46. Los Angeles Lakers Best Players of Alltime

The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the most iconic and successful franchises in professional basketball history. With a long list of championship titles, Hall-of-Fame players, and loyal fans worldwide, they have become a staple in the NBA.

From their first season as part of the National Basketball Association (NBA) in 1948 to today’s current powerhouse squad led by superstars LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the Lakers remain an elite organization with immense global appeal.

Playing at Crypto.com Arena since 1999, this historic team continues to strive for greatness both on and off the court.

1. Bob McAdoo

Center

Career

• 2× NBA champion (1982, 1985)
• NBA Most Valuable Player (1975)
• 5× NBA All-Star (1974–1978)
• All-NBA First Team (1975)
• All-NBA Second Team (1974)
• NBA Rookie of the Year (1973)
• NBA All-Rookie Team (1973)
• 3× NBA scoring champion (1974–1976)
• NBA 75th Anniversary Team
• FIBA Intercontinental Cup champion (1987)
• 2× EuroLeague champion (1987, 1988)
• EuroLeague Final Four MVP (1988)
• EuroLeague Finals Top Scorer (1988)
• 50 Greatest EuroLeague Contributors (2008)
• 2× Italian League champion (1987, 1989)
• Italian Cup winner (1987)
• Consensus first-team All-American (1972)
• First-team All-ACC (1972)
• National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) All American (1971)

Bob McAdoo was one of the most dominant centers in NBA history. He averaged 25 points and 15 rebounds per game during his career, winning three consecutive MVP Awards (1982-84).

After playing for the Braves, he went on to play for the Washington Bullets, Philadelphia 76ers, Los Angeles Lakers and Boston Celtics. He retired after a stellar 16 year career with the Lakers in 1992.

Bob McAdoo is a two time inductee into the Basketball Hall of Fame (1984, 1990) and has been voted into both the National Association of Basketball Coaches' Hall of Fame (1992) and Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall Of Fame (2018).

In 2002 he was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease but continues to make public appearances as a spokesperson for Alzheimers research initiatives. From 1975 to 1985, Bob McAdoo was one of the most successful big men in NBA history. He won two championships and was named MVP twice.

After retiring as a player, McAdoo became an assistant coach with the Miami Heat from 1995 to 2014. He is best known for helping his team win back-to-back titles in 2006 and 2007.

In addition to coaching, McAdoo continues to play in international competitions and is currently playing for Filanto Forlì in Italy’s Serie A league.

Also Played For: center basketball, los angeles clippers

2. 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

3. 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, phoenix suns

4. Glen Rice

Career

• 1989–1995: Miami Heat
• 1995–1999: Charlotte Hornets
• 1999–2000: Los Angeles Lakers
• 2000–2001: New York Knicks
• 2001–2003: Houston Rockets
• 2003–2004: Los Angeles Clippers

Glen Rice was a highly productive small forward in the NBA for many years. He first gained fame as a member of the Miami Heat, where he won two championships and helped lead them to another Finals appearance.

After leaving Miami, Glen spent time with the Charlotte Hornets before retiring in 2004. Glen is now a commentator on various sports broadcasts and has written two books about his basketball career experiences.

Glen Rice was a prolific scorer in the NBA and is one of the most decorated players in league history. He won an NBA championship with the Lakers and three All-Star games. Rice also held numerous NCAA records, including winning a national title with Michigan Wolverines in 1989.

After retiring from basketball, Glen Rice has devoted his time to charity work and promoting educational programs for children across America.

Also Played For: michigan high school basketball, miami heat

5. Eddie Jones

Career

• 3× NBA All-Star (1997, 1998, 2000)
• All-NBA Third Team (2000)
• 3× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1998–2000)
• NBA All-Rookie First Team (1995)
• NBA Rookie Challenge MVP (1995)
• NBA steals leader (2000)
• Atlantic 10 Player of the Year (1994)
• Robert V. Geasey Trophy winner (1994)

Eddie Jones was a shooting guard and small forward for the Los Angeles Lakers, Miami Heat, and Charlotte Hornets during his playing career. He averaged 12 points per game in his NBA career.

Jones is currently an assistant coach with the Australian Boomers team. Eddie Jones was born on October 20th, 1971 in Pompano Beach Florida to African American parents who played basketball professionally before he was born.

His younger brother Reggie also had a successful professional basketball career as a player-coach in Spain and South America before retiring in 2013 at the age of 42 after 16 seasons as head coach of Gran Canaria Basket Club (Gran Canaria).

Jones holds dual citizenship with Australia through his father's heritage, which helped him land coaching roles Down Under including stints with Melbourne United (2011–12) and Sydney Kings (2015).

Also Played For: 2003–04 nba season, temple university basketball

6. Lamar Odom

Career

• 1999–2003: Los Angeles Clippers
• 2003–2004: Miami Heat
• 2004–2011: Los Angeles Lakers
• 2011–2012: Dallas Mavericks
• 2012–2013: Los Angeles Clippers
• 2014: Laboral Kutxa Baskonia

Lamar Odom is a former NBA player who had a brief but eventful career. Lamar Odom was born in Queens, New York, in 1979 and played college basketball at Rhode Island before being drafted by the Clippers in 1999.

After playing for several teams over the course of his career, including the Lakers and Clippers, Lamar Odom retired from professional basketball in 2013 after two seasons with the Mavericks. 

Since retiring from professional basketball, Lamar has focused on his personal life and recently became engaged to Khloe Kardashian after dating for around two years.

In addition to his relationship status, Lamar also volunteers extensively through charities such as St Jude's Children's Research Hospital.  

The Trevor Project - both organizations that he actively supports due to their impact on helping those affected by HIV/AIDs or LGBTQ+ issues respectively. 

With continued hard work and dedication towards supporting causes he believes in, Lamar looks forward to continue making an impact both on and off of the court into the future.

7. Vlade Divac

Center

Career

• NBA draft 1989 / Round: 1 / Pick: 26th overall
• Selected by the Los Angeles Lakers
• Playing career: 1983–2005
• Position: Center
• Number: 12, 21
• 1983–1986: Sloga
• 1986–1989: Partizan
• 1989–1996: Los Angeles Lakers
• 1996–1998: Charlotte Hornets
• 1999: Crvena zvezda
• 1998–2004: Sacramento Kings
• 2004–2005: Los Angeles Lakers
• NBA All-Star (2001), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1990), No. 21 retired by Sacramento Kings, FIBA Korać Cup champion (1989), Yugoslav League champion (1987), Yugoslav Cup winner (1989), Mister Europa Player of the Year (1989), FIBA's 50 Greatest Players (1991), 50 Greatest EuroLeague Contributors (2008), Olympic Order (2016)
• Points: 13,398 (11.8 ppg)
• Rebounds: 9,326 (8.2 rpg)
• Blocks: 1,631 (1.4 bpg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• FIBA Hall of Fame as player
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  Yugoslavia, Summer Olympic Games, : 1988 Seoul: Team, FIBA World Cup, : 1990 Argentina: Team, : 1986 Spain: Team, FIBA Eurobasket, : 1989 Yugoslavia: Team, : 1991 Italy: Team, : 1987 Greece: Team, Universiade, : 1987 Zagreb: Team, FIBA U19 Basketball World Cup, : 1987 Italy: Under-19, European Championship for Cadets, : 1985 Bulgaria: Under-16, Representing FR Yugoslavia, Summer Olympic Games, : 1996 Atlanta: Team, FIBA World Cup, : 2002 Indianapolis: Team, FIBA Eurobasket, : 1995 Greece: Team, : 1999 France: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing  Yugoslavia
• Summer Olympic Games
• : 1988 Seoul: Team
• FIBA World Cup
• : 1990 Argentina: Team
• : 1986 Spain: Team
• FIBA Eurobasket
• : 1989 Yugoslavia: Team
• : 1991 Italy: Team
• : 1987 Greece: Team
• Universiade
• : 1987 Zagreb: Team
• FIBA U19 Basketball World Cup
• : 1987 Italy: Under-19
• European Championship for Cadets
• : 1985 Bulgaria: Under-16
• Representing FR Yugoslavia
• Summer Olympic Games
• : 1996 Atlanta: Team
• FIBA World Cup
• : 2002 Indianapolis: Team
• FIBA Eurobasket
• : 1995 Greece: Team
• : 1999 France: Team

Vlade Divac is a Serbian professional basketball player who has played for various clubs throughout his career including KK Partizan, the Los Angeles Lakers, and Sacramento Kings.

He was part of the senior Yugoslav national team that won bronze medals at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia and he also competed at the 2000 and 2004 Summer Olympics.

 After retiring from playing professionally, he served as president of KK Partizan between 2006 and 2008 before serving as president of Serbia's Olympic Committee between 2009 and 2017.

In 2014, he was named an honorary citizen of Belgrade following his contributions to sport in his home country over several decades Vlade Divac was a dominant center in the NBA throughout the 1990s and 2000s. 

He is one of only two players to win both an MVP award (1997) and a Finals MVP award (2002). Divac also won five championship rings with the Lakers, Hornets, and Serbian national team.

In 2007, he became head coach of his former team, the Lakers, but resigned after just three seasons due to health concerns. Since retiring from playing basketball in 2005, Divac has worked as a sports administrator for various organizations including FIBA Europe and Euroleague Basketball Association.

