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

Table of Contents
By Jocelyn Alano August 07, 2024 01:09 1. Michael Jordan Biographical Details Statistical Analysis Skills and Playing Style Justification for Ranking 2. LeBron James Biographical Details Statistical Analysis Skills and Playing Style Justification for Ranking 3. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Biographical Details Statistical Analysis Skills and Playing Style Justification for Ranking 4. Bill Russell Biographical Details Statistical Analysis Skills and Playing Style Justification for Ranking 5. Magic Johnson Biographical Details Statistical Analysis Skills and Playing Style Justification for Ranking 6. Larry Bird Biographical Details Statistical Analysis Skills and Playing Style Justification for Ranking 7. Shaquille O'Neal Biographical Details Statistical Analysis Skills and Playing Style Justification for Ranking 8. Tim Duncan Biographical Details Statistical Analysis Skills and Playing Style Justification for Ranking 9. Hakeem Olajuwon Biographical Details Statistical Analysis Skills and Playing Style Justification for Ranking 10. Kobe Bryant Biographical Details Statistical Analysis Skills and Playing Style Justification for Ranking SHOP Mystery Signed Memorabilia Mystery Signed Football 8x10 Photo Mystery Signed Baseball Jersey Mystery Signed Football Jersey Mystery Signed Baseball 8x10 Photo LATEST The Top 10 Brooklyn Nets of All-Time The Top 10 Denver Nuggets of All-Time The Top 10 Washington Wizards of All-Time The Top 10 Orlando Magic Players of All-Time What is Brad Stevens' Net Worth? What is Erik Spoelstra's Net Worth? What is Vince Carter's Net Worth? Top 10 Heaviest NBA Players of All-Time What is Jimmy Butler's Net Worth? Charles Barkley and Maureen Blumhardt: The Powe... Kyrie Irving and Marlene Wilkerson: Exploring T... Jalen Brunson and Ali Marks: Love and Support B... Joel Embiid and Anne de Paula: Inside Their Rom... Who is Linda Rambis? Unveiling the Power Behind... Joe Hampton's Journey: Did He Reach the NBA? Deshaun Highler: Did He Break Into the NBA? What If Michael Jordan Never Retired in 1993? A... NBA Christmas Games for the 2024-25 Season, Rev... How Would the NBA Be Different if the Seattle S... What If the 1992 Dream Team Played Against Toda... What If the Golden State Warriors Never Traded ... What If the New York Knicks Drafted Kevin Duran... What If the 2004 Detroit Pistons Never Beat the... How Would the NBA Be Different if the 1999 Lock... What If the 2016 Cleveland Cavaliers Never Came... What If the Chicago Bulls Drafted Dirk Nowitzki... How Would the NBA Landscape Shift if the 1998 L... What If the Boston Celtics Drafted Paul George ... Who are the Top NBA Free Agents Available in 2024? Why Jalen Brunson's New Role With the New York ... The Rise of the New York Knicks: Building a Sup... Kobe Bryant: The Mamba Mentality and Its Impact... The Golden State Warriors: A Dynasty Built on T... The Role of Coaches in the NBA: Strategies Behi... The Miami Heat: Building a Championship Culture... Stephen Curry: How the Warriors' Star Changed t... LeBron James: The King’s Journey to NBA Greatne... Fab Melo: Remembering the Promising NBA Career ... Pete Maravich: Celebrating the Basketball Legen... Kobe Bryant: The Unforgettable Legacy of a Bask... Anthony Mason: Reflecting on the Life and Caree... The Joyful Spirit of 'Chocolate Thunder' and th... What is Jimmy Butler's Net Worth? What is Derrick Rose's Net Worth? Team USA leaves nothing but praise for Kevin Du... Who Was Drafted Ahead of Michael Jordan? Did a Woman Get Drafted to the NBA? Who are the Famous Basketball Players in Omega ... Rudy Gobert and Julia Bonilla's Relationship Pl... FAN ARCH PODCAST NETWORK Mystery Signed Memorabilia FAQs

The NBA's Greatest Players: Ranking the Top 10 of All Time (1)

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.

SHOP Mystery Signed Memorabilia

  • Mystery Signed Football 8x10 Photo

    Regular price
    $29.99

    Regular price
    Sale price
    $29.99
    Unit price
    / per
  • Mystery Signed Baseball Jersey

    Regular price
    $69.99

    Regular price
    Sale price
    $69.99
    Unit price
    / per
  • Mystery Signed Football Jersey

    Regular price
    $69.99

    Regular price
    Sale price
    $69.99
    Unit price
    / per
  • Mystery Signed Baseball 8x10 Photo

    Regular price
    $29.99

    Regular price
    Sale price
    $29.99
    Unit price
    / per

LATEST

  • NEWS
  • |
  • ARTICLES
  • |
  • VIDEOS

NBA

The Top 10 Brooklyn Nets of All-Time

By Edcel Panganiban

Sat, Aug 10, 2024

NBA

The Top 10 Denver Nuggets of All-Time

By Arslan Saleem

Sat, Aug 10, 2024

NBA

The Top 10 Washington Wizards of All-Time

By Jason Bolton

Sat, Aug 10, 2024

NBA

The Top 10 Orlando Magic Players of All-Time

By Fan Arch

Sun, Aug 11, 2024

NBA

What is Brad Stevens' Net Worth?

