ESPN’s 74 Greatest Players of All-Time list is so bad, it inspired me to construct an actual list….
A GOOD LIST.
MY LIST!!!!
Today, I break down Part 2: 20-11.
Enjoy.
Oh, and take notes if you need to.
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David Falk, Michael Jordan’s old agent, said MJ would score 60 points per game in today’s NBA.
If you believe that, I have some s*** to sell you.
In today’s video, follow my sound logic to understand how the all-time greats would compete against each other’s eras.
This is not make believe, or completely insane in any way, shape, or form. Thanks for entertaining my fantasy world for today!
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Upon Lebron James’ arrival to his 7th consecutive NBA Finals, I began brainstorming. If Lebron won the Finals (which no one in their right mind thought he would), where would he rank on the all-time list?? Lebron lost, however, his career accomplishments still rank amongst the greatest to ever play the game. Naturally, this leaves us with only 1 thing to do. Make a list of the top 10 NBA Players of All-Time. This list will consider everything these players have accomplished until present day. Since Lebron is still active, you must read this list as if the NBA were to cease to exist tomorrow. Do not take into account the potential for the rest of Lebron’s career, as that would create a bias. He’s not done climbing the list Lebron fans..relax.
Since the association became the NBA (National Basketball Association) in 1949, there have been a host of amazing players to grace the hardwood. However, a small group of living legends stand out from the rest. Why do they stand out?? What makes them the best?? It is a combination of their physical skills, ability to win, and intangibles (heart/leadership/will to win). I will take all of these factors into account. I will be looking at the complete makeup of each player and what made/makes them great.
Any list must start with honorable mentions. We must pay homage to the men just outside the top 10, for their contributions also brought the game to new levels.
Honorable Mentions
Oscar Robertson not making the list was the toughest decision I made today. The “Big O”‘s numbers speak for themselves, as he is the all-time leader in triple-doubles (181). Hakeem is next on my tough decision list. There are only 10 spots!! It’s not my fault!! Hakeem “The Dream” had the smoothest skillset we’ve ever seen from the center position. Combine that with amazing shot-blocking ability, and you’re looking at a top 5 center of all-time. Elgin Baylor and Karl Malone fall into the same category, no championship..no list. Sorry. The “Mailman” is 2nd on the all-time scoring list thanks to his scoring ability and longevity (19 seasons), however he had the unfortunate pleasure of playing at the same time as Michael Jordan. Baylor was one of the most talented players you never saw play, however was also unfortunate to play against the likes of Bill Russell and Wilt Chamberlain. Baylor made 8 NBA Finals appearances and came away empty handed. Julius Erving (“Dr. J”) could have made the list had he not played 5 seasons in the ABA. He was an innovator and should not be overlooked when discussing the history of the NBA. Jerry West IS the NBA logo. Enough said.
Now, without further a due, I present the top 10 NBA Players of All-Time:
10.) Shaquille O’Neal (Shaq, The Diesel, Shaq Fu, Shaq Daddy, Superman)
19 NBA Seasons – 23.7 points, 10.9 rebounds, 2.3 blocks, 58.2 FG%, 52.7 FT%
The Diesel. Enough said?? This nickname speaks for itself. Shaq was the most physically dominant force the NBA has ever seen. He was an unstoppable wrecking ball that could only be slowed (or fouled) but couldn’t be stopped. Watching Shaq, in his prime, was something special. For a man of his stature, he showed an amazing amount of offensive skills. He won a few games along the way too. He won 4 Championships, 1 MVP, and 3 Finals’ MVPs. It is no surprise he won Rookie of the Year in 1993. And who doesn’t want a strategy named after them (?)….’Hack A Shaq’.
9.) Bill Russell (Russ)
13 NBA Seasons – 15.1 points, 22.5 rebounds, 4.3 assists, 44 FG%, 56.1 FT%
Bill Russell will always be the ultimate winner. He led the Boston Celtics teams of the 1950’s and 60’s to 11 Championships in 13 years. While he played with some great teammates over the years, he is regarded as the best defensive center of all-time (Wilt may have something to say about that). He is also one of the best rebounders ever. It was Russell’s intangibles though, such as leadership, that put him head and shoulders above the rest. During Russell’s era, they didn’t keep track of Finals’ MVPs, however, I can safely say he would have won 4 of them (I did my research..don’t worry). In a time where Wilt Chamberlain dominated the NBA statistically, it shows how impressive Bill Russell’s Championship tenure was.
