Nba 2k21 Best Players of All Time

NBA 2K21 is an upcoming basketball simulation video game that is set to be released on September 4, 2021. It is the 22nd installment in the NBA 2K franchise and the successor to NBA 2K20. The game promises to bring new and improved gameplay mechanics, including an innovative MyCareer story mode, a vast array of online and offline modes, and a new Neighborhood experience.

NBA 2K21 will also feature improved graphics, soundtracks, and next-generation console support. With a plethora of new features and improvements, NBA 2K21 is sure to be a must-have title for any basketball fan.

1. Jalen Brunson

Point guard

Career

• 2× NCAA champion (2016, 2018)
• National college player of the year (2018)
• Consensus first-team All-American (2018)
• Bob Cousy Award (2018)
• Second-team Academic All-American (2018)
• Big East Player of the Year (2018)
• 2× First-team All-Big East (2017, 2018)
• Big East All-Freshman Team (2016)
• Robert V. Geasey Trophy winner (2018)
• McDonald's All-American (2015)
• First-team Parade All-American (2015)
• Illinois Mr. Basketball (2015)
• USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (2015)
• FIBA Under-19 World Cup MVP (2015)

Jalen Brunson was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in 2018. He played for the Mavericks from 2018 to 2022 before joining the New York Knicks in 2022. Brunson has averaged 14 points, five rebounds, and four assists per game during his career date.

Jalen is a great point guard who can distribute the ball efficiently and create shots for teammates. Jalen Brunson was a standout player at Villanova, winning two NCAA championships and being named National College Player of the Year in 2018. He was drafted by Dallas as the 23rd overall pick in the 2019 NBA draft.

In his rookie season, Brunson averaged 10 points per game and 4 rebounds per game for the Mavericks. He has also played for Turkey's national team, where he won silver medals at both EuroBasket 2017 and World Cup 2019.

Also Played For: dallas mavericks, new york knicks

2. LeBron James

Power forward

Career

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Played For: cleveland cavaliers, school basketball

3. Jimmy Butler

Power forward

Career

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Played For: fantasy basketball, chicago bulls

4. De'Aaron Fox

Point guard

Career

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

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

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

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

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

Also Played For: sacramento kings, kentucky basketball

5. Domantas Sabonis

Power forward

Career

• 2012–2014: Unicaja Málaga
• 2012–2013:Clínicas Rincón
• 2016–2017: Oklahoma City Thunder
• 2017–2022: Indiana Pacers
• 2022–present: Sacramento Kings

Sabonis was drafted 11th overall by the Orlando Magic in the 2016 NBA Draft. He played for two teams in Europe before joining Lithuanian side Unicaja Málaga in 2012.

Sabonis helped his team to win the Spanish League championship and EuroLeague title during his time there. He joined Sacramento Kings as a free agent at the end of the 2017–18 season and made an immediate impact on their roster with 15 points per game average over 20 appearances that season.

In 2018–19, he averaged 17 points and 10 rebounds over 38 games while helping them make it to the playoffs, where they eventually lost against Golden State Warriors 4-1 in the first round.

 Sabonis is considered one of Lithuania’s most promising young players and has been called up several times to represent his country at the international level including at FIBA World Cup 2019.

Qualifiers (where they finished second behind Serbia) and EuroBasket 2021 qualification campaign (they narrowly missed out on qualifying for their first-ever major tournament).

In the 2020 Summer Olympics, Sabonis led Lithuania's national team to a Bronze medal finish after losing 2-0 against eventual champions USA in the quarterfinals. 

His was also Sabonis' Olympic debut aged just 22 years old which makes him one of only four players under 23. Who has won an Olympic medal with their respective countries - alongside Andre Iguodala (USA), Pau Gasol (Spain) & Serge Ibaka(France).

