Recently the Cavaliers, led by a historically great finals performance by Lebron James, won the NBA championship. This made me (among many others) wonder, "Where does this place Lebron, all-time?" I decided I would compile a list of the 10 who I feel are the best basketball players of all time.
(Honorable Mentions: Oscar Robertson, Shaquille O'Neal)
10. Hakeem Olajuwon
Yes he won his two titles while Jordan was retired, but Hakeem was incredible. He was a great shot blocker and a really good defender. Plus, he made tons of plays like these, and used the dream shake regularly.
9. Kobe Bryant
Many people dislike him (myself included). However, I can't deny he's great, and that he's the most similar player to Jordan we've ever seen. Arguably the player with the greatest work ethic ever, he continually refined his game until he didn't have any glaring weaknesses (except his shot selection at times). Many will say he piggybacked on other players for his titles, but this is untrue as he was clearly either the best/tied with the best player on those teams. 81 points in a game is legendary, and he was an amazing scorer.
8. Tim Duncan
The Big Fundamental is one of my favorite players of all time. He doesn't show much emotion, his play is considered boring by some, and the Spurs seem to be an "old-fashioned" team. However, there is no denying that Tim Duncan is the best power forward of all time, and one of the best players ever. He has anchored one of the most consistent dynasties in NBA history (in their worst season while Duncan was on the team, they won 50 games). He was the best player to follow Jordan's retirement (until someone else came along, at least).
7. Magic Johnson
Magic could guard as well as play every position on the floor. He was an excellent passer and scorer and was one of the best players in the e and one of the best of all time.
6. Larry Bird
Larry Bird is the indisputable trash talking GOAT, an incredible shooter and passer and he carried many not-so-great teams (and some great ones) to championships.
5. Lebron James
I think Lebron James is the best player of the current NBA, and will be one of the two or three best players ever when he retires. He is a freak athlete who can do everything-- pass, score, shoot (although this can be suspect), defend every position and more. Many used to make the argument that he could not carry a team to a finals. His historic finals series this year and his two other championships prove otherwise.
4. Wilt Chamberlain
Wilt Chamberlain is probably the greatest athlete ever to play in the NBA. He scored 100 points in a game and would be a freak of nature even today. Heck, there were NBA teams trying to get him to sign at age 50!
3. Bill Russell
A freak of nature in his own right, Bill Russell is one of the best defenders ever, and the winningest player ever. When guarding Wilt Chamberlain, Russell would intentionally avoid blocking him, so as to not "wake the beast," and ensure Celtics victory.
2. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Kareem is the all-time leading scorer in the NBA, a great defender, the owner of the legendary sky hook and one of the players who had the greatest longevity. He was averaging over 20 points into his forties and had six titles as well.
1. Michael Jordan
Out of all of the human beings who have played basketball, Michael Jordan is the best. A freak of nature (48 inch vertical) with an insatiable drive to win, Jordan could not be stopped. Any weaknesses he had in his game were promptly removed by Jordan himself. The greatest player in the world never stopped improving, and he is the best basketball player ever.