8.) Tim Duncan (Timmy, The Big Fundamental)
19 NBA Seasons – 19.0 points, 10.8 rebounds, 2.2 blocks, 50.6 FG%, 69.6 FT%
Tim Duncan had (shhhh..very quietly) one of the most impressive careers in NBA history. He is without question the best power forward ever (sorry Karl). By they way, his nickname should be “The Bank”. Have you ever seen anyone shoot a better, more effective jump-shot off the backboard than Tim Duncan?? Without dominating the game physically, or landing on highlight reels, Tim Duncan did 1 thing better than most; win. He won 5 Championships, 2 MVPs, and 3 Finals’ MVPs. He also won the Rookie of the Year in 1998. Oh yeah, I almost forgot, “Timmy” was also one of the best defensive power forwards ever.
7.) Kobe Bryant (Black Mamba)
20 NBA Seasons – 25.0 points, 5.2 rebounds, 4.7 assists, 44.7 FG%, 83.7 FT%
While there will only be one Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant came pretty close. Kobe emulated Jordan in as many ways as possible. That’s not a knock on Kobe, that’s just plain smart. Kobe was as talented a scorer as you’ll ever see, and was also one of the best on-ball defenders ever. Don’t forget, he jumped straight from high school to the NBA. The only other person on this list to do that is Lebron. Kobe was an assassin. His desire to win and cutthroat attitude was seemingly unparalleled. He liked to win, and did plenty of it. The “Black Mamba” won 5 Championships, 1 MVP (he deserved more), and 2 Finals’ MVPs.
6.) Larry Bird (Larry Legend, The Hick From French Lick)
13 NBA Seasons – 24.3 points, 10.0 rebounds, 6.3 assists, 49.6 FG%, 88.6 FT%
Magic and Bird. The best rivalry in NBA history, and my personal favorite NBA era. Larry Bird is regarded as one the best shooters the NBA has ever seen (until Steph Curry that is, haha). Bird didn’t just shoot. He possessed a special all around skillset. He is the only player in NBA history to hold career averages of more than 20 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists. He was also an extremely underrated defender, as his anticipation on the court was unmatched. Just like Magic, his career was cut short. Bird dealt with chronic back problems late in his career (he still averaged over 20 points per game in the last season of his career). His heart and competitive spirit willed his team to victory time and time again. Bird won 3 Championships, 3 MVPs, and 2 Finals’ MVPs. He also won Rookie of the Year in 1980.
5.) Lebron James (King James)
14 NBA Seasons (Active) – 27.1 points, 7.3 rebounds, 7.0 assists, 50.1 FG%, 74.0 FT%
Lebron James entered the NBA straight out of high school. The level of expectations put on his shoulders as a teenager was unparalleled. To say Lebron has simply exceeded expectations would be the understatement of the century. He is one of the most complete players..ever. He can do it all. If he wanted to lead the league in assists, he would. Rebounds, he would. Points, well I think you get the point. He just became the 1st player in NBA history to average a triple-double in the Finals. I don’t have enough paper real estate to list all of his accomplishments, so let’s understand his work in this league is far from done. Lebron has won 3 Championships, 4 MVPs, and 3 Finals’ MVPs. He also has the 2004 Rookie of the Year Award floating around somewhere. Stay tuned….
