Nba 2000s Best Players of All Time

Morgan Wolf

The 2000s were an exciting decade for the NBA. With the emergence of superstars such as LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, and Dwyane Wade, the NBA saw an explosion of talent and skill never seen before in the league.

This decade also saw the development of new styles of play, including the three-point shot, as well as the rise of international players in the NBA. The 2000s were an exciting time for the NBA and the competition was fierce, as the league continued to grow in popularity and recognition.

Table of Contents

1. Stephon Marbury

Stephon Marbury Career

  • 2× NBA All-Star (2001, 2003)
  • 2× All-NBA Third Team (2000, 2003)
  • NBA All-Rookie First Team (1997)
  • Third-team All-American – AP, NABC (1996)
  • First-team All-ACC (1996)
  • ACC Rookie of the Year (1996)
  • 2× First-team Parade All-American (1994, 1995)
  • McDonald's All-American (1995)
  • Mr. New York Basketball (1995)
  • 3× CBA champion (2012, 2014, 2015)
  • CBA Finals MVP (2015)
  • CBA International MVP (2017)
  • 3× CBA All Star

Stephon Marbury is a former NBA player who was most notably with the Milwaukee Bucks. He had a successful playing career, averaging 23.1 points and 5.7 assists per game in his 14-year career.

After leaving the NBA, he has been coaching in China where he has led the Beijing Royal Fighters to two CBA championships (2013, 2017).

Stephon Marbury was born on February 20th, 1977 in Brooklyn, New York and attended Abraham Lincoln High School before going onto play college basketball at Georgia Tech University where he won three NCAA Championships (1996–1998).

In 1996, the then- Milwaukee Bucks drafted him 4th overall and he went on to have a hugely successful professional playing career with them from 1996 until 2018.

When they traded him to Boston Celtics for Kyrie Irving Stephon Marbury is a three-time NBA All-Star and two-time Third Team All-NBA player. He played for the Minnesota Timberwolves, New Jersey Nets, Phoenix Suns, and the Knicks before coaching in China with Beijing Royal Fighters from 2019 to present.

Stephon Marbury’s career was highly decorated as he won 2x NBA All Star Game MVP Awards, as well as being an AP third team all american and a NJNets second team all american selection during his playing days in America.

Also Played For: new york knicks, minnesota timberwolves

2. Derrick Rose

Point guard

Derrick Rose Career

  • NBA Most Valuable Player (2011)
  • 3× NBA All-Star (2010–2012)
  • All-NBA First Team (2011)
  • NBA Rookie of the Year (2009)
  • NBA All-Rookie First Team (2009)
  • Third-team All-American – AP, NABC (2008)
  • First-team Parade All-American (2007)
  • Third-team Parade All-American (2005)
  • Fourth-team Parade All-American (2006)
  • McDonald's All-American (2007)
  • Illinois Mr. Basketball (2007)

Derrick Rose was a standout player at Simeon Career Academy and helped lead the school to its first state championship in 2006. After one season at Memphis, he was drafted 1st overall by the Chicago Bulls in 2008.

Derrick Rose has been with the Bulls ever since and is considered one of the greatest point guards of all time. Injuries have plagued his career, but when he's on form Derrick Rose is unguardable. 

He announced his retirement from basketball in March 2019 after 16 seasons in the NBA Derrick Rose was one of the most highly touted high school players in history when he entered Illinois.

He broke numerous records while at Illinois, including leading the Fighting Illini to a National Championship in 2008. 

After being drafted by the Chicago Bulls with number 1 overall pick in 2009, Derrick Rose had an up-and-down career that included two MVP awards and five All-Star appearances before leaving for New York City this past offseason.

Also Played For: chicago bulls, 2009–10 nba season

3. Carmelo Anthony

Power forward

Carmelo Anthony Career

  • 10× NBA All-Star (2007, 2008, 2010–2017)
  • 2× All-NBA Second Team (2010, 2013)
  • 4× All-NBA Third Team (2006, 2007, 2009, 2012)
  • NBA scoring champion (2013)
  • NBA All-Rookie First Team (2004)
  • NBA 75th Anniversary Team
  • NBA Social Justice Champion Award (2021)
  • NCAA champion (2003)
  • NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding Player (2003)
  • Consensus second-team All-American (2003)
  • USBWA National Freshman of the Year (2003)
  • No. 15 retired by Syracuse Orange
  • 2× USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (2006, 2016)
  • First-team Parade All-American (2002)
  • McDonald's All-American (2002)

Carmelo Anthony is a two-time NBA MVP and six-time all-star. He was drafted by the Denver Nuggets in 2003, and has played for them, the New York Knicks, Oklahoma City Thunder, Atlanta Hawks and Toronto Raptors.

In 2017 he joined the Houston Rockets as a free agent. Anthony is married to LaLa Vasquez and they have one daughter together named Kiara. 

Carmelo's hometown is Baltimore Maryland where he attended Towson Catholic High School before going on to play college basketball at Syracuse University from 2002 until 2003.

Winning an NCAA Championship in 2004 alongside fellow Syracuse alum Dwayne Wade Carmelo Anthony is an American professional basketball player who has played his entire career with the New York Knicks.

He was drafted by Denver Nuggets in 2003 and spent six seasons there before being traded to the Knicks in 2011. In 2017, he signed with Oklahoma City Thunder where he won a championship that year. 

Anthony then moved on to Houston Rockets for two seasons before returning to Oklahoma City for another title run in 2018-19 season. Melo is considered one of the best players in league history and will likely retire as a Hall of Famer when his playing days are over.

Also Played For: nba 75th anniversary team, syracuse orange men's basketball

4. Amar'e Stoudemire

Power forward

Amar Career

  • 6× NBA All-Star (2005, 2007–2011)
  • All-NBA First Team (2007)
  • 4× All-NBA Second Team (2005, 2008, 2010, 2011)
  • NBA Rookie of the Year (2003)
  • NBA All-Rookie First Team (2003)
  • 2× Israeli Basketball Premier League champion (2017, 2020)
  • Israeli Basketball Premier League Finals MVP (2020)
  • Israeli Cup winner (2019)
  • 2× Israeli Basketball Premier League All-Star (2017, 2019)
  • All-EuroCup Second Team (2017)
  • Israeli League Cup winner (2016)
  • First-team Parade All-American (2002)
  • McDonald's All-American (2002)
  • Florida Mr. Basketball (2002)

Stoudemire was born on November 16, 1982 in Lake Wales, Florida. He attended high school at Lake Wales Christian Academy and then Mount Zion Christian Academy before playing college basketball with Cypress Creek.

Stoudemire entered the NBA draft in 2002 and was selected by the Phoenix Suns 9th overall. In his first season with Phoenix he averaged 17 points and 7 rebounds per game while helping to lead the Suns to their only appearance in the playoffs that year (they lost to eventual champions Los Angeles Lakers).

After a couple of seasons where injuries disrupted his progress, Stoudemire signed with New York Knicks in 2009 as part of a blockbuster trade which also involved Steve Nash and Antoine Walker being sent from Phoenix to NYK.

The move paid off for Stoudemire who went on to win two consecutive MVP Awards (2010-11) becoming just the second player ever (after Michael Jordan) to achieve this feat whilst playing for two different teams over an extended period of time - joining. 

Wilt Chamberlain who achieved this during three separate spells with Philadelphia 76ers, Chicago Bulls & San Francisco Warriors respectively.

Injuries have continued to dog him however and he announced his retirement from professional basketball following a disappointing performance at 2017's Olympic Games - having previously stated that he would like one more shot at winning an NBA title. 

Amar'e Stoudemire is a power forward and center who has played in the NBA since 2002. He was drafted by the Phoenix Suns in 2002, and spent five seasons with them before signing with the New York Knicks in 2010. 

In 2015, he signed with the Dallas Mavericks, where he remained for two seasons before moving to Miami Heat in 2016. He then joined Hapoel Jerusalem for one season before joining Fujian Sturgeons of China for 2020 season.

Also Played For: phoenix suns, new york knights

5. Marcus Camby

Power forward

Marcus Camby Career

  • NBA Defensive Player of the Year (2007)
  • 2× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2007, 2008)
  • 2× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2005, 2006)
  • 4× NBA blocks leader (1998, 2006–2008)
  • NBA All-Rookie First Team (1997)
  • National college player of the year (1996)
  • Consensus first-team All-American (1996)
  • Atlantic 10 Player of the Year (1996)
  • No. 21 retired by UMass Minutemen
  • Fourth-team Parade All-American (1993)

Marcus Camby is a 48-year-old American center who spent 19 seasons in the NBA. He was drafted by the Toronto Raptors with the second overall pick in 1996 and played for them until 2013.

Marcus is best known for his defensive abilities, as he was named to six All-Star teams and won three Defensive Player of The Year Awards during his career. 

In 2013, he retired from professional basketball after playing for Houston Rockets that season but has since returned to play amateur basketball in Europe Camby was a dominant player in the NBA for many years, and he is still considered one of the best center defenders ever.

Camby was selected to several All-Star teams and won multiple awards during his career. He played with some of the biggest names in basketball, including Michael Jordan, Carmelo Anthony, LeBron James and Dwyane Wade. 

Camby will be remembered most fondly by Knicks fans for his time spent with them between 2008 and 2010.

Also Played For: toronto raptors, 2006–07 nba season

6. Dwyane Wade

Shooting guard

Dwyane Wade Career

  • 3× NBA champion (2006, 2012, 2013)
  • NBA Finals MVP (2006)
  • 13× NBA All-Star (2005–2016, 2019)
  • NBA All-Star Game MVP (2010)
  • 2× All-NBA First Team (2009, 2010)
  • 3× All-NBA Second Team (2005, 2006, 2011)
  • 3× All-NBA Third Team (2007, 2012, 2013)
  • 3× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2005, 2009, 2010)
  • NBA scoring champion (2009)
  • NBA All-Rookie First Team (2004)
  • NBA 75th Anniversary Team
  • No. 3 retired by Miami Heat
  • Consensus first-team All-American (2003)
  • Third-team All-American – SN (2002)
  • Conference USA Player of the Year (2003)
  • 2× First-team All-Conference USA (2002, 2003)
  • No. 3 retired by Marquette Golden Eagles

Dwyane Wade was born on January 17, 1982 in Chicago, Illinois. He played college basketball at Marquette and was drafted by the Miami Heat in 2003. Wade has been a shooting guard for most of his career and is currently playing for the Utah Jazz.

He has won three NBA championships with the Miami Heat (2006, 2013, 2016). In 2019 he announced that he would be retiring from professional basketball after 19 seasons.

Dwyane Wade is a 3-time NBA champion and 13-time All-Star. He was the 2010 MVP of the NBA Finals and also won an Olympic gold medal in 2008.

Wade has been named to six All-NBA teams and two All-Defensive teams, as well as being a scoring champion and rookie of the year recipient.

