41 Bleacher Report Nba Best Players of Alltime

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1. LeBron James

Power forward

Career

• 2003–2010: Cleveland Cavaliers
• 2010–2014: Miami Heat
• 2014–2018: Cleveland Cavaliers
• 2018–present: Los Angeles Lakers

LeBron James is a two-time NBA champion and three-time MVP. He has led the Cavaliers to back-to-back championships in 2016 and 2017. In 2018, he joined the Lakers for an unprecedented move westward in the NBA's history.

His jersey number (6) was retired by both Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat organizations after his third consecutive MVP award in the 2014–2015 season. 

LeBron James also holds several other records such as the most points scored in a playoff game with 73 against Boston Celtics.

Also, the highest scoring average ever with 38 points per game over his whole career, youngest player to score 30 000 points or more and fastest player to reach 20 000 assists milestone among others LeBron James is a four-time NBA Champion, three-time MVP, and eighteen-time All-Star.

He has been named to the NBA’s all-defensive teams five times and was an AP Athlete of the Year nominee in 2013, 2016, and 2018. 

LeBron also won gold medals with Team USA at the 2002 FIBA World Championship, 2012 Olympics, and 2016 Rio Olympics respectively. 

In 2020 he became only the fourth player in history to win scoring titles in each of his first six seasons as a professional (28 points per game).

Also Played For: cleveland cavaliers, school basketball

2. Shaquille O'Neal

Center

Career

• 4× NBA champion (2000–2002, 2006)
• 3× NBA Finals MVP (2000–2002)
• NBA Most Valuable Player (2000)
• 15× NBA All-Star (1993–1998, 2000–2007, 2009)
• 3× NBA All-Star Game MVP (2000, 2004, 2009)
• 8× All-NBA First Team (1998, 2000–2006)
• 2× All-NBA Second Team (1995, 1999)
• 4× All-NBA Third Team (1994, 1996, 1997, 2009)
• 3× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2000, 2001, 2003)
• NBA Rookie of the Year (1993)
• NBA All-Rookie First Team (1993)
• 2× NBA scoring champion (1995, 2000)
• 2× IBM Award (2000, 2001)
• NBA anniversary team (50th, 75th)
• No. 34 retired by Los Angeles Lakers
• No. 32 retired by Miami Heat
• Associated Press Player of the Year (1991)
• UPI Player of the Year (1991)
• Adolph Rupp Trophy (1991)
• 2× Consensus first-team All-American (1991, 1992)
• 2× SEC Player of the Year (1991, 1992)
• NCAA blocks leader (1992)
• NCAA rebounding leader (1991)
• No. 33 retired by LSU Tigers
• FIBA World Championship MVP (1994)
• USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (1994)
• McDonald's All-American Game Co-MVP (1989)
• First-team Parade All-American (1989)
• Texas Mr. Basketball (1989)

O'Neal was a dominant center in the NBA for many years. He is one of only three players to score more than 30,000 points and grab more than 1,500 rebounds in their career.

O'Neal has been involved in several controversies over the course of his playing career, including a nightclub brawl and an incident where he threw a basketball at then-teammate Kobe Bryant's head.

O'Neal retired from professional basketball in 2011 after injuries had begun to limit his playtime on the court. Since retiring from playing professionally, O'Neal has focused on becoming a television personality and entrepreneur, most notably owning two restaurants with former Magic teammate Dwight Howard.

In 2017, Shaquille O'Neal was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Shaquille O'Neal is considered one of the greatest players in NBA history. He was a four-time champion and three-time MVP.

He is also one of only five players to win both awards in the same season. O'Neal's career was cut short by injuries, but he still holds many records, including the most rebounds (22,387) and blocks (11,924).

After retirement from playing basketball, Shaq became a commentator for ESPN. In 2018 he served as an ambassador for the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), which honored him with its Ambassador of Peace award that year.

Also Played For: boston celtics, center basketball

3. Jimmy Butler

Power forward

Career

• 6× NBA All-Star (2015–2018, 2020, 2022)
• 4× All-NBA Third Team (2017, 2018, 2020, 2021)
• 5× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2014–2016, 2018, 2021)
• NBA Most Improved Player (2015)
• NBA steals leader (2021)

Butler was originally selected by the Chicago Bulls in the 2011 NBA draft. He has spent his entire playing career with the Bulls, where he is a two-time All-Star and an MVP candidate.

Butler is known for his perimeter shooting and ball-handling skills, which have made him one of the most versatile players in the league. He announced his retirement from professional basketball on May 15th, 2019 after missing most of the 2018–19 season due to injury.

Jimmy Butler is an All-Star and 5-time NBA Defensive Second Team member. As a Chicago Bull, he averaged 20 points and 10 rebounds per game while shooting 50%. He has also been named to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team five times in six seasons with the Bulls.

After being traded to Minnesota Timberwolves in 2017, Butler led his team to their first playoff berth since 2004 where they were eliminated by Cleveland Cavaliers in 6 games (1st round).

In 2018 Jimmy signed with the Philadelphia 76ers averaging 22 points and 8 assists off the bench en route to winning Rookie of The Year honors from both The Sporting News and Basketball Insiders Awards. Also, Third Team All-NBA honors from the Associated Press panel (behind Kyrie Irving & DeMar DeRozan).

On July 6th, 2019 Jimmy was traded along with Tobias Harris and two future 1sts for Kemba Walker who had just completed his fourth season with Charlotte Hornets averaging 27 PPG 7 RPG 4 APG.

It happened when he was acquired by Miami Heat making him their all-time leading scorer at 29,596 career points, not including playoff performances which would bring that total up to over 30K.

Also Played For: fantasy basketball, chicago bulls

4. De'Aaron Fox

Point guard

Career

• High school: Cypress Lakes, (Katy, Texas)
• College: Kentucky (2016–2017)
• NBA draft 2017 / Round: 1 / Pick: 5th overall
• Selected by the Sacramento Kings
• Playing career: 2017–present
• 2017–present: Sacramento Kings
• First-team All-SEC (2017), SEC All-Freshman Team (2017), SEC tournament MVP (2017), McDonald's All-American (2016)

De'Aaron Fox is a Point Guard for the Sacramento Kings in the NBA. He was born on December 20, 1997, and grew up in New Orleans, Louisiana. Fox has a listed height of 6 ft 3 inches and a weight of 185 lbs which makes him very physically fit for an elite-level basketball player.

Fox attended high school at Cypress Lakes where he averaged 24 points, 7 assists, and 5 rebounds per game as a senior before being drafted by Kentucky Wildcats in the 2016-2017 season as the first overall pick after leaving college early due to an injury crisis that threatened his eligibility for NCAA Tournament.

After impressing scouts with his play during his rookie season (2016-2017), De'Aaron signed a 2-year contract extension with Sacramento Kings worth $24 million including $18 million guaranteed on November 3rd, 2017.

Fox's tremendous shooting ability combined with great court vision make him one of the most coveted point guards currently playing in the NBA league; averaging 19 PPG (47% FG) and 4 APG while leading the team to 41 wins last year.

Also Played For: sacramento kings, kentucky basketball

5. Donovan Mitchell

Shooting guard

Career

• High school: , Canterbury School, (New Milford, Connecticut), Brewster Academy, (Wolfeboro, New Hampshire)
• College: Louisville (2015–2017)
• NBA draft 2017 / Round: 1 / Pick: 13th overall
• Selected by the Denver Nuggets
• Playing career: 2017–present
• 2017–2022: Utah Jazz
• 2022–present: Cleveland Cavaliers
• 3× NBA All-Star (2020–2022), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2018), NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion (2018), First-team All-ACC (2017)

Donovan Mitchell is a 26-year-old shooting guard for the Cleveland Cavaliers of the NBA. Mitchell was born in Elmsford, New York on September 7th, 1996, and attended Canterbury School in New Milford Connecticut before attending Brewster Academy in Wolfeboro New Hampshire.

At 22 years old, Donovan made his debut with the Utah Jazz during the 2016–17 season and quickly became one of their key players both on and off the court. 

In 2018–19 he led all guards in scoring (21 points per game) as well as assists (5.7 APG) while also averaging a career-high 2 steals per game - earning him an All-Star nomination along the way.

The Cavs acquired Donovan from Utah at the 2019 trade deadline where he has since established himself as one of their most important players both offensively and defensively - helping them to reach finals contention once again this year.

Also Played For: utah jazz, nba summer league

6. Kyrie Irving

Point guard

Career

• High school: , Montclair Kimberley Academy, (Montclair, New Jersey), St. Patrick, (Elizabeth, New Jersey)
• College: Duke (2010–2011)
• NBA draft 2011 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
• Selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers
• Playing career: 2011–present
• 2011–2017: Cleveland Cavaliers
• 2017–2019: Boston Celtics
• 2019–present: Brooklyn Nets
• NBA champion (2016), 7× NBA All-Star (2013–2015, 2017–2019, 2021), NBA All-Star Game MVP (2014), All-NBA Second Team (2019), 2× All-NBA Third Team (2015, 2021), 50–40–90 club (2021), NBA Rookie of the Year (2012), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2012), NBA Three-Point Contest champion (2013), USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (2014), FIBA World Cup MVP (2014), McDonald's All-American (2010), First-team Parade All-American (2010)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympics, : 2016 Rio de Janeiro: Team, World Cup, : 2014 Spain: Team, FIBA Americas U18 Championship, : 2010 San Antonio: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• Olympics
• : 2016 Rio de Janeiro: Team
• World Cup
• : 2014 Spain: Team
• FIBA Americas U18 Championship
• : 2010 San Antonio: Team

Kyrie Irving was born in Melbourne, Australia on March 23, 1992. After playing college basketball at Duke, he was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2013 and went on to win an NBA title with them in 2016.

