The debate over the greatest players in NBA history never ends. Whether it’s LeBron James vs. Michael Jordan, Bill Russell vs. Wilt Chamberlain, or Stephen Curry vs. Kevin Durant, fans always argue about the best. Our experts have ranked the greatest players in NBA history based on career achievements, peak performances, and overall impact.
List of the Greatest Players in NBA History
10. Shaquille O’Neal
Teams Played For:
- Orlando Magic (1992-96)
- Los Angeles Lakers (1996-2004)
- Miami Heat (2004-08)
- Phoenix Suns (2008-09)
- Cleveland Cavaliers (2009-10)
- Boston Celtics (2010-11)
| Points Per Game (PPG) | Rebounds Per Game (RPG) | Blocks Per Game (BPG) |
|---|---|---|
| 23.7 | 10.9 | 2.3 |
Shaquille O’Neal was one of the greatest players in NBA history due to his size, strength, and agility. He won four NBA titles, was a three-time Finals MVP, and a 15-time All-Star. His powerful presence made him a nightmare for defenders and one of the most dominant forces ever.
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9. Kobe Bryant
Teams Played For:
- Los Angeles Lakers (1996-2016)
| PPG | RPG | APG | SPG | 3-Pointers Per Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25.0 | 5.2 | 4.7 | 1.4 | 1.4 |
Kobe Bryant’s mentality and skill set make him one of the greatest players in NBA history. He won five NBA championships, scored 81 points in a single game, and had a legendary farewell with a 60-point performance. His “Mamba Mentality” inspired generations.
8. Tim Duncan
Teams Played For:
- San Antonio Spurs (1997-2016)
| PPG | RPG | APG | BPG |
|---|---|---|---|
| 19.0 | 10.8 | 3.0 | 2.2 |
Tim Duncan may not have been flashy, but he was one of the greatest players in NBA history. His leadership, elite defense, and fundamental skills led the Spurs to five championships. His consistency over two decades made him a legendary power forward.
7. Larry Bird
Teams Played For:
- Boston Celtics (1979-92)
| PPG | RPG | APG | SPG |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24.3 | 10.0 | 6.3 | 1.7 |
Larry Bird’s competitiveness and all-around game made him one of the greatest players in NBA history. A three-time MVP and three-time champion, his rivalry with Magic Johnson helped elevate the NBA globally.
6. Wilt Chamberlain
Teams Played For:
- Philadelphia Warriors (1959-62)
- San Francisco Warriors (1962-65)
- Philadelphia 76ers (1965-68)
- Los Angeles Lakers (1968-73)
| PPG | RPG | APG |
|---|---|---|
| 30.1 | 22.9 | 4.4 |
Wilt Chamberlain holds some of the most mind-blowing records in NBA history, including the famous 100-point game. He was a two-time champion but dominated the league statistically, making him one of the greatest players in NBA history.
5. Magic Johnson
Teams Played For:
- Los Angeles Lakers (1979-91, 1996)
| PPG | RPG | APG | SPG |
|---|---|---|---|
| 19.5 | 7.2 | 11.2 | 1.9 |
Magic Johnson changed the NBA with his flashy passing and leadership. A five-time champion, he led the Lakers’ “Showtime” era. His rivalry with Bird and dominance at point guard cement his place among the greatest players in NBA history.
4. Bill Russell
Teams Played For:
- Boston Celtics (1956-69)
| PPG | RPG | APG |
|---|---|---|
| 15.1 | 22.5 | 4.3 |
Bill Russell won an unmatched 11 NBA championships, making him the most decorated player in history. His defensive brilliance and leadership solidify his place among the greatest players in NBA history.
3. Kareem Abdul
Teams Played For:
- Milwaukee Bucks (1969-75)
- Los Angeles Lakers (1975-89)
| PPG | RPG | APG |
|---|---|---|
| 24.6 | 11.2 | 3.6 |
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s skyhook shot was unstoppable. A six-time champion and the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, his longevity and dominance make him one of the greatest players in NBA history.
2. LeBron James
Teams Played For:
- Cleveland Cavaliers (2003-10, 2014-18)
- Miami Heat (2010-14)
- Los Angeles Lakers (2018-Present)
| PPG | RPG | APG | SPG |
|---|---|---|---|
| 27.1 | 7.4 | 7.4 | 1.6 |
LeBron James has revolutionized basketball with his versatility and athleticism. A four-time MVP and champion, his impact on and off the court makes him one of the greatest players in NBA history.
1. Michael Jordan
Teams Played For:
- Chicago Bulls (1984-93, 1995-98)
- Washington Wizards (2001-03)
| PPG | RPG | APG | SPG |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30.1 | 6.2 | 5.3 | 2.3 |
Michael Jordan is the undisputed GOAT. He led the Bulls to six championships, won six Finals MVPs, and dominated both offensively and defensively. His influence on the game and culture makes him the greatest player in NBA history.
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