4.) Wilt Chamberlain (Wilt The Stilt)
14 NBA Seasons – 30.1 points, 22.9 rebounds, 4.4 assists, 54.0 FG%, 51.1 FT%
The best center of all-time?? Kareem or Wilt?? It is nearly impossible to definitively answer this question. Wilt Chamberlain was the most dominant force in NBA history. He famously holds the record for most points scored in one game (100), a record I doubt will EVER be broken. Another record that will NEVER be broken: Chamberlain averaged over 50 points in a season (and didn’t even win the NBA MVP – yeah the NBA knows what it’s doing). Oh yeah, Wilt didn’t like being told he couldn’t do something. When the buzz around the league was Wilt was a ball hog, he led the league in assists the following season. It’s a shame in Wilt’s era MVP’s were given to a player on the championship team, because no one knows how many MVP’s Wilt could have won. Even with that obstacle, he still managed to win 4 MVP awards, 2 NBA Championships, and 1 Finals MVP. Wilt was also one of those players who burst right on to the scene, winning the Rookie of the Year in 1960. Wilt was a transcendent talent. If you dropped him in the NBA right now, I’d bet good money he’d still be the best center in the league.
3.) Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (Cap)
20 NBA Seasons – 24.6 points, 11.2 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 2.6 blocks, 55.9 FG%, 72.1 FT%
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was the centerpiece of the Lakers Championships of the 1980’s. He was part of their 5 Championships in the 80’s. He also won a Championship with the Milwaukee Bucks prior to playing with the Lakers. He was a true innovator. He perfected an unstoppable move, the sky hook, which helped him become the NBA’s all-time leading scorer. Kareem was a star from the second he entered the league and was named Rookie of the Year in 1970 (averaging 28.8 points and 14.4 rebounds). Of the long list of Kareem’s accolades, I find a center shooting over 72% from the free-throw line highly impressive. He was an outstanding all around player, showcasing offensive and defensive skills throughout his 20-year career. Kareem won 6 Championships, was MVP a record breaking 6 times, and won 2 Finals’ MVPs.
2.) Earvin Johnson (Magic)
12 NBA Seasons – 19.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, 11.2 assists, 52 FG%, 84.8 FT %
As the leader of the “Showtime” Lakers, Magic Johnson reinvented the fast break. He revolutionized the point guard position. Standing 6’9” tall, Magic was a nightmare match-up for anyone who tried to guard him. Well, they didn’t guard him they only slowed him down, sometimes. Larry Bird was his most formidable opponent, but the Lakers got the better of that rivalry. He brought power forward size and strength to the point guard position (and even played center in the 1980 NBA Finals). He is second all-time (to Oscar Robertson) in career triple-doubles (138). It is a tragedy Magic’s career was cut short due to his battle with HIV. Magic won 5 championships, 3 MVPs, and 3 Finals’ MVPs. Just like Michael Jordan, one can only imagine the potential accomplishments if he played another 4 or 5 seasons.
1.) Michael Jordan (MJ, Air Jordan)
15 NBA Seasons – 30.1 points, 6.2 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 49.7 FG %, and 83.5 FT%
What can be said about Michael Jordan that hasn’t been said already?? Michael Jordan is hands down the greatest basketball player to ever walk the face of the planet. He was a one-time Defensive Player of the Year and regarded as the best defender at his position in NBA history. One of his most impressive feats is his perfect 6 for 6 record in the Finals. In each of those finals, he NEVER allowed a series to reach a decisive 7th game. If that is not the epitome of greatness, I don’t know what is. What you also have to remember is Jordan retired TWICE, in his prime, which caused him to miss nearly five full seasons. Imagine if he never retired and played straight through the age of 40 (where he averaged over 20 points)?! I think it’s fair to say he would have won at least 2 more MVPs and 2 more Championships. He won 6 NBA Championships, 5 MVP’s, and 6 Finals’ MVPs. Jordan won Rookie of the Year in 1985. All others can strive to Be Like Mike, but there will always be 1 Michael Jordan.
What do you think of my list?? Like it, love it, or hate it?? Either way, get your feelings off your chest in the comment section below. I’ll also be looking for your list, so make sure to post it in the comments as well.
Since you enjoy my writing, follow me over to intheneutralzone.com where I am a contributing author there as well. You can also follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like me on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading, and I hope you enjoyed it!
I like this picture. Yes Kevin, you’re only 1 win away from your 1st ring. Soon Karl Malone, Charles Barkley, and Elgin Baylor will go back to being the best players without an NBA championship.
There are countless ways to break down the Cleveland Cavaliers loss in Game 3 (118-113). But we’re going to keep it short and sweet. The Golden State Warriors are simply too good. They are simply too much to handle for the Cavaliers. That’s it. That’s all I have to say. Bye……….