Also Played For: cleveland cavaliers, shooting guard

7. LeBron James

Power forward

LeBron James 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: school basketball, fantasy basketball

8. Alonzo Mourning

Center

Alonzo Mourning Career

  • NBA champion (2006)
  • 7× NBA All-Star (1994–1997, 2000–2002)
  • All-NBA First Team (1999)
  • All-NBA Second Team (2000)
  • 2× NBA Defensive Player of the Year (1999, 2000)
  • 2× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1999, 2000)
  • 2× NBA blocks leader (1999, 2000)
  • NBA All-Rookie First Team (1993)
  • J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award (2002)
  • No. 33 retired by Miami Heat
  • Consensus first-team All-American (1992)
  • Consensus second-team All-American (1990)
  • Third-team All-American – NABC (1991)
  • Big East Player of the Year (1992)
  • 2× First-team All-Big East (1990, 1992)
  • 3× Big East Defensive Player of the Year (1989, 1990, 1992)
  • 2× USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (1990, 2000)
  • NCAA blocks leader (1989)
  • National high school player of the year (1988)
  • McDonald's All-American Game MVP (1988)
  • 2× First-team Parade All-American (1987, 1988)
  • Second-team Parade All-American (1986)
  • Virginia Mr. Basketball (1988)

Alonzo Mourning is a five-time NBA Champion and two-time Finals MVP. He was drafted second overall in the 1992 NBA Draft by the Charlotte Hornets and played for them until 2001.

He then joined the Miami Heat, where he won his first title in 2006 and his second in 2007. In 2008, Mourning retired from professional basketball after playing with the Heat for 13 seasons.

Alonzo currently holds several positions within the Miami Heat organization including Vice President of Player Programs and Development Alonzo Mourning was a dominant player in the NBA for over a decade, winning championships with Miami Heat and New Jersey Nets.

He was an All-NBA selection six times and led the league in blocks twice. After retiring from the game, he founded Alonzo Mourning Foundation to help disadvantaged children in his hometown of Charlotte, North Carolina.

Also Played For: georgetown hoyas, 2001–02 nba season

9. Shaquille O'Neal

Center

Shaquille O 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

10. Chris Bosh

Power forward

Chris Bosh Career

  • 2003–2010: Toronto Raptors
  • 2010–2017: Miami Heat

Bosh was born in Dallas, Texas, and played high school basketball at Lincoln. Bosh attended Georgia Tech where he started his career as a power forward before being moved to center later on in his college career.

Bosh was drafted fourth overall by the Toronto Raptors in 2003 and spent several years with them before moving to the Miami Heat in 2010. 

Bosh is one of the most successful players in NBA history, winning two championships with the Miami Heat (2012, 2013).

He also won an Olympic gold medal with Team USA during the 2016 Rio Olympics. In 2017, Bosh announced that he would be retiring from professional basketball due to persistent injuries sustained over the course of his playing career. Bosh was a two-time NBA champion and 11-time All-Star.

He was also an All-NBA Second Team selection and helped Miami to win their first championship in 2012. Bosh retired as the No. 1 player in Heat history, after leading them to back-to-back championships in 2013 and 2014. 

Outside of basketball, Bosh is known for his philanthropy work with children's charities around the world - he has even launched his own charity called "Bosh Kids." 

In December 2016, it was announced that Bosh had been diagnosed with a blood clot in his lung; although he required surgery to remove the clot, he is expected to make a full recovery.

Also Played For: miami heat

11. Ray Allen

Shooting guard

Ray Allen Career

  • 1996–2003: Milwaukee Bucks
  • 2003–2007: Seattle SuperSonics
  • 2007–2012: Boston Celtics
  • 2012–2014: Miami Heat

Ray Allen is a former shooting guard who played in the NBA for 17 seasons. He was drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 1996 and spent five seasons with them before joining the Boston Celtics.

Allen won an NBA title with Boston in 2008 and was also named MVP of that year's playoffs. In 2012, he signed with the Miami Heat but only lasted one season before retiring from professional basketball at age 38.

Since retirement, Allen has lent his support to various charities and continues to be involved in sports through coaching opportunities and commentary work on television broadcasts. Ray Allen is a two-time NBA champion and 10-time All-Star.

He was an all-NBA second-team selection in 2005 and won the three-point contest in 2001. Allen played college ball at UConn before being drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in 1996, where he spent most of his career. 

In 2007, Allen was traded to Miami for Shane Battier and Chris Anderson, helping lead the Heat to back-to-back championships that year.

After spending several years with the Boston Celtics, Allen signed with the Oklahoma City Thunder as a free agent during the 2017–2018 season but left after just one game due to an injury.

Also Played For: seattle supersonics, oklahoma city thunder

12. Gary Payton

Point guard

Gary Payton Career

  • NBA champion (2006)
  • 9× NBA All-Star (1994–1998, 2000–2003)
  • 2× All-NBA First Team (1998, 2000)
  • 5× All-NBA Second Team (1995–1997, 1999, 2002)
  • 2× All-NBA Third Team (1994, 2001)
  • NBA Defensive Player of the Year (1996)
  • 9× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1994–2002)
  • NBA steals leader (1996)
  • NBA All-Rookie Second Team (1991)
  • NBA 75th Anniversary Team
  • Consensus first-team All-American (1990)
  • Pac-10 Player of the Year (1990)
  • 3× All-Pac-10 (1988–1990)
  • No. 20 retired by Oregon State Beavers
  • USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (1999)

Gary Payton was one of the greatest point guards in NBA history. He played for the Seattle SuperSonics, Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Lakers during his career.

He won a championship with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2003. Gary is also known for his defensive play and ability to score points efficiently from anywhere on the court.

He retired from professional basketball following the 2007 season at age 40 due to knee injuries sustained while playing overseas Payton was a versatile player who excelled at both offense and defense.

He is one of only four players in NBA history to score 30,000 points and grab 10,000 rebounds. Payton was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2006.

Also Played For: point guard, nba playoffs best player

13. Chris Webber

Power forward

Chris Webber Career

  • High school: Detroit Country Day, (Beverly Hills, Michigan)
  • College: Michigan (1991–1993)
  • NBA draft 1993 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
  • Selected by the Orlando Magic
  • Playing career: 1993–2008
  • Position: Power forward
  • Number: 4, 2, 84
  • 1993–1994: Golden State Warriors
  • 1994–1998: Washington Bullets / Wizards
  • 1998–2005: Sacramento Kings
  • 2005–2007: Philadelphia 76ers
  • 2007: Detroit Pistons
  • 2008: Golden State Warriors
  • 5× NBA All-Star (1997, 2000–2003), All-NBA First Team (2001), 3× All-NBA Second Team (1999, 2002, 2003), All-NBA Third Team (2000), NBA Rookie of the Year (1994), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1994), NBA rebounding leader (1999), No. 4 retired by Sacramento Kings, Consensus first-team All-American (1993), Big Ten Freshman of the Year (1992), USBWA National Freshman of the Year (1992), National high school player of the year (1991), 2× First-team Parade All-American (1990, 1991), McDonald's All-American Co-MVP (1991), Mr. Basketball of Michigan (1991)
  • Points: 17,182 (20.7 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 8,124 (9.8 rpg)
  • Assists: 3,526 (4.2 apg)
  • Basketball Hall of Fame as player

Chris Webber was one of the top power forwards in the NBA for many years. He played for three different teams during his playing career and is now an analyst on ESPN.

Webber was born in Detroit, Michigan, and attended high school at Detroit Country Day. After graduating from college, he was drafted by the Orlando Magic in 1993 and went on to play with them until 2008.

In 2006, he became co-owner of a team called the Sacramento Kings and served as their head coach for two seasons before retiring from professional basketball in 2010. Chris Webber has been married to their wife Renee since 1997 and they have two children together - daughter Coco (born 2002) and son Max (born 2005).

Webber was a consensus first-team All-American in 1993 and won several awards, including the Naismith Trophy as college basketball's best player. Webber played for three different teams over his eight-year NBA career, most notably with the Golden State Warriors where he won an NBA championship in 2008. 

In addition to his on-court accomplishments, Webber is also known for his outspoken nature and has been involved in several controversies throughout his career.

Also Played For: sacramento kings

14. Mike Bibby

Mike Bibby Career

  • High school: Shadow Mountain (Phoenix, Arizona)
  • College: Arizona (1996–1998)
  • NBA draft 1998 / Round: 1 / Pick: 2nd overall
  • Selected by the Vancouver Grizzlies
  • Playing career: 1998–2012
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 10, 00, 0, 20
  • Coaching career: 2013–present
  • NBA All-Rookie First Team (1999), NCAA champion (1997), Consensus first-team All-American (1998), Pac-10 Player of the Year (1998), First-team All-Pac-10 (1998), Pac-10 Freshman of the Year (1997), No. 10 retired by Arizona Wildcats, Mr. Basketball USA (1996), First-team Parade All-American (1996), McDonald's All-American (1996)
  • Points: 14,698 (14.7 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 3,103 (3.1 rpg)
  • Assists: 5,517 (5.5 apg)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, FIBA Americas Championship, : 2003 San Juan: National team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  United States
  • FIBA Americas Championship
  • : 2003 San Juan: National team

Bibby was a point guard who played in the NBA for 12 seasons. Bibby is best known for his time with the Vancouver Grizzlies, where he led them to two playoff berths and an appearance in the 2006 NBA Finals.

After playing out his contract with Vancouver, Bibby joined the Sacramento Kings, where he spent three seasons before retiring in 2012. 

Since retiring from playing basketball, Bibby has served as head coach of the Reno Bighorns of the D-League and currently coaches at Arizona State University under Herb Sendek.

Mike Bibby was a standout player at Arizona, where he led the Wildcats to an NCAA championship in 1997. 

After playing for five different teams over seven seasons, Bibby joined the Atlanta Hawks in 2008 and helped them reach the playoffs twice. In 2011, Bibby joined the Washington Wizards and led them to their first playoff appearance since 1978.

The following year saw him join Miami Heat and help lead them to two championships - his second (2012) and third overall (2013). 

He then retired from basketball after spending one season with New York Knicks before coaching Shadow Mountain HS as an assistant coach during the 2019-20 school year.

Also Played For: big 3, 2003–04 nba season

15. Peja Stojaković

Peja Stojaković Career

  • NBA draft 1996 / Round: 1 / Pick: 14th overall
  • Selected by the Sacramento Kings
  • Playing career: 1992–2011
  • Position: Small forward
  • Number: 8, 16
  • 1992–1993: Crvena zvezda
  • 1993–1998: PAOK
  • 1998–2006: Sacramento Kings
  • 2006: Indiana Pacers
  • 2006–2010: New Orleans Hornets[a]
  • 2010–2011: Toronto Raptors
  • 2011: Dallas Mavericks
  • NBA champion (2011), 3× NBA All-Star (2002–2004), All-NBA Second Team (2004), 2× NBA Three-Point Contest champion (2002, 2003), No. 16 retired by Sacramento Kings, FIBA EuroBasket MVP (2001), FIBA EuroLeague Top Scorer (1998), Greek Cup winner (1995), Greek League MVP (1998), 2× Greek All Star Game MVP (1996 II, 1997), 2× Mister Europa Player of the Year (2001, 2002), Euroscar Player of the Year (2001), FR Yugoslavian League Most Valuable Young Player (1993)
  • Points: 13,647 (17.0 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 3,782 (4.7 rpg)
  • Assists: 1,408 (1.8 apg)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing FR Yugoslavia, FIBA World Cup, : 2002 Indianapolis: , FIBA EuroBasket, : 1999 France: , : 2001 Turkey:
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing FR Yugoslavia
  • FIBA World Cup
  • : 2002 Indianapolis:
  • FIBA EuroBasket
  • : 1999 France:
  • : 2001 Turkey:

Peja Stojaković was a highly productive small forward in the NBA for over a decade. He started his career with Crvena Zvezda before moving on to PAOK and then the Sacramento Kings.