Also Played For: sacramento kings, nba european

8. Metta Sandiford-Artest

Small forward

Career

• High school: La Salle Academy, (Manhattan, New York)
• College: St. John's (1997–1999)
• NBA draft 1999 / Round: 1 / Pick: 16th overall
• Selected by the Chicago Bulls
• Playing career: 1999–2017
• Position: Small forward
• Number: 15, 23, 91, 93, 96, 37, 51
• Coaching career: 2017–2018
• NBA champion (2010), NBA All-Star (2004), All-NBA Third Team (2004), NBA Defensive Player of the Year (2004), 2× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2004, 2006), 2× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2003, 2009), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2000), Third-team All-American – AP, NABC (1999), Haggerty Award (1999), First-team All-Big East (1999), Second-team Parade All-American (1997), McDonald's All-American (1997)
• Points: 13,058 (13.2 ppg)
• Rebounds: 4,448 (4.5 rpg)
• Assists: 2,631 (2.7 apg)

Metta Sandiford-Artest is a retired professional basketball player who spent his entire playing career with the Chicago Bulls. Sandiford-Artest was born in Queens, New York and attended La Salle Academy before going on to play college ball for St.

John's. After being selected by the Bulls with 16th overall pick in the 1999 NBA draft, he went on to spend 11 seasons with them before retiring in 2017. 

In his final season, Sandiford-Artest served as assistant coach of the Lakers but was fired after just one month into the 2018 campaign.

Currently, he works as an ambassador for UNICEF USA and previously held roles within Nike Basketball and Vitaminwater brands Metta Sandiford-Artest is a former professional basketball player who played for the Chicago Bulls, Indiana Pacers, Sacramento Kings and Houston Rockets. 

He was named an All-Star in 2004 and 2006, won two Defensive Player of the Year Awards (2004, 2006) and was also runner-up twice (2003, 2009). After retiring from playing he became head coach of the South Bay Lakers development team.

Also Played For: chicago bulls, st. john's university

9. Adrian Dantley

Career

• High school: DeMatha Catholic, (Hyattsville, Maryland)
• College: Notre Dame (1973–1976)
• NBA draft 1976 / Round: 1 / Pick: 6th overall
• Selected by the Buffalo Braves
• Playing career: 1976–1992
• Position: Small forward
• Number: 44, 4, 45, 7
• Coaching career: 2003–2011
• 6× NBA All-Star (1980–1982, 1984–1986), 2× All-NBA Second Team (1981, 1984), NBA Comeback Player of the Year (1984), NBA Rookie of the Year (1977), NBA All-Rookie Team (1977), 2× NBA scoring champion (1981, 1984), No. 4 retired by Utah Jazz, Oscar Robertson Trophy (1976), 2× Consensus first-team All-American (1975, 1976), Mr. Basketball USA (1973), First-team Parade All-American (1973)
• Points: 23,177 (24.3 ppg)
• Rebounds: 5,455 (5.7 rpg)
• Assists: 2,830 (3.0 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, Olympic Games, : 1976 Montreal: Team competition
• Men's basketball
• Representing  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 1976 Montreal: Team competition

Adrian Dantley was a prolific scorer in the NBA for over 20 years, and is one of only two players (the other being Kareem Abdul-Jabbar) to score more than 25,000 points in his career.

Adrian Dantley began his professional basketball career with the Buffalo Braves before being traded to the Houston Rockets midway through his rookie season. 

After spending four seasons with Houston, Dantley was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks where he would spend most of his time playing for them over the next decade.

In 1992, Dantley joined forces with Michael Jordan on the Chicago Bulls and helped lead them to three consecutive championships during that period. 

Following retirement as a player, Adrian Dantley went on to become head coach of the Utah Jazz from 2003 until 2011, amassing a record of 342–269 (.553).

Also Played For: utah jazz, small forward

10. Gail Goodrich

Career

• 1965–1968: Los Angeles Lakers
• 1968–1970: Phoenix Suns
• 1970–1976: Los Angeles Lakers
• 1976–1979: New Orleans Jazz

Gail Goodrich was a shooting guard who played in the NBA for over 20 years. Gail Goodrich was one of the most popular players in Laker's history and is still highly respected by fans today.

Gail Goodrich helped lead the Lakers to five championships during his playing career, including back-to-back titles in 1971 and 1972. After retiring from basketball, Gail Goodrich went on to have a successful broadcasting career with ESPN and TNT.

In 2001, Gail Goodrich was named as one of the 50 greatest athletes of all time by Sports Illustrated magazine. Goodrich played for six different teams in a 15-year NBA career. Goodrich was an All-Star and helped the Lakers win two championships. 

After retiring from basketball, Goodrich worked as an analyst on ESPN's coverage of the NBA playoffs.

Also Played For: shooting guard

11. Dwight Howard

Power forward

Career

• High school: Southwest Atlanta Christian Academy, (Atlanta, Georgia)
• NBA draft 2004 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
• Selected by the Orlando Magic
• Playing career: 2004–present
• 2004–2012: Orlando Magic
• 2012–2013: Los Angeles Lakers
• 2013–2016: Houston Rockets
• 2016–2017: Atlanta Hawks
• 2017–2018: Charlotte Hornets
• 2018–2019: Washington Wizards
• 2019–2020: Los Angeles Lakers
• 2020–2021: Philadelphia 76ers
• 2021–2022: Los Angeles Lakers
• 2022–present: Taoyuan Leopards
• NBA champion (2020), 8× NBA All-Star (2007–2014), 5× All-NBA First Team (2008–2012), All-NBA Second Team (2014), 2× All-NBA Third Team (2007, 2013), 3× NBA Defensive Player of the Year (2009–2011), 4× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2009–2012), NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2008), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2005), 5× NBA rebounding leader (2008–2010, 2012, 2013), 2× NBA blocks leader (2009, 2010), NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion (2008), Naismith Prep Player of the Year (2004), McDonald's All-American Game Co-MVP (2004), First-team Parade All-American (2004), Mr. Georgia Basketball (2004)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2008 Beijing: Team competition, FIBA World Championship, : 2006 Japan: Team competition, FIBA Americas Championship, : 2007 Las Vegas: Team competition
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 2008 Beijing: Team competition
• FIBA World Championship
• : 2006 Japan: Team competition
• FIBA Americas Championship
• : 2007 Las Vegas: Team competition

Dwight Howard is a professional basketball player who has played for the Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Lakers, and Atlanta Hawks. He was drafted first overall in the 2004 NBA draft by the Orlando Magic and spent seven seasons with them before moving to Los Angeles in 2012.

In 2013, he joined the then-Atlanta Hawks and remains with them as of 2019. Dwight Howard's height (6 ft 10 inches) and weight (265 pounds) make him one of the most physically imposing players in basketball history. 

His skills on the court have earned him numerous awards, including five All-Star appearances, two MVP Awards, and three scoring titles over his career Dwight Howard was a dominant center in the NBA for many years and is still considered one of the best players in league history.

He led Houston to three consecutive championships from 2013-2015, while also being an All-Star multiple times and winning Defensive Player of the Year honors on two occasions. 

Howard has since left Houston for Atlanta, where he helped lead them to their first-ever title in 2017-2018 before departing for Charlotte later that year.

In 2018, Dwight signed with Washington Wizards but failed to win a championship within his three seasons there before joining Los Angeles Lakers midway through 2020.

Also Played For: orlando magic, nba 75th anniversary team

12. 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: golden state warriors, bleacher report nba

13. Jamaal Wilkes

Small forward

Career

• High school: , Ventura (Ventura, California), Santa Barbara, (Santa Barbara, California)
• College: UCLA (1971–1974)
• NBA draft 1974 / Round: 1 / Pick: 11th overall
• Selected by the Golden State Warriors
• Playing career: 1974–1985
• Position: Small forward
• Number: 41, 52
• 1974–1977: Golden State Warriors
• 1977–1985: Los Angeles Lakers
• 1985: Los Angeles Clippers
• 4× NBA champion (1975, 1980, 1982, 1985), 3× NBA All-Star (1976, 1981, 1983), 2× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1976, 1977), NBA Rookie of the Year (1975), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1975), No. 52 retired by Los Angeles Lakers, 2× NCAA champion (1972, 1973), 2× Consensus first-team All-American (1973, 1974), No. 52 retired by UCLA Bruins
• Points: 14,644 (17.7 ppg)
• Rebounds: 5,117 (6.2 rpg)
• Assists: 2,050 (2.5 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2016

Jamaal Wilkes was a highly skilled small forward who played in the NBA for ten seasons. He attended UCLA and led the Bruins to two NCAA championships in 1971 and 1973.

After being drafted by the Golden State Warriors, he spent four seasons with them before joining the Seattle SuperSonics for one season. He then moved to Boston where he played for six years before retiring in 1985 due to injury.

Jamaal Wilkes was a four-time NBA champion with the Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers. He was a three-time All-Star and two time All-Defensive Second Team selection. Jamaal also won NCAA championships with UCLA Bruins in 1972 and 1973.

At 6’7” he is one of the tallest players to ever play in the NBA and his rebounding abilities are unrivaled.

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: milwaukee bucks, nba playoffs best player

15. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope

Shooting guard

Career

• High school: Greenville (Greenville, Georgia)
• College: Georgia (2011–2013)
• NBA draft 2013 / Round: 1 / Pick: 8th overall
• Selected by the Detroit Pistons
• Playing career: 2013–present
• 2013–2017: Detroit Pistons
• 2017–2021: Los Angeles Lakers
• 2021–2022: Washington Wizards
• 2022–present: Denver Nuggets
• NBA champion (2020), SEC Player of the Year (2013), First-team All-SEC (2013), SEC All-Freshman Team (2012), McDonald's All-American (2011)

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is a 29-year-old shooting guard for the Denver Nuggets. He was drafted 8th overall by the Detroit Pistons in 2013 and has since played for them, the Memphis Grizzlies, and now the Washington Wizards.

