooter, clutch, and winning mentality of the Kobe Bryant we all know and love. His scoring ability and game would become greater than ever. He still kept his scoring and dunking ability, but he also added defense, fadeaway game, three point game, and the ability to make the most contested shots. Due to this, Kobe was able to win two more championships, this time carrying the team and also an MVP award (which should have been more than one). With all this being said, the reason that he's tied with the next player is because Kobe didn't win in the same number of years as the next player did. After Kobe's success with Shaq, Kobe was in and out of the Playoffs for about six years. And after he finally won back-to-back championships, Kobe would grow older, get more injuries, and would earn the reputation of a "Ball Hog". Despite this, the Black Mamba is a legend, as he's the only player to have two jersey retired by his team and is also deservant of a statue and the Hall of Fame in the future. Love him or hate him, everybody should respect a legend when they see one.
Everybody knows who the "Black Mamba" is. People used to yell "Kobe" anytime they shot for a reason. Kobe Bryant is truly an NBA Superstar who made his mark with his unbelievable work ethic and clutch gene. There are too many Kobe memories to count: the 60 point retirement game, the buzzer beater to beat the Phoenix Suns, his facial dunk on Dwight Howard, the bank shot over Dwyane Wade, and his insane 81 Point Game, which is the second best scoring amount in history. But like mentioned, Kobe's hunger for NBA greatness is perhaps the best we've ever seen. After winning three straight championships while being the sidekick to Shaquille O'Neal, he decided to become the Alpha of the Lakers. This is where we saw the transformation from flashy dunks Kobe into the deathly shooter, clutch, and winning mentality of the Kobe Bryant we all know and love. His scoring ability and game would become greater than ever. He still kept his scoring and dunking ability, but he also added defense, fadeaway game, three point game, and the ability to make the most contested shots. Due to this, Kobe was able to win two more championships, this time carrying the team and also an MVP award (which should have been more than one). With all this being said, the reason that he's tied with the next player is because Kobe didn't win in the same number of years as the next player did. After Kobe's success with Shaq, Kobe was in and out of the Playoffs for about six years. And after he finally won back-to-back championships, Kobe would grow older, get more injuries, and would earn the reputation of a "Ball Hog". Despite this, the Black Mamba is a legend, as he's the only player to have two jersey retired by his team and is also deservant of a statue and the Hall of Fame in the future. Love him or hate him, everybody should respect a legend when they see one.
(T-7) Tim Duncan- 5 Time NBA Champion, Three Time Finals MVP, Two Time NBA MVP, 15 Time All Star, 2000 All Star Game MVP, Rookie of the Year.
Tim Duncan is the most boring player in NBA history, but he gets the job done. This is why they call him "The Big Fundamental" because he only does the basics, but make them look flawless. Duncan was blessed to be drafted by the most boring and fundamentally sounded franchise, the San Antonio Spurs. Duncan's impact would immediately be felt, as after winning the Rookie of the Year award, he would lead the Spurs to the NBA Championship after his second season. Duncan would earn Finals MVP honors at just 23 years young. Following this, Duncan would become a tremendous defensive force alongside David Robinson, as Duncan averaged two blocks or more for nine consecutive seasons. With this and his post dominance with his signature moves: the bank post hook and the banked mid-range game, he would win back-to-back MVP honors in 2002 and 2003, making him the only Power Forward in history to accomplish that. He would later lead his team to two more championships in 2003 and 2005. However, what makes Duncan one of a kind is his unselfishness. He never cared about numbers or looking flashy, and he demonstrated that when he shared the torch with future Hall of Famers Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili. Due to that leadership mentality, the Spurs would win the 2007 NBA Championship and later in 2014, with the arrival of Kawhi Leonard. Of course, Duncan was capable to passing the torch to other members of his team, which made him get a longer career. During his career, he finished top 15 in scoring, top six in rebounds, and top five in blocks for a career. Also, the Spurs won 50 or more games through Duncan's 19 year career, which has never happened before. As far as the ranking goes, Duncan may not be a better basketball player than Kobe Bryant, but he was consistent when it came to winning, which is why they're tied. Regardless, Tim Duncan is without a doubt the greatest Power Forward the game has ever seen.