Naaaaa, I’m just messin’ with you..we still need to place blame somewhere. Today, I’m going to blame this loss on 4 people (or things). Lebron James, Lebron James, Lebr………I’m kidding, I’m kidding. Did you just see the Lebron defenders jump out of their chairs?!?!
Seriously though, Game 3’s loss is on Tyronn Lue, Kevin Love, whoever constructed the Cavaliers roster (oh wait that’s Lebron James), and father-time. Let’s start with Tyronn Lue. Lue made numerous mistakes in this game, but none loomed larger than not fouling Golden State immediately with 25 seconds left in the game. Newsflash..when you’re down 1 with 25 seconds left, in a virtual must-win situation, you foul immediately to extend the game. Instead, the Cavaliers waited 13 seconds to foul. This left the Cavaliers with no choice but to jack up a three. But thanks to Andre Iguodala’s extremely risky swipe at the ball, Lebron James never got that chance. Also, you’d think at some point during the game, as the Cavaliers struggled mightily from 3-point range, “Coach” Lue might have suggested taking the ball to the basket. That’s your cue Kevin Love.
Kevin Love was awful last night. He finished with just 9 points on 1-9 shooting (1-7 from 3-point range). The Cavaliers shot just 27.3% from 3-point range. They attempted 44 3-pointers..44!! Who do they think they are the Houston Rockets?? You would think at some point they’d stop trying to jam the square peg into the round hole. Or not. “But if Love hits just 2 more 3’s they win.” Yeah, and if my grandmother had balls she’d be my grandfather. Listen, the Cavaliers put forth a great effort last night, but take the rest of the stats away and consider this: How can the Cavaliers beat the Warriors with Kevin Love and Kyrie Irving shooting a combined 1-14 from 3-point range??
how does Tristan Thompson’s 5-year, $82 million contract look now?? Thompson has just 8 points and 11 rebounds in the Finals (all 8 of those points came in Game 2). I’m sorry, but that is unacceptable. And if you are relying on a 36-year old Richard Jefferson to guard Kevin Durant, you know you’re in trouble.
And last but not least, father-time. I know, I know, I know, I know. Everyone is going to kill me for this, but it’s the truth. Lebron’s numbers are off the charts. He is a top-5 player of all-time, and he has played in 7 consecutive Finals. HE’S TIRED. In 13 NBA seasons, he has played 41, 272 minutes (25th most of all-time). He is on pace to pass Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for most minutes played. I’m not blaming Lebron James. He is definitely doing all he can. He is leaving every ounce of energy on the court and it shows, as he is yet again averaging a triple-double in the Finals (32 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists). But believe it or not he’s human. This is why, down the stretch of games, he defers to his teammates too much. The Cavaliers were outscored 11-0 in the final 3:08 of the game. They went 0-8 during that stretch. How many of those shots do you think Lebron took?? ONE!! He only took ONE shot in the final 3:44 of the game. Also unacceptable. Lebron, you are the best player in the world, and this is your team. So don’t kick the ball out to Kyle Korver when you can drive to the basket. Don’t give Kyrie Irving the ball and then stand in the corner like a scared 2nd grade kid in gym class and watch Kyrie jack up a step back 3-pointer. Get the ball and ram it home like you did in the 1st quarter!!
And now..we’re here. Present time. The Warriors are up 3-0 in the NBA Finals. They are 15-0 in the playoffs (which is already a record). And they are looking to become the 1st team to sweep through the playoffs at 16-0. The trio of Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry, and Klay Thompson was fantastic last night. They combined for 87 points and 15 3-pointers. None more important than Kevin Durant’s 3-pointer with 45 seconds left, putting his team up 114-113. The Warriors will try to close out the series sweep on Friday night at 9:00 P.M. EST. Tune into ABC to see if they can continue to make history.
Do you think the Warriors will sweep the Finals?? Give me your hot take in the comment section below.
Since you enjoy my writing, follow me over to intheneutralzone.com where I am a contributing author there as well. You can also follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like me on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading, and I hope you enjoyed it!