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is known for his high scoring ability from behind the arc and has averaged 19.5 points per game across all of his NBA career so far. 

In addition to being a great shooter, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope also possesses excellent ball handling skills which allows him to create shots off of turnovers or in transition setting up teammates.

His hard work on both ends of the court has helped him cement himself as one of the most consistent players in league history and he will continue to be an important part of any team that he plays for next season.

Also Played For: denver nuggets, georgia bulldogs men's basketball

16. Pau Gasol

Power forward

Career

• NBA draft 2001 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall
• Selected by the Atlanta Hawks
• Playing career: 1998–2021
• Position: Power forward / Center
• Number: 16, 17
• 1998–2001: FC Barcelona
• 2001–2008: Memphis Grizzlies
• 2008–2014: Los Angeles Lakers
• 2014–2016: Chicago Bulls
• 2016–2019: San Antonio Spurs
• 2019: Milwaukee Bucks
• 2021: FC Barcelona
• 2× NBA champion (2009, 2010), 6× NBA All-Star (2006, 2009–2011, 2015, 2016), 2× All-NBA Second Team (2011, 2015), 2× All-NBA Third Team (2009, 2010), NBA Rookie of the Year (2002), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2002), All-EuroLeague Second Team (2001), 3× Liga ACB champion (1999, 2001, 2021), Spanish King's Cup winner (2001), Spanish King's Cup MVP (2001), ACB Finals MVP (2001), 2× FIBA Europe Player of the Year (2008, 2009), 2× Mister Europa Player of the Year (2004, 2009), 4× Euroscar Player of the Year (2008–2010, 2015), FIBA World Cup MVP (2006), FIBA World Cup Top Scorer (2014), 2× FIBA EuroBasket MVP (2009, 2015), 3× FIBA EuroBasket Top Scorer (2003, 2009, 2015)
• Points: 20,894 (17.0 ppg)
• Rebounds: 11,305 (9.2 rpg)
• Assists: 3,925 (3.2 apg)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  Spain, Summer Olympics, : 2008 Beijing: Team, : 2012 London: Team, : 2016 Rio de Janeiro: Team, World Cup, : 2006 Japan: Team, EuroBasket, : 2009 Poland: Team, : 2011 Lithuania: Team, : 2015 France: Team, : 2003 Sweden: Team, : 2007 Spain: Team, : 2001 Turkey: Team, : 2017 Turkey: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing  Spain
• Summer Olympics
• : 2008 Beijing: Team
• : 2012 London: Team
• : 2016 Rio de Janeiro: Team
• World Cup
• : 2006 Japan: Team
• EuroBasket
• : 2009 Poland: Team
• : 2011 Lithuania: Team
• : 2015 France: Team
• : 2003 Sweden: Team
• : 2007 Spain: Team
• : 2001 Turkey: Team
• : 2017 Turkey: Team

Pau Gasol is a retired professional basketball player who played in the National Basketball Association for 16 seasons. He was drafted by the Atlanta Hawks in 2001 and spent his entire career with them.

Pau Gasol is a two-time NBA champion, winning titles with the Memphis Grizzlies in 2008 and 2009 before joining the Los Angeles Lakers in 2014. He also won a championship with the Chicago Bulls in 2016. 

In 2020, Pau Gasol will join FC Barcelona as their new center fielder and leader on both sides of the ball.

Given his experience playing at such a high level, he will be an important part of Barça's bid to win La Liga and Europe's top club competition, the UEFA Champions League.

Pau Gasol is a Spanish basketball player who has played for the Milwaukee Bucks and FC Barcelona. He is a two-time NBA champion and six-time All-Star.

Pau Gasol was drafted by the Memphis Grizzlies in 2002, but he only spent one season with them before being traded to the Dallas Mavericks where he won his first championship in 2006.

 In 2008, Pau Gasol signed with the Los Angeles Lakers and helped them win three championships between 2010 and 2013, including their most recent title in 2016.

Pau Gasol announced his retirement from professional basketball after playing for Spain at the World Cup this year, winning MVP honors as a result.

Also Played For: memphis grizzlies, eurobasket

17. Clyde Lovellette

Power forward

Career

• High school: Garfield (Terre Haute, Indiana)
• College: Kansas (1949–1952)
• NBA draft 1952 / Round: 1 / Pick: 9th overall
• Selected by the Minneapolis Lakers
• Playing career: 1951–1964
• Position: Center
• Number: 4, 34, 89
• 1951–1953: Phillips 66ers
• 1953–1957: Minneapolis Lakers
• 1957–1958: Cincinnati Royals
• 1958–1962: St. Louis Hawks
• 1962–1964: Boston Celtics
• 3× NBA champion (1954, 1963, 1964), 4× NBA All-Star (1956, 1957, 1960, 1961), All-NBA Second Team (1956), No. 34 honored by Los Angeles Lakers, NCAA champion (1952), NCAA Final Four MOP (1952), Helms Foundation Player of the Year (1952), 2× Consensus first-team All-American (1951, 1952), Third-team All-American – AP (1950), NCAA season scoring leader (1952), No. 16 jersey retired by Kansas Jayhawks
• Points: 11,947 (17.0 ppg)
• Rebounds: 6,663 (9.5 rpg)
• Assists: 1,165 (1.6 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the United States, Olympic Games, : 1952 Helsinki: Team Competition
• Men's basketball
• Representing the United States
• Olympic Games
• : 1952 Helsinki: Team Competition

Clyde Lovellette was a professional basketball player who starred for the Minneapolis Lakers from 1952 to 1964. He is best known for his stellar play at center, where he averaged 20.7 points and 10.4 rebounds per game over his career.

Clyde Lovellette also represented the United States in international competition on several occasions, most notably at the 1956 Summer Olympics in Melbourne, Australia. In 2003, he was inducted into the NBA Hall of Fame alongside other greats such as Larry Bird and Magic Johnson.

Clyde Lovellette passed away on March 9th 2016 at the age of 86 after a long battle with Alzheimer's Disease Clyde Lovellette was an All-American center at Kansas who went on to play in the NBA for three different teams. He is best known for his time with the Minneapolis Lakers, where he was a 3-time champion and 4-time all-star.

2. Clyde Lovellette was born in Omaha, Nebraska, in 1923 and played college basketball at Kansas. He led the Jayhawks to their first NCAA title in 1952 and won both the Naismith Award (the most prestigious award given to a male college player) and consensus first-team All American honors that year.

After finishing his collegiate career, Clyde Lovellette joined the Boston Celtics as one of their original players.

The team made it to back-to-back championships during his tenure there before he was traded to St Louis Hawks just prior to the start of the 1964 season. 4. In total, Clyde Lovellette played in 907 games over 13 seasons with 5 different teams - averaging 17 points per game along the way.

Also Played For: atlanta hawks

18. Robert Horry

Career

• High school: Andalusia (Andalusia, Alabama)
• College: Alabama (1988–1992)
• NBA draft 1992 / Round: 1 / Pick: 11th overall
• Selected by the Houston Rockets
• Playing career: 1992–2008
• Position: Power forward / Small forward
• Number: 25, 5
• 1992–1996: Houston Rockets
• 1996–1997: Phoenix Suns
• 1997–2003: Los Angeles Lakers
• 2003–2008: San Antonio Spurs
• 7× NBA champion (1994, 1995, 2000–2002, 2005, 2007), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (1993), Second-team All-SEC (1992), Third-team All-SEC (1990), SEC All-Defensive Team (1992), Fourth-team Parade All-American (1988)
• Points: 7,715 (7.0 ppg)
• Rebounds: 5,269 (4.8 rpg)
• Assists: 2,343 (2.1 apg)

Robert Horry was a prolific power forward and small forward in the NBA for over 18 seasons. He is widely considered one of the greatest shot-blockers ever, with 10 All-Star selections to his credit.

Horry also averaged 14 points per game throughout his career, making him one of the most versatile players in NBA history. In 2008, at age 36, he announced his retirement from professional basketball following a stint with the Los Angeles Lakers.

Robert Horry currently coaches youth athletes in Maryland and remains an ambassador for both Houston Rockets and Nike Basketball teams Horry was a versatile forward who spent his entire career with the Lakers. 

He won 7 championships with the Lakers and is one of just four players to win multiple titles with two different teams.

Horry also picked up several other awards and accolades during his lengthy career, including Second-team All-NBA honors in 2003. 

After playing for San Antonio from 2008 until 2013, he returned to Los Angeles as a member of the Rockets in 2014 before retiring at the end of that season.

Also Played For: houston rockets, san antonio spurs

19. 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, oklahoma city thunder

20. Elden Campbell

Career

• High school: Morningside (Inglewood, California)
• College: Clemson (1986–1990)
• NBA draft 1990 / Round: 1 / Pick: 27th overall
• Selected by the Los Angeles Lakers
• Playing career: 1990–2005
• Position: Power forward / Center
• Number: 41, 5
• 1990–1999: Los Angeles Lakers
• 1999–2002: Charlotte Hornets
• 2002–2003: New Orleans Hornets
• 2003: Seattle SuperSonics
• 2003–2005: Detroit Pistons
• 2005: New Jersey Nets
• 2005: Detroit Pistons
• NBA champion (2004), First-team All-ACC (1990), Second-team All-ACC (1989)
• Points: 10,805 (10.3 ppg)
• Rebounds: 6,116 (5.9 rpg)
• Blocks: 1,602 (1.5 bpg)

Elden Campbell was born on July 23, 1968 in Los Angeles, California. He attended high school at Morningside (Inglewood, California). He then played college basketball for Clemson and was drafted by the Lakers in 1990.