Tim Duncan is the most boring player in NBA history, but he gets the job done. This is why they call him "The Big Fundamental" because he only does the basics, but make them look flawless. Duncan was blessed to be drafted by the most boring and fundamentally sounded franchise, the San Antonio Spurs. Duncan's impact would immediately be felt, as after winning the Rookie of the Year award, he would lead the Spurs to the NBA Championship after his second season. Duncan would earn Finals MVP honors at just 23 years young. Following this, Duncan would become a tremendous defensive force alongside David Robinson, as Duncan averaged two blocks or more for nine consecutive seasons. With this and his post dominance with his signature moves: the bank post hook and the banked mid-range game, he would win back-to-back MVP honors in 2002 and 2003, making him the only Power Forward in history to accomplish that. He would later lead his team to two more championships in 2003 and 2005. However, what makes Duncan one of a kind is his unselfishness. He never cared about numbers or looking flashy, and he demonstrated that when he shared the torch with future Hall of Famers Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili. Due to that leadership mentality, the Spurs would win the 2007 NBA Championship and later in 2014, with the arrival of Kawhi Leonard. Of course, Duncan was capable to passing the torch to other members of his team, which made him get a longer career. During his career, he finished top 15 in scoring, top six in rebounds, and top five in blocks for a career. Also, the Spurs won 50 or more games through Duncan's 19 year career, which has never happened before. As far as the ranking goes, Duncan may not be a better basketball player than Kobe Bryant, but he was consistent when it came to winning, which is why they're tied. Regardless, Tim Duncan is without a doubt the greatest Power Forward the game has ever seen.
#5 (2/22/2019)
(5) Shaquille O'Neal- 4 Time NBA Champion, 3 Time Finals MVP, 2000 NBA MVP, Two Time Scoring Leader, 15 Time All Star, 3 Time All Star MVP.
The Most Dominant Player of Our Generation, hands down. Shaq pretty much put an end to the center position, the position that was viewed as the physical freak of nature that's required to win championships. Nowadays, Centers are soft and don't play physical at all, as they spend most of their time setting screens and shooting threes. This is of course thanks to Shaq, whose dominance made him the only and last relevant player at the center position for a span of 10 years. He's the last center to average number one in scoring and the last until two years ago to average top five in scoring for a season. Shaq was blessed with incredible strength, while having the ability to run the floor like a guard during his couple of years. After a disappointment Finals appearance for Shaq in the Orlando Magic after getting embarrased by Hakeem Olajuwon and the Houston Rockets, Shaq decided to join the Los Angeles Lakers. It was in that purple and gold jersey where Shaq won his first, and somehow only MVP award. More significantly, he led the Lakers to not one, not two, not four, but three championships, IN A ROW. Not only that, but he received MVP honors during all of those Finals. Shaq was responsible for putting the Lakers back on the map after the historic franchise was struggling. In addition, he's the reason why Kobe Bryant is a legend, because like it or not, Shaq was the one who carried the team not Kobe (That's why it's Shaq & Kobe, not Kobe & Shaq). Their off the court issues, controversies, and competitive nature got on the way of Shaq and Kobe's relationship, and Shaq was traded to Miami, earning one more championship, this time with Dwayne Wade. However, had Shaq stayed on the Lakers, he could have become the best big man of all time, but his resume isn't a travesty, as he's still top 5 in my opinion.
The Most Dominant Player of Our Generation, hands down. Shaq pretty much put an end to the center position, the position that was viewed as the physical freak of nature that's required to win championships. Nowadays, Centers are soft and don't play physical at all, as they spend most of their time setting screens and shooting threes. This is of course thanks to Shaq, whose dominance made him the only and last relevant player at the center position for a span of 10 years. He's the last center to average number one in scoring and the last until two years ago to average top five in scoring for a season. Shaq was blessed with incredible strength, while having the ability to run the floor like a guard during his couple of years. After a disappointment Finals appearance for Shaq in the Orlando Magic after getting embarrased by Hakeem Olajuwon and the Houston Rockets, Shaq decided to join the Los Angeles Lakers. It was in that purple and gold jersey where Shaq won his first, and somehow only MVP award. More significantly, he led the Lakers to not one, not two, not four, but three championships, IN A ROW. Not only that, but he received MVP honors during all of those Finals. Shaq was responsible for putting the Lakers back on the map after the historic franchise was struggling. In addition, he's the reason why Kobe Bryant is a legend, because like it or not, Shaq was the one who carried the team not Kobe (That's why it's Shaq & Kobe, not Kobe & Shaq). Their off the court issues, controversies, and competitive nature got on the way of Shaq and Kobe's relationship, and Shaq was traded to Miami, earning one more championship, this time with Dwayne Wade. However, had Shaq stayed on the Lakers, he could have become the best big man of all time, but his resume isn't a travesty, as he's still top 5 in my opinion.