With all of the talk surrounding Michael Jordan’s 50th birthday, it has inspired me to construct a list of the top 10 NBA players of all time. This list will consider everything these players have accomplished up until the present day. Since some players on this list are still currently playing, you must read this list as if the NBA were to cease to exist tomorrow. Do not take into account the potential for what current players may still accomplish, as that would create a bias. Since the association officially became the NBA (National Basketball Association) in 1949, there have been a host of amazing players to grace the hardwood. However, there are always a small group of living legends that stand out from the rest. Why do they stand out? What makes them the best? It is a combination of their physical skills, their ability to win, and their intangibles (such as heart, leadership, and will to win). I will take all of these factors in to account. Essentially I will be looking at the complete makeup of each player and what made/makes them an all time great. So, without further a due, here are the top 10 NBA players of all time in order. Let the debate continue.
I must start this list with the honorable mentions. These men showed signs of greatness throughout their entire career, however they simply were outplayed by the 10 legends who made this coveted list. We must pay homage to the men just outside of the top 10, for the game is where it is thanks to their contributions as well. Here they are: Hakeem Olajuwon, Lebron James, Elgin Baylor, Jerry West, Julius Erving, Karl Malone, and John Stockton. Hakeem is #11 on my list by the slightest of margins. Hakeem “The Dream” had the smoothest game for a center the game has ever seen. Combine that with tenacious defense and you have one of the greatest players of all time. Lebron James is #12 on my list. Lebron when it’s all said and done will be undoubtedly be in the top 5 of all time. He is a unique talent and if he can continue to pile on Championships and MVP’s could find himself in the top 3 players to ever play in the NBA. Elgin Baylor, Karl Malone, and John Stockton fall into the same category in my mind. If you never won a Championship you can’t be on the list. Sorry. The Mailman is the 2nd leading scorer in NBA history and his longevity was unmatched, however he had the unfortunate pleasure of playing during the MJ era. Elgin Baylor was one of the most talented players to ever play the game, however was also very unlucky to play in the time of Bill Russell and Wilt Chamberlain. Baylor made 8 NBA Finals appearances and came away empty handed every time. Stockton is the NBA’s all time assists leader (and 2nd place is not even close), however the combination of Stockton and Malone that was so much fun to watch never could get past that Michael Jordan guy. Dr. J would have been on this list if he hadn’t played 5 seasons in the ABA. He did win 3 Championships in the ABA, but this is an NBA only list. He was another innovator to the game and should not be overlooked when discussing the greatest players to ever play. Lastly, Jerry West played along side Elgin Baylor for quite some time, but was fortunate enough to finally win a Championship in 1972. He certainly will never be forgotten, I mean he is the NBA’s logo. Now, here are the top 10 NBA players of all time:
10.)Tim Duncan (Timmy)
Currently in his 16th NBA Season – 20.2 points, 11.2 rebounds, 2.2 blocks, 50.7 FG%, 69.1 FT%
This was by far the most difficult decision I had in putting together this list. I found myself trying to decide between the careers of Tim Duncan, Hakeem Olajuwon, and Lebron James for the 10th and final spot on this list. At the end of the day, the hardware speaks loudest. Tim Duncan has very quietly had one of the most impressive careers in NBA history. He is without question the best power forward to ever play the game (sorry Karl), and his nickname should probably be “The Bank”. Have you ever seen anyone shoot a better more effective jump shot off the backboard than Tim Duncan? Even if he didn’t dominate physically or find himself on highlight reels with flashy moves or dunks, Tim Duncan found a way to win consistently. He won 4 NBA Championships, 2 MVP’s, and 3 NBA Final’s MVP, s. He also won the Rookie of the Year, of course. Oh yeah, I almost forgot yet another facet of his game that attributes to his greatness. Timmy is one of the best defenders at his position in the history of the NBA. He is the most soft spoken champion the game has ever seen.
