NBA has been around since the 1950s, and some of the greatest players to ever play in this league have made an indelible mark in history. These ten players have each left their own individual legacy, be it through record-breaking achievements or by simply playing the game better than anyone else. Let’s take a look at the top 10 greatest NBA players of all time:
1. Michael Jordan – Widely considered to be the GOAT (Greatest Of All Time), MJ was an unstoppable force on both ends of the court. He shattered scoring records and won six championships with his team Chicago Bulls.
2. LeBron James – Since entering into professional basketball, LBJ has achieved some incredible feats, including four MVP awards and three championships. He is also the only player to have averaged a triple-double in all seven of his NBA Finals appearances.
3. Kobe Bryant – A five-time champion and 18-time All-Star, Kobe was one of the most dominant players on both ends of the court during his 20 year career with the Los Angeles Lakers. His dedication to perfecting every aspect of his game is what set him apart from other players.
4. Magic Johnson – Often called “Showtime” for his flashy style of play, Magic led the LA Lakers to five championships through team work, passing skills and leadership abilities on court.
5. Larry Bird – Nicknamed ‘The Hick from French Lick’, Bird won three championships with the Boston Celtics. He was known for his incredible shooting and passing skills, but what set him apart from other players was his incredible basketball IQ and leadership abilities.
6. Tim Duncan – A consistent leader on both ends of the court, Big Fundamental won five NBA Championships with San Antonio Spurs. His dedication to perfecting fundamentals earned him respect from peers, coaches and fans alike.
7. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar – The all-time leading scorer in NBA history, Kareem is considered one of the greatest centers to ever play in this league. His famous skyhook shot was unstoppable during his 20 year career with the Lakers and Milwaukee Bucks.
8. Wilt Chamberlain – ‘The Stilt’ dominated the NBA, breaking numerous records such as most points in a single game (100). He was an unstoppable force on offense and defense, winning two championships with Philadelphia 76ers.
9. Oscar Robertson – ‘The Big O’ revolutionized the game of basketball with his powerful athleticism, cerebral court vision and unparalleled passing skills. He won one championship with Cincinnati Royals and is still to date the only player to average a triple-double for an entire season.
10. Shaquille O’Neal – Regarded as one of the strongest players ever to take the court, Shaq won four championships over his 19 year career by using brute strength and dominance in the paint. His larger than life personality made him a fan favorite around the world.
These ten basketball greats have rightfully earned their place among the greatest of all time, and will continue to be remembered for years to come. Their on-court performances have set the standard for future generations of players; paving the way for others to strive for greatness and create meaningful legacies of their own.