#4 (4/19/2019)
(4) Magic Johnson- 5 Time NBA Champion, 3 Time Finals MVP, Three Time NBA MVP, 12 Time All Star, 2 Time All Star Game MVP, 4 Time Assists Leader, Two Time Steals Leader, Olympic Gold Medalist, Hall of Famer
You know you’re a legend when the majority of the world acknowledges you by your nickname, or don’t even realize your nickname isn’t your actual name. Ervin “Magic” Johnson rose into the main stage as a rookie in the Los Angeles Lakers, where his career didn’t take off the way he wanted. All of that changed after he was asked to start at the center position in the NBA Finals and lead the Lakers to the championship with a stat line of 42 Points, 15 Rebounds, and 7 Assists. This led to Magic’s arrival and the start of a new revolution, as he would play the Point Guard Position while standing at 6’9. His flashy passes, fast paced team, and unlimited charisma not only improve the Lakers, but it gave the NBA a much needed positive image change after the NBA’s problem with racism and drug use. The NBA rose to the main stage, thanks to Magic’s level of play and the rivalry with Larry Bird and the Boston Celtics, who Magic dominated in two out of Magic’s 5 Championships and 3 Finals MVP Honors. Magic would also win 3 MVP Awards due to the fact that he averaged double-digit Points and Assists for 9 straight seasons, an NBA Record and the main reason Magic is the is third place in career Assists with 10,141, undoubtedly making him the greatest Point Guard ever due to his contribution to the game, accomplishments, and awards. Oh and he also briefly retired due to HIV and still mangers to return to the All Star Game and win MVP, just imagine the numbers he would’ve put up without interruption, easily could have been the best ever.
You know you’re a legend when the majority of the world acknowledges you by your nickname, or don’t even realize your nickname isn’t your actual name. Ervin “Magic” Johnson rose into the main stage as a rookie in the Los Angeles Lakers, where his career didn’t take off the way he wanted. All of that changed after he was asked to start at the center position in the NBA Finals and lead the Lakers to the championship with a stat line of 42 Points, 15 Rebounds, and 7 Assists. This led to Magic’s arrival and the start of a new revolution, as he would play the Point Guard Position while standing at 6’9. His flashy passes, fast paced team, and unlimited charisma not only improve the Lakers, but it gave the NBA a much needed positive image change after the NBA’s problem with racism and drug use. The NBA rose to the main stage, thanks to Magic’s level of play and the rivalry with Larry Bird and the Boston Celtics, who Magic dominated in two out of Magic’s 5 Championships and 3 Finals MVP Honors. Magic would also win 3 MVP Awards due to the fact that he averaged double-digit Points and Assists for 9 straight seasons, an NBA Record and the main reason Magic is the is third place in career Assists with 10,141, undoubtedly making him the greatest Point Guard ever due to his contribution to the game, accomplishments, and awards. Oh and he also briefly retired due to HIV and still mangers to return to the All Star Game and win MVP, just imagine the numbers he would’ve put up without interruption, easily could have been the best ever.
#3(4/26/2019)
(3) Kareem Abdul-Jabbar- 6 Time NBA Champion, 2 Time NBA Finals MVP, 6 Time NBA MVP, 19 Time All Star, Two Time Scoring Leader, One Time Rebounding Leader, 4 Time Blocks Leader, Hall of Famer.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar can only be described as a winner. Kareem dominated college basketball with the UCLA Bruins, to the point where the NCAA banned dunking to reduce his dominance, but it only resulted in him discovering his trademark move and the most unstoppable move in NBA history, "The Skyhook", which he took to the NBA to average 28.8 Points and 14.4 Rebounds in his rookie year. Although the numbers were there, Kareem had to deal with more losses and less postseason success than he ever did in college, but he let his mark shown with his 3 NBA MVP Awards, as he averaged 31.2 Points and 15.6 Rebounds a game with those three MVP Seasons. He also managed to drag a Milwaukee Bucks franchise to the NBA Finals and later claimed the crown as the Champions. Kareem noted that he couldn't continue winning in Milwaukee, so he moved out west to join and completely change the image of the Los Angeles Lakers, who at time had the most NBA Finals losses ever for a franchise. Kareem would win another three NBA MVP awards averaging 26.5 Points, 14 Rebounds, and 3.1 Blocks for thos MVP Seasons. However, tragedy struck as for the 1980 NBA Finals, he broke his foot at the deciding Game 7, which means that he couldn't be there for his team when they really needed it. However, in Los Angeles, Kareem had much more help in the figure of a Rookie Magic Johnson, who stepped up to play the Center position and winning the championship for the Lakers including Kareem, although the media let him know that he didn't do "much" due to the injury when the Lakers wouldn't be in that position to begin with without Kareem. Also, father time came knocking on the door, but Kareem ignored it as he later won 4 Championships with the Lakers and with their fast-break play of Showtime, brought positive media attention to the Lakers and the NBA, and his longevity completely set him apart, resulting in Kareem becoming the NBA All-Time Scoring Leader with 38, 387 Points for a career, a mark that still stands forever and is the main piece in his tremendous legacy of the greatest Center in history.