9.)Shaquille O’Neal (Shaq, The Diesel, Shaq Fu, Shaq Daddy, Superman)
19 NBA Seasons – 23.7 points, 10.9 rebounds, 2.3 blocks, 58.2 FG%, 52.7 FT%
The Diesel. Enough said? I think his nicknames speak for themselves. Shaq was the most dominant basketball player the world had seen since Wilt Chamberlain. Only Shaq was easily the most physically dominating force the NBA ever produced. He was like an unstoppable wrecking ball that could only be slowed (or fouled), but couldn’t be stopped. Watching Shaq play in his prime was something special. He showed an amazing amount of offensive skills with a basketball for a man of his size. He also won a few games along the way too. He won 4 NBA Championships, 1 MVP, and 3 NBA Finals MVP’s. It is also no surprise that he won Rookie of the Year as well. I personally like Shaq more than Kobe, but Kobe gets the edge because he accomplished slightly more in his career than Shaq.
8.)Kobe Bryant (Black Mamba)
Currently in his 17th NBA Season – 25.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, 4.7 assists, 45.3 FG%, 83.8 FT%
While there will only be one Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant has been the closest thing the NBA has seen since MJ retired. Kobe Bryant is as talented a scorer as the NBA has ever seen, and he has been one of the best on ball defenders in the NBA since he stormed his way into the league. And his desire to win and cutthroat attitude is unmatched. He has always cared about one thing and one thing only; winning. He has done plenty of that, winning 5 NBA Championships, 1 MVP, and 2 NBA Finals MVP’s. Another one of the more difficult decisions on this list was deciding who had a more accomplished career, Shaq or Kobe. They may hate each other and not want to sit next to each other in real life ever again, but they are forced to sit next to each other today, on this list.
7.)Oscar Robertson (The Big O)
14 NBA Seasons – 25.7 points, 7.5 rebounds, 9.5 assists, 48.5 FG%, 83.8 FT%
When it comes to the legacy of Oscar Robertson, his numbers speak for themselves. Oscar is the only player in NBA history to average a triple double for an entire season. He is also the all time leader in triple doubles with 181. That is a record that will probably never be broken. Oscar Robertson, at only 6’5″ had the most well rounded offensive game the NBA has ever seen. He is the most unfortunate soul in the history of the NBA though (him and Elgin Baylor), having played at the same time as Wilt Chamberlain and Bill Russell. If it wasn’t for them, Robertson surely would have added some more hardware to his trophy case. He still managed to win 1 NBA Championship, 1 MVP, and the Rookie of the Year.
6.)Bill Russell (Bill)
13 NBA Seasons – 15.1 points, 22.5 rebounds, 4.3 assists, 44 FG%, 56.1 FT%
Bill Russell will always be known as the ultimate winner. He was part of the Boston Celtics teams of the 1950’s and 60’s that won 11 championships in a span of 13 seasons. While he played with some great teammates over the years, he is regarded as the best defensive center of all time. He is also one of the best rebounders in the history of the game. It was mainly Russell’s intangibles, such as his leadership that made him stand out. During Russell’s era they didn’t keep track of NBA Final’s MVP’s, however after the proper research I can safely say he would have won 4 NBA Final’s MVP’s. In a time where Wilt Chamberlain dominated the NBA physically, it goes to show just how impressive Bill Russell’s Celtics reign as NBA Champions was.
5.)Larry Bird (The Hick From French Lick)
13 NBA Seasons – 24.3 points, 10 rebounds, 6.3 assists, 49.6 FG%, 88.6 FT%
Larry Bird led the Boston Celtics to 3 NBA Championships in the 1980’s. One of the most exciting times in the history of the NBA was the rivalry between Magic and Bird. Larry Bird is regarded as one the best shooters and players in NBA history. His heart and competitive spirit willed his team to victory over and over again. Bird won 3 MVP’s, 2 Finals MVP’s, and Rookie of the Year during his career. Bird had one of the most impressive all around games the NBA has ever seen. He is the only player in NBA history to have career averages of at least 20 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists. He is also probably the most underrated defender the NBA has ever seen. He possessed the unbelievable ability to shut down the opponents best offensive player, and his anticipation on the court was unmatched. Just like Magic and MJ, it is a shame Bird dealt with chronic back problems late in his career (he averaged over 20 points a game in the last season of his career), for if he hadn’t he could have added to his already stellar accomplishments.