By Jocelyn Alano

Sun, Aug 11, 2024

NBA

What is Erik Spoelstra's Net Worth?

By Arslan Saleem

Sun, Aug 11, 2024

NBA

What is Vince Carter's Net Worth?

By Jocelyn Alano

Sun, Aug 11, 2024

NBA

Top 10 Heaviest NBA Players of All-Time

By Fan Arch

Sun, Aug 11, 2024

NBA

Charles Barkley and Maureen Blumhardt: The Powe...

By Arslan Saleem

Fri, Aug 09, 2024

NBA

Kyrie Irving and Marlene Wilkerson: Exploring T...

By Jason Bolton

Fri, Aug 09, 2024

NBA

Jalen Brunson and Ali Marks: Love and Support B...

By Oliver Wiener

Fri, Aug 09, 2024

NBA

Joel Embiid and Anne de Paula: Inside Their Rom...

By Jocelyn Alano

Fri, Aug 09, 2024

NBA

Who is Linda Rambis? Unveiling the Power Behind...

By Jason Bolton

Fri, Aug 09, 2024

NBA

Joe Hampton's Journey: Did He Reach the NBA?

By Edcel Panganiban

Fri, Aug 09, 2024

NBA

Deshaun Highler: Did He Break Into the NBA?

By Jocelyn Alano

Fri, Aug 09, 2024

NBA

What If Michael Jordan Never Retired in 1993? A...

By Fan Arch

Thu, Aug 08, 2024

NBA

NBA Christmas Games for the 2024-25 Season, Rev...

By Jordan Samar

Fri, Aug 09, 2024

NBA

How Would the NBA Be Different if the Seattle S...

By Jocelyn Alano

Thu, Aug 08, 2024

NBA

What If the 1992 Dream Team Played Against Toda...

By Arslan Saleem

Thu, Aug 08, 2024

NBA

What If the Golden State Warriors Never Traded ...

By Jason Bolton

Thu, Aug 08, 2024

NBA

What If the New York Knicks Drafted Kevin Duran...

By Jocelyn Alano

Thu, Aug 08, 2024

NBA

What If the 2004 Detroit Pistons Never Beat the...

NBA

How Would the NBA Be Different if the 1999 Lock...

By Jocelyn Alano

Thu, Aug 08, 2024

NBA

What If the 2016 Cleveland Cavaliers Never Came...

By Arslan Saleem

Thu, Aug 08, 2024

NBA

What If the Chicago Bulls Drafted Dirk Nowitzki...

By Jason Bolton

Thu, Aug 08, 2024

NBA

How Would the NBA Landscape Shift if the 1998 L...

By Edcel Panganiban

Thu, Aug 08, 2024

NBA

What If the Boston Celtics Drafted Paul George ...

By Arslan Saleem

Thu, Aug 08, 2024

NBA

Who are the Top NBA Free Agents Available in 2024?

By Jordan Samar

Thu, Aug 08, 2024

NBA

Why Jalen Brunson's New Role With the New York ...

By Jordan Samar

Wed, Aug 07, 2024

NBA

The Rise of the New York Knicks: Building a Sup...

By Edcel Panganiban

Tue, Aug 06, 2024

NBA

Kobe Bryant: The Mamba Mentality and Its Impact...

By Jocelyn Alano

Tue, Aug 06, 2024

NBA

The Golden State Warriors: A Dynasty Built on T...

By Fan Arch

Tue, Aug 06, 2024

NBA

The Role of Coaches in the NBA: Strategies Behi...

By Edcel Panganiban

Tue, Aug 06, 2024

NBA

The Miami Heat: Building a Championship Culture...

By Arslan Saleem

Tue, Aug 06, 2024

NBA

Stephen Curry: How the Warriors' Star Changed t...

By Jocelyn Alano

Tue, Aug 06, 2024

NBA

LeBron James: The King’s Journey to NBA Greatne...

By Fan Arch

Tue, Aug 06, 2024

NBA

Fab Melo: Remembering the Promising NBA Career ...

By Jason Bolton

Mon, Aug 05, 2024

NBA

Pete Maravich: Celebrating the Basketball Legen...

By Fan Arch

Mon, Aug 05, 2024

NBA

Kobe Bryant: The Unforgettable Legacy of a Bask...

By Jocelyn Alano

Mon, Aug 05, 2024

NBA

Anthony Mason: Reflecting on the Life and Caree...

By Edcel Panganiban

Mon, Aug 05, 2024

NBA

The Joyful Spirit of 'Chocolate Thunder' and th...

By Arslan Saleem

Mon, Aug 05, 2024

NBA

What is Jimmy Butler's Net Worth?

By Edcel Panganiban

Thu, Aug 01, 2024

NBA

What is Derrick Rose's Net Worth?