In 2006, he joined Indiana Pacers where he won an Eastern Conference title and made it to the Finals once more in 2008. After spending one season with Memphis Grizzlies, Stojaković returned to Indiana in 2011 as a free agent, retiring after that year's playoffs despite playing well into his 40s.

Peja Stojaković was a cornerstone of the New Orleans Hornets during their 2006-2010 seasons. He averaged 18.4 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists per game over that period. 

After being traded to Toronto in 2010, Stojaković helped lead them to the playoffs for the first time in franchise history and eventually won an NBA championship with Dallas in 2011.

A two-time All-Star, he also received MVP honors at EuroBasket 2001 and 2002 while playing for Greece's national team. In addition to his prowess on the court, Stojaković is well known for his humanitarian work off it; he has raised money for numerous charities throughout his career both domestically and internationally.

Also Played For: dallas mavericks, new orleans pelicans

16. Karl Malone

Power forward

Karl Malone Career

  • High school: Summerfield, (Summerfield, Louisiana)
  • College: Louisiana Tech (1982–1985)
  • NBA draft 1985 / Round: 1 / Pick: 13th overall
  • Selected by the Utah Jazz
  • Playing career: 1985–2004
  • Position: Power forward
  • Number: 32, 11
  • Coaching career: 2007–2011
  • 2× NBA Most Valuable Player (1997, 1999), 14× NBA All-Star (1988–1998, 2000–2002), 2× NBA All-Star Game MVP (1989, 1993), 11× All-NBA First Team (1989–1999), 2× All-NBA Second Team (1988, 2000), All-NBA Third Team (2001), 3× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1997–1999), NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1988), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1986), IBM Award (1998), NBA anniversary team (50th, 75th), No. 32 retired by Utah Jazz, Second-team All-American – NABC (1985), Southland Player of the Year (1983), 3× First-team All-Southland (1983–1985), No. 32 retired by Louisiana Tech Bulldogs
  • Points: 36,928 (25.0 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 14,968 (10.1 rpg)
  • Assists: 5,238 (3.6 apg)
  • Basketball Hall of Fame as player
  • Medals, , Men's Basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 1992 Barcelona: National team, : 1996 Atlanta: National team, FIBA Americas Championship, : 1992 Portland: Men's basketball
  • Men's Basketball
  • Representing the  United States
  • Olympic Games
  • : 1992 Barcelona: National team
  • : 1996 Atlanta: National team
  • FIBA Americas Championship
  • : 1992 Portland: Men's basketball

Karl Malone is often considered one of the best power forwards in NBA history. He played for the Utah Jazz from 1985 to 2004 and was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2009.

Karl Malone was born on July 24, 1963, in Summerfield, Louisiana. After high school, Malone attended Louisiana Tech where he played college basketball until 1985. 

The 13th overall pick in the 1985 NBA draft by the Utah Jazz, Karl Malone made an immediate impact as a power forward with his aggressive play and strong rebounding skills.

Over 18 seasons with Utah and two more with Houston (2004–2005), Malone won three MVP awards, five All-Star games, four scoring titles, and two regular season championships while averaging 26 points per game or more nine times apiece Karl Malone was a dominant player in the NBA for over 20 years, winning multiple awards and titles. 

He helped lead the Utah Jazz to two Championships and is widely considered one of the best players in league history.

Malone has also been involved with various charities throughout his career, including work with autism awareness.

Also Played For: utah jazz

17. Vince Carter

Vince Carter Career

  • High school: Mainland (Daytona Beach, Florida)
  • College: North Carolina (1995–1998)
  • NBA draft 1998 / Round: 1 / Pick: 5th overall
  • Selected by the Golden State Warriors
  • Playing career: 1998–2020
  • Position: Shooting guard / Small forward
  • Number: 15, 25
  • 1998–2004: Toronto Raptors
  • 2004–2009: New Jersey Nets
  • 2009–2010: Orlando Magic
  • 2010–2011: Phoenix Suns
  • 2011–2014: Dallas Mavericks
  • 2014–2017: Memphis Grizzlies
  • 2017–2018: Sacramento Kings
  • 2018–2020: Atlanta Hawks
  • 8× NBA All-Star (2000–2007), All-NBA Second Team (2001), All-NBA Third Team (2000), NBA Rookie of the Year (1999), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1999), NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion (2000), NBA Sportsmanship Award (2020), NBA Teammate of the Year (2016), Consensus second-team All-American (1998), First-team All-ACC (1998), Third-team All-ACC (1997), No. 15 honored by North Carolina Tar Heels, First-team Parade All-American (1995), McDonald's All-American (1995), Florida Mr. Basketball (1995)
  • Points: 25,728 (16.7 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 6,606 (4.3 rpg)
  • Assists: 4,714 (3.1 apg)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2000 Sydney: Team Competition, FIBA Americas Championship, : 2003 San Juan: Team Competition
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing the  United States
  • Olympic Games
  • : 2000 Sydney: Team Competition
  • FIBA Americas Championship
  • : 2003 San Juan: Team Competition

Vince Carter was born on January 26, 1977, in Daytona Beach, Florida. Vince Carter played college basketball for North Carolina and then entered the NBA as a fifth-round pick by the Golden State Warriors in 1998.

In his nine seasons with the Toronto Raptors (1998–2004) and New Jersey Nets (2004–2009), Vince Carter averaged 21.5 points per game and made three All-Star appearances. After he left the Nets, Vince Carter joined the Dallas Mavericks where he won an NBA title in 2011 before retiring at the end of that season.

Since his retirement from playing professional basketball, Vince has worked as a commentator for ESPN's coverage of various sports events including Wimbledon tennis matches and soccer games featuring Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo among others.

Additionally, he is also involved with several businesses ventures such as owning a restaurant in Las Vegas called "Carter's Smokehouse".

Also Played For: brooklyn nets, unc basketball

18. Dwight Howard

Power forward

Dwight Howard 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, los angeles lakers

19. Tracy McGrady

Shooting guard

Tracy McGrady Career

  • High school: , Auburndale (Auburndale, Florida), Mount Zion Christian Academy, (Durham, North Carolina)
  • NBA draft 1997 / Round: 1 / Pick: 9th overall
  • Selected by the Toronto Raptors
  • Playing career: 1997–2013
  • Position: Shooting guard / Small forward
  • Number: 1, 3
  • 1997–2000: Toronto Raptors
  • 2000–2004: Orlando Magic
  • 2004–2010: Houston Rockets
  • 2010: New York Knicks
  • 2010–2011: Detroit Pistons
  • 2011–2012: Atlanta Hawks
  • 2012–2013: Qingdao Eagles
  • 2013: San Antonio Spurs
  • 7× NBA All-Star (2001–2007), 2× All-NBA First Team (2002, 2003), 3× All-NBA Second Team (2001, 2004, 2007), 2× All-NBA Third Team (2005, 2008), 2× NBA scoring champion (2003, 2004), NBA Most Improved Player (2001), CBA All-Star (2013), No. 1 retired by Qingdao Eagles, Mr. Basketball USA (1997), McDonald's All-American (1997), First-team Parade All-American (1997)
  • Points: 18,381 (19.6 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 5,276 (5.6 rpg)
  • Assists: 4,161 (4.4 apg)
  • Basketball Hall of Fame as player
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, FIBA Americas Championship, : 2003 San Juan: Team competition
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  United States
  • FIBA Americas Championship
  • : 2003 San Juan: Team competition

Tracy McGrady was a three-time NBA All-Star and one of the greatest shooting guards in history. He played for the Houston Rockets, Orlando Magic, and Dallas Mavericks before retiring in 2013.

Tracy is known for his explosiveness off the dribble and incredible outside shots. Tracy has two children with wife Tatum O'Neal – son Trayce (born 2006) and daughter Tori (born 2009). 

In February 2017, he announced his retirement from basketball after 16 seasons in the league Tracy McGrady was an All-Star and scoring champion in the NBA.

He also won a Mr. Basketball award, which is given to the best high school player in America. McGrady played for six different teams during his 11-year career, but he is most famous for playing with the Toronto Raptors and Orlando Magic. 

Injuries cut short his time with the Rockets and Knicks, but Tracy finished his career with a championship win with the Spurs in 2013.

20. Steve Francis

Point guard

Steve Francis Career

  • High school: Montgomery Blair, (Silver Spring, Maryland)
  • College: , San Jacinto (1996–1997), Allegany (1997–1998), Maryland (1998–1999)
  • NBA draft 1999 / Round: 1 / Pick: 2nd overall
  • Selected by the Vancouver Grizzlies
  • Playing career: 1999–2010
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 3, 1
  • 1999–2004: Houston Rockets
  • 2004–2006: Orlando Magic
  • 2006–2007: New York Knicks
  • 2007–2008: Houston Rockets
  • 2010: Beijing Ducks
  • 3× NBA All-Star (2002–2004), NBA Co-Rookie of the Year (2000), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2000), Consensus second-team All-American (1999), First-team All-ACC (1999), No. 23 honored by Maryland Terrapins
  • Points: 10,446 (18.1 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 3,215 (5.6 rpg)
  • Assists: 3,473 (6.0 apg)

Steve Francis was drafted by the Vancouver Grizzlies in 1999 and played for them until 2010. He is most well-known for his time with the New York Knicks, where he won two championships (2007, 2013).

Injuries have slowed down Francis's career over the last few years, but he still has some good basketball left in him. Francis was a point guard for most of his playing career, and he is best known for 3-point shooting.

Francis played in the NBA from 1999 to 2006 with Houston, Orlando, and New York. He was an All-Star twice (2002–2004) and won a Co-Rookie of the Year award in 2000. 

Francis also had success at the ACC level with Maryland Terrapins where he averaged 18 points per game as a senior in 1999 while grabbing 5 rebounds per contest.

After ending his playing days with Beijing Ducks of China's CBA League, Steve now resides back home in Texas after recently retiring from basketball completely last year at age 36 due to injuries sustained during his final season overseas.

