The NBA's Greatest Players: Ranking the Top 10 of All Time (2024)

By Jocelyn Alano August 07, 2024 01:09

Photo by ANDY LYONS / GETTY

The National Basketball Association (NBA) has been the stage for countless memorable performances, epic rivalries, and the birth of legends transcending the bounds of the sport. Since its inception in 1946, the league has hosted a veritable pantheon of talent, with players whose names have become synonymous with greatness and the very essence of basketball. In this article, we set out to undertake the herculean task of ranking the top 10 greatest NBA players of all time.

From the high-flying acrobatics of guards who could seemingly defy gravity to the dominant big men who owned the paint like titans of old, this list spans eras, positions, and playing styles to highlight those who have truly left an indelible mark on the game. Join us as we explore the careers, achievements, and legacies of the individuals who have been etched into the annals of NBA history and have, in their own unique ways, shaped the trajectory of the league and the sport of basketball worldwide.

1. Michael Jordan

Biographical Details

• Period with Team: 1984-1993, 1995-98, 2001-03
• Chicago Bulls; Washington Wizards
• Notable Achievements: 6x NBA Champion, 6x Finals MVP; 5x Regular Season MVP

Statistical Analysis

• Points: 32,292 (30.1 PPG)
• Rebounds: 6,672 (6.2 RPG)
• Assists: 5,633 (5.3 APG)
• Steals: 2,514 (2.3 SPG)

Skills and Playing Style

Jordan, of course, was known for his scoring prowess, competitiveness, and athletic ability. He could drain mid-range jump shots, finish acrobatically at the rim, and guard multiple positions on defense. A fierce competitor, he had a record of playing his best in clutch moments, with the most notable examples being the NBA Finals.

Justification for Ranking

Jordan was the best basketball player ever and did things no one else has done. He not only went on to win six titles in Chicago with the Bulls but also turned himself into a global icon and took the popularity of the NBA to new levels overseas. His work ethic and clutchness created a blueprint for the next generation, solidifying his GOAT status.

2. LeBron James

Biographical Details

• Years Played: 2003-Present
• Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat and Los Angeles Lakers
• Most NBA Championships: 4x, most Finals MVPs: 4x, and most Regular Season MVPs.

Statistical Analysis

• LeBron's Career Numbers:
• Goals: 38,000+ (27.0 PPG)
• Rebounds: 10,982 (7.4 RPG)
• Assists: 10,000+ (7.4 APG)

Skills and Playing Style

LeBron is known for his versatility, strength, and size, as well as his high basketball IQ. He is also capable of playing and defending both guard positions, which makes him a valuable asset on the court. He is an elite passer with fantastic court vision, and many have compared him to Magic Johnson.

Justification for Ranking

The fact that LeBron is still doing what he is for the league while producing great social media games means we will not have another like him, which is true. The fact that he was easily a top-10 NBA player of all time, with the ability to make him arguably in the five or even higher range, is really what cements his legacy as well as his impact off and on the court (i.e., philanthropy, socially)

3. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Biographical Details

• Years Played: 1969-1989
• Milwaukee Bucks, Los Angeles Lakers
• 6x NBA Champion, 6x Regular Season MVP

Statistical Analysis

• Points: 38,387 (24.6 PPG)
• Rebounds: 17,440 (11.2 RPG)
• Assists: 5,660 (5.6 APG)

Skills and Playing Style

Kareem's skyhook shot, perfected in the forward bend of her ear, grew out and became its signature move. His combination of size and skill made it incredibly difficult for him to stop on the block, though he was able to be just as impactful defensively.

Justification for Ranking

There is no disputing that Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's scoring ability was quite evident throughout his career, particularly as the all-time leading scorer in NBA history.

4. Bill Russell

Biographical Details

• Years Played: 1956-1969
• Boston Celtics
• 11x NBA Champion
• 5xRegular SeasonMVP

Statistical Analysis

• Points: 14,522 (15.1 PPG)
• Rebounds: 21,620 (22.5 RPG)
• Assists: 4,100 (4.3 APG)

Skills and Playing Style

Russell was a fearsome defensive force. He anchored the middle for some of the greatest teams in National Basketball Association history. He registered one epic block after another, often with a power reminiscent of a freight train. His leadership and uncanny ability to make those around him better made the Celtics dynasty of the 1960s.

Justification for Ranking

Due to his defensive abilities and leadership, he was one of, if not the most influential, players in history.

