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Basketball fans can discuss for hours about who the best players in the sport’s history are. Checking the NBA all time scoring list might seem like a straightforward answer - but this list offers something more. There are a lot of rankings out on the internet already and none of them is 100% right - neither is this one. The following list highlights 15 basketball legends - some of the greatest to have ever played the game - not only through their stats, but through captivating images that bring their talent and impact to life. These photos help fans discover the greatness of the players, offering an appreciation of their legacy in ways that numbers alone can’t capture.
The top 15:
15. Dirk Nowitzki
Dirk Nowitzki, also known as “Dirkules” or “The German Wunderkind” is undoubtedly a basketball legend. Throughout his entire career, Nowitzki played exclusively for the Mavs, leaving an incredible mark on the franchise's history. Nowitzki revolutionized the game with his exceptional shooting ability as a big man. His iconic “fadeaway” shot established him as one of the best shooters in NBA history. Through his close collaboration with coach and mentor Holger Geschwindner, he developed the perfect shooting technique, allowing him to score over 30,000 points during his career. His unique playing style and relentless drive made him an inspiration for future generations of basketball players.
IMAGO / ZUMA Press Wire / Ron Jenkins | Dirk Nowitzki celebrates after he hit the game-winning three-point shot with less than a second remaining against Utah Jazz.
14. Kevin Garnett
Kevin Garnett revolutionized the power forward position in a way no other player has ever done. With his unique skill set, Garnett blended the agility and versatility of a guard with the size and physicality of a forward, making him a nightmare for opponents on both ends of the court. In 2004 Kevin Garnett won the NBA MVP award playing for the Minnesota Timberwolves. Garnett’s career reached its peak in 2008 when he led the Boston Celtics to an NBA Championship and earned the prestigious Defensive Player of the Year award, further solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest to ever play the game.
IMAGO / Icon Sportswire | Kevin Garnett at the Minnesota Timberwolves media day 2002/2003.
13. Oscar Robertson
Oscar Robertson, often referred to as "The Big O," is a basketball legend and one of the most versatile NBA players of all time. Known for his ability to dominate every aspect of the game, maybe as the most complete player ever, Robertson was the first player in NBA history to average a triple-double over an entire season. His remarkable court vision, scoring ability, and rebounding made him one of the best point guards of all time, changing the way the position is played. As a 12-time All-Star and NBA MVP, Robertson's impact on the game extended far beyond the stats sheet, as he played a crucial role in reshaping free agency for NBA players through his efforts off the court. His all-around excellence places him firmly among the greatest basketball stars.
IMAGO / USA TODAY Network / Malcolm Emmons | Milwaukee Bucks guard Oscar Robertson (r) and center Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (m) in April 1971.
12. Kevin Durant
Kevin Durant is widely regarded as one of the best offensive players in NBA history. Standing at an impressive 2.11 meters, Durant possesses a rare combination of size, agility, and shooting ability that makes him unstoppable on the court. His height allows him to shoot effortlessly over defenders, while his ability to dunk and finish at the rim adds another layer of versatility to his game. Durant's offensive arsenal, which includes smooth jump shots, three-pointers, and powerful drives, has earned him a place among the all-time greats. KD has won two NBA championships with the Golden State Warriors (2017, 2018), securing the Finals MVP honors both times. He is also a four-time NBA scoring champion and a two-time Olympic gold medalist, also undermining his legacy as one of the most decorated and dominant players in basketball history.
IMAGO / UPI Photo / Carlos Avila Gonzalez | Kevin Durant goes in for a dunk in the fourth quarter against the Golden States Warriors in Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals 2016.
11. Bill Russell
Bill Russell, an undeniable basketball legend and one of the greatest athletes of all time, is often hailed as the greatest winner in any major sport. As one of the top NBA players to ever step foot on the court, Russell dominated the game defensively, revolutionizing the role of the center position with his extraordinary shot-blocking and rebounding abilities. During his time with the Boston Celtics, Russell led the team to an unmatched 11 NBA championships (the last two as a player-coach), a record that still stands today, making him the most successful basketball star of all time. Russell not only excelled as a player but also broke barriers as the first African American head coach in NBA history. His career defined by his leadership, defense, and winning mentality etched his name forever among the greatest NBA players. He won the NBA MVP award five times - no wonder the NBA Finals MVP award is named after him. Bill Russell passed away at the age of 88 in 2022.