Also Played For: university of maryland

21. Ben Wallace

Power forward

Ben Wallace Career

  • High school: Central (Hayneville, Alabama)
  • College: , Cuyahoga CC (1992–1994), Virginia Union (1994–1996)
  • NBA draft: 1996 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 1996–2012
  • Position: Center / Power forward
  • Number: 30, 4, 3, 6
  • 1996: Viola Reggio Calabria
  • 1996–1999: Washington Bullets / Wizards
  • 1999–2000: Orlando Magic
  • 2000–2006: Detroit Pistons
  • 2006–2008: Chicago Bulls
  • 2008–2009: Cleveland Cavaliers
  • 2009–2012: Detroit Pistons
  • NBA champion (2004), 4× NBA All-Star (2003–2006), 3× All-NBA Second Team (2003, 2004, 2006), 2× All-NBA Third Team (2002, 2005), 4× NBA Defensive Player of the Year (2002, 2003, 2005, 2006), 5× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2002–2006), NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2007), 2× NBA rebounding leader (2002, 2003), NBA blocks leader (2002), No. 3 retired by Detroit Pistons, First-team Division II All-American – NABC (1996)
  • Points: 6,254 (5.7 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 10,482 (9.6 rpg)
  • Blocks: 2,137 (2.0 bpg)
  • Basketball Hall of Fame as player

Ben Wallace was a dominant center and power forward in the NBA for 12 seasons. He led the league in Defensive Rating six times and was an All-Star seven times.

Wallace played his entire career with the Pistons, where he won two championships (2004, 2008). After retiring from playing basketball, Wallace became team engagement advisor for the Detroit Pistons.

He is responsible for helping to develop new strategies and techniques for the organization. Ben Wallace is a two-time NBA champion, five-time All-Star, and four-time Defensive Player of the Year. He was drafted by the Washington Bullets in 1996 and played for them until 1999 before joining Orlando Magic.

Wallace then spent three seasons with Detroit Pistons before moving to Chicago Bulls where he won another title in 2008. Wallace retired from basketball in 2012 after playing nine seasons with Cleveland Cavaliers.

Also Played For: nba defensive, nba undrafted

22. Baron Davis

Point guard

Baron Davis Career

  • High school: Crossroads School, (Santa Monica, California)
  • College: UCLA (1997–1999)
  • NBA draft 1999 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall
  • Selected by the Charlotte Hornets
  • Playing career: 1999–2016
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 1, 5, 85, 24
  • 1999–2002: Charlotte Hornets
  • 2002–2005: New Orleans Hornets
  • 2005–2008: Golden State Warriors
  • 2008–2011: Los Angeles Clippers
  • 2011: Cleveland Cavaliers
  • 2011–2012: New York Knicks
  • 2016: Delaware 87ers
  • 2× NBA All-Star (2002, 2004), All-NBA Third Team (2004), 2× NBA steals leader (2004, 2007), Third-team All-American – AP (1999), First-team All-Pac-10 (1999), Pac-10 Freshman of the Year (1998), Pac-10 All-Freshman Team (1998), Gatorade Player of the Year (1997), First-team Parade All-American (1997), McDonald's All-American (1997), California Mr. Basketball (1997)
  • Points: 13,447 (16.1 ppg)
  • Assists: 6,025 (7.2 apg)
  • Steals: 1,530 (1.8 spg)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Goodwill Games, : 2001 Brisbane: National team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing the  United States
  • Goodwill Games
  • : 2001 Brisbane: National team

Baron Davis was born on April 13th, 1979 in Los Angeles, California. He attended Crossroads School where he starred as a point guard for the Lakers' youth teams before going to UCLA.

Baron was drafted 3rd overall by the Charlotte Hornets and spent six seasons with them before moving on to New Orleans Pelicans. In 2009, he signed with the Golden State Warriors and played two seasons there before retiring at age 34 in 2014 due to injury.

Baron has since become an NBA TV analyst and is currently working for TNT as well as his own clothing line called "Baron Davis Clothing". Baron Davis was a highly decorated college basketball player, earning First-team Parade All-American and California Mr.

Basketball honors in 1997 before being drafted with the 7th pick by the Golden State Warriors. Baron played for five different NBA teams over his nine seasons, amassing averages of 18 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists per game while shooting 43% from three-point range.

Baron retired from professional basketball in 2016 after playing for the Delaware 87ers of the G League where he averaged 21 points and 6 assists per game this season.

Also Played For: golden state warriors, los angeles clippers

23. Antawn Jamison

Small forward

Antawn Jamison Career

  • High school: Providence, (Charlotte, North Carolina)
  • College: North Carolina (1995–1998)
  • NBA draft 1998 / Round: 1 / Pick: 4th overall
  • Selected by the Toronto Raptors
  • Playing career: 1998–2014
  • Position: Power forward / Small forward
  • Number: 7, 33, 4
  • 1998–2003: Golden State Warriors
  • 2003–2004: Dallas Mavericks
  • 2004–2010: Washington Wizards
  • 2010–2012: Cleveland Cavaliers
  • 2012–2013: Los Angeles Lakers
  • 2013–2014: Los Angeles Clippers
  • 2× NBA All-Star (2005, 2008), NBA Sixth Man of the Year (2004), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (1999), National college player of the year (1998), Consensus first-team All-American (1998), Consensus second-team All-American (1997), ACC Player of the Year (1998), 3× First-team All-ACC (1996–1998), ACC tournament MVP (1998), ACC All-Freshman Team (1996), No. 33 retired by North Carolina Tar Heels, McDonald's All-American (1995), North Carolina Mr. Basketball (1995)
  • Points: 20,042 (18.5 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 8,157 (7.5 rpg)
  • Assists: 1,761 (1.6 apg)
  • College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2021
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, World Championships, : 2006 Japan: Team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  United States
  • World Championships
  • : 2006 Japan: Team

Antawn Jamison was drafted fourth overall by the Toronto Raptors in the 1998 NBA draft. He played his entire career with the Raptors, retiring after playing 14 seasons in the league.

Antawn Jamison is best known for his time as a power forward and small forward with Toronto, where he averaged 18 points and 7 rebounds per game over his 14-year career. 

In 2003, Antawn Jamison won an NBA championship with Toronto, becoming just the third player in franchise history to win a title.

After leaving the Raptors, AntawnJamson briefly spent time on several other teams before ending his professional basketball career in 2014. Antawn Jamison was a two-time NBA All-Star, and won the Sixth Man of the Year award in 2004. 

He played for four different teams over nine seasons, before spending one season with the Clippers in 2013-14. Jamison is most well known for his time at Duke, where he was a consensus first-team All-American and ACC Player of the Year as a senior in 1998. 

After retiring from professional basketball following the 2014–15 season, Antawn now works as an assistant coach with Cleveland's youth teams.

Also Played For: atlantic coast conference, north carolina basketball

24. Michael Redd

Shooting guard

Michael Redd Career

  • 2000–2011: Milwaukee Bucks
  • 2011–2012: Phoenix Suns

Redd was a shooting guard and small forward for the Milwaukee Bucks from 2000 to 2012. He helped lead the Bucks to two NBA Finals appearances (2002, 2004) and one Western Conference title (2007).

Redd also won an Olympic gold medal with Team USA in 2008. After playing his final season with the Phoenix Suns in 2012, Redd retired from professional basketball. 

In 2013, he began coaching at Cuyahoga Community College in Cleveland, Ohio where he currently remains as head coach of their men's team Redd played college basketball for the Michigan Wolverines.

Redd was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers with the fourth overall pick in the 1998 NBA draft. Redd won an NBA All-Star game and was a three time all-NBA third team selection while playing for Philadelphia and Milwaukee. 

In 2008, Michael Redd represented Team USA at the Olympic Games in Beijing where they reached the semi finals before losing to Spain. 

qAfter playing nine seasons in the NBA, Redd retired from professional basketball in 2011 due to injury concerns but has since returned to play amateur ball overseas..

Redd is currently an assistant coach at Temple University where he helped them win back to back Atlantic 10 championships as of 2017/2018 season.

Also Played For: milwaukee bucks

25. Sam Cassell

Sam Cassell Career

  • High school: , Paul Laurence Dunbar, (Baltimore, Maryland), Maine Central Institute, (Pittsfield, Maine)
  • College: , San Jacinto (1989–1991), Florida State (1991–1993)
  • NBA draft 1993 / Round: 1 / Pick: 24th overall
  • Selected by the Houston Rockets
  • Playing career: 1993–2008
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 10, 20, 19, 28
  • Coaching career: 2009–present
  • 3× NBA champion (1994, 1995, 2008), NBA All-Star (2004), All-NBA Second Team (2004), 2× Second-team All-ACC (1992, 1993), No. 10 jersey honored by Florida State Seminoles
  • Points: 15,635 (15.7 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 3,221 (3.2 rpg)
  • Assists: 5,939 (6.0 apg)

Sam Cassell was an assistant coach for the Philadelphia 76ers. He played in the NBA for 13 seasons and averaged 12 points, five assists, and three rebounds per game.

Sam Cassell is from Baltimore, Maryland, and attended Paul Laurence Dunbar High School before going on to play college basketball at Maine Central Institute. 

After playing professionally in Europe for a few years, he rejoined the NBA with the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2003 as an assistant coach under Rick Adelman.

He moved to Philadelphia two years later and has been there ever since, serving as Kevin McHale's right-hand man both on the bench and behind closed doors; most notably during.

Their run to back-to-back conference championships in the 2013–14 season. Cassell was a great point guard for many years, and he helped lead several teams to the playoffs.

He is currently an assistant coach with the Celtics. Cassell had a successful NBA career, playing for some of the best franchises in the league. 

He has also coached extensively throughout his career, most notably with Milwaukee and Los Angeles Clippers where he won two championships as head coach.

Also Played For: florida state university basketball, rockets lakers basketball

26. Chauncey Billups

Point guard

Chauncey Billups Career

  • High school: George Washington, (Denver, Colorado)
  • College: Colorado (1995–1997)
  • NBA draft 1997 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall
  • Selected by the Boston Celtics
  • Playing career: 1997–2014
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 4, 3, 1, 7
  • Coaching career: 2020–present
  • NBA champion (2004), NBA Finals MVP (2004), 5× NBA All-Star (2006–2010), All-NBA Second Team (2006), 2× All-NBA Third Team (2007, 2009), 2× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2005, 2006), NBA Sportsmanship Award (2009), NBA Teammate of the Year (2013), No. 1 retired by Detroit Pistons, Consensus second-team All-American (1997), First-team All-Big 12 (1997), No. 4 retired by Colorado Buffaloes, McDonald's All-American (1995), Second-team Parade All-American (1995), Fourth-team Parade All-American (1994), 3× Mr. Colorado Basketball (1993–1995)
  • Points: 15,802 (15.2 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 2,992 (2.9 rpg)
  • Assists: 5,636 (5.4 apg)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, FIBA Americas Championship, : 2007 Las Vegas: Team Competition, FIBA World Championship, : 2010 Turkey: Team competition
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  United States
  • FIBA Americas Championship
  • : 2007 Las Vegas: Team Competition
  • FIBA World Championship
  • : 2010 Turkey: Team competition

Chauncey Billups was a three-time All-Star and two-time NBA champion point guard who played for the Boston Celtics, Denver Nuggets, Los Angeles Clippers, Detroit Pistons, and Portland Trail Blazers over 14 seasons in the National Basketball Association (NBA).