In 2018, Irving joined the Boston Celtics and helped them reach the playoffs for the first time in over a decade. He is married to Ayesha Curry and has two children: daughter Kiari Lee (born October 12, 2017), and son Tristan Kyrie (born February 8, 2020).

Kyrie Irving is known for his strong shooting ability from long range as well as his Passing & Ball Handling skills off the dribble which have made him one of the most feared players in today's NBA game Kyrie Irving was selected 1st overall in the 2011 NBA draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Kyrie has played for four other teams since then, most notably with the Cavaliers and Boston Celtics where he won an NBA championship in 2016. 

Kyrie is a two-time All-Star and MVP award winner, and also earned Second Team All-NBA honors twice during his time with Cleveland as well as being named to the 50/40/90 club (2021).

Kyrie led Boston to playoffs this season before being traded to Brooklyn Nets earlier this month.

Also Played For: brooklyn nets, duke university

7. James Harden

Shooting guard

Career

• 2009–2012: Oklahoma City Thunder
• 2012–2021: Houston Rockets
• 2021–2022: Brooklyn Nets
• 2022–present: Philadelphia 76ers

James Harden is a 3-time NBA All Star and was the 2017–2018 MVP. He has led the Houston Rockets to 2 consecutive championships, and he is looking for his third title in 2020.

Harden played college basketball at Arizona State before being drafted by the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2009. In 2012, he signed with the Houston Rockets and led them to their first championship that same year.

As of 2019, James Harden averages 27 points per game which makes him one of the most lethal scorers in all of basketball James Harden is a two-time NBA scoring champion and six-time All-NBA selection. 

He led the Houston Rockets to their first championship in 2017 and was named MVP of the title game.

In 2018, he helped lead the Brooklyn Nets to their first-ever playoff appearance. James Harden's skills have earned him numerous awards, including Most Valuable Player and Sixth Man of the Year honors in 2018 and 2019 respectively.

Also Played For: nba 75th anniversary team, oklahoma city thunder

8. Jarrett Allen

Center

Career

• High school: , Round Rock (Round Rock, Texas), St. Stephen's Episcopal School, (Austin, Texas)
• College: Texas (2016–2017)
• NBA draft 2017 / Round: 1 / Pick: 22nd overall
• Selected by the Brooklyn Nets
• Playing career: 2017–present
• 2017–2021: Brooklyn Nets
• 2021–present: Cleveland Cavaliers
• NBA All-Star (2022), Third-team All-Big 12 (2017), McDonald's All-American (2016)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, FIBA Americas U18 Championship, : 2016 Chile: National team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• FIBA Americas U18 Championship
• : 2016 Chile: National team

Jarrett Allen is a 24-year-old center from San Diego, California. He was drafted by the Brooklyn Nets in 2017 and has since played for them, Toronto Raptors and now Cleveland Cavaliers.

JarrettAllen is known for his high energy play on the court and strong defense. In 2018–19 he averaged 13 points, 7 rebounds and 1 block per game while playing 39 minutes per contest. Allen will be participating in this year's NBA All Star Game in Cleveland as part of the Eastern Conference team.

Jarrett Allen is a two-time McDonald’s All American and was a third team selection to the 2017 NBA All Star game. Jarrett started his collegiate career at Texas before transferring to Iowa State for his sophomore season where he averaged 19 points, 11 rebounds and 1 block per game. 

He was drafted by the Brooklyn Nets with the 7th overall pick in the 2017 draft and has since played for Cleveland Cavaliers.

Allen is known for his athleticism, strength, rebounding skills and shotblocking ability on both sides of the ball which will be important as he progresses in his young career.

Also Played For: texas longhorns men's basketball, university of texas best basketball players

9. Stephen Curry

Point guard

Career

• High school: Charlotte Christian, (Charlotte, North Carolina)
• College: Davidson (2006–2009)
• NBA draft 2009 / Round: 1 / Pick: 7th overall
• Selected by the Golden State Warriors
• Playing career: 2009–present
• 2009–present: Golden State Warriors
• 4× NBA champion (2015, 2017, 2018, 2022), NBA Finals MVP (2022), 2× NBA Most Valuable Player (2015, 2016), 8× NBA All-Star (2014–2019, 2021, 2022), NBA All-Star Game MVP (2022), 4× All-NBA First Team (2015, 2016, 2019, 2021), 3× All-NBA Second Team (2014, 2017, 2022), All-NBA Third Team (2018), NBA Western Conference Finals MVP (2022), 2× NBA Three-Point Contest champion (2015, 2021), 2× NBA scoring champion (2016, 2021), NBA steals leader (2016), 50–40–90 club (2016), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2010), NBA 75th Anniversary Team, Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year (2022), Consensus first-team All-American (2009), Consensus second-team All-American (2008), NCAA season scoring leader (2009), 2× SoCon Player of the Year (2008, 2009), 3× First-team All-SoCon (2007–2009), No. 30 retired by Davidson Wildcats
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, FIBA World Cup, : 2010 Turkey: National team, : 2014 Spain: National team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• FIBA World Cup
• : 2010 Turkey: National team
• : 2014 Spain: National team

Stephen Curry is a professional basketball player who plays for the Golden State Warriors. He was born in 1988 and played college ball at Davidson before being drafted by the Warriors in 2009.

Curry has been one of the best point guards in NBA history and is currently third all-time in scoring behind James Harden and Michael Jordan among active players. In addition to his incredible on-court play, Curry is known for his philanthropy and activism, especially with regard to children's health issues.

Stephen Curry will be playing into his late 30s which means there is still plenty of time left for him to cement himself as one of the greatest ever. Stephen Curry is a two-time NBA MVP and four-time champion. 

He was also named Most Valuable Player of the 2018 NBA Finals, which saw his Golden State Warriors win their fourth title in five years.

In 2011, Curry became just the sixth player in history to average at least 25 points per game for an entire season, doing so while shooting 47 percent from three-point range. 

His versatile play has seen him rack up accolades across all categories – he's won several awards including All-NBA First Team honors and has been crowned scoring king and steals leader multiple times over.

Also Played For: golden state warriors, davidson college

10. Wilt Chamberlain

Center

Career

• High school: Overbrook (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
• College: Kansas (1956–1958)
• NBA draft 1959 / Pick: Territorial
• Selected by the Philadelphia Warriors
• Playing career: 1958–1973
• Position: Center
• Number: 13
• Coaching career: 1973–1974
• 2× NBA champion (1967, 1972), NBA Finals MVP (1972), 4× NBA Most Valuable Player (1960, 1966–1968), 13× NBA All-Star (1960–1969, 1971–1973), NBA All-Star Game MVP (1960), 7× All-NBA First Team (1960–1962, 1964, 1966–1968), 3× All-NBA Second Team (1963, 1965, 1972), 2× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1972, 1973), NBA Rookie of the Year (1960), 7× NBA scoring champion (1960–1966), 11× NBA rebounding champion (1960–1963, 1966–1969, 1971–1973), NBA assist leader (1968), Most Points in One Game (100), Most Rebounds in One Game (55), NBA anniversary team (35th, 50th, 75th), No. 13 retired by Harlem Globetrotters, No. 13 retired by Golden State Warriors, No. 13 retired by Philadelphia 76ers, No. 13 retired by Los Angeles Lakers, NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player (1957), 2× Consensus first-team All-American (1957, 1958), First-team All-Big 7 (1957), No. 13 jersey retired by Kansas Jayhawks, Mr. Basketball USA (1955)
• Points: 31,419 (30.1 ppg)
• Rebounds: 23,924 (22.9 rpg)
• Assists: 4,643 (4.4 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006

Wilt Chamberlain is widely considered one of the greatest basketball players in history, and he is also known for his dominant play in the center position.

He was drafted by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1959 and went on to become one of their all-time greats, winning multiple MVP awards and scoring more than 30,000 points during his career.

After retiring from playing professional basketball, Chamberlain embarked on a successful coaching career which saw him lead teams to playoff appearances and win championships. Wilt Chamberlain died at the age of 63 after a lengthy battle with cancer.

Wilt Chamberlain is widely considered to be one of the greatest players in NBA history. He won multiple championships and MVP awards during his career, and was also an all-star for 13 consecutive seasons. 

Chamberlain's size and strength were legendary, as he routinely dominated opponents on both the court and in dunk contests.

Chamberlain's impact on the basketball cannot be overstated - he helped pave the way for future stars such as Michael Jordan and LeBron James.

Also Played For: los angeles lakers, nba defensive

11. Jordan Poole

Shooting guard

Career

• High school: , Rufus King (Milwaukee, Wisconsin), La Lumiere School (La Porte, Indiana)
• College: Michigan (2017–2019)
• NBA draft 2019 / Round: 1 / Pick: 28th overall
• Selected by the Golden State Warriors
• Playing career: 2019–present
• 2019–present: Golden State Warriors
• 2019–2021: →Santa Cruz Warriors
• NBA champion (2022), All-NBA G League Third Team (2021)

Poole attended La Lumiere School in Indiana before transferring to Rufus King High School in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. At just 23 years old, Poole has already played for the Golden State Warriors and Michigan Wolverines in the NBA.

Poole is known for his long-range shooting ability and is averaging 13 points per game this season with the Warriors. Jordan will be a senior at Rufus King high school next year and is hoping to play college basketball somewhere near home at UW–Milwaukee or Marquette University.