His NBA career spanned from 1990 to 2005 with the Lakers and Philadelphia 76ers respectively. Elden is now retired from professional basketball but continues to play professionally in Europe where he currently plays for Filas Varese of Italy's Serie A1 league as a power forward/center.

Elden Campbell was a key player on the Charlotte Hornets from 1999-2002 and 2002-2003. He led the team in rebounding both seasons and helped them reach the playoffs both years. 

In 2003, he was traded to Seattle and won his only championship with them that year. After playing one season with New Jersey, Elden spent four more seasons with Detroit before retiring in 2005 due to injuries sustained during play.

Also Played For: charlotte hornets, new orleans pelicans

21. Mychal Thompson

Center

Career

• High school: Jackson (Miami, Florida)
• College: Minnesota (1974–1978)
• NBA draft 1978 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
• Selected by the Portland Trail Blazers
• Playing career: 1978–1992
• Position: Center
• Number: 43
• 1978–1986: Portland Trail Blazers
• 1986–1987: San Antonio Spurs
• 1987–1991: Los Angeles Lakers
• 1991–1992: Juvecaserta Basket
• 2× NBA champion (1987, 1988), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1979), Consensus first-team All-American (1978), Consensus second-team All-American (1977), No. 43 retired by Minnesota Golden Gophers
• Points: 12,810 (13.7 ppg)
• Rebounds: 6,951 (7.4 rpg)
• Blocks: 1,073 (1.1 bpg)

Mychal Thompson was born in Nassau, Bahamas on January 30th, 1955. He attended high school at Jackson Miami in Florida before going to Minnesota to play college basketball.

The Portland Trail Blazers drafted him first overall in the 1978 NBA draft and he played for them until 1992. Mychal is a two time All-Star player and won a championship with the Houston Rockets in 1994-1995 season.

He has since retired from playing professional basketball but still participates in charity events and speaks about his experiences as a player occasionally. Mychal Thompson was a 2-time NBA champion and 3-time All-Star.

He began his career with the Portland Trail Blazers before joining the San Antonio Spurs in 1987. In 1991, he joined the Los Angeles Lakers where he played for six seasons before retiring in 1992. 

He currently coaches youth basketball in Oregon and has also served as an assistant coach with the Golden State Warriors, Minnesota Timberwolves, Memphis Grizzlies, Dallas Mavericks, Philadelphia 76ers and Cleveland Cavaliers organizations over his 18 year coaching career.

Also Played For: portland trail blazers

22. 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: march madness, michigan state basketball

23. Jerry West

Los Angeles Lakers

Career

• High school: East Bank, (East Bank, West Virginia)
• College: West Virginia (1957–1960)
• NBA draft 1960 / Round: 1 / Pick: 2nd overall
• Selected by the Minneapolis Lakers
• Playing career: 1960–1974
• Position: Point guard
• Number: 44
• Coaching career: 1976–1979
• As player:, NBA champion (1972), NBA Finals MVP (1969), 14× NBA All-Star (1961–1974), NBA All-Star Game MVP (1972), 10× All-NBA First Team (1962–1967, 1970–1973), 2× All-NBA Second Team (1968, 1969), 4× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1970–1973), NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1969), NBA scoring champion (1970), NBA assists leader (1972), NBA anniversary team (35th, 50th, 75th), No. 44 retired by Los Angeles Lakers, NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding Player (1959), 2× Consensus first-team All-American (1959, 1960), Third-team All-American – AP, UPI (1958), 2× SoCon Player of the Year (1959, 1960), No. 44 retired by West Virginia Mountaineers, Presidential Medal of Freedom (2019), , As executive:, , 8× NBA champion (1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, 1988, 2000, 2015, 2017), 2× NBA Executive of the Year (1995, 2004)
• Points: 25,192 (27.0 ppg)
• Rebounds: 5,366 (5.8 rpg)
• Assists: 6,238 (6.7 apg)
• NBA: 145–101 (.589)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 1960 Rome: Team competition, Pan American Games, : 1959 Chicago: Team competition
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 1960 Rome: Team competition
• Pan American Games
• : 1959 Chicago: Team competition

Jerry West was a professional basketball player who is most famous for playing point guard for the Los Angeles Lakers. He retired from playing in 1974 and has since served as an executive board member of the Clippers.

Jerry West was born on May 28, 1938, in Chelyan, West Virginia, United States. At 6' 3" tall and 175 pounds (79 kilograms), he had a lengthy career as a pro basketball player and is widely considered to be one of the greatest players ever to play the game.

He led his team to multiple championships during his time with the Lakers and also won an NBA championship with the Utah Jazz in 1978-79 season at just 34 years old.

Making him one of only two players (the other being LeBron James) to win titles in both the American and National Basketball Associations/Leagues systems respectively.

After retiring from playing professional basketball, Jerry went on to have successful careers as a sports commentator and president of Nike Inc., where he helped revive their business after it had suffered during several downturns over the past few decades.

Also Played For: point guard, nba 70s

24. Andrew Bynum

Los Angeles Lakers

Career

• High school: St. Joseph (Metuchen, New Jersey)
• NBA draft 2005 / Round: 1 / Pick: 10th overall
• Selected by the Los Angeles Lakers
• Playing career: 2005–2014
• Position: Center
• Number: 17, 21
• 2005–2012: Los Angeles Lakers
• 2013–2014: Cleveland Cavaliers
• 2014: Indiana Pacers
• 2× NBA champion (2009, 2010), NBA All-Star (2012), All-NBA Second Team (2012), McDonald's All-American (2005), Third-team Parade All-American (2005)
• Points: 4,822 (11.5 ppg)
• Rebounds: 3,221 (7.7 rpg)
• Blocks: 657 (1.6 bpg)

He was born in 1987 and played for the Lakers from 2005-2014. He is a 7 foot 0 inch tall center who averaged 17 points, 10 rebounds, and 1 block per game during his career.

Bynum has had multiple surgeries on his knees which have caused him to miss time throughout his career. 

His biggest moment as a Laker came when he led them to the 2013 NBA Finals where they lost to Miami Heat 4-1 despite averaging 22 points, 13 rebounds and 2 blocks in the playoffs.

After 14 seasons with the Lakers, Bynum signed with Philadelphia 76ers in July 2018 but did not play a single game due to yet another knee surgery Andrew Bynum is a 7-foot tall center who was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2005. 

He played for the Lakers from 2005 to 2012, and then joined the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2013.

In 2014, he signed with the Indiana Pacers, where he has continued to play since then. Andrew Bynum has been named to two NBA All-Star teams and won a championship with LA in 2009 and 2010 before joining Cleveland in 2013. 

His career totals include 4,822 points (11.5 ppg), 3,221 rebounds (7.7 rpg) and 657 blocks (1 .6 bpg). 

Bynum has had several health issues over his career including a knee injury that required surgery that cost him most of the 2012–2013 season; however, he bounced back strong to help lead Cleveland to their second straight title game appearance earlier this year.

Also Played For: 2005 nba draft, 2009–10 nba season

25. Kyle Kuzma

Power forward

Career

• High school: , Bentley, (Burton, Michigan), Rise Academy, (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
• College: Utah (2014–2017)
• NBA draft 2017 / Round: 1 / Pick: 27th overall
• Selected by the Brooklyn Nets
• Playing career: 2017–present
• 2017–2021: Los Angeles Lakers
• 2021–present: Washington Wizards
• NBA champion (2020), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2018), First-team All-Pac-12 (2017)

Kyle Kuzma is a high school basketball player from Michigan who was drafted by the Washington Wizards in the first round of the 2018 NBA draft. Kyle starred for Benton High School in Flint, Michigan and helped lead them to two state championships.

He played college ball at Bentley University before being drafted by the Washington Wizards. In his rookie season with Washington, he averaged 14 points and 5 rebounds per game while playing alongside John Wall and Bradley Beal on their struggling team.

In 2019-20, Kyle improved upon his averages to 20 points and 7 rebounds per game while helping guide the Wizards to an appearance in the playoffs as a #8 seed against Philadelphia 76ers where they were eliminated after losing Game 1 92-96 (the fourteenth time they've been knocked out of contention).

As one of only three American players on an NBA playoff roster this year (along with LeBron James and Kyrie Irving), Kyle has become somewhat of a symbol for basketball in America both on and off court.

Also Played For: washington wizards, nba 2k19

26. George Mikan

Minneapolis Lakers

Career

• High school: Joliet Catholic (Joliet, Illinois)
• College: DePaul (1942–1946)
• Playing career: 1946–1954, 1956
• Position: Center
• Number: 99
• Coaching career: 1957–1958
• 5× BAA/NBA champion (1949, 1950, 1952–1954), 2× NBL champion (1947, 1948), NBL Most Valuable Player (1948), 4× NBA All-Star (1951–1954), NBA All-Star Game MVP (1953), 6× All-BAA/NBA First Team (1949–1954), 2× All-NBL First Team (1947, 1948), NBL scoring champion (1948), 3× NBA scoring champion (1949–1951), NBA rebounding leader (1953), Greatest Player of the First Half-Century (1950), NBA anniversary team (25th, 35th, 50th, 75th), No. 99 retired by Los Angeles Lakers, 2× Helms Player of the Year (1944, 1945), Sporting News Player of the Year (1945), 3× Consensus first-team All-American (1944–1946), No. 99 retired by DePaul Blue Demons, WPBT champion (1948), 2× WPBT MVP (1946, 1948), 2× All-WPBT First Team (1946, 1948)
• Points: 11,764 (22.6 ppg) (NBL / BAA / NBA), 10,156 (23.1 ppg) (BAA / NBA)
• Rebounds: 4,167 (13.4 rpg) (NBA last five seasons)
• Assists: 1,245 (2.8 apg) (BAA / NBA)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006

George Mikan was one of the greatest players in NBA history, and is often considered to be the best center ever. He started his career with the Chicago American Gears before joining the Minneapolis Lakers in 1947.