Also Played For: eurobasket, gonzaga bulldogs men's basketball

6. Donovan Mitchell

Shooting guard

Career

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

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

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

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

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

Also Played For: utah jazz, nba summer league

7. Bojan Bogdanović

Forward

Career

• NBA draft 2011 / Round: 2 / Pick: 31st overall
• Selected by the Miami Heat
• Playing career: 2004–present
• 2004–2005: Zrinjski Mostar
• 2005–2009: Real Madrid
• 2005–2006:Zrinjski Mostar
• 2006–2008:Real Madrid B
• 2008–2009: Murcia
• 2009: Real Madrid B
• 2009–2011: Cibona
• 2011–2014: Fenerbahçe Ülker
• 2014–2017: Brooklyn Nets
• 2017: Washington Wizards
• 2017–2019: Indiana Pacers
• 2019–2022: Utah Jazz
• 2022–present: Detroit Pistons
• NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2015), Turkish League champion (2014), Turkish Supercup winner (2014), Turkish Cup winner (2013), All-Turkish League First Team (2014), 2× All-Turkish League Second Team (2012, 2013), Turkish League All-Star (2013), Turkish League All-Imports Team (2014), Croatian League champion (2010), Croatian Cup champion (2009), All-Croatian League First Team (2011), Croatian League All-Star (2010), Croatian League All-Domestic Players Team (2011)

Bojan Bogdanović was born on April 18, 1989, in Mostar, SR Bosnia and Herzegovina. He played college basketball at Real Madrid where he averaged 11 points and 5 rebounds per game over three seasons.

Bogdanović was drafted by the Miami Heat with the 31st overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft and has since played for several teams including Zrinjski Mostar (2004–2005), Real Madrid (2005–2006) and Detroit Pistons (2017-present).

Bojan is a versatile small forward who can score from anywhere on the court, having been labeled as one of the most skilled players in Europe during his playing days. Bojan Bogdanović was born on February 2, 1992, in Srebrenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina.

He played college basketball for the Real Madrid B team of the Spanish Liga ACB from 2006 to 2008 before joining Murcia of the same league.

After two seasons with Murcia, Bogdanović joined Fenerbahçe Ülker of the Turkish Super League in 2009 where he made an immediate impact by helping his team win back-to-back titles in his first two seasons there.

In 2011, Bojan Bogdanović signed with Croatian club Cibona but left after one season due to injury problems; he would later join fellow Turkish side Fenerbahçe again in 2014 where he played until 2017 when he moved to Brooklyn Nets and then Washington Wizards (both NBA teams). 

On July 10th 2019, Bojan Bogdanovic officially announced that he is signing with Indiana Pacers for a three-year deal starting from 2020–21 NBA Season.

Also Played For: real madrid baloncesto, small forward

8. Kyrie Irving

Point guard

Career

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Played For: brooklyn nets, boston celtics

9. James Harden

Shooting guard

Career

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Spencer Dinwiddie

Point guard

Career

• High school: William Howard Taft, (Woodland Hills, California)
• College: Colorado (2011–2014)
• NBA draft 2014 / Round: 2 / Pick: 38th overall
• Selected by the Detroit Pistons
• Playing career: 2014–present
• 2014–2016: Detroit Pistons
• 2014–2016: →Grand Rapids Drive
• 2016: Windy City Bulls
• 2016–2021: Brooklyn Nets
• 2021–2022: Washington Wizards
• 2022–present: Dallas Mavericks
• First-team All-Pac-12 (2013)

Dinwiddie was drafted by the Mavericks in 2014. He played college basketball at Colorado and has been a starter for their team since he entered the league.

Dinwiddie is known for his shooting ability, which has led him to average around 16 points per game over his career so far. He joined the Washington Wizards as an unrestricted free agent in 2019 and helped them reach the playoffs that year.

As of 2021, Spencer Dinwiddie is still playing with the Washington Wizards and is considered one of their key players on both offense and defense Spencer Dinwiddie was selected by the Detroit Pistons in the 2014 NBA Draft. 

Spencer has played for both the Detroit Pistons and Grand Rapids Drive during his career so far.

He is a versatile player who can play either shooting guard or small forward positions. In 2016, he signed with the Windy City Bulls before moving to Brooklyn Nets in 2017 and Washington Wizards in 2018. He joined Dallas Mavericks for the 2019-20 season as a free agent.