4.)Wilt Chamberlain (Wilt The Stilt)
14 NBA Seasons – 30.1 points, 22.9 rebounds, 4.4 assists, 54 FG%, 51.1 FT%
One of the most difficult decisions I had to make on this list was Kareem vs. Wilt. It is nearly impossible to definitively state who the best center in the history of the NBA was. Wilt Chamberlain was one of the most dominant forces in NBA history. He famously holds the record for most points scored in one game (100), a record I doubt will EVER be broken. Chamberlain even averaged over 50 points for an entire season, another feat that will most likely never be accomplished (a season where he didn’t even win the NBA MVP). It’s a shame that MVP’s were usually given to a player on the best team or a member of the championship team, because no one knows how many MVP’s Wilt could have won if the award was given appropriately. Even with that obstacle, Wilt still managed 4 MVP awards, 2 NBA Championships, and 1 NBA Finals MVP. Wilt was also one of those players who burst right on to the scene, winning the Rookie of the Year award. It is difficult to place Wilt correctly on this list due to the difference of playing era and level of competition, however I guarantee if you put Wilt in the NBA today, he would still be the best center in the league (sorry Dwight). Oh yeah, and as if all those statistics aren’t impressive enough, Wilt led the NBA in total assists for an entire season!!
3.)Kareem Abdul Jabbar (Cap)
20 NBA Seasons – 24.6 points, 11.2 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 2.6 blocks, 55.9 FG%, 72.1 FT%
Kareem Abdul Jabbar was the centerpiece that the Lakers championships of the 1980’s were built around. He was part of their 5 championship titles in the 80’s. He also won a title with the Milwaukee Bucks prior to playing with the Lakers. Kareem was the league’s MVP a record breaking 6 times, he won 6 NBA Championships while being named Finals MVP twice. He was a true innovator to the game of basketball. During his career, he perfected an unstoppable move called the sky hook and it helped him become the NBA’s all time leading scorer. Kareem was a star from the second he entered the league and was named the Rookie of the Year (averaging 28.8 points and 14.4 rebounds). Out of the long list of Kareem’s accolades, I find a center shooting over 72% from the free throw line most impressive. He was an outstanding all around player, showcasing his offensive and defensive skills throughout his entire 20 year career.
2.) Earvin Johnson (Magic)
12 NBA Seasons – 19.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, 11.2 assists, 52 FG%, 84.8 FT %
As the leader of the “Showtime” Lakers, Magic Johnson reinvented the fast break. He was an innovative player who revolutionized the point guard position. At 6’9” tall, Magic was a nightmare match-up for anyone who tried to guard him. Well, they didn’t guard him they only slowed him down, sometimes. Larry Bird was his most formidable opponent , but as we all know the Lakers got the better of that rivalry. He brought power forward size and strength to the point guard position (and he even played center in an NBA Finals when necessary), and he is second all time (to Oscar Robertson) in career games with a triple double (138). It is a tragedy that Magic’s career was cut short due to his battle with HIV. Magic won 5 championships, 3 MVP, s, and 3 Final’s MVP’s in just 12 short seasons. Just like Jordan, one can only imagine what he would have accomplished if he played another 4 or 5 seasons.
1.) Michael Jordan (MJ, Air Jordan)
15 NBA Seasons – 30.1 points, 6.2 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 49.7 FG %, and 83.5 FT%
What can be said about Michael Jordan that hasn’t been said already? Michael Jordan is hands down the greatest basketball player to ever walk the face of the planet. He won 6 NBA Championships, 5 MVP’s, and 6 NBA Finals MVP’s. Jordan won the rookie of the year award, he was a one-time defensive player of the year, and regarded as the best defender at his position in the history of the NBA. One of the most impressive feats Michael ever pulled off was he was a perfect 6 for 6 in Finals appearances, and he NEVER allowed an NBA Finals series to reach a decisive 7th game. If that is not the epitome of greatness; I don’t know what is. What you also have to remember is that Jordan retired TWICE in his prime, which caused him to miss nearly five full seasons. Just imagine if he never retired and played straight through the age of 40 (where he averaged over 20 points). I think it’s fair to say he would have won at least 2 more MVP’s and 2 more titles. All others can strive to Be Like Mike, but there will always be only one Michael Jordan.
Dave Talks Sports 