By Oliver Wiener

Thu, Aug 01, 2024

NBA

Team USA leaves nothing but praise for Kevin Du...

By Jay Postrado

Wed, Jul 31, 2024

NBA

Who Was Drafted Ahead of Michael Jordan?

By Jocelyn Alano

Wed, Jul 31, 2024

NBA

Did a Woman Get Drafted to the NBA?

By Fan Arch

Wed, Jul 31, 2024

NBA

Who are the Famous Basketball Players in Omega ...

By Edcel Panganiban

Tue, Jul 30, 2024

NBA

Rudy Gobert and Julia Bonilla's Relationship Pl...

By Edcel Panganiban

Mon, Jul 29, 2024

More Stories

FAN ARCH PODCAST NETWORK

The NBA's Greatest Players: Ranking the Top 10 of All Time (84)

Mystery Signed Memorabilia

//script of featured and trending tab div
The NBA's Greatest Players: Ranking the Top 10 of All Time (2024)

FAQs

Who is the greatest NBA player of all time? ›

Best Basketball Players
  1. Michael Jordan. Michael Jordan, often heralded as the greatest basketball player of all time, played 15 seasons in the NBA, predominantly with the Chicago Bulls. ...
  2. LeBron James. ...
  3. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. ...
  4. Bill Russell. ...
  5. Magic Johnson. ...
  6. Larry Bird. ...
  7. Shaquille O'Neal. ...
  8. Tim Duncan.

Who is the highest rated NBA player? ›

Nikola Jokic (Denver) Unquestionably the best basketball player in the world today, Denver Nuggets superstar Nikola Jokic is coming off a campaign in which he won his third MVP award in four seasons, in which he was named 1st Team All-NBA for the fourth time and in which he was named an All-Star for the sixth time.

Who is better than Michael Jordan? ›

LeBron James has surpassed Michael Jordan as NBA's best player.

Who is better, MJ or LeBron? ›

If you look at certain numbers, Jordan may have a slight edge. He's won slightly more championships, more MVPs and more All-Defensive Team honors. On the other hand, James has scored more points than Jordan—or anybody else who ever played in the NBA.

Is Kobe Bryant a top 5 NBA player? ›

Top 50 NBA players from last 50 years: Kobe Bryant ranks No. 6 | FOX Sports.

Was Kobe or LeBron better? ›

The Bottom Line: While LeBron is much more of a team player than Kobe was, and is more dominant and holds better stats, Kobe was a more versatile and complete player, a virtuoso with amazing skills and defense abilities. So, in the Kobe vs. LeBron debate, which of these two NBA superstars outshines the other?

Who is the number 1 goat in NBA? ›

Michael Jordan edged out LeBron James as the greatest player in NBA history, according to a poll of 133 players conducted by The Athletic.

Who is #1 NBA scorer? ›

Scoring leaders
RankPlayerTotal points
1LeBron James^40,474
2Kareem Abdul-Jabbar*38,387
3Karl Malone*36,928
4Kobe Bryant*33,643
34 more rows

Who has more rings, LeBron or Jordan? ›

One area where Michael Jordan has a clear advantage over LeBron James is in championship rings. Jordan won six NBA championships, while James has won four. Jordan also won all six of his championships with the same team, the Chicago Bulls, and was the Finals MVP in each of those championships.

Who is the greatest NBA big man of all time? ›

Here's a look at the 10 greatest centers in NBA history:
  • Wilt Chamberlain. ...
  • Shaquille O'Neal. ...
  • Hakeem Olajuwon. ...
  • Nikola Jokic. ...
  • David Robinson. ...
  • Moses Malone. ...
  • Patrick Ewing. ...
  • Bill Walton.
May 28, 2024

Who is #1 in all time points in the NBA? ›

LeBron James is the leading scorer in NBA history. LeBron James has scored the most career regular season points in NBA history.

Who is better, Kobe or LeBron? ›

The Bottom Line: While LeBron is much more of a team player than Kobe was, and is more dominant and holds better stats, Kobe was a more versatile and complete player, a virtuoso with amazing skills and defense abilities. So, in the Kobe vs. LeBron debate, which of these two NBA superstars outshines the other?

Is LeBron the greatest of all time? ›

Outside of a long list of Michael Jordan enthusiasts, plenty NBA players, current and former, fans and analysts peg LeBron James as the greatest hoops player of all-time due to his his four regular season MVP trophies, four NBA championships, four Finals MVPs, two Olympic Gold medals (and one bronze), and 20 NBA All- ...

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Annamae Dooley

Last Updated:

Views: 5955

Rating: 4.4 / 5 (45 voted)

Reviews: 92% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Annamae Dooley

Birthday: 2001-07-26

Address: 9687 Tambra Meadow, Bradleyhaven, TN 53219

Phone: +9316045904039

Job: Future Coordinator

Hobby: Archery, Couponing, Poi, Kite flying, Knitting, Rappelling, Baseball

Introduction: My name is Annamae Dooley, I am a witty, quaint, lovely, clever, rich, sparkling, powerful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.