Also Played For: colorado buffaloes men's basketball, western conference

11. D'Angelo Russell

Point guard

Career

• High school: , Central, (Louisville, Kentucky), Montverde Academy, (Montverde, Florida)
• College: Ohio State (2014–2015)
• NBA draft 2015 / Round: 1 / Pick: 2nd overall
• Selected by the Los Angeles Lakers
• Playing career: 2015–present
• 2015–2017: Los Angeles Lakers
• 2017–2019: Brooklyn Nets
• 2019–2020: Golden State Warriors
• 2020–present: Minnesota Timberwolves
• NBA All-Star (2019), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2016), Consensus first-team All-American (2015), First-team All-Big Ten (2015), Big Ten Freshman of the Year (2015), Jerry West Award (2015), McDonald's All-American (2014)

D'Angelo Russell was drafted second overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the 2015 NBA draft. D'Angelo averaged 19.4 points, 5.9 assists, 3 rebounds and 1 steal per game as a rookie for the Timberwolves in 2016-17 season.

In 2017-18 season, he averaged 23 points, 6 assists and 4 rebounds per game while shooting 41% from three point range en route to being named an All-Star for the first time in his career. 

He signed with the Los Angeles Lakers as a free agent in 2018 and led them to their first championship in 37 years during his two seasons with them before returning to the Golden State.

Warriors where he won another title this year D'Angelo Russell was selected by the Los Angeles Lakers with the number two overall pick in the 2015 NBA draft.

After a successful rookie season, D'Angelo Russell signed a four-year, $118 million contract extension with the Lakers in 2017. 

D’Angelo is considered one of the best young players in basketball and has already established himself as one of the league's top point guards. 

He has won multiple awards throughout his career including being an All-Star and All-NBA Second Team player while at Brooklyn Nets and Golden State Warriors respectively.

Also Played For: minnesota timberwolves, point guard

12. Nikola Vucevic

Center

Career

• High school: Stoneridge Preparatory, (Simi Valley, California)
• College: USC (2008–2011)
• NBA draft 2011 / Round: 1 / Pick: 16th overall
• Selected by the Philadelphia 76ers
• Playing career: 2011–present
• 2011: Budućnost
• 2011–2012: Philadelphia 76ers
• 2012–2021: Orlando Magic
• 2021–present: Chicago Bulls
• 2× NBA All-Star (2019, 2021), Montenegrin League champion (2011), Montenegrin Cup champion (2011), AP mention All-American (2011), First-team All-Pac-10 (2011), Second-team All-Pac-10 (2010)

Nikola Vucevic was born in Morges, Switzerland on 24th October 1990. He played college basketball for the USC Trojans before being drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2011 NBA draft.

Nikola is a center and has been playing in the NBA since 2011. In 2013, he signed with the Orlando Magic and helped them reach the playoffs that year. Nikola is an efficient player both offensively and defensively and is well known for his shotblocking ability.

Nikola Vucevic is a 7 foot center for the Orlando Magic. He was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2011 and has since played for the Orlando Magic and Chicago Bulls. 

Vucevic is a two-time NBA All-Star, Montenegrin League champion, Montenegrin Cup champion, and AP mention All-American who led his team to an appearance in the 2019 NBA Finals where they were defeated by The Golden State Warriors 4 games to 2.

Nikola Vucevic is known as one of the best low post players in basketball with great court vision and passing ability which makes him difficult to defend One aspect of his game that often goes unnoticed however is his rebounding; he averages 13 rebounds per contest over his career (stats at Basketball Reference).

Also Played For: orlando magic, center basketball

13. Stephen Curry

Point guard

Career

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Played For: golden state warriors, davidson college

14. Klay Thompson

Shooting guard

Career

• High school: Santa Margarita Catholic, (Rancho Santa Margarita, California)
• College: Washington State (2008–2011)
• NBA draft 2011 / Round: 1 / Pick: 11th overall
• Selected by the Golden State Warriors
• Playing career: 2011–present
• 2011–present: Golden State Warriors
• 4× NBA champion (2015, 2017, 2018, 2022), 5× NBA All-Star (2015–2019), 2× All-NBA Third Team (2015, 2016), NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2019), NBA Three-Point Contest champion (2016), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2012), 2× First-team All-Pac-10 (2010, 2011), No. 1 retired by Washington State Cougars
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2016 Rio de Janeiro: Team, World Cup, : 2014 Spain: Team, U-19 World Championship, : 2009 New Zealand: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 2016 Rio de Janeiro: Team
• World Cup
• : 2014 Spain: Team
• U-19 World Championship
• : 2009 New Zealand: Team

Klay Thompson is a two-time NBA All-Star and three-time scoring champion with the Golden State Warriors. Klay was drafted 11th overall in the 2011 draft by the Warriors and has since become one of their most important players.