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar can only be described as a winner. Kareem dominated college basketball with the UCLA Bruins, to the point where the NCAA banned dunking to reduce his dominance, but it only resulted in him discovering his trademark move and the most unstoppable move in NBA history, "The Skyhook", which he took to the NBA to average 28.8 Points and 14.4 Rebounds in his rookie year. Although the numbers were there, Kareem had to deal with more losses and less postseason success than he ever did in college, but he let his mark shown with his 3 NBA MVP Awards, as he averaged 31.2 Points and 15.6 Rebounds a game with those three MVP Seasons. He also managed to drag a Milwaukee Bucks franchise to the NBA Finals and later claimed the crown as the Champions. Kareem noted that he couldn't continue winning in Milwaukee, so he moved out west to join and completely change the image of the Los Angeles Lakers, who at time had the most NBA Finals losses ever for a franchise. Kareem would win another three NBA MVP awards averaging 26.5 Points, 14 Rebounds, and 3.1 Blocks for thos MVP Seasons. However, tragedy struck as for the 1980 NBA Finals, he broke his foot at the deciding Game 7, which means that he couldn't be there for his team when they really needed it. However, in Los Angeles, Kareem had much more help in the figure of a Rookie Magic Johnson, who stepped up to play the Center position and winning the championship for the Lakers including Kareem, although the media let him know that he didn't do "much" due to the injury when the Lakers wouldn't be in that position to begin with without Kareem. Also, father time came knocking on the door, but Kareem ignored it as he later won 4 Championships with the Lakers and with their fast-break play of Showtime, brought positive media attention to the Lakers and the NBA, and his longevity completely set him apart, resulting in Kareem becoming the NBA All-Time Scoring Leader with 38, 387 Points for a career, a mark that still stands forever and is the main piece in his tremendous legacy of the greatest Center in history.
(2) LeBron James- 3 Time NBA Champion, 3 Time NBA Finals MVP, 15 Time All Star, 3 Time All Star MVP, One Time Scoring Leader, Rookie of the Year, Olympic Gold Medalist.
LeBron James is my absolute idol and someone I look up to, so it's hard to not have him at number one, although being the second best NBA player ever isn't so bad either. LeBron is the most criticized, media magnet, while avoiding trouble and setting a great example off the court. This has been the case ever since LeBron became the most famous high school athlete of all-time and became famous from his time at St. Vincent St. Marry High School. He would go from college to the number one pick in the 2003 Draft for the Cleveland Cavaliers. Scoring tittles, growth, dominance, and two NBA MVP Awards would be the best LeBron could accomplish, as the Cavaliers front office couldn't surround LeBron with enough talent. LeBron did carry a Cavalier team to the NBA Finals, where he got swept because LeBron didn't have a single All-Star to rely on. So LeBron went to the dark side, joined the Miami Heat, and formed a big three alongside Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh, where they dominated only to fall short to an underdog Dallas Mavericks. But LeBron would later change all of that after winning two more NBA Championships, NBA MVPs, and Finals MVP Awards in three years. Then he went to the Cleveland Cavaliers to win a championship for his hometown, but still has many Finals losses, considering he never has enough help for today's standards. Either way, LeBron has managed to average 27.2 Points, 7.4 Rebounds, 7.4 Steals, and 1.6 Steals for his career, which could make him the only NBA player to be top 10 in both career points and assists. LeBron also managed to average 27 Points a game as a 34 year old man, an age where most stars take up the role of role players. This shows how much of a talent LeBron is, he's never averaged under 20 points a game, which I believe will result in LeBron finishing with the most career points, even though he's clearly not a scoring caliber player, something only LeBron can do. If he had more 1 or 2 more rings, he would undoubtedly be the GOAT, but he simply can't surpass the next player.