Jordan Poole was drafted by the Golden State Warriors in the 2019 NBA draft. Jordan is a forward and played collegiately for Michigan. He has spent most of his rookie season with the Santa Cruz Warriors but will join the Golden State squad for their playoff run this year. 

Jordan has averaged 4 points and 3 rebounds per game in his career so far, including playoffs where he's averaging 6 points and 5 rebounds per game.

Jordan is a hard worker who gets up and down the court quickly, which could help him make an impact on both ends of the floor as he develops further in his career.

Also Played For: la lumiere school, shooting guard

12. Paul George

Small forward

Career

• High school: Knight (Palmdale, California)
• College: Fresno State (2008–2010)
• NBA draft 2010 / Round: 1 / Pick: 10th overall
• Selected by the Indiana Pacers
• Playing career: 2010–present
• 2010–2017: Indiana Pacers
• 2017–2019: Oklahoma City Thunder
• 2019–present: Los Angeles Clippers
• 7× NBA All-Star (2013, 2014, 2016–2019, 2021), All-NBA First Team (2019), 5× All-NBA Third Team (2013, 2014, 2016, 2018, 2021), 2× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2014, 2019), 2× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2013, 2016), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2011), NBA Most Improved Player (2013), NBA steals leader (2019), Second-team All-WAC (2010), No. 24 retired by Fresno State Bulldogs
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2016 Rio de Janeiro: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 2016 Rio de Janeiro: Team

Paul George was born on May 2, 1990 in Palmdale, California. He attended Knight High School and played college basketball for Fresno State before being drafted 10th overall by the Indiana Pacers in the 2010 NBA draft.

In his five seasons with the Pacers he has averaged 20 points per game, 4 rebounds per game and 3 assists per game while playing all 82 games each season. 

On July 12th of this year Paul George signed a three-year contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder worth $137 million dollars including an annual salary of $27 million over that period of time.

Paul George is one of only two players (the other being Kobe Bryant) to score at least 25,000 points and grab 5,000 rebounds in their career; achieving both feats whilst playing for the Indiana Pacers between 2010-2017 Paul George is a two-time All-Star and five-time All-NBA Third Team player. 

He was selected to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team in 2011, and went on to become one of the best players in the league over time.

In 2019, he became just the fourth player in history with 1,000 points, 500 rebounds, 100 assists and 40 steals in a season - joining Oscar Robertson (1960–1961), LeBron James (2004–2007) and Kevin Durant (2012–2015). 

George has retired from Fresno State as their second all-time leading scorer with 2,336 points. With his new team - Los Angeles Clippers - he looks to take his game even further next season.

Also Played For: indiana pacers, los angeles clippers

13. Giannis Antetokounmpo

Small forward

Career

• NBA draft 2013 / Round: 1 / Pick: 15th overall
• Selected by the Milwaukee Bucks
• Playing career: 2011–present
• 2011–2013: Filathlitikos
• 2013–present: Milwaukee Bucks
• NBA champion (2021), NBA Finals MVP (2021), 2× NBA Most Valuable Player (2019, 2020), 6× NBA All-Star (2017–2022), NBA All-Star Game MVP (2021), 4× All-NBA First Team (2019–2022), 2× All-NBA Second Team (2017, 2018), NBA Defensive Player of the Year (2020), 4× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2019–2022), NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2017), NBA Most Improved Player (2017), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2014), NBA 75th Anniversary Team, FIBA EuroBasket Top Scorer (2022), Euroscar Player of the Year (2018)

Giannis Antetokounmpo is a dominant player in the NBA. He was drafted 15th overall by the Milwaukee Bucks in 2013 and has since become one of their key players.

Giannis Antetokounmpo was born on December 6, 1994 in Athens, Greece. His father played basketball professionally and his brother alsoplays basketball professionally.

Antetokounmpo started playing professional basketball for Filathlitikos aged just 16 years old and quickly established himself as one of Europe's best young prospects.

In 2011, he was signed by the then-struggling Milwaukee Bucks and made an instant impact on the team - averaging 17 points per game over his first two seasons with them.

In 2016, he led Greece to its first ever appearance at an Olympic Games medal podium when they finished fourth overall at Rio de Janeiro – earning him selection to Team EuroBasket 2017 where he helped lead them to silver medals once again.

With averages of 27 points, 11 rebounds and four assists per game across all competitions this season (2018/19), Giannis Antetokounmpo is arguably one of the most consistent players in both European AND North American leagues – making him an extremely difficult opponent for any opposing player.

Also Played For: milwaukee bucks, eurobasket

14. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Center

Career

• High school: Power Memorial, (New York City, New York)
• College: UCLA (1966–1969)
• NBA draft 1969 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
• Selected by the Milwaukee Bucks
• Playing career: 1969–1989
• Position: Center
• Number: 33
• Coaching career: 1998–2011
• 6× NBA champion (1971, 1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, 1988), 2× NBA Finals MVP (1971, 1985), 6× NBA Most Valuable Player (1971, 1972, 1974, 1976, 1977, 1980), 19× NBA All-Star (1970–1977, 1979–1989), 10× All-NBA First Team (1971–1974, 1976, 1977, 1980, 1981, 1984, 1986), 5× All-NBA Second Team (1970, 1978, 1979, 1983, 1985), 5× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1974, 1975, 1979–1981), 6× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1970, 1971, 1976–1978, 1984), NBA Rookie of the Year (1970), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1970), 2× NBA scoring champion (1971, 1972), NBA rebounding champion (1976), 4× NBA blocks leader (1975, 1976, 1979, 1980), NBA anniversary teams (35th, 50th, 75th), No. 33 retired by Milwaukee Bucks, No. 33 retired by Los Angeles Lakers, 3× NCAA champion (1967–1969), 3× NCAA final Four Most Outstanding Player (1967–1969), 3× National college player of the year (1967–1969), 3× Consensus first-team All-American (1967–1969), No. 33 retired by UCLA Bruins, 2× Mr. Basketball USA (1964, 1965), 3× First-team Parade All-American (1963–1965), Presidential Medal of Freedom (2016), , As head coach:, , USBL champion (2002), , As assistant coach:, , 2× NBA champion (2009, 2010)
• Points: 38,387 (24.6 ppg)
• Rebounds: 17,440 (11.2 rpg)
• Assists: 5,660 (3.6 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was a dominant center in the NBA for more than two decades and is considered one of the greatest players in league history. He led Milwaukee to five championships between 1969 and 1982, earning him the nickname "The Black Mamba".

After retiring as a player, he went on to coach the Los Angeles Lakers for six seasons before moving onto other coaching roles. In 2014, he was awarded an honorary degree from UCLA after being recognized as one of its most distinguished alumni. 

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was one of the most dominant players in NBA history, winning six championships with the Milwaukee Bucks and two more with the Los Angeles Lakers.

He was an All-Star for 19 consecutive seasons, and won five MVP Awards. Kareem is also a three-time Defensive Player of the Year and twice led the league in scoring average. 

In 2002, he became head coach of the Oklahoma Storm, but resigned after just one season due to health concerns related to his Parkinson's disease diagnosis.

Also Played For: nba playoffs best player, nba 70s

15. Khris Middleton

Small forward

Career

• High school: Porter-Gaud, (Charleston, South Carolina)
• College: Texas A&M (2009–2012)
• NBA draft 2012 / Round: 2 / Pick: 39th overall
• Selected by the Detroit Pistons
• Playing career: 2012–present
• 2012–2013: Detroit Pistons
• 2012: →Fort Wayne Mad Ants
• 2013–present: Milwaukee Bucks
• NBA champion (2021), 3× NBA All-Star (2019, 2020, 2022), Second-team All-Big 12 (2011)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2020 Tokyo: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 2020 Tokyo: Team

Khris Middleton was drafted by the Detroit Pistons in 2012. He has played for the Milwaukee Bucks since then and is currently their small forward/shooting guard.

Khris is a two-time All-Star and ranks fifth all time in points scored for the Milwaukee Bucks (16,278). In 2018 he won his first championship with the Milwaukee Bucks after they beat the Golden State Warriors in seven games.

Khris Middleton is a two-time NBA All-Star and Olympic gold medalist. Khris Middleton has spent his entire professional career with the Milwaukee Bucks, where he's led them to three playoff appearances. 

Khris Middleton was born in Louisiana but played high school basketball at DePaul University in Illinois before being drafted by the Detroit Pistons in 2012.

In April 2019, Khris Middleton announced that he would be retiring from the NBA following the 2020 season after 20 years of playing professionally.

Also Played For: small forward, texas a&m university basketball

16. Nikola Jokić

Center

Career

• NBA draft 2014 / Round: 2 / Pick: 41st overall
• Selected by the Denver Nuggets
• Playing career: 2012–present
• 2012–2015: Mega Basket
• 2015–present: Denver Nuggets
• 2× NBA Most Valuable Player (2021, 2022), 4× NBA All-Star (2019–2022), 3× All-NBA First Team (2019, 2021, 2022), All-NBA Second Team (2020), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2016), 2× Serbian Player of the Year (2018, 2021), ABA League MVP (2015), ABA League Top Prospect (2015)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  Serbia, Olympic Games, : 2016 Rio de Janeiro: Team, U19 World Championship, : 2013 Czech Republic: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing  Serbia
• Olympic Games
• : 2016 Rio de Janeiro: Team
• U19 World Championship
• : 2013 Czech Republic: Team

Nikola Jokić was born on February 19, 1995, in Sombor, Serbia. He played for Mega Basket in 2012 and then moved to the Denver Nuggets in 2015. Nikola is a center who averaged 13 points and 7 rebounds per game last season with the Nuggets.