In his first season with the Denver Nuggets in 1997–98, he helped lead them to their only playoff appearance that season. He then joined the Boston Celtics in 2000 where he won his first championship ring as part of the team's 'Big Three' alongside Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett.

After leaving Boston in 2004, Billups signed with Detroit where he spent six years before joining LA Clippers on a free-agent deal at the end of the 2011–12 campaign. He retired from playing following the 2014 season with Portland Trail Blazers. 

As head coach of Portland Trail Blazers from 2019 until 2021, Billups led them to playoff berth each year but they were unsuccessful in winning any games during this period including being eliminated by eventual champions. 

Golden State Warriors 4–1 in the 2020 Playoffs Semifinals Series which ended his coaching career prematurely.

Also Played For: denver nuggets, big3

27. Allen Iverson

Point guard

Allen Iverson Career

  • High school: Bethel (Hampton, Virginia)
  • College: Georgetown (1994–1996)
  • NBA draft 1996 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
  • Selected by the Philadelphia 76ers
  • Playing career: 1996–2011
  • Position: Shooting guard / Point guard
  • Number: 3, 1
  • 1996–2006: Philadelphia 76ers
  • 2006–2008: Denver Nuggets
  • 2008–2009: Detroit Pistons
  • 2009: Memphis Grizzlies
  • 2009–2010: Philadelphia 76ers
  • 2010–2011: Beşiktaş J.K.
  • NBA Most Valuable Player (2001), 11× NBA All-Star (2000–2010), 2× NBA All-Star Game MVP (2001, 2005), 3× All-NBA First Team (1999, 2001, 2005), 3× All-NBA Second Team (2000, 2002, 2003), All-NBA Third Team (2006), NBA Rookie of the Year (1997), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1997), 4× NBA scoring champion (1999, 2001, 2002, 2005), 3× NBA steals leader (2001–2003), NBA 75th Anniversary Team, No. 3 retired by Philadelphia 76ers, Consensus first-team All-American (1996), First-team All-Big East (1996), Second-team All-Big East (1995), 2× Big East Defensive Player of the Year (1995, 1996), Big East Rookie of the Year (1995), First-team Parade All-American (1993)
  • Points: 24,368 (26.7 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 3,394 (3.7 rpg)
  • Assists: 5,624 (6.2 apg)
  • Basketball Hall of Fame as player
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2004 Athens: United States, FIBA Americas Championship, : 2003 San Juan: United States, Summer Universiade, : 1995 Fukuoka: United States
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing the  United States
  • Olympic Games
  • : 2004 Athens: United States
  • FIBA Americas Championship
  • : 2003 San Juan: United States
  • Summer Universiade
  • : 1995 Fukuoka: United States

Allen Iverson was born in Hampton, Virginia on June 7, 1975. He attended high school at Bethel (Hampton, Virginia) and played for the school's basketball team before heading to Georgetown.

Allen Iverson was drafted with the first overall pick by the Philadelphia 76ers in 1996 and spent his entire career there until 2011 when he retired from playing professional basketball. 

Allen Iverson is best known for his time with the Denver Nuggets and Detroit Pistons where he won three straight MVP Awards between 2008-2009 respectively.

Injuries have been cited as a factor in Allen Iverson's retirement but he remains one of the most iconic players in NBA history Allen Iverson is a retired professional basketball player who was most well-known for his time with the Philadelphia 76ers. 

Throughout his career, AI was nominated for numerous awards and accolades, including NBA Most Valuable Player (2001), 11 All-Star appearances, 2 MVPs, 3 All-NBA First Team nods, and 1 Third Team selection.

In 2007, he became one of only six players in NBA history to record over 30,000 points, 10,000 assists, and 50000 rebounds in their career - an accomplishment he achieved during his time with the Memphis Grizzlies.

Also Played For: western conference

28. Andre Miller

Point guard

Andre Miller Career

  • High school: Verbum Dei, (Los Angeles, California)
  • College: Utah (1995–1999)
  • NBA draft 1999 / Round: 1 / Pick: 8th overall
  • Selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers
  • Playing career: 1999–2016
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 24, 7, 22
  • Coaching career: 2022–present
  • 1999–2002: Cleveland Cavaliers
  • 2002–2003: Los Angeles Clippers
  • 2003–2006: Denver Nuggets
  • 2006–2009: Philadelphia 76ers
  • 2009–2011: Portland Trail Blazers
  • 2011–2014: Denver Nuggets
  • 2014–2015: Washington Wizards
  • 2015: Sacramento Kings
  • 2015–2016: Minnesota Timberwolves
  • 2016: San Antonio Spurs
  • NBA All-Rookie First Team (2000), NBA assists leader (2002), Consensus first-team All-American (1999), Third-team All-American – USBWA (1998), WAC Player of the Year (1999), 2× First-team All-WAC (1998, 1999), No. 24 retired by Utah Utes
  • Points: 16,278 (12.5 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 4,795 (3.7 rpg)
  • Assists: 8,524 (6.5 apg)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, Goodwill Games, : 1998 New York: Team competition, : 2001 Brisbane: National team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  United States
  • Goodwill Games
  • : 1998 New York: Team competition
  • : 2001 Brisbane: National team

Andre Miller was a point guard for the Cleveland Cavaliers from 1999 to 2016. He led the Cavs in assists three times and was named an All-Star twice. In 2012, he signed with the Washington Wizards and helped them reach the playoffs that year.

Miller retired at the end of the 2016 season after playing for two teams in his final NBA season. Andre Miller is a veteran point guard who has played in the NBA for over 20 years.

He started his career with the Cleveland Cavaliers before playing for the Los Angeles Clippers, Denver Nuggets, Philadelphia 76ers, Portland Trail Blazers and Washington Wizards.

Andre Miller was one of only two players ever to be named an All-Rookie First Team selection as well as being voted into the Consensus first team All-American list by various organizations (alongside Yao Ming). 

Andre Miller also won WAC Player of the Year honors twice and was selected to both All-NBA Third Teams once during his career. At 38 years old, he retired from professional basketball in 2016 after spending time with the Minnesota Timberwolves and San Antonio Spurs.

29. Pau Gasol

Power forward

Pau Gasol 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

30. Elton Brand

Power forward

Elton Brand Career

  • High school: Peekskill (Peekskill, New York)
  • College: Duke (1997–1999)
  • NBA draft 1999 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
  • Selected by the Chicago Bulls
  • Playing career: 1999–2016
  • Position: Power forward / Center
  • Number: 42, 7
  • 1999–2001: Chicago Bulls
  • 2001–2008: Los Angeles Clippers
  • 2008–2012: Philadelphia 76ers
  • 2012–2013: Dallas Mavericks
  • 2013–2015: Atlanta Hawks
  • 2016: Philadelphia 76ers
  • 2× NBA All-Star (2002, 2006), All-NBA Second Team (2006), NBA Co-Rookie of the Year (2000), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2000), NBA Sportsmanship Award (2006), National college player of the year (1999), Consensus first-team All-American (1999), ACC Player of the Year (1999), First-team All-ACC (1999), USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (1998), First-team Parade All-American (1997), McDonald's All-American (1997)
  • Points: 16,827 (15.9 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 9,040 (8.5 rpg)
  • Blocks: 1,828 (1.7 bpg)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, FIBA World Championship, : 2006 Japan: USA, FIBA Americas Championship, : 1999 San Juan: USA, : 2003 San Juan: USA, Goodwill Games, : 1998 New York: USA
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  United States
  • FIBA World Championship
  • : 2006 Japan: USA
  • FIBA Americas Championship
  • : 1999 San Juan: USA
  • : 2003 San Juan: USA
  • Goodwill Games
  • : 1998 New York: USA

Elton Brand is a power forward and center who has played in the NBA for over a decade. He was drafted by the Chicago Bulls with the 1st overall pick in 1999, but he spent most of his time with them on their bench before being traded to Philadelphia in 2010.

In Philadelphia, Brand blossomed into one of the league's top players and helped lead the 76ers to an appearance in the 2013 Eastern Conference Finals. After being released by Philadelphia at season's end, Brand signed with Los Angeles Clippers but announced his retirement shortly thereafter due to injury concerns.

EltonBrand currently works as a commentator for Turner Sports' coverage of NBA games and also co-owns an apparel company called BB&T Elite Athletewear alongwith former teammate Jahlil Okafor . 

Elton Brand was a two-time NBA All-Star, and he was named to the All-NBA Second Team in 2006. He also won the NBA Co-Rookie of the Year award with then teammate Kobe Bryant in 2000.

Elton Brand is considered one of the best college players ever, as he was voted National College Player of The Year in 1999 by both Associated Press and USA Basketball Writers Association. 

In addition to his success on the hardwood, Elton Brand has been honored with several awards throughout his career including being McDonald's All American (1997) and Parade all American (1997).

Also Played For: philadelphia 76ers, duke university

31. Yao Ming

Center

Yao Ming Career

  • NBA draft 2002 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
  • Selected by the Houston Rockets
  • Playing career: 1997–2011
  • Position: Center
  • Number: 11
  • 1997–2002: Shanghai Sharks
  • 2002–2011: Houston Rockets
  • 8× NBA All-Star (2003–2009, 2011), 2× All-NBA Second Team (2007, 2009), 3× All-NBA Third Team (2004, 2006, 2008), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2003), No. 11 retired by Houston Rockets, CBA MVP (2001), CBA champion (2002), CBA Finals MVP (2001), 3× CBA rebounding leader (2000, 2001, 2002), 3× CBA blocks leader (2000, 2001, 2002), 2× CBA Slam Dunk leader (2000, 2001), 3× FIBA Asia Cup MVP (2001, 2003, 2005), FIBA World Cup Top Scorer (2006)
  • Points: 9,247 (19.0 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 4,494 (9.2 rpg)
  • Blocks: 920 (1.9 bpg)
  • Basketball Hall of Fame as player
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  China, FIBA Asia Cup, : 2001 Shanghai: , : 2003 Harbin: , : 2005 Doha: , Asian Games, : 2002 Busan:
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  China
  • FIBA Asia Cup
  • : 2001 Shanghai:
  • : 2003 Harbin:
  • : 2005 Doha:
  • Asian Games
  • : 2002 Busan:

Yao Ming was born in Shanghai, China on September 12th, 1980. He began playing basketball at the age of six and quickly became a standout player. In 2001, Yao won the FIBA World Championship with China and he also won two Olympic gold medals (2004, 2008).

After his retirement from professional basketball in 2011, Yao became the sixth president of the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA). He has been a member of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference since 2013 and is currently Chairman Yu Zhengsheng's deputy secretary general.

Yao Ming is a basketball legend who was one of the best players in NBA history. He won multiple awards and accolades, including an 8x All-Star selection and 2x All-NBA Second Team honors. 