5. Magic Johnson

Biographical Details

• Years Played: 1979-1991, 1996
• Los Angeles Lakers
• 5x NBA Champ
• 3x Finals MVP
• 3x Regular Season MVPS

Statistical Analysis

• Points: 17,440 (19.5 PPG)
• Rebounds: 6,559 (7.2 RPG)
• Assists: 10,141 (11.2 APG)

Skills and Playing Style

Magic was one of the greatest passers and facilitators ever, redefining what it meant to be a point guard. 6'9", he was tall enough to get over defenders and skilled at making plays.

Justification for Ranking

Magic, widely regarded as one of the all-time great NBA players, has led to multiple reasons, such as showing what he was capable of under pressure situations combined with helping make the league more popular in general during an era where that accomplishment took on a real significance.

6. Larry Bird

Biographical Details

• Years Played: 1979-1992
• Boston Celtics
• 3x NBA Champion
• 2x Finals MVP
• 3x Regular Season MVP

Statistical Analysis

• Points: 21,791 (24.3 PPG)
• Rebounds: 8,974 (10.0 RPG)
• Assists: 8,974 (6.3 APG)

Skills and Playing Style

As we all know, Bird was one of the best basketball players in history, mainly known for his phenomenal shooting, passing ability and exceptional basketball class. His never-say-die attitude and ability to shine when the pressure was at its highest made him a 'clutch' player, especially during the postseason.

Justification for Ranking

Bird impacted the Celtics-Lakers rivalry and lifted up his teammates, making him one of the most legendary players to ever play in Boston.

7. Shaquille O'Neal

Biographical Details

• Years Played: 1992-2011
• Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Lakers, Miami Heat, Phoenix Suns, Cleveland Cavaliers, Boston Celtics
• 4x NBA Champion
• 3x Finals MVP
• 1x Regular Season MVP

Statistical Analysis

• Points: 28,596 (23.7 PPG)
• Rebounds: 13,099 (10.9 RPG)
• Assists: 5,635 (3.0 APG)

Skills and Playing Style

Shaq was large and in charge, playing bully ball in the post with thunderous dunks. With him on the court, defenders could not ignore his presence, which opened up opportunities for teammates.

Justification for Ranking

That uniquely perfect blend of size, skill, and charisma made O'Neal one of the most recognized athletes on earth. His versatility and ability to take over a game during Playoff times keep him among the best.

8. Tim Duncan

Biographical Details

• Years Played: 1997-2016
• Teams: San Antonio Spurs
• 5x NBAChampion
• 2x Finals MVP
• 2 Regular Season MVP

Statistical Analysis

• Points: 26,496 (19.0 PPG)
• Rebounds: 15,091 (10.8 RPG)
• Assists: 4,224 (3.0 APG)

Skills and Playing Style

Duncan, aka "The Big Fundamental," was recognized for his flawless footwork, bank shot, and defensive ability. The Spurs' success was largely due to his leadership and ability to rise to the occasion when it mattered most.

Justification for Ranking

Duncan's role in the Spurs' dynasty and his longevity of excellence for two decades make him one of the best power forwards ever to lace them up.

9. Hakeem Olajuwon

Biographical Details

• Years Played: 1984-2002
• Houston Rockets, Toronto Raptors
• 2x NBA Champion
• 1x Finals MVP

Statistical Analysis

• Points: 26,946 (21.8 PPG)
• Rebounds: 13,748 (11.1 RPG)
• Assists: 5,627 (3.6 APG)

Skills and Playing Style

Olajuwon had such a reputation for scoring and protecting the rim on defense; you build your team similar to his around him. His Dream Shake move became legendary in the post, showcasing his graceful play.

Justification for Ranking

All things considered, Hakeem's two titles and his clear dominance in every facet of basketball put him near the top as one of the all-time greats.

10. Kobe Bryant

Biographical Details

• Years Played: 1996-2016
• Los Angeles Lakers
• 5x NBA Champion
• 2x Finals MVP
• 1x Regular Season MVP

Statistical Analysis

• Points: 33,643 (25.0 PPG)
• Rebounds: 7,047 (5.2 RPG)
• Assists: 6,306 (4.7 APG)

Skills and Playing Style

Kobe was famous for his scoring, footwork, and competitiveness. His work ethic and love for the game made him likened to Michael Jordan.

Justification for Ranking

Kobe's five titles, scoring ability, and impact on the game cement his status as one of the greatest players ever.

Whenever the NBA's top players are discussed, it tends to be subjective and influenced by personal preferences or generational biases. But the above players not only have performed at remarkably high levels themselves, but they've also changed basketball as we know it. Their legacies live on in the memories and recollections of future generations, so their achievements are never forgotten.

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