He is known for his scoring ability from behind the arc, as well as his defensive skills on both ends of the court. 

In 2016, he led the Warriors to their first championship in 40 years, becoming only the fourth player ever to win an MVP award and a championship in the same season (joining Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James).

Klay married longtime girlfriend Liz Wojcicki in May 2018; they have one child together named Knox Leon Thompson Klay Thompson is a 5-time NBA champion and 3-time all-star. 

Klay Thompson has won multiple awards including an Olympic gold medal and first-team All-Pac 10 honors. He was drafted 1st overall by the Golden State Warriors in 2011, and quickly became one of the most dominant players in the league, leading his team to 4 consecutive championships from 2015 to 2018.

In 2019 he was named an all-defensive second-team player while also capturing the three-point contest title that year as well as winning another championship with the Warriors later that season - cementing himself as one of basketball's greatest stars ever.

Also Played For: shooting guard, nba playoffs best player

15. Paul George

Small forward

Career

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Played For: indiana pacers, los angeles clippers

16. Giannis Antetokounmpo

Small forward

Career

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Played For: milwaukee bucks, bleacher report nba

17. Khris Middleton

Small forward

Career

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Played For: texas a&m university basketball

18. Jrue Holiday

Point guard

Career

• High school: Campbell Hall (Los Angeles, California)
• College: UCLA (2008–2009)
• NBA draft 2009 / Round: 1 / Pick: 17th overall
• Selected by the Philadelphia 76ers
• Playing career: 2009–present
• Number: 21, 11
• 2009–2013: Philadelphia 76ers
• 2013–2020: New Orleans Pelicans
• 2020–present: Milwaukee Bucks
• NBA champion (2021), NBA All-Star (2013), 2× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2018, 2021), 2× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2019, 2022), NBA Sportsmanship Award (2021), 2× NBA Teammate of the Year (2020, 2022), Pac-10 All-Freshman Team (2009), Gatorade National Player of the Year (2008), First-team Parade All-American (2008), Third-team Parade All-American (2007), McDonald's All-American (2008), California Mr. Basketball (2008)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2020 Tokyo: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 2020 Tokyo: Team

Jrue Holiday is a point guard for the Milwaukee Bucks. He was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2009 and has since played for them, as well as the New Orleans Pelicans and Utah Jazz.

Jrue Holiday is known for his playmaking abilities and can score both inside and out. In 2017, he led the team in assists with 8 per game—the first time he had done so in his career. 

Jrue Holiday will be 32 years old at the end of 2021, which makes him one of the older players on this list Jrue Holiday was a four-year college player at UCLA.

After graduating from UCLA, Jrue signed with the New Orleans Pelicans in 2013 and started playing for them right away. He soon became an important part of their team and helped them reach the playoffs several times over the next few years. 

In 2018, he won his first NBA championship with the Milwaukee Bucks, becoming one of only two players to win a title with different teams (the other being Shaquille O'Neal).

Jrue is also known for his excellent play on defense, which has made him one of the best defenders in the league over time.

Also Played For: new orleans pelicans, nba defensive

19. Christian Wood

Power forward

Career

• High school: , Los Alamitos, (Los Alamitos, California), Knight, (Palmdale, California), Findlay, (Henderson, Nevada)
• College: UNLV (2013–2015)
• NBA draft: 2015 / Undrafted
• Playing career: 2015–present
• 2015–2016: Philadelphia 76ers
• 2015–2016: →Delaware 87ers
• 2016–2017: Charlotte Hornets
• 2016–2017: →Greensboro Swarm
• 2017–2018: Delaware 87ers
• 2018–2019: Milwaukee Bucks
• 2018–2019: →Wisconsin Herd
• 2019: New Orleans Pelicans
• 2019–2020: Detroit Pistons
• 2020–2022: Houston Rockets
• 2022–present: Dallas Mavericks
• All-NBA G League Second Team (2018), All-NBA G League Third Team (2019), First-team All-MWC (2015)

Christian Wood is a power forward for the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA. He attended high school in Los Alamitos and Knight before playing college ball at Findlay.