IMAGO / Icon Sportswire | Bill Russell (r) dribbles past Oscar Robertson (l) in 1965.
10. Tim Duncan
Tim Duncan, known as "The Big Fundamental" is widely regarded as one of the best power forwards of all time. A true model of consistency and excellence. Duncan led the San Antonio Spurs to five NBA championships during his incredible career, earning Finals MVP honors three times. His skill set, which included elite footwork, exceptional basketball IQ, and a mastery of the bank shot, made him one of the most efficient NBA players in history. Though not always in the spotlight, Duncan’s quiet leadership and ability to impact both ends of the court earned him 15 All-Star selections and two NBA MVP awards. His contributions to the game go beyond numbers, as he helped redefine the power forward position and led the Spurs to one of the most successful dynasties in sports.
IMAGO / Icon Sportswire | Tim Duncan (l) holding his MVP Finals Award up in 2003.
9. Stephen Curry
Stephen Curry, widely considered the best three-point shooter in basketball history, has redefined the game with his incredible shooting range and accuracy. As the NBA's all-time leader in three-pointers made, with an astonishing 4,365 successful shots from beyond the arc, Curry has changed how the game is played, making him one of the most influential NBA players of all time. A four-time NBA champion with the Golden State Warriors, Curry’s elite playmaking and leadership earned him two NBA MVP awards and one Finals MVP. In addition to his success in the NBA, Curry also secured an Olympic gold medal at Paris 2024. His impact on the game, particularly as a three-point shooter, places him in the conversation of the GOAT of basketball.
IMAGO / Icon Sportswire / Brian Rothmüller | Stephen Curry during game four of the first round of the 2019 playoffs against the LA Clippers.
8. Wilt Chamberlain
The "Big Dipper" changed the game of basketball his own way. As one of the most dominant centers in NBA history, Chamberlain set records that still stand today, including his iconic 100-point game - a single-game scoring feat that may never be broken. Over his career, Chamberlain averaged more than 30 points per game, a rare achievement shared only with Michael Jordan, cementing his status as one of the greatest basketball stars ever. Chamberlain also holds the NBA record for the most career rebounds with 23,924, showcasing his dominance on both ends of the court. His legacy as one of the top NBA players is undeniable. Wilt Chamberlain passed away on October 12, 1999, at the age of 63, but his influence on the game and his status as one of the greatest athletes of all time continue to live on throughout basketball history.
IMAGO / USA TODAY Network / Malcolm Emmons | LA Lakers Center Wilt Chamberlain dunks against San Diego.
7. Shaquille O'Neal
Shaquille O'Neal, known simply as "Shaq," is one of the most dominant centers and basketball players in NBA history. Standing at 7'1" with an unmatched combination of size, strength, and agility, Shaq led his teams to four NBA championships, including three consecutive titles with the Los Angeles Lakers from 2000 to 2002, earning Finals MVP honors each time. His overpowering presence in the paint made him unstoppable, both offensively and defensively. In addition to his championships, Shaq won one NBA MVP award, solidifying his place among the top NBA players of all time. Shaquille O'Neal's impact on the game, both on the court and as a larger-than-life personality, ensures him the 7th place in this list.
IMAGO / Icon Sportswire | Portrait picture of Shaquille O’Neal during his time at Miami Heat.
6. Larry Bird
Larry Bird, one of the most iconic basketball players and famous athletes in NBA history, is revered for both his on-court brilliance and his impact as a manager. Bird led the Boston Celtics to three NBA championships during the 1980s, cementing his legacy as one of the top NBA players of all time. What truly sets Bird apart is his remarkable achievement of winning three consecutive NBA MVP awards, a rare feat that places him among the greatest basketball stars ever. Throughout his entire career, Bird remained loyal to one team - the Boston Celtics - where he became a franchise legend. After his playing days, Bird continued to influence the game as a successful manager and executive. His place in the conversation of the GOAT of basketball is undisputed, as he is celebrated not only for his skill and leadership but also for his contributions to the sport’s legacy.