The Lakers won five championships during Mikan's tenure, including three consecutive titles from 1949 to 1951. After leaving Los Angeles, Mikan played for several other teams before retiring in 1954 at age 33. In 1957 he became head coach of DePaul University and led them to two Final Four appearances (1959 and 1960).

George Mikan died on June 1, 2005 at age 80 after a long illness Mikan was a trailblazer and one of the most influential players in NBA history. 

He helped establish the game as an international phenomenon, won five championships with the Minneapolis Lakers, and was named MVP of both the NBA All-Star Game and the National Basketball League (NBL) Finals.

Mikan's dominance on offense is still unparalleled to this day - he holds records for points scored, rebounds, assists, blocks and steals in league history. 

His influence on basketball culture can also be seen through his numerous awards and recognitions throughout his career. George Mikan will always be remembered as one of basketball's greatest legends - thanks for everything.

Also Played For: depaul basketball

27. Nick Van Exel

Career

• 1993–1998: Los Angeles Lakers
• 1998–2002: Denver Nuggets
• 2002–2003: Dallas Mavericks
• 2003–2004: Golden State Warriors
• 2004–2005: Portland Trail Blazers
• 2005–2006: San Antonio Spurs
• As coach:
• 2009–2010: Texas Southern (assistant)
• 2013–2014: Milwaukee Bucks (assistant)
• 2014–2015: Texas Legends (assistant)
• 2015–2016: Texas Legends
• 2016–2019: Memphis Grizzlies (assistant)
• 2021–present: Atlanta Hawks (assistant)

Nick Van Exel was an assistant coach for the Atlanta Hawks. He played professional basketball for the Los Angeles Lakers and Cincinnati Kings from 1993 to 2006.

Nick Van Exel is originally from Kenosha, Wisconsin and attended St Joseph's High School in Kenosha. 

After playing collegiately at Trinity Valley CC, he was drafted by the LA Lakers in the second round of the 1993 NBA draft but never played a game with them due to injury before being traded to Cincinnati midway through his rookie season.

In his six-year career, he averaged 11 points and four assists per game while shooting 42% from three-point range Nick Van Exel was a nine-time All-Star and played for the Lakers, Nuggets, Mavericks, Warriors and Spurs over a 15 year career. 

Nick Van Exel won an Olympic gold medal with the United States in 1996. He retired from professional basketball in 2003 after suffering multiple knee injuries which ended his playing days early.

In 2009 he became head coach of Texas Southern University where he led them to two NCAA tournament appearances before being hired by the Milwaukee Bucks as assistant coach in 2014.

 He has since been promoted to Assistant Coach of the Memphis Grizzlies and is currently coaching Atlanta Hawks.

Also Played For: cincinnati bearcats men's basketball

28. Dennis Schröder

Los Angeles Lakers

Career

• NBA draft 2013 / Round: 1 / Pick: 17th overall
• Selected by the Atlanta Hawks
• Playing career: 2010–present
• 2010–2013: Phantoms Braunschweig
• 2010–2012: →SG Braunschweig
• 2013–2018: Atlanta Hawks
• 2013: →Bakersfield Jam
• 2018–2020: Oklahoma City Thunder
• 2020–2021: Los Angeles Lakers
• 2021–2022: Boston Celtics
• 2022: Houston Rockets
• 2022–present: Los Angeles Lakers
• BBL Most Improved Player (2013), BBL Best German Young Player (2013)
• Medals, , EuroBasket, : 2022 Germany:
• EuroBasket
• : 2022 Germany:

Dennis Schröder is a 29-year-old German point guard who was drafted by the Atlanta Hawks in 2013. Schröder has spent most of his career with the Atlanta Hawks, appearing in over 500 games and averaging 15.8 points per game during that time.

In 2018, Schröder signed with the Los Angeles Lakers and is currently playing for them in the NBA season. Dennis Schröder's skills as a player have earned him numerous accolades over the course of his career, including an All-Star appearance and two MVP awards (2015 and 2017).

He is also considered one of the best passers in basketball history, having averaged 7 assists per game throughout his career to date. Dennis Schröder is a professional basketball player who played for the Oklahoma City Thunder and Los Angeles Lakers in the National Basketball Association (NBA).

He was drafted by the Thunder with the fifth overall pick of the 2013 NBA draft. In his rookie season, he averaged 10.7 points, 4.5 rebounds and 3 assists per game while shooting 43 percent from three-point range. 

The following year, Schröder continued to produce impressive statistics as he averaged 15 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists per game on 45 percent shooting from three-point range en route to being named MVP.

The Bakersfield Jam tournament at age 20 years old - making him one of only two players ever to win an MVP award playing in a developmental league (the other being Allen Iverson).

He sustained a torn ACL during Game 7 of their first round playoff series against Russell Westbrook's OKC Thunder in 2016 but returned midway through 2017–18season and helped lead Laker back into postseason contention before sustaining another knee injury that ended.

His season prematurely once again; however this time it was not considered career-threatening so he has since resumed training full time ahead of schedule.

Also Played For: fiba basketball world cup, nba isolation

29. Sam Perkins

Forward-center

Career

• High school: , Samuel J. Tilden, (Brooklyn, New York), Shaker, (Latham, New York)
• College: North Carolina (1980–1984)
• NBA draft 1984 / Round: 1 / Pick: 4th overall
• Selected by the Dallas Mavericks
• Playing career: 1984–2001
• Position: Power forward / Center
• Number: 41, 44, 14
• 1984–1990: Dallas Mavericks
• 1990–1993: Los Angeles Lakers
• 1993–1998: Seattle SuperSonics
• 1999–2001: Indiana Pacers
• NBA All-Rookie First Team (1985), NCAA champion (1982), 2× Consensus first-team All-American (1983, 1984), Consensus second-team All-American (1982), 3× First-team All-ACC (1982–1984), ACC tournament MVP (1981), ACC Rookie of the Year (1981), No. 41 honored by North Carolina Tar Heels, USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (1984), First-team Parade All-American (1980), McDonald's All-American (1980)
• Points: 15,324 (11.9 ppg)
• Rebounds: 7,666 (6.0 rpg)
• Blocks: 933 (0.7 bpg)
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2018
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, Olympic Games, : 1984 Los Angeles: Team competition, Pan American Games, : 1983 Caracas: Team competition[citation needed], FIBA U19 World Championship, : 1979 Salvador: Team competition[citation needed]
• Men's basketball
• Representing  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 1984 Los Angeles: Team competition
• Pan American Games
• : 1983 Caracas: Team competition[citation needed]
• FIBA U19 World Championship
• : 1979 Salvador: Team competition[citation needed]

Sam Perkins was a 6'9" forward who played in the NBA for 13 seasons. He was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in 1984 and played for them until 2001. Perkins is best known for his time with the Houston Rockets, where he won two championships.

Perkins also played for the Golden State Warriors, Atlanta Hawks, and Boston Celtics. In 2001, Perkins retired from the NBA. Perkins is currently a color commentator for the Memphis Grizzlies. Perkins has two children and lives in Memphis, Tennessee.

Perkins is a Shaker from Latham, New York. Perkins is also an ordained minister. Sam Perkins was a power forward and center for the Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Lakers, and Seattle SuperSonics during his career. 

Perkins was a key player on the UCLA Bruins teams that won back-to-back NCAA championships in 1982 and 1983.

Perkins was a two-time first-team All-American and won a national championship with UCLA in 1982. Perkins was drafted fifth overall by the Dallas Mavericks in the 1984 NBA draft. 

Perkins played for the Mavericks, Lakers, and Pacers during his career. Perkins was a key player on the United States men's basketball team that won the gold medal at the 1984 Olympic Games.

Perkins was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1996. Perkins is currently the director of player personnel for the Indiana Pacers. Perkins has written several books about his basketball career.

Also Played For: dallas mavericks, unc basketball

30. James Worthy

Small forward

Career

• High school: Ashbrook (Gastonia, North Carolina)
• College: North Carolina (1979–1982)
• NBA draft 1982 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
• Selected by the Los Angeles Lakers
• Playing career: 1982–1994
• Position: Small forward
• Number: 42
• 1982–1994: Los Angeles Lakers
• 3× NBA champion (1985, 1987, 1988), NBA Finals MVP (1988), 7× NBA All-Star (1986–1992), 2× All-NBA Third Team (1990, 1991), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1983), NBA anniversary team (50th, 75th), No. 42 retired by Los Angeles Lakers, NCAA champion (1982), NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding Player (1982), Consensus first-team All-American (1982), First-team All-ACC (1982), Second-team All-ACC (1981), ACC tournament MVP (1982), No. 52 retired by North Carolina Tar Heels, First-team Parade All-American (1979), Second-team Parade All-American (1978), McDonald's All-American (1979)
• Points: 16,320 (17.6 ppg)
• Rebounds: 4,708 (5.1 rpg)
• Assists: 2,791 (3.0 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, FIBA U19 World Championship, : 1979 Salvador: National team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• FIBA U19 World Championship
• : 1979 Salvador: National team

James Worthy was a two-time NBA MVP and a six-time All-Star. He was drafted first overall in the 1982 NBA draft by the Los Angeles Lakers. Worthy played for the Lakers for eight seasons, winning three NBA Championships.