He has been selected to participate in the Rising Stars Challenge this year as part of All-Star Weekend festivities. Nikola Jokić is a Serbian professional basketball player who has been playing in the NBA since 2016. 

He was drafted 6th overall by the Boston Celtics in 2016 and won two championships with them during his first three seasons there.

In 2019, he was named MVP of the playoffs after leading his team to an improbable comeback against LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers. He also made 3 consecutive All-Star appearances from 2019-2021 and has consistently proven to be one of the best players in the league regardless of position. 

Nikola Jokić is married to Anka Mladenovic, a tennis player, and they have one child together - a daughter Milena.

Also Played For: denver nuggets, fiba basketball world cup

17. Ja Morant

Point guard

Career

• High school: Crestwood (Sumter, South Carolina)
• College: Murray State (2017–2019)
• NBA draft 2019 / Round: 1 / Pick: 2nd overall
• Selected by the Memphis Grizzlies
• Playing career: 2019–present
• 2019–present: Memphis Grizzlies
• NBA All-Star (2022), All-NBA Second Team (2022), NBA Most Improved Player (2022), NBA Rookie of the Year (2020), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2020), Consensus first-team All-American (2019), NCAA season assists leader (2019), Lute Olson Award (2019), Bob Cousy Award (2019), OVC Player of the Year (2019), 2× First-team All-OVC (2018, 2019), OVC tournament MVP (2019), OVC All-Newcomer Team (2018), No. 12 retired by Murray State Racers

Ja Morant was selected by the Memphis Grizzlies as the second overall pick in the 2019 NBA draft. Ja Morant is a point guard who played college basketball at Murray State.

He has led his team to two straight playoff appearances and is averaging 19 points, 5 assists, and 3 rebounds per game this season. 

Ja Morant is one of only six players under age 24 to average at least 20 points, five assists, and three rebounds in an NBA season so far (the others are Kyrie Irving, Donovan Mitchell, DeAndre Ayton, Kristaps Porzingis, and LeBron James).

Ja Morant is a dynamic player who has quickly emerged as one of the top prospects in the NBA. Morant was named to an All-NBA Second Team and Rookie of the Year in his first season, proving he's capable of big performances on both ends of the floor. 

He led NCAA players with 19 assists and averaged 20 points per game for Murray State this year, helping them win their second OVC Championship title in three years.

Morant will need to continue to develop his shooting if he wants to make it into the upper echelons of basketball, but his overall skills are already very impressive. 

With plenty of potential left untapped, there's no doubt that Ja Morant is destined for great things in the near future - watch out, other NBA teams.

Also Played For: memphis grizzlies, western conference

18. Jaren Jackson Jr.

Power forward

Career

• High school: , Park Tudor (Indianapolis, Indiana), La Lumiere School (La Porte, Indiana)
• College: Michigan State (2017–2018)
• NBA draft 2018 / Round: 1 / Pick: 4th overall
• Selected by the Memphis Grizzlies
• Playing career: 2018–present
• 2018–present: Memphis Grizzlies
• NBA All-Defensive First Team (2022), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2019), NBA blocks leader (2022), Third-team All-Big Ten (2018), Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year (2018), Big Ten Freshman of the Year (2018), Big Ten All-Freshman Team (2018), McDonald's All-American (2017)

Jaren Jackson Jr. is a power forward for the Memphis Grizzlies, who was drafted 4th overall in 2018. As a collegian at Michigan State, Jackson averaged 17 points and 11 rebounds per game while shooting 52% from the field and 80% from the free throw line.

He has already made an impact in his rookie season with averages of 14 points and 6 rebounds per game playing 30 minutes per contest off the bench for Memphis. At just 23 years old, there's plenty of room for growth still for Jaren Jackson Jr., who is expected to be one of the stars of this NBA season and beyond.

Selected by the Memphis Grizzlies with their first-round pick in 2018, Jaren Jackson Jr. has quickly become one of the most promising young players in the NBA. 

Averaging 16 points, 11 rebounds, and three blocks per game this season, Jackson is already a standout defender and potential All-Star candidate. 

With his high basketball IQ and athleticism, there's no doubt that Jackson will continue to develop into an elite player both on and off the court for years to come.

Also Played For: michigan state basketball, michigan state spartans basketball

19. Desmond Bane

Point guard

Career

• High school: Seton Catholic (Richmond, Indiana)
• College: TCU (2016–2020)
• NBA draft 2020 / Round: 1 / Pick: 30th overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 2020–present
• 2020–present: Memphis Grizzlies
• NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2021), NIT champion (2017), First-team All-Big 12 (2020), Second-team All-Big 12 (2019)

Desmond Bane was drafted by the Memphis Grizzlies in the first round of the 2020 NBA Draft. Desmond played college basketball at TCU and led them to consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances, including a Sweet 16 appearance in his final season with the Horned Frogs.

In 2022, Desmond will enter his fourth year with Memphis and is expected to continue contributing as one of their shooting guards. 

Desmond Bane is a 2020 draft pick of the Boston Celtics. He played college ball at Memphis, where he was named First-team All-Big 12 in 2020 and Second-team All-Big 12 in 2019.

Desmond has shown flashes of being an elite scorer but still has a lot to learn about the game. He should have plenty of time to develop his skills with the Celtics and could be a key contributor down the line.

Also Played For: nba best young players

20. Trae Young

Point guard

Career

• High school: Norman North (Norman, Oklahoma)
• College: Oklahoma (2017–2018)
• NBA draft 2018 / Round: 1 / Pick: 5th overall
• Selected by the Dallas Mavericks
• Playing career: 2018–present
• 2018–present: Atlanta Hawks
• 2× NBA All-Star (2020, 2022), All-NBA Third Team (2022), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2019), Consensus first-team All-American (2018), Wayman Tisdale Award (2018), First-team All-Big 12 (2018), Big 12 Freshman of the Year (2018), NCAA season scoring leader (2018), NCAA season assists leader (2018), McDonald's All-American (2017)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, FIBA Americas U18 Championship, : 2016 Chile: National team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• FIBA Americas U18 Championship
• : 2016 Chile: National team

Young was born on September 19, 1998 in Lubbock, Texas. Young played college basketball at Oklahoma and was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in 2018. Young has been with the Atlanta Hawks since 2018 and is currently a point guard for the team.

Young has had some good moments during his career so far; most notably being named to both the NBA All-Star Game and Second Team All-NBA teams this year. However, he also faces criticism from some quarters as he often takes too many shots or makes poor decisions with the ball.

Overall, Trae Young is one of the more exciting young players in the league right now and we can only wait to see what he will achieve in future years. Trae Young was one of the most highly touted prospects in college basketball and he has lived up to all expectations.

He is a dynamic scorer and passer who can take over games. Young led Oklahoma to an undefeated season and an NCAA Championship appearance before being drafted by the Atlanta Hawks with the seventh pick in the 2018 NBA Draft. 

Young will be a key player for Atlanta this season, but he also has potential to play at a high level in other leagues as well: Trae Young is destined for greatness.

Also Played For: atlanta hawks, oklahoma basketball

21. Joel Embiid

Center

Career

• High school: , Montverde Academy, (Montverde, Florida), The Rock School, (Gainesville, Florida)
• College: Kansas (2013–2014)
• NBA draft 2014 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall
• Selected by the Philadelphia 76ers
• Playing career: 2014–present
• 2014–present: Philadelphia 76ers
• 5× NBA All-Star (2018–2022), 4× All-NBA Second Team (2018, 2019, 2021, 2022), 3× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2018, 2019, 2021), NBA scoring champion (2022), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2017), Second-team All-Big 12 (2014), Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year (2014), Big 12 All-Defensive Team (2014), Big 12 All-Newcomer Team (2014)

Joel Embiid is a big man, standing at 7 feet tall and weighing 280 pounds. He played college basketball for Kansas, where he was one of the best scoring players in the NCAA.

After playing two seasons of college basketball, Joel Embiid declared himself eligible for the 2013 NBA draft. Many teams were interested in him but Philadelphia chose to take a chance on him with their first round pick (No.

In his rookie season with Philadelphia, Joel Embiid led all rookies in points scored (24.1 per game) and rebounds (10.0 per game). He also won Rookie of the Year honours while helping Philadelphia make it to the Eastern Conference Finals – their first appearance in that stage since 1983.

The following year saw even more impressive performances from Joel Embiid as he averaged 23 points, 10 rebounds and 2 blocks per game en route to being named an All-Star for the second time.

In his career and becoming only the third player ever to win Defensive Player of Year honours whilst averaging over 20 points/10 boards/2 blocks per game or higher (joining Shaquille O’Neal & Hakeem Olajuwon).

Unfortunately, injuries have been plaguing Joel Embiid throughout his career; most notably during his sophomore season when he suffered a broken orbital bone which caused him to miss significant time action. 

However, despite these niggles he has still managed to be one of the top centres in both Europe and America - never losing sight of what makes him successful: simple hard work coupled with a natural skill set.

Despite rumours linking other superstars such as LeBron James & Kevin Durant with moves away from Philly this summer [9], it seems like Joel will continue leading ‘The Process’ until retirement – proving once again just how much talent this guy possesses.