IMAGO / Icon Sportswire | Larry Bird dribbles during the NBA season 1979/1980.
5. Kobe Bryant
Kobe Bryant, affectionately known as "The Black Mamba," is one of the most iconic and celebrated basketball stars in NBA history. A fierce competitor and five-time NBA champion, Bryant’s illustrious career includes an NBA MVP award, two Finals MVPs, 18 All-Star selections, and nine All-Defensive first-team honors. As the fourth leading scorer in NBA history, Bryant’s scoring ability, footwork, and relentless drive made him one of the top NBA players to ever play the game. Legends like Magic Johnson and Shaquille O'Neal hailed him as the greatest Laker ever, a testament to his lasting impact on the franchise. Tragically, Bryant and his daughter Gianna died in a helicopter crash on January 26, 2020. His influence on the game and his "Mamba Mentality" continue to inspire future generations of players.
IMAGO / UPI Photo | Kobe Bryant dribbles with the ball during the NBA season 2001/2002.
4. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar held the title of the NBA's all-time leading scorer for decades with an incredible 38,387 career points. Beyond his scoring, Abdul-Jabbar dominated the game, leading eight additional NBA statistical categories by the time he retired, consolidating his place among the top NBA players. Often considered the greatest center ever, his signature "skyhook" shot became one of the most unstoppable moves in basketball. Abdul-Jabbar’s career includes six MVP awards - an NBA record - and six NBA championship rings, further underscoring his legendary status. While his scoring record was recently surpassed, Abdul-Jabbar’s influence on the game, both as a player and cultural icon, ensures him the fourth place in this list of the best basketball players of all time.
IMAGO / USA TODAY Network / Manny Rubio | Milwaukee Bucks center Kareem Abdul-Jabbar against the New York Knicks in 1971.
3. Magic Johnson
Magic Johnson is widely regarded as the best point guard of all time, known for his exceptional versatility and basketball IQ. Not only did he excel at his natural position, but Johnson also played all five positions on the court, showcasing his unique ability to adapt and dominate wherever needed. Throughout his career with the Los Angeles Lakers, Magic won five NBA championship rings, earned three MVP awards, and was selected to the All-NBA first team nine times. His extraordinary court vision and leadership transformed the game and cemented his place among the greatest NBA players and basketball stars in history. Magic's influence on the sport, both on and off the court, continues to be felt today.
IMAGO / Icon Sportswire | Earvin Magic Johnson points to his teammates while dribbling.
2. LeBron James
LeBron James, the NBA's all-time scoring leader, is one of the most famous athletes in the world and continues to play at an elite level even at the age of 39. In 2023, he surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to claim the top spot on the NBA all-time scoring list, further cementing his legacy as one of the greatest basketball players in history. As four-time NBA champion and four-time MVP, LeBron has been named to the All-NBA first team 13 times, showcasing his consistency and dominance over two decades. His legacy extends beyond personal accolades, as he now plays alongside his son Bronny for the Lakers, making history in the process. As the NBA’s all-time scoring leader and one of the top NBA players ever, there is still more to come from LeBron James as he continues to add to his legendary career. He truly deserves the second place in the list of the best basketball players of all time.
IMAGO / ZUMA Press Wire | LeBron James dunks the ball during a game against the New Orleans Hornets in 2013.
1. Michael Jordan
The debate of LeBron vs. Jordan may be never ending, but when it comes to ranking the top NBA players, Michael Jordan firmly holds the No. 1 spot. Widely regarded as the GOAT of basketball, Jordan achieved the impossible by winning three consecutive NBA championships - twice. To this day, no other player has managed to replicate that level of dominance. Known for his unmatched competitiveness and clutch performances, MJ is considered the best player in NBA history. His six NBA championships, five MVP awards, and 10 scoring titles highlight his legendary career and cement his place as not only one of the greatest basketball stars but also one of the greatest athletes of all time. Jordan's influence on the game is timeless, ensuring his status as the ultimate benchmark in basketball excellence.
IMAGO / PCN Photography | Michael Jordan shoots the ball.