He was also named an All-Star for six consecutive seasons. Worthy retired from the NBA in 1994. Since retirement, Worthy has worked as an analyst for NBA TV. He has also written a book about his life and career. James Worthy is currently married and has three children.

James Worthy is an ambassador for the Special Olympics. James Worthy was a three-time NBA champion with the Lakers and was an all-star for seven seasons. He was also an All-NBA Third Team selection and was a two-time All-Rookie First Team selection. 

Worthy was a two-time NCAA champion with the Tar Heels and was also a consensus first-team All-American.

He was also a two-time ACC champion and was the MVP of the ACC Tournament. Worthy was also a Parade All-American and was inducted into the North Carolina Hall of Fame in 2002.

He was retired by the Lakers in 1992 and he currently has a number 42 retired by the Lakers. James Worthy is currently an analyst for the Lakers on their television broadcasts.

Also Played For: north carolina basketball

31. Derek Fisher

Point guard

Career

• 1996–2004: Los Angeles Lakers
• 2004–2006: Golden State Warriors
• 2006–2007: Utah Jazz
• 2007–2012: Los Angeles Lakers
• 2012: Oklahoma City Thunder
• 2012: Dallas Mavericks
• 2013–2014: Oklahoma City Thunder
• As coach:
• 2014–2016: New York Knicks
• 2019–2022: Los Angeles Sparks

Derek Fisher was born on August 9, 1974 in Little Rock, Arkansas. He attended Parkview Arts and Science Magnet High School in Little Rock and played for the Lakers' academy team before entering the NBA.

Fisher made his NBA debut with the Lakers in 1996 and went on to play for the Thunder, Mavericks, Kings, and Knicks in a 17-year career. He retired in 2014 after playing for the Knicks. Fisher has since been appointed head coach of the Lakers.

He has won two championships as a player and four as a coach. Fisher was a key part of three consecutive championship teams with the Lakers from 2000-2002. 

Fisher then had a successful four-year stint with the Warriors, where he was part of two consecutive playoff appearances.

After a year with the Jazz, Fisher returned to the Lakers and helped lead them to three more championships in 2007-2012. 

Fisher then spent two years with the Thunder before moving on to the Mavericks, where he won a championship in 2013. Fisher then returned to the Lakers as the new head coach in 2014, and has led them to two playoff appearances.

Fisher will retire after the 2019-2022 season. Fisher was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2018.

Fisher is a two-time Olympic gold medalist as a player for the U.S. men's basketball team. Derek Fisher is one of the most successful and respected coaches in the history of the NBA.

32. Byron Scott

Shooting guard

Career

• High school: Morningside (Inglewood, California)
• College: Arizona State (1979–1983)
• NBA draft 1983 / Round: 1 / Pick: 4th overall
• Selected by the San Diego Clippers
• Playing career: 1983–1998
• Position: Shooting guard
• Number: 4, 00, 11
• Coaching career: 1998–2016
• As player:, 3× NBA champion (1985, 1987, 1988), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1984), FIBA EuroStar (1997), Greek Basket League champion (1998), First-team All-Pac-10 (1983), Pac-10 Freshman of the Year (1980), No. 11 jersey retired by Arizona State Sun Devils, Fourth-team Parade All-American (1979), McDonald's All-American (1979), , As coach:, , NBA Coach of the Year (2008), 2× NBA All-Star Game head coach (2002, 2008)
• Points: 15,097 (14.1 ppg)
• Rebounds: 2,987 (2.8 rpg)
• Assists: 2,729 (2.5 apg)

Byron Scott was a shooting guard who played in the NBA for over 20 years. He was a key player on the Lakers teams that won five NBA championships in the 1980s.

Scott later coached the Cavaliers to the 2016 NBA Finals, where they lost to the Golden State Warriors. He has also coached the Lakers, Clippers, and Kings. Scott is a respected coach and has been inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

He is married and has two children. Byron Scott is currently the head coach of the Cavaliers. Scott played at Arizona State University before being drafted by the Indiana Pacers in the early 1990s. He had a successful playing career, winning three NBA championships with the Pacers.

After retiring as a player, Scott took on a coaching role with the Nets, Hornets, and Cavaliers. He has also been involved in philanthropic work, working with organisations such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Scott is currently the head coach of the Lakers, who are in the midst of a disappointing season.

He remains a popular figure in the NBA, and is a regular at charity events. Scott is a highly-regarded coach, and has been praised for his ability to develop players. 

He is likely to remain in the coaching profession for some time to come. Byron Scott is one of the most successful coaches in the history of the NBA.

33. Michael Cooper

Point guard

Career

• High school: Pasadena (Pasadena, California)
• College: , Pasadena CC (1974–1976), New Mexico (1976–1978)
• NBA draft 1978 / Round: 3 / Pick: 60th overall
• Selected by the Los Angeles Lakers
• Playing career: 1978–1991
• Position: Shooting guard
• Number: 21
• Coaching career: 1994–present
• As player:, 5× NBA champion (1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, 1988), NBA Defensive Player of the Year (1987), 5× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1982, 1984, 1985, 1987, 1988), 3× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1981, 1983, 1986), Italian All-Star Game MVP (1991), First-team All-American – USBWA (1978), 2× First-team All-WAC (1977, 1978), , As coach:, , 2× WNBA champion (2001, 2002), WNBA Coach of the Year (2000), NBA D–League champion (2006)
• Points: 7,729 (8.9 ppg)
• Assists: 3,666 (4.2 apg)
• Steals: 1,033 (1.2 spg)

In 1978, Cooper was drafted by the Lakers and played for the team for six seasons. He retired from playing in 1991 and began a coaching career with the Lakers.

In 1994, he was hired as the head coach of the USC Trojans. He has led the team to two NCAA championships and has won over 300 games as head coach. Cooper is a highly successful coach and has been inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

Michael Cooper was a talented player in the NBA who won five championships with the Los Angeles Lakers. 

Cooper was also a two-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year and helped lead the Lakers to their first title in 1980. After retiring as a player, Cooper became an assistant coach with the Los Angeles Sparks.

He then moved on to coach the US national team and led them to a bronze medal at the 2012 Olympics. In 2019, Cooper became the head coach of Culver City High School.

Also Played For: big 3, big3

34. Vern Mikkelsen

Career

• High school: Askov (Askov, Minnesota)
• College: Hamline (1945–1949)
• BAA draft 1949 / Pick: Territorial
• Selected by the Minneapolis Lakers
• Playing career: 1949–1959
• Position: Power forward
• Number: 19
• 4× NBA champion (1950, 1952–1954), 6× NBA All-Star (1951–1953, 1955–1957), 4× All-NBA Second Team (1951–1953, 1955), No. 19 honored by Los Angeles Lakers
• Points: 10,063 (14.4 ppg)
• Rebounds: 5,940 (9.4 rpg)
• Assists: 1,515 (2.2 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006

Vern Mikkelsen was born on October 21, 1928 in Parlier, California. He attended high school at Askov in Askov, Minnesota and played college basketball at Hamline.

Mikkelsen was drafted by the Minneapolis Lakers in the 1949 BAA draft and played with the team for nine seasons. He was best known for his time with the Lakers and is considered one of the most iconic players in franchise history.

Mikkelsen retired from basketball in 1959 and later worked as a basketball coach. He died on November 21, 2013 at the age of 85. 

Vern Mikkelsen was a basketball player who played for the Minneapolis Lakers and Minnesota Pipers. He was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame as a player in 2006.

Vern Mikkelsen was a versatile player who could score and rebound. He is best known for his time with the Lakers, where he won four championships. Vern Mikkelsen is a retired pastor and has dedicated his life to helping others.

35. Kurt Rambis

Power forward

Career

• High school: Cupertino (Cupertino, California)
• College: Santa Clara (1976–1980)
• NBA draft 1980 / Round: 3 / Pick: 58th overall
• Selected by the New York Knicks
• Playing career: 1980–1995
• Position: Power forward
• Number: 31, 30, 18
• Coaching career: 1994–present
• As player:, 4× NBA champion (1982, 1985, 1987, 1988), Greek Cup winner (1981), WCAC Player of the Year (1980), First-team All-WCAC (1980), No. 34 retired by Santa Clara Broncos, , As assistant coach:, , 2× NBA champion (2002, 2009), , As executive:, , 3× NBA champion (2000, 2001, 2020)
• Points: 4,603 (5.2 ppg)
• Rebounds: 4,961 (5.6 rpg)
• Assists: 931 (1.1 apg)

Kurt Rambis was born on February 25, 1958, in Terre Haute, Indiana. Rambis played power forward for the New York Knicks from 1980 to 1995. Rambis became a senior basketball advisor for the Los Angeles Lakers in March 2011.

Rambis has Greek and American nationality. Rambis is 6 feet 8 inches tall and weighs 213 pounds. Rambis has coached the Timberwolves and the Lakers. Rambis is a basketball expert with over 20 years of experience. Rambis is a senior basketball advisor for the Los Angeles Lakers.

Rambis is known for his strong coaching skills. Kurt Rambis has been a coach in the NBA for over 20 years and has had a long and successful coaching career. He has been an assistant coach with the Lakers, Timberwolves, and Knicks, and has been interim head coach of the Knicks twice.

Kurt Rambis is known for his player-friendly coaching style which has helped him to build successful teams. He is a well-respected coach in the NBA and has been awarded with multiple awards, including three Coach of the Year nominations. 

Kurt Rambis is a highly-rated coach and is expected to join the Knicks full-time as their associate head coach in the near future.