Yao became a household name after his standout performance at the 2002 NBA draft where he was chosen first overall by the Houston Rockets.

His playing career spanned from 1997 to 2011 and saw him win several trophies along the way, including an MVP award in 2009. 

Now retired from professional basketball, Yao remains involved with various charities and continues to support young athletes through his work as an administrator for basketball training academies across China.

Also Played For: houston rockets, china basketball league

32. Brandon Roy

Shooting guard

Brandon Roy Career

  • High school: Garfield (Seattle, Washington)
  • College: Washington (2002–2006)
  • NBA draft 2006 / Round: 1 / Pick: 6th overall
  • Selected by the Minnesota Timberwolves
  • Playing career: 2006–2011, 2012–2013
  • Position: Shooting guard
  • Number: 7, 3
  • Coaching career: 2016–2018, 2019–present
  • As player:, 3× NBA All-Star (2008–2010), All-NBA Second Team (2009), All-NBA Third Team (2010), NBA Rookie of the Year (2007), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2007), Consensus first-team All-American (2006), Pac-10 Player of the Year (2006), First-team All-Pac-10 (2006), No. 3 retired by Washington Huskies, , As coach:, , Naismith National HS Coach of the Year (2017)
  • Points: 6,136 (18.8 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 1,388 (4.3 rpg)
  • Assists: 1,517 (4.7 apg)

Brandon Roy was originally drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2006, but he never played for them. He then signed with the Portland Trail Blazers and spent six seasons with them before retiring in 2013.

In 2016, Roy became an assistant coach for his former team, the Portland Trail Blazers. He remained on this position until 2018 when he left to become head coach of the Seattle SuperSonics, a team that had just been created as part of NBA expansion into Las Vegas.

As head coach of Seattle, Roy has led them to two straight playoff appearances and a first-round victory over Golden State Warriors in 2019 playoffs thus far.

Brandon Roy is currently one win away from becoming only second player ever (after Michael Jordan) to lead their respective teams all the way to a championship final game.

Also Played For: portland trail blazers

33. Rasheed Wallace

Power forward

Rasheed Wallace Career

  • High school: Simon Gratz, (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
  • College: North Carolina (1993–1995)
  • NBA draft 1995 / Round: 1 / Pick: 4th overall
  • Selected by the Washington Bullets
  • Playing career: 1995–2010, 2012–2013
  • Position: Power forward / Center
  • Number: 30, 36
  • Coaching career: 2013–present
  • NBA champion (2004), 4× NBA All-Star (2000, 2001, 2006, 2008), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (1996), Consensus second-team All-American (1995), First-team All-ACC (1995), ACC All-Freshman team (1994), No. 30 honored by North Carolina Tar Heels, Mr. Basketball USA (1993), USA Today's High School Player of the Year (1993), 2× First-team Parade All-American (1992, 1993), McDonald's All-American (1993)
  • Points: 16,006 (14.4 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 7,404 (6.7 rpg)
  • Blocks: 1,460 (1.3 bpg)

Rasheed Wallace is a former power forward and center in the NBA. Wallace played for the Washington Bullets, Detroit Pistons, Portland Trail Blazers, Boston Celtics, Chicago Bulls and Atlanta Hawks over his career.

He was named to five All-Star teams and won three championships with the Pistons in 2004, 2008 and 2009. After retiring from playing basketball in 2013, Rasheed Wallace has since pursued a coaching career with various organizations including the Memphis Grizzlies and Milwaukee Bucks.

In 2018 he became head coach of the Maine Red Claws of the G League where he led them to their first playoff appearance in franchise history Rasheed Wallace was a powerful and skilled player in the NBA for many years. 

He began his career with the Washington Bullets, before moving on to play for the Portland Trail Blazers, Atlanta Hawks and Detroit Pistons.

Wallace won several championships during his time in the NBA, including an MVP award in 2004 with Detroit. After retiring from playing professionally, Rasheed Wallace took up coaching duties with various clubs around the league.

34. Michael Jordan

Chicago Bulls

Michael Jordan 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, bleacher report nba

35. Tim Duncan

San Antonio Spurs

Tim Duncan 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, wake forest best basketball players

36. Rajon Rondo

Cleveland Cavaliers

Rajon Rondo Career

  • High school: , Eastern (Middletown, Kentucky), Oak Hill Academy, (Mouth of Wilson, Virginia)
  • College: Kentucky (2004–2006)
  • NBA draft 2006 / Round: 1 / Pick: 21st overall
  • Selected by the Phoenix Suns
  • Playing career: 2006–present
  • 2006–2014: Boston Celtics
  • 2014–2015: Dallas Mavericks
  • 2015–2016: Sacramento Kings
  • 2016–2017: Chicago Bulls
  • 2017–2018: New Orleans Pelicans
  • 2018–2020: Los Angeles Lakers
  • 2020–2021: Atlanta Hawks
  • 2021: Los Angeles Clippers
  • 2021–2022: Los Angeles Lakers
  • 2022: Cleveland Cavaliers
  • 2× NBA champion (2008, 2020), 4× NBA All-Star (2010–2013), All-NBA Third Team (2012), 2× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2010, 2011), 2× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2009, 2012), 3× NBA assists leader (2012, 2013, 2016), NBA steals leader (2010), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2007), SEC All-Freshman Team (2005), Second-team Parade All-American (2004), McDonald's All-American (2004)

Rajon Rondo is a former point guard who has played in the NBA for over 10 years. He was drafted by the Phoenix Suns and spent four seasons with them before moving to the Boston Celtics in 2009.

Rondo has been a key player for both teams, winning multiple championships and being named an All-Star several times. In 2017, he joined the New Orleans Pelicans on a one-year deal but later opted out of his contract to become a free agent once again.

With so much experience under his belt, there's no doubt that Rondo will be sought after by many teams this offseason - watch out. 

Rajon Rondo is a 2-time NBA champion and 4-time All-Star. Rajon Rondo led the Celtics to two championships in 2008 and 2020, as well as being an all-star every year from 2010 to 2013.

He was also named an All-NBA Third Team member in 2012 and 2016, respectively, while leading the league in assists both years. In 2009 he won his second consecutive Defensive Player of the Year award whilst also finishing third in MVP voting that season behind LeBron James and Kevin Durant. 

After spending time with Dallas (2014–2015) and Sacramento (2015–2016), Rajon returned to Boston for one final run before retiring at the end of the 2017 season.

Also Played For: 2006 nba draft, kentucky basketball

37. Gilbert Arenas

Point guard

Gilbert Arenas Career

  • High school: Grant (Los Angeles, California)
  • College: Arizona (1999–2001)
  • NBA draft 2001 / Round: 2 / Pick: 31st overall
  • Selected by the Golden State Warriors
  • Playing career: 2001–2013
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 0, 1, 9, 10
  • 2001–2003: Golden State Warriors
  • 2003–2010: Washington Wizards
  • 2010–2011: Orlando Magic
  • 2012: Memphis Grizzlies
  • 2012–2013: Shanghai Sharks
  • 3× NBA All-Star (2005–2007), All-NBA Second Team (2007), 2× All-NBA Third Team (2005, 2006), NBA Most Improved Player (2003), First-team All-Pac-10 (2001), Pac-10 All-Freshman Team (2000)
  • Points: 11,402 (20.7 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 2,168 (3.9 rpg)
  • Assists: 2,909 (5.3 apg)

Gilbert Arenas was born in Tampa, Florida on January 6th 1982. Gilbert played college basketball for Arizona and was drafted by the Golden State Warriors in 2001.

He spent three seasons with the Warriors before moving to Washington Wizards in 2003 where he would spend ten years until he retired in 2013. 

Gilbert is widely considered one of the greatest point guards of all time and his career totals include 4 All-Star appearances, 3 MVP Awards, 2 scoring titles and 1 championship title with the Washington Wizards in 2008 Gilbert Arenas was one of the most talented shooting guards in NBA history.

He made three All-NBA teams and led the league in scoring twice. Gilbert Arenas had a turbulent career, which included numerous controversies and felony charges. 

After leaving the Orlando Magic, he played for Memphis Grizzlies and Shanghai Sharks before retiring in 2013. Gilbert Arenas will always be remembered for his amazing shooting ability, he is seventh all time in 3-point field goals made with 2,087 shots from behind the arc.

Also Played For: washington wizards

38. Paul Pierce

Small forward

Paul Pierce Career

  • High school: Inglewood (Inglewood, California)
  • College: Kansas (1995–1998)
  • NBA draft 1998 / Round: 1 / Pick: 10th overall
  • Selected by the Boston Celtics
  • Playing career: 1998–2017
  • Position: Small forward
  • Number: 34
  • 1998–2013: Boston Celtics
  • 2013–2014: Brooklyn Nets
  • 2014–2015: Washington Wizards
  • 2015–2017: Los Angeles Clippers
  • NBA champion (2008), NBA Finals MVP (2008), 10× NBA All-Star (2002–2006, 2008–2012), All-NBA Second Team (2009), 3× All-NBA Third Team (2002, 2003, 2008), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1999), NBA Three-Point Contest champion (2010), NBA 75th Anniversary Team, No. 34 retired by Boston Celtics, Consensus first-team All-American (1998), First-team All-Big 12 (1998), Third-team All-Big 12 (1997), 2× Big 12 tournament MVP (1997, 1998), No. 34 jersey retired by Kansas Jayhawks, McDonald's All-American (1995), Second-team Parade All-American (1995), California Mr. Basketball (1995)
  • Points: 26,397 (19.7 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 7,527 (5.6 rpg)
  • Assists: 4,708 (3.5 apg)
  • Basketball Hall of Fame as player
  • College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2021

Paul Pierce is a retired American professional basketball player. He played for the Boston Celtics from 1998 to 2017 and was a six-time All-Star. Pierce was born in Oakland, California on October 13th, 1977.

After graduating from high school in Inglewood, CA he attended Kansas University where he won two NCAA championships with the Jayhawks before being drafted by the Boston Celtics in 1998.

 In his 17 seasons with the Celtics, Pierce averaged 22 points per game and 5 rebounds per game while shooting 47% from the field overall and 36% from three point range.

On July 9th, 2013 Paul Pierce announced his retirement after playing 20 seasons in the NBA (including playoffs). Since retiring as a player; Paul has started coaching at Baltimore’s famed.

House of Hoops including working alongside current Celtic Kyrie Irving during his rookie season of 2016/17 Pierce married R&B singer Aaliyah back in 2001 but they divorced four years later.

in 2005 after having one child together – son Kiari Dunbar-Pierce who also became an accomplished basketball player himself following father’s footsteps.

In early 2018 it was reported that Paul had been romantically linked to TV personality LaLa Anthony however these reports have since been denied by both parties.

