When talking about the best NBA players of all time, the conversation inevitably begins with Michael Jordan. His Airness boasts six NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls during the 1990s, coupled with five MVP awards. Jordan's scoring average of 30.1 points per game over his career remains the highest in NBA history. The "flu game" in the 1997 NBA Finals, where he scored 38 points while battling severe illness, continues to etch his legend into sport annals.
LeBron James, at 6'9" and 250 pounds, has redefined what's possible on the court. Over 17 seasons, he has amassed four MVP awards and four NBA championships, including that iconic 2016 comeback against a 3-1 deficit in the Finals. With over 35,000 career points, James shows no signs of slowing down as he approaches Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's all-time scoring record.
When discussing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, one can't ignore his skyhook shot, arguably the most unstoppable move in the game. Abdul-Jabbar's 20-year career saw him winning six NBA championships and six MVP awards, a record. By the time he retired in 1989, he had collected 38,387 points, still the highest in the NBA.
Magic Johnson controlled games with his incredible court vision and unrivaled passing ability. Standing 6'9", he was a point guard anomaly, leading the "Showtime" Lakers to five NBA titles in the 1980s. His career averages of 19.5 points, 11.2 assists, and 7.2 rebounds per game prove his all-around impact on the game.
Larry Bird was the other half of the 1980s Lakers-Celtics rivalry. The two-time NBA Finals MVP helped the Celtics capture three championships. With a career average of 24.3 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game, Bird's uncanny shooting and fierce competitiveness made him a force on the court.
Wilt Chamberlain's dominance is quantified by his 100-point game in 1962, a record that still stands. Over a 14-year career, Chamberlain averaged 30.1 points and 22.9 rebounds per game, the latter of which remains an NBA record. His single-season average of 50.4 points per game in the 1961-62 season showcases an unparalleled individual performance.
Shaquille O'Neal, standing at 7'1" and weighing over 300 pounds, was unstoppable in the paint. O'Neal led the Los Angeles Lakers to three consecutive championships from 2000 to 2002. As a 15-time All-Star and four-time champion, his career field goal percentage of 58.2% reflects his dominance.
Tim Duncan's consistent and understated brilliance earned him the nickname "The Big Fundamental." Over 19 seasons, Duncan captured five NBA championships and two MVP awards while becoming the face of the San Antonio Spurs' dynasty. His career averages of 19.0 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game underscore his all-around excellence.
Kobe Bryant's legacy is sealed with five championships and a competitive fire unmatched by most. The Black Mamba racked up 33,643 career points and delivered unforgettable performances, such as his 81-point game against the Toronto Raptors in 2006. His two Finals MVPs and 18 All-Star selections reveal his impact on the game.
Hakeem Olajuwon was a defensive powerhouse, leading the NBA in blocks three times and winning two Defensive Player of the Year awards. The Dream secured two NBA championships with the Houston Rockets in the '90s. His career averages of 21.8 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 3.1 blocks per game highlight his all-around abilities.
These ten legends have not only defined their eras but have also set standards that the current and future generations aim to surpass. Their indelible marks on the sport have inspired countless fans and players alike. For a deep dive into more sports analysis, check out Arena Plus.