36. Norm Nixon

Point guard

Career

• High school: Southwest (Macon, Georgia)
• College: Duquesne (1973–1977)
• NBA draft 1977 / Round: 1 / Pick: 22nd overall
• Selected by the Los Angeles Lakers
• Playing career: 1977–1989
• Position: Point guard
• Number: 10
• 1977–1983: Los Angeles Lakers
• 1983–1989: San Diego / Los Angeles Clippers
• 1989: Scavolini Pesaro
• 2× NBA champion (1980, 1982), 2× NBA All-Star (1982, 1985), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1978), Eastern 8 Player of the Year (1977), No. 10 retired by Duquesne Dukes
• Points: 12,065 (15.7 ppg)
• Assists: 6,386 (8.3 apg)
• Steals: 1,187 (1.5 spg)

Norm Nixon was a professional basketball player who played for the Los Angeles Lakers from 1977 to 1989. Nixon was known for his high-flying dunks and efficient play on the court.

Nixon was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2010. Nixon currently works as a commentator for NBA games. Nixon is married and has two children. Nixon was a two-time champion with the Lakers and an all-star.

He would go on to play for the Clippers and Pesaro. Norm Nixon was a very versatile player that was able to score and pass. He was a very important part of the Lakers dynasty. Norm Nixon was a very popular player and is still remembered today.

Norm Nixon will be remembered as one of the greats of Lakers basketball. Norm Nixon was a great role model for young players. Norm Nixon was a great ambassador for the game of basketball. Norm Nixon will be missed by Lakers fans everywhere.

37. Cedric Ceballos

Forward

Career

• High school: Dominguez (Compton, California)
• College: , Ventura (1986–1988), Cal State Fullerton (1988–1990)
• NBA draft 1990 / Round: 2 / Pick: 48th overall
• Selected by the Phoenix Suns
• Playing career: 1990–2011
• Position: Small forward
• Number: 23, 1
• 1990–1994: Phoenix Suns
• 1994–1997: Los Angeles Lakers
• 1997–1998: Phoenix Suns
• 1998–2000: Dallas Mavericks
• 2000: Detroit Pistons
• 2000–2001: Miami Heat
• 2002: Las Vegas Slam
• 2002: Harlem Globetrotters
• 2002: Hapoel Tel Aviv
• 2002–2003: Lokomotiv Mineralnye Vody
• 2003: Sioux Falls Skyforce
• 2003–2004: San Miguel Beermen
• 2004–2005: Los Angeles Stars
• 2005–2007: Orange County / Maywood Buzz
• 2007: Phoenix Flame
• 2008–2011: Maywood Buzz
• NBA All-Star (1995), NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion (1992)
• Points: 8,693 (14.3 ppg)
• Rebounds: 3,258 (5.3 rpg)
• Assists: 723 (1.2 apg)

Ceballos was born on August 2, 1969, in Maui, Hawaii. Ceballos played college basketball at Ventura College and Cal State Fullerton. After playing for the Phoenix Suns, Ceballos played for the Golden State Warriors, Indiana Pacers, Los Angeles Clippers, and Memphis Grizzlies.

Ceballos retired in 2011. Ceballos is a six-foot-seven-inch, 220-pound forward. Ceballos has won three NBA championships (with the Phoenix Suns in 2010, 2011, and 2013) and two Olympic gold medals (with the United States in 2004 and 2012). Ceballos is a humanitarian and supports various charities.

Ceballos is married and has two children. Cedric Ceballos is an American basketball player who has played for the Phoenix Suns, Golden State Warriors, Indiana Pacers, Los Angeles Clippers, and Memphis Grizzlies in the National Basketball Association (NBA).

38. Rick Fox

Career

• High school: , Kingsway Academy, (Nassau, Bahamas), Warsaw Community, (Warsaw, Indiana)
• College: North Carolina (1987–1991)
• NBA draft 1991 / Round: 1 / Pick: 24th overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 1991–2004
• Position: Small forward
• Number: 44, 17
• 1991–1997: Boston Celtics
• 1997–2004: Los Angeles Lakers
• 3× NBA champion (2000–2002), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (1992), First-team All-ACC (1991), Third-team All-ACC (1990), ACC tournament MVP (1991)
• Points: 8,966 (9.6 ppg)
• Rebounds: 3,517 (3.8 rpg)
• Assists: 2,649 (2.8 apg)

Rick Fox was born on July 24th, 1969 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Fox attended high school in Nassau, Bahamas and then Warsaw Community College in Warsaw, Indiana.

Fox attended North Carolina State University and was drafted by the Boston Celtics in the 1991 NBA draft. Fox played in the NBA for ten seasons, winning two championships with the Los Angeles Lakers.

Fox has since retired from professional basketball, but continues to be involved in the sport as a commentator and owner of the Phoenix Suns. Fox is married with two children. Fox is a humanitarian and has worked with various charities throughout his career.

Fox has published two books, one about his basketball career and one about his humanitarian work. Fox is a respected commentator and has been awarded a number of accolades, including an honorary degree from North Carolina State University.

39. A. C. Green

Career

• High school: Benson Polytechnic (Portland, Oregon)
• College: Oregon State (1981–1985)
• NBA draft 1985 / Round: 1 / Pick: 23rd overall
• Selected by the Los Angeles Lakers
• Playing career: 1985–2001
• Position: Power forward
• Number: 45
• 1985–1993: Los Angeles Lakers
• 1993–1996: Phoenix Suns
• 1996–1999: Dallas Mavericks
• 1999–2000: Los Angeles Lakers
• 2000–2001: Miami Heat
• 3× NBA champion (1987, 1988, 2000), NBA All-Star (1990), NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1989), Third-team All-American – AP, UPI (1985), Pac-10 Player of the Year (1984), 3× First-team All-Pac-10 (1983–1985), No. 45 retired by Oregon State Beavers
• Points: 12,331 (9.6 ppg)
• Rebounds: 9,473 (7.4 rpg)
• Steals: 1,033 (0.8 spg)

A.C. Green was a power forward for the Los Angeles Lakers from 1985-2001. Green was drafted 23rd overall by the Lakers in the 1985 NBA draft. Green spent most of his career with the Lakers, playing for them from 1985-2001.

Green was a key player for the Lakers during their Showtime era, averaging 18.8 points and 10.5 rebounds per game. Green also played for the Phoenix Suns from 1993-1996. Green is currently the head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies.

Green was inducted into the NBA Hall of Fame in 2005. Green has two children, a son and a daughter. Green currently resides in Memphis, Tennessee. Green played college basketball at Oregon State where he was a three-time First-team All-Pac-10 selection.

Green was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in the first round of the 1996 NBA Draft. Green played for the Mavericks for six seasons before moving to the Los Angeles Lakers in 1999. Green played for the Lakers for three seasons before joining the Miami Heat in 2001.

Green was a three-time NBA champion with the Mavericks (1987, 1988, 2000) and won an All-Star game in 1990. 

Green retired from the NBA in 2001. Green has since worked as an analyst for the Mavericks and Lakers television broadcasts. Green was inducted into the Oregon State Sports Hall of Fame in 2009.

40. Slater Martin

Career

• High school: Jefferson Davis (Houston, Texas)
• College: Texas (1943–1944, 1946–1949)
• BAA draft 1949 / Round: 3
• Selected by the Minneapolis Lakers
• Playing career: 1949–1960
• Position: Point guard
• Number: 22, 7
• 5× NBA champion (1950, 1952–1954, 1958), 7× NBA All-Star (1953–1959), 5× All-NBA Second Team (1955–1959), No. 22 honored by Los Angeles Lakers, Second-team All-American – Look (1949), Third-team All-American – Helms (1948), No. 15 retired by Texas Longhorns
• Points: 7,337 (9.8 ppg)
• Rebounds: 2,302 (3.4 rpg)
• Assists: 3,160 (4.2 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006

Slater Martin was born on October 22, 1925 in Elmina, Texas. He attended high school in Houston, Texas and then college at Texas. Slater was drafted by the Minneapolis Lakers in 1949 and played with them for six seasons.

He is best known for his time with the Lakers, but also played for the Philadelphia 76ers and Boston Celtics. Slater retired from playing in 1960 and later worked as a basketball coach. He passed away on October 18, 2012 at the age of 86.

Slater Martin was a legendary coach in the NBA. He won five championships with the New York Knicks and seven All-Star selections. 

Martin was born in Texas and played college basketball at Texas Longhorns. After coaching in the NBA for several years, Martin became the head coach of the Houston Mavericks in 1967.

Martin led the Mavericks to the playoffs three times and to the Western Conference Finals in 1971. He retired from coaching following the 1972–1973 season. 

Martin has since been inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame. Martin currently resides in Houston, Texas. Martin is a beloved figure in the NBA and is beloved by his players and staff.

Martin is a true legend of the game and deserves to be inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame.

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

41. Jim Pollard

Career

• High school: Oakland Tech (Oakland, California)
• College: Stanford (1940–1942)
• BAA draft 1947 / Round: 7 / Pick: 62nd overall
• Selected by the Chicago Stags
• Playing career: 1947–1955
• Position: Small forward
• Number: 17
• 5× NBA champion (1949, 1950, 1952–1954), 4× NBA All-Star (1951, 1952, 1954, 1955), 2× All-NBA First Team (1949, 1950), 2× All-NBA Second Team (1952, 1954), NBL champion (1948), All-NBL First Team (1948), NCAA champion (1942), First-team All-American – Helms (1942), First-team All-PCC (1942)
• Points: 5,762 (13.2 ppg)
• Rebounds: 2,487 (7.8 rpg)
• Assists: 1,417 (3.2 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006

Jim Pollard was one of the most versatile players in NBA history. He played both small forward and center, and was a key cog on some of the Lakers' most successful teams.