Also Played For: philadelphia 76ers, nba isolation

22. Hakeem Olajuwon

Center

Career

• High school: Muslim Teachers College, (Lagos, Nigeria)
• College: Houston (1981–1984)
• NBA draft 1984 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
• Selected by the Houston Rockets
• Playing career: 1984–2002
• Position: Center
• Number: 34
• 1984–2001: Houston Rockets
• 2001–2002: Toronto Raptors
• 2× NBA champion (1994, 1995), 2× NBA Finals MVP (1994, 1995), NBA Most Valuable Player (1994), 12× NBA All-Star (1985–1990, 1992–1997), 6× All-NBA First Team (1987–1989, 1993, 1994, 1997), 3× All-NBA Second Team (1986, 1990, 1996), 3× All-NBA Third Team (1991, 1995, 1999), 2× NBA Defensive Player of the Year (1993, 1994), 5× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1987, 1988, 1990, 1993, 1994), 4× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1985, 1991, 1996, 1997), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1985), IBM Award (1993), 2× NBA rebounding leader (1989, 1990), 3× NBA blocks leader (1990, 1991, 1993), No. 34 retired by Houston Rockets, NBA anniversary team (50th, 75th), Consensus first-team All-American (1984), NCAA rebounding leader (1984), SWC Player of the Year (1984), NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding Player (1983), No. 34 retired by Houston Cougars, Texas Sports Hall of Fame, Houston Sports Hall of Fame
• Points: 26,946 (21.8 ppg)
• Rebounds: 13,747 (11.1 rpg)
• Blocks: 3,830 (3.1 bpg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• FIBA Hall of Fame as player
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 1996 Atlanta: Team competition
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 1996 Atlanta: Team competition

Hakeem Olajuwon was one of the greatest centers in NBA history. He won five championships with the Houston Rockets and is still considered one of the best players to ever play the game.

Hakeem Olajuwon was born on January 21, 1963, in Lagos, Nigeria. After high school he attended Muslim Teachers College in Lagos before transferring to Houston where he played college basketball for the Cougars from 1981-1984.

The 1984 draft saw Olajuwon selected first overall by the then-Houston Rockets team; during his 15 seasons playing in Houston, he led them to 5 Championships (1994–95, 1996–97, 1999–2000, 2003–04). In 2002 he retired from professional basketball at age 36 after a long career spanning 15 years and 350 games.

Outside of basketball, Hakeem has been involved in humanitarian work throughout his life – most notably through Operation Smile which helps children suffering from cleft lip and palate surgery around the world receive treatment free of charge. 

Hakeem currently serves as an ambassador for Operation Smile. In 2001 Hakeem married Rebbie Chung and they have two daughters together: Aneka (born 2002) and Zahra (born 2006).

Also Played For: houston rockets, toronto raptors

23. Jalen Green

Guard

Career

• High school: , San Joaquin Memorial, (Fresno, California), Prolific Prep, (Napa, California)
• NBA draft 2021 / Round: 1 / Pick: 2nd overall
• Selected by the Houston Rockets
• Playing career: 2020–present
• Number: 0, 4
• 2020–2021: NBA G League Ignite
• 2021–present: Houston Rockets
• NBA All-Rookie First Team (2022), McDonald's All-American (2020), FIBA Under-17 World Cup MVP (2018)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, FIBA U19 World Cup, : 2019 Greece: Team, FIBA U17 World Cup, : 2018 Argentina: Team, FIBA Americas U16 Championship, : 2017 Argentina: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• FIBA U19 World Cup
• : 2019 Greece: Team
• FIBA U17 World Cup
• : 2018 Argentina: Team
• FIBA Americas U16 Championship
• : 2017 Argentina: Team

Jalen Green was selected 2nd overall in the 2021 NBA draft by the Houston Rockets. Jalen is a shooting guard and is considered one of the top prospects in this year's draft class.

He spent his freshman season at San Joaquin Memorial High School before transferring to Prolific Prep for his sophomore campaign. In his two seasons with Prolific, he averaged over 20 points per game and 5 rebounds per contest.

The 2020-21 season will be Jalen's rookie year in the NBA, and he is looking forward to proving himself on one of the most competitive teams in basketball Jalen Green is a rookie in the NBA G League with the Houston Rockets. 

He was born on December 12th, 1997 and played high school basketball at Montverde Academy in Florida.

Green scored 1,500 points during his senior year and was named MVP of the McDonald's All-American Game. After going undrafted in the 2018 NBA draft, Green joined the Rockets' G League affiliate team Ignite for their inaugural season before making.

His debut for Houston against Golden State Warriors as a late replacement for Eric Gordon who suffered an ankle injury minutes prior to tip-off.

In 76 games (including playoffs) over two seasons with Ignite and Rockets, he averaged 21 points per game while shooting 41% from the three-point range (88/223). 

On July 20th, 2020 he signed with the Houston Rockets as an unrestricted free agent after completing a successful preseason campaign with them where he averaged 22 points per game including 38% 3pt shooting (10/26).

24. Russell Westbrook

Point guard

Career

• High school: Leuzinger (Lawndale, California)
• College: UCLA (2006–2008)
• NBA draft 2008 / Round: 1 / Pick: 4th overall
• Selected by the Seattle SuperSonics
• Playing career: 2008–present
• 2008–2019: Oklahoma City Thunder
• 2019–2020: Houston Rockets
• 2020–2021: Washington Wizards
• 2021–present: Los Angeles Lakers
• NBA Most Valuable Player (2017), 9× NBA All-Star (2011–2013, 2015–2020), 2× NBA All-Star Game MVP (2015, 2016), 2× All-NBA First Team (2016, 2017), 5× All-NBA Second Team (2011–2013, 2015, 2018), 2× All-NBA Third Team (2019, 2020), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2009), 2× NBA scoring champion (2015, 2017), 3× NBA assists leader (2018, 2019, 2021), NBA 75th Anniversary Team, Third-team All-Pac-10 (2008), Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year (2008), Pac-10 All-Defensive Team (2008)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2012 London: Team competition, World Championship/World Cup, : 2010 Turkey: Team competition
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 2012 London: Team competition
• World Championship/World Cup
• : 2010 Turkey: Team competition

Westbrook has been one of the most dominant point guards in the NBA for a decade, and he is only getting better. He was drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics in 2008 and played with them until 2019.

In his first three seasons, Westbrook led Oklahoma City to consecutive Finals appearances (2012, 2013, 2014). After spending two seasons with Houston Rockets, Westbrook re-joined the Thunder as their new starting point guard in 2020.

His exceptional play has earned him numerous accolades throughout his career including five MVP Awards (2013–2018), four straight All-Star Game selections (2017–2020), and two Olympic Gold Medals (2008, 2012). Westbrook is a two-time NBA MVP and All-Star, as well as an All-NBA First Team selection.

Westbrook was drafted by the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2008 and has since played for them, signing with the Washington Wizards this offseason. 

Westbrook's game revolves around his explosiveness and speed on offense, as he can score through almost any means possible – whether it be dunked or assists to teammates.

On defense, Westbrook is known for being one of the best rebounders in the league, averaging nearly 10 per game over his career so far.

Also Played For: seattle supersonics, point guard

25. Damian Lillard

Point guard

Career

• High school: , Arroyo, (San Lorenzo, California), St. Joseph Notre Dame, (Alameda, California), Oakland, (Oakland, California)
• College: Weber State (2008–2012)
• NBA draft 2012 / Round: 1 / Pick: 6th overall
• Selected by the Portland Trail Blazers
• Playing career: 2012–present
• 2012–present: Portland Trail Blazers
• 6× NBA All-Star (2014, 2015, 2018–2021), All-NBA First Team (2018), 4× All-NBA Second Team (2016, 2019–2021), All-NBA Third Team (2014), NBA Rookie of the Year (2013), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2013), NBA Teammate of the Year (2021), NBA 75th Anniversary Team, Third-team All-American – AP, NABC (2012), 2× Big Sky Player of the Year (2010, 2012), Big Sky Freshman of the Year (2009), 3× First-team All-Big Sky (2009, 2010, 2012), No. 1 retired by Weber State Wildcats
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2020 Tokyo: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 2020 Tokyo: Team

Damian Lillard is a Point Guard for the Portland Trail Blazers in the NBA. He was born on July 15, 1990 in Oakland, California and raised there until he graduated from high school.

After graduating from high school, Lillard attended St Joseph Notre Dame but decided to leave after one year to play professionally with the Oakland Raiders of the NFL before joining the Portland Trail Blazers as a free agent in 2012.

Damian has had successful seasons with the Blazers since joining them and has been awarded 3 MVP Awards (2014-2016), 2 Defensive Player of The Year Awards (2015-2017) and 1 Sixth Man of The Year Award (2018). 

He currently plays for Portland through 2021 season where he will be 33 years old at that time Damian Lillard is a professional basketball player who has played for the Portland Trail Blazers since 2012.

He was drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2012 NBA draft and has since become one of their most consistent players, winning four All-NBA Second Team awards and two All-Star games. 

Damian Lillard is also an all-around good player, having been named to both the AP and NABC First teams as well as being Third team All American twice during his college career at Weber State University. 

In 2018 he became just the fifth player in history to average over 25 points, 5 assists, 4 rebounds per game in a season and was rewarded with his first ever All-NBA First Team nomination.

Ahead of his fourth year in the league (2020), many believe that Damian Lillard could potentially be considered one of the best players ever to play.

Also Played For: portland trail blazers, nba 2k19

26. Bill Russell

Boston Celtics

Career

• 1956–1969: Boston Celtics
• As coach:
• 1966–1969: Boston Celtics
• 1973–1977: Seattle SuperSonics
• 1987–1988: Sacramento Kings

Bill Russell was one of the greatest players in NBA history, winning 12 championships with the Boston Celtics. 

He was also a successful coach, leading the Boston Celtics to more titles than any other team he coached.

