Basketball debates have been hot topics since its inception, from Bill Russel vs Wilt to the modern-day Cleveland Cavaliers vs Oklahoma City Thunder. But, onto the question that has been burning most of all recently, who are the top 10 best basketball players ever?
- Hakeem Olajuwon
Hakeem Olajuwon aka “The Dream” had an extensive career competing with the best of the best. He is an MVP award winner, a 2-time champion, a 2-time DPOY, and a 12-time All-NBA player along with having the most blocks ever and being arguably the best defensive player in history. However, his career will always have a mark as he could never win MVP or a championship while Jordan was in the league not winning until Jordan retired for the first time in 1993. Hakeem will always be remembered as one of the best bigs of all time.
- Larry Bird
“Larry Legend” is always remembered for being a great shooter and a dominant player in his prime. Competing in the greatest Rivalry in history vs Magic Johnson, Larry Bird is one of the best ever accolade-wise. He has a trophy case spanning 3 consecutive MVP years, 3 Larry O’Brien championship trophies, 2 finals MVPs, and 10 all-NBA selections. However, he was slowed down by back pains and injury during his short 12-season stint in the league which is sub-par for a player of his caliber. He also played in a historically weak era against mediocre competition besides the Lakers who he repeatedly lost to.
- Magic Johnson
Magic Johnson is maybe the most-awarded player in league history with 5 NBA championships, 3 league MVPs, 3 finals MVPs, and 10 all-NBA selections. Looking at this you may believe he is maybe the best. However, he was a past first guard with one of the greatest scorers ever on his team Kareem for every one of his rings. He also played historically weak competition besides the Bird Celtics.
- Kobe Bryant
I know everyone is at my throat right now but hear me out. Kobe or “The Black Mamba” is one of the most applauded and media-decorated players ever. He had one of the best primes and in my opinion, the largest MVP robbery was taken from him. He is a 5 times NBA champion, a 2x finals MVP and a 18x All-Star however, his trophy case is held back as he is only a 1 time MVP. He is also historically inefficient and one of the worst teammates ever. Kobe will always be remembered for his Love of the game and clutch potential RIP Kobe Bryant.
- Stephen Curry
“Chef Curry” is one of the greatest players of the modern era. He is the greatest shooter in history and has caused somewhat of a Renaissance in basketball since 2015. He has had some extreme competition in the face of the Lebron Cavaliers, Kawhi Raptors, and Harden Rockets. With a Trophy case of 4 NBA championships, 2 MVPs, 1 finals MVP and 10 ALl-NBA selections.
However, he has been on the greatest teams in basketball history which diminishes his awards somewhat as other guards could have won with them too.
- Tim Duncan
Tim Duncan or “The Big Fundamental” is the most accomplished player in modern NBA history along with being a two-way threat and one of the best leaders ever. He is the owner of 5 NBA championships, 2 league MVPs, 3 finals MVPs, and 15 All-NBA selections. However, he was placed in the best system ever with one of the best GMs ever drafting Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker for the backcourt.
- Shaquille O’Neal
“The Diesel” is the most dominant player of the modern era, having a prime like no other and the accolades to back it up. A 4-time NBA champ, 1-time MVP, 3 finals MVPs, and 14 All-NBA selections. He had the best season in history in 1999-2000 and dominated the early 2000s era. However, his trophy case is also lacking compared to other top 5 players and wasn’t great for his final ring.
- Ferdinand Lewis Alcindor Jr.
Known as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar he is simply the most accomplished player in history with a trophy case speaking for itself. 6 NBA championships, 6-time NBA MVP, 2-time finals MVP, 15-time All-NBA player. With all this in mind, he would be the best player ever, if it were not for the team and era. He won almost all of these with Magic Johnson another one of the best and a stacked team consisting of A.C Green and James Worthy as well. He also played very weak competition besides the bird Celtics who were unmatched against the Showtime Lakers.
- Michael Jordan
His Airness was an Icon, revolutionary, star, and one of the greatest to ever do it. The biggest winner to ever play the game of Basketball. 6-time NBA champion, 5-time NBA MVP, 6-time Finals MVP, 11-time all-NBA selection. His influence on the youth will never be matched and he is one of the most clutch players ever, one of the best defenders ever, one of the best primes ever. No matter who comes along Jordan will always be remembered for his influence.
- LeBron Raymone James
“The Chosen One” is the greatest player to ever touch a basketball. From achievements to gameplay, from competition to teams. He is the perfect basketball player. Four-time NBA champion, 4-time MVP, 4-time finals MVP, 20-time all-NBA selection. A career spanning over 22 years and counting, the most clutch moments ever, the best seasons ever. LeBron has a feeling of dominance you have to see to believe. Eight straight finals appearances from 2011 to 2018. The feeling of knowing LeBron will be there at the Finals and knowing he is the best player in the world will never be matched. The circumstance never mattered; he could take a horrible coaching staff and a team with no other all-stars all the way to the finals. The most points ever. 4th most assists ever and every other stat. He is on every list for everything in NBA history. He has truly done it all, the best player ever, LeBron James.