Also Played For: small forward

39. Kevin Garnett

Power forward

Kevin Garnett Career

  • High school: , Mauldin (Mauldin, South Carolina), Farragut Academy (Chicago, Illinois)
  • NBA draft 1995 / Round: 1 / Pick: 5th overall
  • Selected by the Minnesota Timberwolves
  • Playing career: 1995–2016
  • Position: Power forward
  • Number: 21, 5, 2
  • 1995–2007: Minnesota Timberwolves
  • 2007–2013: Boston Celtics
  • 2013–2015: Brooklyn Nets
  • 2015–2016: Minnesota Timberwolves
  • NBA champion (2008), NBA Most Valuable Player (2004), 15× NBA All-Star (1997, 1998, 2000–2011, 2013), NBA All-Star Game MVP (2003), 4× All-NBA First Team (2000, 2003, 2004, 2008), 3× All-NBA Second Team (2001, 2002, 2005), 2× All-NBA Third Team (1999, 2007), NBA Defensive Player of the Year (2008), 9× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2000–2005, 2008, 2009, 2011), 3× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2006, 2007, 2012), 4× NBA rebounding champion (2004–2007), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (1996), NBA 75th Anniversary Team, No. 5 retired by Boston Celtics, Mr. Basketball USA (1995), 2× First-team Parade All-American (1994, 1995), McDonald's All-American Game MVP (1995), Illinois Mr. Basketball (1995), South Carolina Mr. Basketball (1994)
  • Points: 26,071 (17.8 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 14,662 (10.0 rpg)
  • Assists: 5,445 (3.7 apg)
  • Basketball Hall of Fame as player
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2000 Sydney: Team, FIBA Americas Championship, : 1999 San Juan: Team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing the  United States
  • Olympic Games
  • : 2000 Sydney: Team
  • FIBA Americas Championship
  • : 1999 San Juan: Team

Kevin Garnett is a well-known NBA player and was one of the best power forwards in the league for many years. He started his career with the Minnesota Timberwolves, before moving to Boston Celtics where he became an all-star player.

In 2016, he announced his retirement from professional basketball after 17 seasons in the league. Kevin Garnett has won several awards throughout his playing career, including three MVP Awards and six championship rings with two different teams.

He is also considered one of the greatest players in Celtics history and will be remembered as one of their most successful players ever. Kevin Garnett is a 10-time All-Star, 3-time MVP, and 2-time Defensive Player of the Year. He ranks ninth all-time in rebounds with 13,521.

KG was drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 1995 and spent his entire career there (1995–2007). In 2007, he was traded to Boston Celtics where he won more titles: 2008 NBA Champion and 2013 NBA Finals MVP. 

After 7 years with Brooklyn Nets (2015–2016), KG retired from professional basketball at the age of 38 due to injuries sustained during playoffs against Cleveland Cavaliers which sidelined him for six months.

40. Antoine Walker

Power forward

Antoine Walker Career

  • High school: Mount Carmel (Chicago, Illinois)
  • College: Kentucky (1994–1996)
  • NBA draft 1996 / Round: 1 / Pick: 6th overall
  • Selected by the Boston Celtics
  • Playing career: 1996–2012
  • Position: Power forward
  • Number: 8, 88, 24
  • 1996–2003: Boston Celtics
  • 2003–2004: Dallas Mavericks
  • 2004–2005: Atlanta Hawks
  • 2005: Boston Celtics
  • 2005–2007: Miami Heat
  • 2007–2008: Minnesota Timberwolves
  • 2010: Mets de Guaynabo
  • 2010–2012: Idaho Stampede
  • NBA champion (2006), 3× NBA All-Star (1998, 2002, 2003), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1997), NCAA champion (1996), First-team All-SEC (1996), SEC tournament MVP (1995), McDonald's All-American (1994), First-team Parade All-American (1994)
  • Points: 15,647 (17.5 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 6,891 (7.7 rpg)
  • Assists: 3,170 (3.5 apg)

Antoine Walker was a player in the NBA for 10 seasons, playing for the Boston Celtics and Dallas Mavericks. Walker is best known for his time with the Boston Celtics, where he won two championships (1996 and 2008).

After leaving Boston, Walker played several seasons with the Mavericks before retiring at the end of 2012. In addition to basketball, Antoine Walker has also competed in track and field competitions. 

Antoine Walker currently coaches youth basketball in Chicago Antoine Walker is a three-time NBA All-Star and winner of an NBA championship in 2006.

Walker was a dominant player at the college level, winning both an NCAA Championship and First Team All-SEC honors while at the University of Kentucky. 

Antoine Walker's career ended prematurely due to injuries, but he still holds many records and accolades from his time in the league.

41. Dirk Nowitzki

Dallas Mavericks

Dirk Nowitzki Career

  • NBA draft 1998 / Round: 1 / Pick: 9th overall
  • Selected by the Milwaukee Bucks
  • Playing career: 1994–2019
  • Position: Power forward
  • Number: 41
  • 1994–1998: DJK Würzburg
  • 1998–2019: Dallas Mavericks
  • NBA champion (2011), NBA Finals MVP (2011), NBA Most Valuable Player (2007), 14× NBA All-Star (2002–2012, 2014, 2015, 2019), 4× All-NBA First Team (2005–2007, 2009), 5× All-NBA Second Team (2002, 2003, 2008, 2010, 2011), 3× All-NBA Third Team (2001, 2004, 2012), 50–40–90 club (2007), NBA Three-Point Contest champion (2006), NBA Teammate of the Year (2017), NBA 75th Anniversary Team, No. 41 retired by Dallas Mavericks, Bundesliga Most Valuable Player (1999), Bundesliga Top Scorer (1999), FIBA World Cup MVP (2002), 2× FIBA World Cup Top Scorer (2002, 2006), FIBA EuroBasket MVP (2005), 3× FIBA EuroBasket Top Scorer (2001, 2005, 2007), 6× Euroscar Player of the Year (2002–2006, 2011), 2× FIBA Europe Men's Player of the Year (2005, 2011), 11× All-Europeans First Team (2003–2011, 2013, 2014), 9× All-Europeans Power Forward of the Year (2005–2011, 2013, 2014), Mister Europa Player of the Year (2005), Silbernes Lorbeerblatt (2011), German Sports Personality of the Year (2011), Laureus Lifetime Achievement Award (2020), No. 14 retired by Germany national team
  • Points: 31,560 (20.7 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 11,489 (7.5 rpg)
  • Assists: 3,651 (2.4 apg)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  Germany, World Cup, : 2002 Indianapolis: , EuroBasket, : 2005 Serbia and Montenegro:
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  Germany
  • World Cup
  • : 2002 Indianapolis:
  • EuroBasket
  • : 2005 Serbia and Montenegro:

Dirk Nowitzki is a professional basketball player who has spent his entire playing career with the Dallas Mavericks. He was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in 1998 and played for them until 2019.

Dirk Nowitzki is best known for his outstanding scoring ability, which has led him to be one of the most successful players in NBA history. In 2011, he won his first championship with Dallas and also became an eight-time All-Star during his time there.

Dirk Nowitzki currently serves as a special advisor to the Mavericks organization and continues to play regular-season games at age 44 years old. Dirk Nowitzki is a 14-time NBA All-Star and was named MVP in 2007. 

Dirk also holds numerous other accolades, including 3× First Team All-NBA, 5x Second Team selection, and the 50–40–90 club.

He retired from the Dallas Mavericks as No. 41 in February 2019 after 19 seasons with the team.

Also Played For: nba european

42. Tony Parker

San Antonio Spurs

Tony Parker Career

  • High school: INSEP (Paris, France)
  • NBA draft 2001 / Round: 1 / Pick: 28th overall
  • Selected by the San Antonio Spurs
  • Playing career: 1999–2019
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 9
  • 1999–2001: Paris Basket Racing
  • 2001–2018: San Antonio Spurs
  • 2011: ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne
  • 2018–2019: Charlotte Hornets
  • 4× NBA champion (2003, 2005, 2007, 2014), NBA Finals MVP (2007), 6× NBA All-Star (2006, 2007, 2009, 2012–2014), 3× All-NBA Second Team (2012–2014), All-NBA Third Team (2009), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2002), No. 9 retired by San Antonio Spurs, FIBA EuroBasket MVP (2013), 2× FIBA EuroBasket Top Scorer (2011, 2013), 2× FIBA Europe Player of the Year (2013, 2014), 2× Euroscar Award (2007, 2013), 2× L'Équipe Champion of Champions (2003, 2013), LNB All-Star (2001), LNB Pro A Most Improved Player (2001), Pro A Best Young Player (2001), , As president of ASVEL:, , 4× LNB Pro A champion (2016, 2019, 2021, 2022), 2× French Cup winner (2019, 2021), French Super Cup winner (2016)
  • Points: 19,473 (15.5 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 3,396 (2.7 rpg)
  • Assists: 7,036 (5.6 apg)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  France, EuroBasket, : 2013 Slovenia: , : 2011 Lithuania: , : 2005 Serbia: , : 2015 France: , FIBA Europe U18 Championship, : 2000 Croatia: U-18 Team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  France
  • EuroBasket
  • : 2013 Slovenia:
  • : 2011 Lithuania:
  • : 2005 Serbia:
  • : 2015 France:
  • FIBA Europe U18 Championship
  • : 2000 Croatia: U-18 Team

Tony Parker is a French-American professional basketball player who played for the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA. He was drafted by the Spurs in 2001 and has since made over 700 appearances, scoring more than 20,000 points along the way.

In 2012 he won his first championship with San Antonio and also led France to their first ever Olympic gold medal that year. Since 2019 he has been playing for ASVEL Basket of LNB Pro A in Europe. The 6-time NBA All-Star started his professional career with Paris Basket Racing in 1999.

He joined the San Antonio Spurs in 2001, and became a key player on their championship teams of 2003–2007. In 2011, Parker was traded to ASVEL Lyon Villeurbanne of France, where he helped lead them to two LNB titles before joining the Charlotte Hornets in 2018. 

Tony Parker is a four-time champion and three-time all-star, who has been named an all-NBA second team player twice and an all-Rookie first team member once—a testament to his skill as both a scorer and passer.