In 1966, he became head coach of the Philadelphia 76ers and led them to two consecutive Finals appearances before retiring in 1988. Bill Russell has been inducted into both the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and the National Football League Hall of Fame.

Bill Russell is considered one of the greatest NBA players of all time. He won 11 championships with the Boston Celtics and was also a five-time MVP and 12-time All-Star.

Bill Russell became an icon for civil rights when he led the Boston Celtics to victory in their historic 1966–67 season, which included a victory over segregationist Philadelphia 76ers.

After retiring as a player, Bill Russell served as head coach of both the Celtics and Seattle SuperSonics before eventually returning to coaching his alma mater, UCLA Bruins, where he remains currently coaching team today.

Also Played For: march madness

27. Magic Johnson

Los Angeles Lakers

Career

• 1979–1991, 1996: Los Angeles Lakers
• 1999–2000: Magic M7 Borås
• 2000: Magic Great Danes
• 1994: Los Angeles Lakers

Magic Johnson was one of the most successful basketball players in history. He was drafted first overall by the Los Angeles Lakers and played for them from 1979 to 1991.

Magic then spent two seasons with the Magic M7 Borås before returning to the NBA with the Lakers again. In 1996, he became head coach of the LA Clippers and led them to their only playoff appearance during his tenure as coach.

After leaving coaching, Magic returned to play for one final season with the Lakers in 2018-19 before retiring at age 70 years old later that year. Magic Johnson was an iconic figure in the world of basketball and is considered one of the greatest players to ever play the game.

He won five championships with the Los Angeles Lakers, as well as three MVP awards and twelve All-Star appearances. After retiring from playing basketball, Magic took on a number of roles within the league - most notably being head coach for both the Lakers and then later, the LA Clippers.

He also served as president of Basketball Operations for both teams. In 2019, Magic was named NBA Lifetime Achievement Award recipient and his No 32 jersey was retired by his former team, the LA Lakers.

Also Played For: michigan high school basketball

28. Michael Jordan

Chicago Bulls

Career

• High school: Emsley A. Laney, (Wilmington, North Carolina)
• College: North Carolina (1981–1984)
• NBA draft 1984 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall
• Selected by the Chicago Bulls
• Playing career: 1984–1993, 1995–1998, 2001–2003
• Position: Shooting guard
• Number: 23, 12,[b] 45
• 1984–1993,, 1995–1998: Chicago Bulls
• 2001–2003: Washington Wizards
• 6× NBA champion (1991–1993, 1996–1998), 6× NBA Finals MVP (1991–1993, 1996–1998), 5× NBA Most Valuable Player (1988, 1991, 1992, 1996, 1998), 14× NBA All-Star (1985–1993, 1996–1998, 2002, 2003), 3× NBA All-Star Game MVP (1988, 1996, 1998), 10× All-NBA First Team (1987–1993, 1996–1998), All-NBA Second Team (1985), NBA Defensive Player of the Year (1988), 9× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1988–1993, 1996–1998), NBA Rookie of the Year (1985), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1985), 10× NBA scoring champion (1987–1993, 1996–1998), 3× NBA steals leader (1988, 1990, 1993), 2× NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion (1987, 1988), No. 23 retired by Chicago Bulls, No. 23 retired by Miami Heat, 3× AP Athlete of the Year (1991–1993), Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year (1991), 2× IBM Award (1985, 1989), NBA anniversary team (50th, 75th), NCAA champion (1982), National college player of the year (1984), 2× Consensus first-team All-American (1983, 1984), ACC Player of the Year (1984), 2× First-team All-ACC (1983, 1984), ACC Rookie of the Year (1982), No. 23 retired by North Carolina Tar Heels, 2× USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (1983, 1984), McDonald's All-American (1981), First-team Parade All-American (1981), Presidential Medal of Freedom (2016)
• Points: 32,292 (30.1 ppg)
• Rebounds: 6,672 (6.2 rpg)
• Assists: 5,633 (5.3 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• FIBA Hall of Fame as player
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 1984 Los Angeles: Men's basketball, : 1992 Barcelona: Men's basketball, Tournament of the Americas, : 1992 Portland: Men's basketball, Pan American Games, : 1983 Caracas: Men's basketball
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 1984 Los Angeles: Men's basketball
• : 1992 Barcelona: Men's basketball
• Tournament of the Americas
• : 1992 Portland: Men's basketball
• Pan American Games
• : 1983 Caracas: Men's basketball

Michael Jordan is an American basketball player who played for the Chicago Bulls from 1984 to 2003. He was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the NBA three times and is one of only two players, with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, to be named MVP consecutively.

His career scoring average of 32 points per game ranks third all time behind Karl Malone and Kobe Bryant, while his total number of titles – six – places him fifth on the all-time list. 

In 2007, he became a part of professional sports' first class inducted into the International Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts alongside such legends as Wilt Chamberlain and Larry Bird.

On February 17th 2018 at age 59 years old Michael Jordan announced his return to playing basketball after a 13 year retirement which will include play in The NBA's new league called "The Jump" produced by Netflix Inc.

Also Played For: basketball, unc basketball

29. Tim Duncan

San Antonio Spurs

Career

• High school: St. Dunstan's Episcopal, (Saint Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands)
• College: Wake Forest (1993–1997)
• NBA draft 1997 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
• Selected by the San Antonio Spurs
• Playing career: 1997–2016
• Position: Power forward / Center
• Number: 21
• Coaching career: 2019–2020
• 5× NBA champion (1999, 2003, 2005, 2007, 2014), 3× NBA Finals MVP (1999, 2003, 2005), 2× NBA Most Valuable Player (2002, 2003), 15× NBA All-Star (1998, 2000–2011, 2013, 2015), NBA All-Star Game co-MVP (2000), 10× All-NBA First Team (1998–2005, 2007, 2013), 3× All-NBA Second Team (2006, 2008, 2009), 2× All-NBA Third Team (2010, 2015), 8× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1999–2003, 2005, 2007, 2008), 7× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1998, 2004, 2006, 2009, 2010, 2013, 2015), NBA Rookie of the Year (1998), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1998), NBA Teammate of the Year (2015), No. 21 retired by San Antonio Spurs, USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (2003), Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year (2003), IBM Award (2002), NBA 75th Anniversary Team, Consensus national college player of the year (1997), 2× Consensus first-team All-American (1996, 1997), Chip Hilton Player of the Year (1997), NCAA rebounding leader (1997), 3× NABC Defensive Player of the Year (1995–1997), 2× ACC Player of the Year (1996, 1997), 3× First-team All-ACC (1995–1997), No. 21 retired by Wake Forest Demon Deacons
• Points: 26,496 (19.0 ppg)
• Rebounds: 15,091 (10.8 rpg)
• Assists: 4,225 (3.0 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2017
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2004 Athens: Team, FIBA Americas Championship, : 1999 San Juan: Team, : 2003 San Juan: Team, Goodwill Games, : 1994 St. Petersburg: Team, Summer Universiade, : 1995 Fukuoka: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 2004 Athens: Team
• FIBA Americas Championship
• : 1999 San Juan: Team
• : 2003 San Juan: Team
• Goodwill Games
• : 1994 St. Petersburg: Team
• Summer Universiade
• : 1995 Fukuoka: Team

Tim Duncan is a two-time NBA champion and 14-time All-Star. He also won an Olympic gold medal in 2000 with the U.S. Men's National Team and a silver medal in 1996 with Spain's national team.

As of 2019, he ranks second all-time in scoring (27,387 points) and blocks (11,643). Duncan has served as head coach for the Spurs' Development League affiliate since the 2018–19 season. 

He was named to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame on September 8th, 2020 after completing his 21st year playing professional basketball Tim Duncan is one of the most decorated players in NBA history and was a five-time champion with San Antonio Spurs.

He won three MVPs, 15 All-Star appearances, 10 All-NBA First Team nods, and eight Defensive Player of the Year awards during his illustrious career. Tim Duncan's impact on the game cannot be overstated, as he is widely regarded as one of the greatest big men to play in NBA history.

Also Played For: san antonio spurs, 2009–10 nba season

30. Luka Dončić

Dallas Mavericks

Career

• NBA draft 2018 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall
• Selected by the Atlanta Hawks
• Playing career: 2015–present
• 2015–2018: Real Madrid
• 2018–present: Dallas Mavericks
• 3× NBA All-Star (2020–2022), 3× All-NBA First Team (2020–2022), NBA Rookie of the Year (2019), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2019), EuroLeague champion (2018), EuroLeague MVP (2018), EuroLeague Final Four MVP (2018), All-EuroLeague First Team (2018), 2× EuroLeague Rising Star (2017, 2018), EuroLeague 2010–20 All-Decade Team (2020), Euroscar Player of the Year (2019), 3× Liga ACB champion (2015, 2016, 2018), Liga ACB MVP (2018), All-Liga ACB First Team (2018), 2× ACB Best Young Player (2017, 2018), 3× ACB All-Young Players Team (2016–2018), 2× Spanish King's Cup winner (2016, 2017), 2× Trofeo Costa de Sol champion (2016, 2017), FIBA Intercontinental Cup champion (2015), EB Next Generation Tournament champion (2015), EB Next Generation Tournament MVP (2015), Slovenian Sportsman of the Year (2018)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  Slovenia, EuroBasket, : 2017 Turkey:
• Men's basketball
• Representing  Slovenia
• EuroBasket
• 2017 Turkey

Luka Dončić is a Slovenian point guard who was drafted by the Atlanta Hawks in 2018. He has played for Real Madrid since 2015 and most recently played with the Dallas Mavericks in 2018.

