The debate about those who belong to Mount Rushmore of NBA greatness is eternal. In this post, we categorize the 10 best basketball players of all time based on impact, performance and legacy.
10. KOBEBRYANT
team: Los Angeles Lakers (1996–2016)
praise: 5x NBA Champion, 2x Final MVP, 18x All-Star, 2008 MVP
Known for his “Mamba Mentality,” Kobe’s legacy was built on a relentless work ethic, clutch performance and fierce competitiveness. He solidified his place among greats for 20 years with his 81-point game and one franchise.
9. Shaquille O’Neill
team: Magic, Lakers, heat, etc.
praise: 4x NBA Champion, 3x Final MVP, 2000 MVP
Few big men have dominated paints like Shaq. His size, agility and personality made him one of the most unstoppable fun players in the league.
8. Tim Duncan
team: San Antonio Spurs (1997–2016)
praise: 5x NBA Champion, 3x Final MVP, 2x MVP
With the nickname “Big Fundamental,” Duncan led the Spurs with gentle consistency and elite defense, becoming the biggest force ever.
7. Larry Bird
team: Boston Celtics (1979-1992)
praise: 3x NBA Champion, 3x MVP, 2x Final MVP
The bird’s sharp shooting, high IQ and fearlessness made him one of the most fierce competitors in NBA history, and elevated the Celtics Lakers rivalry to legendary status.
6. Bill Russell
team: Boston Celtics (1956-1969)
praise: 11 x NBA Champion, 5 x MVP
Russell redefines victory and pinned the most dominant dynasty in sports history with defense, rebound and unparalleled leadership on and off the court.
5. Wilt Chamberlain
team: Warriors, 76ers, Lakers
praise: 2x NBA Champion, 4x MVP, 100 Point Game
Chamberlain’s physical advantage is historic, with 50.4 ppg in the season and 100 in the game, but much of his record still remains. His legacy is one of mythical proportions.
4. Magic Johnson
team: Los Angeles Lakers (1979–1991, 1996)
praise: 5x NBA Champion, 3x Final MVP, 3x MVP
Magic, the biggest point guard in history, was amazed at his playmaking, size and leadership. He has changed the way basketball plays and sells around the world.
3. Kareem Abdul Jabber
team: Bucks, Lakers
praise: 6x NBA champion, 6x MVP, the best scorer ever (until 2023)
With his signature skyhook and an incredible longevity, Kareem dominated the league for 20 years and holds the record for most MVPs in history.
2. LeBron James
team: Cavaliers, Heat, Lakers
praise: 4x NBA champion, 4x MVP, the highest scorer ever (as of 2023)
LeBron’s all-round game, durability and basketball IQ make him the most complete player of all time. He is still active and adds to his legacy every season.
1. Michael Jordan
team: Chicago Bulls (1984–1998), Wizards (2001–2003)
praise: 6x NBA Champion, 6x Final MVP, 5x MVP
MJ is widely considered a goat. His clutch had a revolutionary impact on basketball and sports culture, with competitive fires and global impact.
Honorable mention
- Stephen Curry – Changed the game with his 3-point fire.
- Hakeem Olajuwon – Defensive and post-play maestro.
- Oscar Robertson -Original triple double machine.
- Kevin Durant – Unique scoring force with two final MVPs.
- Dirk Nowitzki – Converted the position of stretch 4 forever.
Conclusion
The debate about the great NBA players is constantly furious, and as new stars rise, they challenge the status quo. However, these ten legends (championships, records, influence) have written names in the Basketball Permanent Hall of Fame.