Also Played For: nba 2k18

43. Jason Kidd

Point guard

Jason Kidd Career

  • High school: St. Joseph Notre Dame, (Alameda, California)
  • College: California (1992–1994)
  • NBA draft 1994 / Round: 1 / Pick: 2nd overall
  • Selected by the Dallas Mavericks
  • Playing career: 1994–2013
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 5, 32, 2
  • Coaching career: 2013–present
  • As player:, NBA champion (2011), 10× NBA All-Star (1996, 1998, 2000–2004, 2007, 2008, 2010), 5× All-NBA First Team (1999–2002, 2004), All-NBA Second Team (2003), 4× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1999, 2001, 2002, 2006), 5× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2000, 2003–2005, 2007), NBA Co-Rookie of the Year (1995), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1995), 5× NBA assists leader (1999–2001, 2003, 2004), 2× NBA Sportsmanship Award (2012, 2013), USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (2007), NBA 75th Anniversary Team, No. 5 retired by Brooklyn Nets, Consensus first-team All-American (1994), USBWA National Freshman of the Year (1993), Pac-10 Player of the Year (1994), Pac-10 Freshman of the Year (1993), NCAA season assists leader (1994), NCAA season steals leader (1993), No. 5 retired by California Golden Bears, National high school player of the year (1992), McDonald's All-American (1992), 2× First-team Parade All-American (1991, 1992), 2× California Mr. Basketball (1991, 1992), , As assistant coach:, , NBA champion (2020)
  • Points: 17,529 (12.6 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 8,725 (6.3 rpg)
  • Assists: 12,091 (8.7 apg)
  • Basketball Hall of Fame as player
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2000 Sydney: Team, : 2008 Beijing: Team, FIBA Americas Championship, : 1999 San Juan: , : 2003 San Juan: , : 2007 Las Vegas:
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing the  United States
  • Olympic Games
  • : 2000 Sydney: Team
  • : 2008 Beijing: Team
  • FIBA Americas Championship
  • : 1999 San Juan:
  • : 2003 San Juan:
  • : 2007 Las Vegas:

Jason Kidd was born on March 23, 1973, in San Francisco, California. Kidd played point guard for the Dallas Mavericks from 1994 to 2013. Kidd was a three-time NBA champion (2000, 2001, 2005) and a two-time MVP (2001, 2005).

Kidd was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2013. Kidd has served as head coach of the Dallas Mavericks since 2014. After a successful playing career with the Dallas Mavericks and Phoenix Suns, Kidd became a head coach in 2013 with the Brooklyn Nets.

In his two seasons as coach, he led the Nets to the playoffs both years. Kidd was one of the most decorated players in NBA history, winning 5 championships, 10 All-Star games, 5 All-NBA teams, and 4 All-Defensive teams. 

As a coach, Kidd has led the Brooklyn Nets to two playoff appearances in his two seasons as head coach.

44. Michael Finley

Michael Finley Career

  • High school: Proviso East (Maywood, Illinois)
  • College: Wisconsin (1991–1995)
  • NBA draft 1995 / Round: 1 / Pick: 21st overall
  • Selected by the Phoenix Suns
  • Playing career: 1995–2010
  • Position: Small forward / Shooting guard
  • Number: 4, 40
  • 1995–1996: Phoenix Suns
  • 1996–2005: Dallas Mavericks
  • 2005–2010: San Antonio Spurs
  • 2010: Boston Celtics
  • NBA champion (2007), 2× NBA All-Star (2000, 2001), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1996), 2× First-team All-Big Ten (1993, 1995), USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (1993), No. 24 jersey retired by Wisconsin Badgers
  • Points: 17,306 (15.8 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 4,804 (4.4 rpg)
  • Assists: 3,245 (2.9 apg)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, Goodwill Games, : 1994 St. Petersburg: National team, Summer Universiade, : 1993 Buffalo: National team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing  United States
  • Goodwill Games
  • : 1994 St. Petersburg: National team
  • Summer Universiade
  • : 1993 Buffalo: National team

Michael Finley was a key player for the Phoenix Suns during his playing career. He was drafted by the Phoenix Suns in the 1995 NBA draft and spent the majority of his career with the team.

He was named to the All-Rookie First Team in 1995 and was a four-time All-Star. He retired in 2010 after playing with the Mavericks for six seasons. He is currently an assistant general manager/vice president of basketball operations for the Dallas Mavericks.

He was born in Illinois and has American citizenship. He is listed at 6'7" and 215 pounds. He has two children. He currently resides in Dallas, TX. Michael Finley was a versatile player who excelled at both shooting and passing. Finley was a four-time All-Star and two-time NBA champion.

He is a member of the Wisconsin Badgers' basketball hall of fame. Finley retired in 2010 after a long career in the NBA.

Also Played For: university of wisconsin-madison basketball

45. Steve Nash

Point guard

Steve Nash Career

  • High school: St. Michaels, (Victoria, British Columbia)
  • College: Santa Clara (1992–1996)
  • NBA draft 1996 / Round: 1 / Pick: 15th overall
  • Selected by the Phoenix Suns
  • Playing career: 1996–2015
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 13, 10
  • Coaching career: 2020–present
  • 2× NBA Most Valuable Player (2005, 2006), 8× NBA All-Star (2002, 2003, 2005–2008, 2010, 2012), 3× All-NBA First Team (2005–2007), 2× All-NBA Second Team (2008, 2010), 2× All-NBA Third Team (2002, 2003), 5× NBA assists leader (2005–2007, 2010, 2011), 4× 50–40–90 club (2006, 2008–2010), Phoenix Suns Ring of Honor, NBA 75th Anniversary Team, 2× FIBA AmeriCup MVP (1999, 2003), Lou Marsh Trophy (2005), 3× Lionel Conacher Award (2002, 2005, 2006), 2× WCC Player of the Year (1995, 1996), No. 11 retired by Santa Clara Broncos
  • Points: 17,387 (14.3 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 3,642 (3.0 rpg)
  • Assists: 10,335 (8.5 apg)
  • Basketball Hall of Fame as player
  • FIBA Hall of Fame as player
  • Medals, , Representing  Canada, FIBA AmeriCup, : 1999 San Juan: National team, : 2001 Neuquén: National team, Universiade, : 1991 Sheffield: National team, : 1993 Buffalo: National team
  • Representing  Canada
  • FIBA AmeriCup
  • : 1999 San Juan: National team
  • : 2001 Neuquén: National team
  • Universiade
  • : 1991 Sheffield: National team
  • : 1993 Buffalo: National team

Nash is a Canadian point guard who played in the NBA from 1996 to 2015. He was one of the most successful point guards in NBA history, winning an NBA championship with the Phoenix Suns in 2010.

After playing his entire career in the Phoenix Suns organization, Nash retired in 2015. In 2020, Nash began a coaching career with the Los Angeles Lakers. Nash is known for his exceptional passing skills and strong shooting ability.

He is married to Tanya Harding, with whom he has two children. Nash is a popular figure in the basketball community and has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. Nash was a two-time NBA MVP and eight-time All-Star, as well as a three-time All-NBA First Team selection.

He was also a five-time NBA assists leader. Nash was drafted by the Phoenix Suns in the first round of the 1996 NBA Draft. He played there for six seasons before being traded to the Dallas Mavericks in 1998. Nash spent the next four seasons with the Mavericks before being traded to the Phoenix Suns in 2004.

He spent the next 12 seasons with the Suns, winning two more MVP Awards and helping the team reach the NBA Finals twice. Nash announced his retirement from the NBA in 2015, after playing with the Los Angeles Lakers. He now coaches the Brooklyn Nets.

46. Shawn Marion

Power forward

Shawn Marion Career

  • High school: Clarksville (Clarksville, Tennessee)
  • College: , Vincennes (1996–1998), UNLV (1998–1999)
  • NBA draft 1999 / Round: 1 / Pick: 9th overall
  • Selected by the Phoenix Suns
  • Playing career: 1999–2015
  • Position: Small forward / Power forward
  • Number: 31, 7, 0
  • 1999–2008: Phoenix Suns
  • 2008–2009: Miami Heat
  • 2009: Toronto Raptors
  • 2009–2014: Dallas Mavericks
  • 2014–2015: Cleveland Cavaliers
  • NBA champion (2011), 4× NBA All-Star (2003, 2005–2007), 2× All-NBA Third Team (2005, 2006), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2000), First-team All-WAC (1999)
  • Points: 17,700 (15.2 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 10,101 (8.7 rpg)
  • Assists: 2,198 (1.9 apg)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2004 Athens: Team, Goodwill Games, : 2001 Brisbane:
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing the  United States
  • Olympic Games
  • : 2004 Athens: Team
  • Goodwill Games
  • : 2001 Brisbane:

Shawn Marion was a prolific scorer in the NBA, amassing more than 20,000 points in his career. Marion was a three-time All-Star and two-time league MVP.

Marion was traded to the Mavericks in 2013 and played his final season with them in 2015. Marion was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2010.

Marion is currently the assistant coach for the Memphis Grizzlies. Marion was a four-time all-star and two-time all-NBA third team player in the NBA. Marion played for the Dallas Mavericks, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Toronto Raptors in his career.

Marion was a key player on the Phoenix Suns teams that won the 2001 and the 2009 NBA Championships. Marion has been involved in several controversies during his career, including a 2007 incident in which he attacked a fan. Marion announced his retirement from the NBA in January 2015.

Marion is a vocal advocate for social justice and has spoken out about the prevalence of racism in American society. Marion was born in Marion, Indiana, and attended Indiana University. Marion is the founder of The Shawn Marion Foundation, which works to improve the lives of youth in underserved communities.

47. Manu Ginóbili

Shooting guard

Manu Ginóbili Career

  • 1995–1996: Andino
  • 1996–1998: Estudiantes de Bahía Blanca
  • 1998–2000: Viola Reggio Calabria
  • 2000–2002: Virtus Bologna
  • 2002–2018: San Antonio Spurs

Manu Ginóbili is a former shooting guard for the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA. Ginóbili played for the Andino team before joining the Spurs in 1995. 

Ginóbili is a three-time NBA champion, with titles in 2002 and 2005 with the Spurs, and in 2016 with the Argentina national team.

Ginóbili was a member of the silver medal-winning Argentine team at the 2004 Olympic Games. Ginóbili has been a special advisor to the Spurs since 2017. 

Manu Ginóbili was born on July 28, 1977 in Bahía Blanca, Argentina. Ginóbili stands at 6 ft 6 in and weighs 205 lb. Ginóbili played his entire professional career with the Spurs, retiring in 2018.

Ginóbili is a three-time NBA champion, with titles in 2002 and 2005 with the Spurs, and in 2016 with the Argentina national team. 

Manu Ginóbili is a retired Argentine-Italian professional basketball player who spent his entire career with the San Antonio Spurs. He is a five-time NBA champion, two-time NBA All-Star, and two-time All-NBA Third Team player.

He was also an Italian League champion, Italian Cup winner, and Italian League MVP. Manu Ginóbili was born on October 17, 1976, in Bahía Blanca, Argentina. 

He played for the Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA) before joining the San Antonio Spurs in 1998. He is a very versatile player, being able to play both the point and the shooting guard positions. 

He retired from professional basketball in 2018 after spending his entire 20-year career with the Spurs. Manu Ginóbili is married to Vanessa, with whom he has two daughters.

Final Words

The NBA 2000s were an exciting decade for the NBA. With the emergence of superstars such as LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, and Dwyane Wade, the league enjoyed unprecedented popularity.

However, the 2000s also marked the end of an era, as several of the league’s top players retired or moved on to other professional leagues. As a result, it is difficult to say who the best players of the 2000s were.

Nevertheless, a few stand out candidates must be considered, including Shaquille O’Neal, Tracy McGrady, and Dirk Nowitzki.

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Morgan Wolf

Journalist with experience covering the intersection of sports with business. Demonstrated expertise in digital, video and social media content covering major sports including soccer, NBA, NFL, MLB, tennis and Olympic sports. But basketball is his passion. Specialties: expert for sports related content management LinkedIn

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