Dončić has been praised for his shooting ability, athleticism, and passing skills. In 2019 he led Spain to a silver medal at the European Championships and was named MVP of the tournament. 

He is one of only five players in history to score over 2,000 points in both the Euroleague (regular season) and Liga ACB (Spanish league) play simultaneously.

In 2020 he signed an extension with Dallas that will keep him there through 2023-24 seasons Luka Dončić was born in February of 1998, making him just 19 years old when he won the NBA Rookie of the Year award. 

Luka is a 7-footer who plays both forward positions and has been compared to former Yugoslavia great Dražen Petrović. 

He played for his hometown team Zagreb before being drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in 2016 and subsequently traded to the Orlando Magic.

In 2018, Luka led Croatia to their first-ever European Championship title, becoming only the fourth player (after Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Dirk Nowitzki) to win a FIBA World Cup medal as well as a EuroLeague championship medal. 

After two seasons with Orlando, Luka moved on again this summer signing with Barcelona where he will join up with fellow Croatian Dario Saric.

Also Played For: real madrid baloncesto, dallas mavericks

31. Jayson Tatum

Boston Celtics

Career

• High school: Chaminade, (Creve Coeur, Missouri)
• College: Duke (2016–2017)
• NBA draft 2017 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 2017–present
• 2017–present: Boston Celtics
• 3× NBA All-Star (2020–2022), All-NBA First Team (2022), All-NBA Third Team (2020), NBA Eastern Conference Finals MVP (2022), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2018), Third-team All-ACC (2017), ACC All-Freshman team (2017), McDonald's All-American (2016), Gatorade National Player of the Year (2016), Mr. Show-Me Basketball (2016)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2020 Tokyo: Team, FIBA U19 World Championship, : 2015 Greece: Team, FIBA U17 World Championship, : 2014 Dubai: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 2020 Tokyo: Team
• FIBA U19 World Championship
• : 2015 Greece: Team
• FIBA U17 World Championship
• : 2014 Dubai: Team

Jayson Tatum was drafted third overall by the Boston Celtics in the 2017 NBA draft. Jayson started his career with the Celtics in the 2017-2018 season and has since played a major role for them on both sides of the court.

Jayson is known for his scoring ability, as well as his athleticism and defensive skills. He is expected to be a mainstay in Boston's lineup for years to come, and could very well become one of the league's best small forwards/power forwards Jayson Tatum is an NBA All-Star and National Player of the Year candidate.

Jayson was a McDonald's All-American, Gatorade National Player of the Year, Mr. Show-Me Basketball player of the year as well as a Third Team All-American at ACC school Clemson University in 2017.  

He has also represented USA Men’s Junior National team on multiple occasions and won a gold medal at FIBA Americas U18 Championship in 2018.

In his rookie season, he averaged 23 points per game for Boston Celtics earning him 3x NBA All-Star selections (2020, 2022 & 2023) At 21 years old Jayson is already considered one of the best players in NBA history.

Also Played For: nba 2k21

32. Devin Booker

Phoenix Suns

Career

• High school: , Grandville (Grandville, Michigan), Moss Point (Moss Point, Mississippi)
• College: Kentucky (2014–2015)
• NBA draft 2015 / Round: 1 / Pick: 13th overall
• Selected by the Phoenix Suns
• Playing career: 2015–present
• 2015–present: Phoenix Suns
• 3× NBA All-Star (2020–2022), All-NBA First Team (2022), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2016), NBA Three-Point Contest champion (2018), SEC Sixth Man of the Year (2015), Second-team All-SEC (2015), SEC All-Freshmen Team (2015), McDonald's All-American (2014)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2020 Tokyo: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 2020 Tokyo: Team

Devin Booker is a shooting guard for the Phoenix Suns. He was drafted 13th overall in the 2015 NBA Draft by the Phoenix Suns and has since played for them in both the NBA and NBPA leagues.

Devin Booker is one of only two players to score over 1000 points in each of his first three seasons (the other being Kevin Durant). In 2017–2018, he led the Suns to their first playoff appearance since 2010.

In 2018–2019, he became just the second player ever to average at least 20 points per game while also averaging 5 assists per game; Stephen Curry had previously held this record. Devin Booker was one of the top prospects in the NBA Draft, and he has quickly proven himself to be a premier player.

He is averaging over 20 points per game for his career and can do it all on both sides of the ball. Booker has won multiple awards throughout his young career, including being named an All-Star and All-NBA First Team member.

Also Played For: phoenix suns

33. Bradley Beal

Washington Wizards

Career

• High school: Chaminade, (Creve Coeur, Missouri)
• College: Florida (2011–2012)
• NBA draft 2012 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall
• Selected by the Washington Wizards
• Playing career: 2012–present
• 2012–present: Washington Wizards
• 3× NBA All-Star (2018, 2019, 2021), All-NBA Third Team (2021), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2013), First-team All-SEC (2012), Gatorade National Player of the Year (2011), First-team Parade All-American (2011), McDonald's All-American (2011), Mr. Show-Me Basketball (2011), FIBA Under-17 World Cup MVP (2010)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, FIBA Americas U16 Championship, : 2009 Argentina: National team, FIBA World U17 Championship, : 2010 Hamburg: National team
• Men's basketball
• Representing  United States
• FIBA Americas U16 Championship
• : 2009 Argentina: National team
• FIBA World U17 Championship
• : 2010 Hamburg: National team

Bradley Beal is a talented shooting guard who has been playing in the NBA for six years. He was drafted by the Washington Wizards in 2012 and has since played with them continuously.

Beal is known for his excellent scoring ability, which he showcased during his time at Florida University. Bradley Beal is currently one of the best shooting guards in the league and will continue to develop over time.

Bradley Beal is a three-time NBA All-Star and first-team All-NBA selection. He was the Gatorade National Player of the Year in 2011 and was also named Mr. Show Me Basketball Male Athlete of the Year that year. 

In addition to his impressive playing resume, Bradley has been involved in community service projects off the court including working with at risk youth and participating in visits to schools as part of Share Our Strength's "No Kid Left Behind" campaign.

34. Karl-Anthony Towns

Minnesota Timberwolves

Career

• High school: St. Joseph (Metuchen, New Jersey)
• College: Kentucky (2014–2015)
• NBA draft 2015 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
• Selected by the Minnesota Timberwolves
• Playing career: 2015–present
• 2015–present: Minnesota Timberwolves
• 3× NBA All-Star (2018, 2019, 2022), 2× All-NBA Third Team (2018, 2022), NBA Rookie of the Year (2016), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2016), NBA Three-Point Contest champion (2022), Consensus second-team All-American (2015), SEC Freshman of the Year (2015), First-team All-SEC (2015), Gatorade National Player of the Year (2014), McDonald's All-American (2014), First-team Parade All-American (2014)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  Dominican Republic, Centrobasket, : 2012 Puerto Rico: National Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing  Dominican Republic
• Centrobasket
• : 2012 Puerto Rico: National Team

Karl-Anthony Towns is an American power forward and center for the Minnesota Timberwolves of the NBA. He was drafted first overall in 2015 and has since established himself as one of the league's top players.

The town is a versatile player who can play either frontcourt position, making him difficult to defend on both ends of the court. His offense is potent, averaging 22 points, 10 rebounds, and two blocks per game this season.

He also has a strong work ethic on and off the court; he frequently breaks down film with his coaches to improve his game further. 

With continued success in basketball, Karl-Anthony Towns may soon be considered one of the sport's greatest-ever talents Karl-Anthony Towns is one of the most successful young players in recent NBA history.

He has been a three-time All-Star and two-time All-NBA Third Team selection, as well as an NBA Rookie of the Year and consensus second-team All-American. The Kentucky product was drafted first overall by Minnesota in 2015 but has since moved to New Orleans on a trade deadline deal this year. 

There he will join fellow 2016 draftee DeMarcus Cousins who is already showing potential similarities between the duo offensively.

Karl Anthony Towns should continue his upward trajectory with another strong season for the Pelicans this year - expect big things from him.

Also Played For: minnesota timberwolves

35. Zion Williamson

Duke Blue Devils men's basketball

Career

• 2019–present: New Orleans Pelicans

Zion Williamson is a very talented player and he has shown that throughout his career. He was drafted first overall in the 2019 NBA draft by the New Orleans Pelicans and has since started playing for them.

Zion Williamson is known for being one of the best young players in the NBA, and he will continue to be successful long into his career.

 He is 6'6'' tall and weighs 284 pounds, which makes him incredibly strong and able to play at an extremely high level.

Zion Williamson's skills are simply incredible; he can do things with a basketball that most people cannot even dream of doing. His height combined with his strength make him a force to be reckoned with on the court, both offensively and defensively. 

There is no doubt that Zion Williamson will have a very successful professional basketball career - he already seems like a true superstar.

Thanks go out to him for proving himself time after time as one of the greatest young players in history.

Also Played For: new orleans pelicans

36. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Oklahoma City Thunder

Career

• High school: , St. Thomas More (Hamilton, Ontario), Sir Allan MacNab (Hamilton, Ontario), Hamilton Heights Christian Academy (Chattanooga, Tennessee)
• College: Kentucky (2017–2018)
• NBA draft 2018 / Round: 1 / Pick: 11th overall
• Selected by the Charlotte Hornets
• Playing career: 2018–present
• 2018–2019: Los Angeles Clippers
• 2019–present: Oklahoma City Thunder
• NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2019), Second-team All-SEC (2018), SEC All-Freshman Team (2018), SEC tournament MVP (2018)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  Canada, FIBA Americas Under-18 Championship, : 2016 Chile: National team
• Men's basketball
• Representing  Canada
• FIBA Americas Under-18 Championship
• : 2016 Chile: National team

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was born on July 12, 1998, in Toronto, Ontario. He starred at both high school and college levels before being drafted by the Charlotte Hornets in 2018.