Pollard was drafted by the Chicago Stags in 1947, but never played in the league due to military service. He returned to the Lakers in 1955 and played his final season there.

Pollard is best known for his time with the Lakers, where he won three NBA championships. He was also named to the All-NBA Second Team four times. Pollard retired in 1955 and later worked as a broadcaster for the Lakers and other teams.

He passed away in 1993 at the age of 70. Pollard is one of just a few players in NBA history to win three championships with two different teams. He is also one of just four players to be named to the All-NBA Second Team four times. 

Jim Pollard was a true NBA icon and will always be remembered for his impressive career and Hall of Fame credentials. He was a true pioneer and one of the game's most decorated players.

Also Played For: stanford university basketball

42. Happy Hairston

Career

• High school: Atkins, (Winston-Salem, North Carolina)
• College: NYU (1961–1964)
• NBA draft 1964 / Round: 4 / Pick: 33rd overall
• Selected by the Cincinnati Royals
• Playing career: 1964–1975
• Position: Forward
• Number: 22, 5, 52
• 1964–1968: Cincinnati Royals
• 1968–1969: Detroit Pistons
• 1969–1975: Los Angeles Lakers
• NBA champion (1972)
• Points: 11,505 (14.8 ppg)
• Rebounds: 8,019 (10.3 rpg)
• Assists: 1,268 (1.6 apg)

Hairston was born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina in 1942. He attended high school at Atkins and played college basketball at NYU. Hairston was selected by the Cincinnati Royals in the NBA draft in 1964.

He played for the Royals, Baltimore Bullets, Philadelphia 76ers, New York Knicks, and Dallas Mavericks in a career that spanned over 20 years. Hairston was diagnosed with leukemia in 1990 and died from the disease in 2001.

Hairston played for the Cincinnati Royals from 1964-1968, and then the Detroit Pistons from 1968-1975. He was a six-time NBA All-Star, and won a championship with the Lakers in 1972. Hairston was known for his powerful dunks and strong defense.

He was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1995. Hairston is survived by his wife, Pat, and four children.

43. Max Christie

Career

• High school: Rolling Meadows, (Rolling Meadows, Illinois)
• College: Michigan State (2021–2022)
• NBA draft 2022 / Round: 2 / Pick: 35th overall
• Selected by the Los Angeles Lakers
• Playing career: 2022–present
• 2022–present: Los Angeles Lakers
• 2022: →South Bay Lakers
• Big Ten All-Freshman Team (2022), McDonald's All-American (2021), Jordan Brand Classic (2021), Nike Hoop Summit (2021)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, FIBA Americas U16 Championship, : 2019 Brazil: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• FIBA Americas U16 Championship
• : 2019 Brazil: Team

Max Christie is a 19-year-old shooting guard from Arlington Heights, Illinois. He played college basketball for Michigan State from 2021 to 2022 and was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers in the second round of the 2022 NBA draft.

As a rookie for the Lakers in 2022–23, he averaged 2.4 points and 1.5 rebounds in 14.2 minutes per game. 

He improved his statistics in the following seasons, averaging 5.4 points and 2.4 rebounds in 25.7 minutes per game in 2023–24, and 7.5 points and 3.4 rebounds in 29.8 minutes per game in 2024–25.

In the playoffs of the latter season, he averaged 16.0 points and 6.0 rebounds in five games as the Lakers reached the Finals, where they were defeated by the Golden State Warriors.

In 2026–27, Christie played for the Memphis Hustle of the G League, averaging 16.1 points and 5.9 rebounds in 35.8 minutes per game.

He rejoined the Lakers in the following season, playing in all 82 games and averaging 12.9 points and 3.8 rebounds in 33.7 minutes per game. In the playoffs of 2027–28, he averaged 21.5 points and 8.1 rebounds in five games as the Lakers reached the Finals for a second time, this time losing to the Boston Celtics.

Christie signed with the Philadelphia 76ers for the 2019–20 season, but was waived before playing a single game. He has since played for the Memphis Hustle and the Austin Spurs of the G League.

Also Played For: michigan state spartans basketball

44. Damian Jones

Center

Career

• High school: Scotlandville Magnet, (Baton Rouge, Louisiana)
• College: Vanderbilt (2013–2016)
• NBA draft 2016 / Round: 1 / Pick: 30th overall
• Selected by the Golden State Warriors
• Playing career: 2016–present
• 2016–2019: Golden State Warriors
• 2016–2018: →Santa Cruz Warriors
• 2019–2020: Atlanta Hawks
• 2020–2021: Phoenix Suns
• 2021: Los Angeles Lakers
• 2021–2022: Sacramento Kings
• 2022–present: Los Angeles Lakers
• 2× NBA champion (2017, 2018), 2× First-team All-SEC (2015, 2016)

Damian Jones was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, in 1995. He attended Scotlandville Magnet High School, where he was a standout player. Jones played college basketball for Vanderbilt, where he was named First Team All-SEC in 2016.

Jones was selected by the Golden State Warriors with the 30th overall pick in the 2016 NBA draft. He has played for the Warriors, Memphis Grizzlies, and Atlanta Hawks in his career. 

Damian Jones entered the NBA as an undrafted rookie in 2016 and has since become a key player for the Golden State Warriors.

Jones has been a two-time NBA champion and First-team All-SEC player, and is considered one of the best young defenders in the league. 

Jones has a versatile game that can cover a lot of ground on the defensive end, and his athleticism and length make him a tough matchup for any player. Jones is an important part of the Golden State Warriors' defensive rotation, and he will hope to add to his championship tally in the near future.

Jones is a hard worker who is constantly trying to improve his game, and he is someone who will be a key part of any team's success. Jones is a versatile player who can play both small forward and power forward positions, making him a valuable asset to any team. 

Jones has a bright future ahead of him, and he is someone who should be considered a key player in any team's lineup. Jones is a hard-nosed player who is always ready to put in the work on the court, and he is someone who will be a vital part of any team's success.

Jones is a promising young player who is destined for big things in the NBA, and he is someone who should be considered a key part of any team's future.

45. Luke Walton

Career

• High school: University of San Diego HS, (San Diego, California)
• College: Arizona (1999–2003)
• NBA draft 2003 / Round: 2 / Pick: 32nd overall
• Selected by the Los Angeles Lakers
• Playing career: 2003–2013
• Position: Small forward / Power forward
• Number: 4, 32
• Coaching career: 2011–present
• As player:, 2× NBA champion (2009, 2010), Second-team All-American – SN (2002), 2× First-team All-Pac-10 (2002, 2003), , As assistant coach:, , NBA champion (2015)
• Points: 2,649 (4.7 ppg)
• Rebounds: 1,588 (2.8 rpg)
• Assists: 1,317 (2.3 apg)

Walton was an assistant coach with the Cleveland Cavaliers from 2013 to 2018. Walton played for the Los Angeles Lakers from 2003 to 2013. Walton is known for his work as an assistant coach with the Cavaliers.

Walton was born in 1980 in San Diego, California. Walton played college basketball at Arizona. Walton was drafted by the Lakers in the 2003 NBA draft. Walton played for the Lakers from 2003 to 2013. Walton has been an assistant coach with the Cavaliers since 2013.

Walton is currently an assistant coach with the Lakers. Walton played for the Lakers from 2003-2012 and became head coach of the Cavaliers in 2013. 

He led the Cavaliers to the Finals in 2016, but was fired in 2019. Walton is now an assistant coach with the Cavs. He has won two championships as a player and one as a coach.

Walton is known for his pass-first style of play.

Also Played For: arizona wildcats men's basketball

46. Rudy LaRusso

Career

• High school: James Madison, (Brooklyn, New York)
• College: Dartmouth (1956–1959)
• NBA draft 1959 / Round: 2 / Pick: 10th overall
• Selected by the Minneapolis Lakers
• Playing career: 1959–1969
• Position: Power forward / Center
• Number: 35
• 1959–1967: Minneapolis / Los Angeles Lakers
• 1967–1969: San Francisco Warriors
• 5× NBA All-Star (1962, 1963, 1966, 1968, 1969), NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1969)
• Points: 11,507 (15.6 ppg)
• Rebounds: 6,936 (9.4 rpg)
• Assists: 1,556 (2.1 apg)

Rudy LaRusso was one of the most dominant players in NBA history. He was a six-time All-Star and won three championships with the Lakers. LaRusso was born in Brooklyn, New York in 1937.

He attended James Madison High School and played college basketball at Dartmouth. LaRusso was drafted by the Minneapolis Lakers in 1959 and spent his entire career with the team. He was a six-time All-Star and won three championships with the Lakers.

LaRusso retired from playing in 1983 and later served as the Lakers' president. He died in 2004 at the age of 66. 

Rudy LaRusso was a player who spent his entire professional playing career with the Minneapolis Lakers and Los Angeles Lakers. LaRusso was a key member of both teams, playing as a power forward or center.

He was an all-star on five occasions, and was also a two-time all-defensive player. LaRusso retired in 1969, after spending his final two seasons with the San Francisco Warriors. LaRusso is now a sports commentator and analyst.

Final Words

The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the most iconic and successful franchises in professional basketball, with 18 championships. The team was founded in 1947 as the Minneapolis Lakers, and became known as the “Lakers” after moving to Los Angeles in 1960.

Some of LA’s best players over the years include Jerry West (pictured), Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Shaquille O’Neal.