LeBron James is my absolute idol and someone I look up to, so it's hard to not have him at number one, although being the second best NBA player ever isn't so bad either. LeBron is the most criticized, media magnet, while avoiding trouble and setting a great example off the court. This has been the case ever since LeBron became the most famous high school athlete of all-time and became famous from his time at St. Vincent St. Marry High School. He would go from college to the number one pick in the 2003 Draft for the Cleveland Cavaliers. Scoring tittles, growth, dominance, and two NBA MVP Awards would be the best LeBron could accomplish, as the Cavaliers front office couldn't surround LeBron with enough talent. LeBron did carry a Cavalier team to the NBA Finals, where he got swept because LeBron didn't have a single All-Star to rely on. So LeBron went to the dark side, joined the Miami Heat, and formed a big three alongside Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh, where they dominated only to fall short to an underdog Dallas Mavericks. But LeBron would later change all of that after winning two more NBA Championships, NBA MVPs, and Finals MVP Awards in three years. Then he went to the Cleveland Cavaliers to win a championship for his hometown, but still has many Finals losses, considering he never has enough help for today's standards. Either way, LeBron has managed to average 27.2 Points, 7.4 Rebounds, 7.4 Steals, and 1.6 Steals for his career, which could make him the only NBA player to be top 10 in both career points and assists. LeBron also managed to average 27 Points a game as a 34 year old man, an age where most stars take up the role of role players. This shows how much of a talent LeBron is, he's never averaged under 20 points a game, which I believe will result in LeBron finishing with the most career points, even though he's clearly not a scoring caliber player, something only LeBron can do. If he had more 1 or 2 more rings, he would undoubtedly be the GOAT, but he simply can't surpass the next player.
(1) Michael Jordan- 6 Time NBA Champion, 6 Time NBA Finals MVP, 5 Time NBA MVP, 14 Time All Star, 3 Time All Star Game MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, Rookie of the Year, 10 Time Scoring Champion, 3 Time Steals Leader, Olympic Gold Medalist, Hall of Famer.
WIth just the list itself, there really shouldn't be a debate on why Michael Jordan is the greatest basketball player to ever walk the Earth. Jordan is literally the only NBA Player in history to win every single individual achievement, including Defensive Player of the Year while standing at only 6'6 and playing the shooting guard position. This meant that Michael Jordan was a noticeable defensive genius, as he averaged 2.3 Steals for a career and 3.2 Steals and 1.6 Blocks in his award winning season, along with some help from his over the world trash-talking. Jordan will always be remembered as an offensive force. After years of losing and being recognized only for his Slam Dunk Championship Tittle, Jordan began torching the league up in offense, as he averaged over 30 Points for eight years, averaging 30 in seven years in a row at one time. After winning a handful of NBA MVP Awards, Jordan would lose to Larry Bird and the Celtics, Isiah Thomas and the Pistons, and Magic and the Lakers. After that phase was over, Jordan secured his throne after winning three Championships in a row, leave the NBA for two years, only to win three more Championships in a row and at the time set the record for most wins in a season by a team (72). During all those Championships, Jordan won all Finals MVP Honors, totaling to six. His longevity led to him becoming 4th all time scorer in history and all time leader in career point average with 30.1 Points a game. Not only that, but he became a national phenomenon and used his power to expand the game globally alongside the greatest NBA Team ever assembled in the "Dream Team", which took the Olympics by storm and introduced the game to International Players everywhere. It would be a joke not to have Jordan as the G.O.A.T (not even LeBron), given everything he's done for the game of basketball and for us fans as well.
WIth just the list itself, there really shouldn't be a debate on why Michael Jordan is the greatest basketball player to ever walk the Earth. Jordan is literally the only NBA Player in history to win every single individual achievement, including Defensive Player of the Year while standing at only 6'6 and playing the shooting guard position. This meant that Michael Jordan was a noticeable defensive genius, as he averaged 2.3 Steals for a career and 3.2 Steals and 1.6 Blocks in his award winning season, along with some help from his over the world trash-talking. Jordan will always be remembered as an offensive force. After years of losing and being recognized only for his Slam Dunk Championship Tittle, Jordan began torching the league up in offense, as he averaged over 30 Points for eight years, averaging 30 in seven years in a row at one time. After winning a handful of NBA MVP Awards, Jordan would lose to Larry Bird and the Celtics, Isiah Thomas and the Pistons, and Magic and the Lakers. After that phase was over, Jordan secured his throne after winning three Championships in a row, leave the NBA for two years, only to win three more Championships in a row and at the time set the record for most wins in a season by a team (72). During all those Championships, Jordan won all Finals MVP Honors, totaling to six. His longevity led to him becoming 4th all time scorer in history and all time leader in career point average with 30.1 Points a game. Not only that, but he became a national phenomenon and used his power to expand the game globally alongside the greatest NBA Team ever assembled in the "Dream Team", which took the Olympics by storm and introduced the game to International Players everywhere. It would be a joke not to have Jordan as the G.O.A.T (not even LeBron), given everything he's done for the game of basketball and for us fans as well.