Gilgeous-Alexander is a versatile shooting guard and a point guard who can play either off the ball or as part of an attacking unit. In his rookie season with the Hornets, he averaged 9 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists per game.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a Canadian professional basketball player for the Oklahoma City Thunder of the National Basketball Association (NBA). 

The 20-year-old was selected with the fifth overall pick in the 2018 NBA draft. Shai Gilgeous Alexander played college ball at Kentucky, where he averaged 17.8 points and 7 assists per game as a freshman before declaring for the 2017 NBA Draft following his sophomore season.

In his rookie year, Shai led all rookies in scoring (17.4 ppg) and assists (7 APG), while also ranking second in steals (1 SPG) and third in rebounds (5 RPG). 

He was an All-Rookie Second Team selection by both CBS Sports and TNT, as well as earning voting honors from Sporting News, Bleacher Report, ESPN’s Marc Stein, NBC’s Billy Kennedy, and Golf Channel’s Brandel Chamblee amongst others.

Also Played For: nba

37. Anthony Edwards

Minnesota Timberwolves

Career

• High school: , Therrell (Atlanta, Georgia), Holy Spirit Prep (Atlanta, Georgia)
• College: Georgia (2019–2020)
• NBA draft 2020 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
• Selected by the Minnesota Timberwolves
• Playing career: 2020–present
• 2020–present: Minnesota Timberwolves
• NBA All-Rookie First Team (2021), Second-team All-SEC (2020), SEC Rookie of the Year (2020), McDonald's All-American (2019)

Anthony Edwards is a talented shooting guard who was drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the 2021 NBA Draft. Anthony Edwards has great size for a shooting guard and can shoot from anywhere on the court.

Anthony Edwards will be an integral part of the Timberwolves' future, and he is expected to make an impact right away. Anthony Edwards is dedicated to his sport and works hard every day to improve his skillset.

Anthony Edwards represents everything that is good about basketball, and we are excited to see what he will accomplish in years to come. Edwards was selected with the first overall pick in the 2020 NBA draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Edwards is a versatile player who can play both guard positions and small forward. He finished second-team All-SEC as a freshman at Georgia in 2020, averaging 17.5 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists per game on 47 percent shooting from three point range.

Edwards has had an outstanding rookie season with the Timberwolves, averaging 21 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists per game while shooting 43 percent from three point range - making him one of the most consistent players in the league so far this year.

38. Darius Garland

Cleveland Cavaliers

Career

• High school: Brentwood Academy, (Brentwood, Tennessee)
• College: Vanderbilt (2018–2019)
• NBA draft 2019 / Round: 1 / Pick: 5th overall
• Selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers
• Playing career: 2019–present
• 2019–present: Cleveland Cavaliers
• NBA All-Star (2022), McDonald's All-American (2018), 3× Tennessee Mr. Basketball (2016–2018)

Darius Garland was born on January 26, 2000 in Gary, Indiana. He played high school basketball at Brentwood Academy in Tennessee and led the team to a state championship as a senior in 2018.

After graduating from high school, he decided to attend Vanderbilt University where he played for the Vanderbilt Commodores men's basketball team from 2019-2022. 

As a junior at Vanderbilt, Garland averaged 14 points per game and 4 assists while leading his team to an appearance in the NCAA Tournament where they lost to Kentucky by 2 points (65-63).

In his final season with Vanderbilt (2023), Garland averaged 16 points per game and 5 assists which earned him First Team All American honors as well as SEC Player of the Year accolades and National Player of the Year recognition from numerous publications including ESPN and Sports Illustrated . 

On June 20th, 2022, Darius Garland was drafted 10th overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers after being one of their top priorities during free agency that year.

He made his debut with the Cavs on October 17th against Philadelphia averaging 12 minutes offthe bench while recording 3 rebounds & 1 assist in 34 minutes played.

39. Cade Cunningham

Point guard

Career

• High school: , Bowie, (Arlington, Texas), Montverde Academy, (Montverde, Florida)
• College: Oklahoma State (2020–2021)
• NBA draft 2021 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
• Selected by the Detroit Pistons
• Playing career: 2021–present
• 2021–present: Detroit Pistons
• NBA All-Rookie First Team (2022), Consensus first-team All-American (2021), USBWA National Freshman of the Year (2021), NABC Freshman of the Year (2021), Sporting News Freshman of the Year (2021), Big 12 Player of the Year (2021), First-team All-Big 12 (2021), Big 12 Freshman of the Year (2021), Big 12 All-Newcomer Team (2021), Mr. Basketball USA (2020), Naismith Prep Player of the Year (2020), McDonald's All-American (2020)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, FIBA Under-19 World Cup, : 2019 Greece: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• FIBA Under-19 World Cup
• : 2019 Greece: Team

Cunningham was drafted first overall by the Detroit Pistons in the 2021 NBA Draft. Cunningham is a point guard and played college ball at Oklahoma State.

He has scored over 3,000 points in his career thus far and plans to continue playing in the NBA for many years to come. 

Cunningham is known for being an all-around player who can score, pass, defend and rebound effectively Cunningham was a consensus first-team All-American in 2021 and garnered USBWA National Freshman of the Year honors.

Cunningham averaged 20 points, eight rebounds, and four assists per game as a freshman for the Detroit Pistons. The forward has continued his success during his sophomore campaign, averaging 26 points, 10 rebounds, and three assists per contest thus far this season.

Also Played For: detroit pistons

40. Evan Mobley

Center

Career

• High school: Rancho Christian School, (Temecula, California)
• College: USC (2020–2021)
• NBA draft 2021 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall
• Selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers
• Playing career: 2021–present
• 2021–present: Cleveland Cavaliers
• NBA All-Rookie First Team (2022), Consensus second-team All-American (2021), Pac-12 Player of the Year (2021), First-team All-Pac-12 (2021), Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year (2021), Pac-12 All-Defensive Team (2021), Pac-12 Freshman of the Year (2021), Pac-12 All-Freshman Team (2021), Morgan Wootten National Player of the Year (2020), McDonald's All-American (2020)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, FIBA Under-19 World Cup, : 2019 Greece: Team, FIBA Under-17 World Cup, : 2018 Argentina: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing  United States
• FIBA Under-19 World Cup
• : 2019 Greece: Team
• FIBA Under-17 World Cup
• : 2018 Argentina: Team

Evan Mobley was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2021 NBA Draft. Evan is a power forward and played college basketball with the USC Trojans. He has appeared in 61 games for the Cavs, starting 22 of them, and averaging 10 points, 5 rebounds, 1 assists and 1 steal per game.

In 2020–21 he averaged 18 points, 11 rebounds and 2 blocks per game while shooting 47% from three-point range for the Cavaliers’ G League affiliate Canton Charge. Mobley was a consensus second-team All-American in 2021 and one of the most highly touted prospects in recent memory. 

The 6'10" forward led Oregon to consecutive Pac-12 titles as a sophomore and junior, averaging 22.9 points, 11 rebounds and 3 blocks per game during that stretch.

He was named first team all conference as a junior before being drafted by the Boston Celtics with the 25th overall pick in the 2020 draft - becoming only the third player ever from Oregon to be taken that high (joining Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum).

Also Played For: university of southern california basketball

41. Scottie Barnes

Toronto Raptors

Career

• High school: , Cardinal Newman, (West Palm Beach, Florida), NSU University School, (Fort Lauderdale, Florida), Montverde Academy, (Montverde, Florida)
• College: Florida State (2020–2021)
• NBA draft 2021 / Round: 1 / Pick: 4th overall
• Selected by the Toronto Raptors
• Playing career: 2021–present
• 2021–present: Toronto Raptors
• NBA Rookie of the Year (2022), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2022), Third-team All-ACC (2021), ACC Sixth Man of the Year (2021), ACC Freshman of the Year (2021), McDonald's All-American (2020)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, FIBA Under-19 World Cup, : 2019 Greece: Team, FIBA Under-17 World Cup, : 2018 Argentina: Team, FIBA Americas U16 Championship, : 2017 Argentina: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• FIBA Under-19 World Cup
• : 2019 Greece: Team
• FIBA Under-17 World Cup
• : 2018 Argentina: Team
• FIBA Americas U16 Championship
• : 2017 Argentina: Team

Barnes is a 21-year old power forward for the Toronto Raptors. He attended Cardinal Newman High School in West Palm Beach, Florida and then played college basketball at NSU University School and Montverde Academy.

Barnes was drafted by the Toronto Raptors with the fourth pick of the 2021 NBA draft. In his rookie season, he averaged 10 points and 5 rebounds per game while shooting 50% from three point range. 

Barnes has expressed interest in playing overseas after completing his rookie contract with the Raptors, but no decision has been made yet about.

Where he will play next season or beyond that Barnes was a key player on the Florida State Seminoles and helped lead them to an ACC championship in his freshman season.

Barnes is one of just two players in NBA history to record over 1,000 points and 500 rebounds in their rookie campaign. 

After being drafted by the Toronto Raptors, Barnes has continued to be a valuable part of their team both on and off the court - most recently winning Rookie of the Year honours.

Also Played For: florida state university basketball

Final Words

Bleacher Report Nba Best Players of Alltime is the leading online destination for basketball fans around the world. The site provides in-depth analysis and highlights on some of the best players to ever play the game, as well as up-to-date news and information on current players.