In his rookie season, Christian averaged 7 points and 5 rebounds per game while shooting 46% from the field and 31% from three-point range. Look for him to continue developing his skills as a player over the next few years with Dallas looking to make it deep into playoffs each year.

Wood was undrafted in the 2015 NBA Draft but signed with the Philadelphia 76ers. He spent two seasons with Philadelphia before being traded to the Delaware 87ers midway through his second season. 

Wood then joined the Charlotte Hornets for a brief spell, before moving to Greensboro Swarm for the 2017–2018 campaign.

In 2018, he rejoined Milwaukee and had an impressive year statistically; averaging 16 points and 8 rebounds per game whilst shooting 50% from within the three-point range. 

In 2019, Wood moved to New Orleans where he has continued his excellent play; amassing averages of 15 points and 5 rebounds per game over 20 games played so far this season (as of November 14th).

Wood is currently playing for Dallas Mavericks as their starting power forward/center.

Also Played For: nba isolation, undrafted nba

20. Nikola Jokić

Center

Career

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Played For: denver nuggets, fiba basketball world cup

21. Jamal Murray

Point guard

Career

• High school: Grand River (Kitchener, Ontario)
• College: Kentucky (2015–2016)
• NBA draft 2016 / Round: 1 / Pick: 7th overall
• Selected by the Denver Nuggets
• Playing career: 2016–present
• 2016–present: Denver Nuggets
• NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2017), Third-team All-American – AP (2016), First-team All-SEC (2016), SEC All-Freshman Team (2016), BioSteel All-Canadian MVP (2015)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  Canada, Pan American Games, : 2015 Toronto: National team, FIBA Americas U16 Championship, : 2013 Maldonado: National team
• Men's basketball
• Representing  Canada
• Pan American Games
• : 2015 Toronto: National team
• FIBA Americas U16 Championship
• : 2013 Maldonado: National team

Jamal Murray was born on February 23, 1997 in Kitchener, Ontario. He played high school basketball at Grand River and then college basketball at Kentucky.

In the 2016 NBA draft, he was selected by the Denver Nuggets with the seventh overall pick. Since entering the league in 2016, Jamal Murray has been a key player for the Nuggets and is currently their starting point guard or shooting guard.

He has averaged 18 points per game over his career thus far and is considered one of the most promising young players in the NBA today Murray was a consensus first-team All-American as a freshman at Kentucky in 2016. 

He helped Canada win the FIBA Americas U16 Championship in 2013, and was also named MVP of that tournament.

Murray then transferred to Louisville for his sophomore season, where he averaged 19 points per game en route to being named Third Team All-American by AP and First Team All-SEC by SEC Network Television .

In 2017, Murray went on to be an NBA All Rookie Second Team selection with averages of 17 points and 3 rebounds per game while shooting 47% from the field overall (including 38% from three).

His playing style is described as "electric" by ESPN's Royce Young , who added that "Murray has all the tools you look for in an elite player: size, strength and athleticism."  

 Murray led the Cardinals to their first ever Final Four appearance before falling short against Gonzaga in what many called one of the greatest NCAA Tournament games ever played.

Also Played For: nba best young players

22. Ja Morant

Point guard

Career

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Played For: memphis grizzlies, murray state racers basketball

23. Trae Young

Point guard

Career

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Played For: atlanta hawks, oklahoma basketball

24. John Collins

Power forward

Career

• High school: Cardinal Newman, (West Palm Beach, Florida)
• College: Wake Forest (2015–2017)
• NBA draft 2017 / Round: 1 / Pick: 19th overall
• Selected by the Atlanta Hawks
• Playing career: 2017–present
• 2017–present: Atlanta Hawks
• NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2018), First-team All-ACC (2017), ACC Most Improved Player (2017)

John Collins is a 25-year-old power forward who was selected by the Atlanta Hawks in the first round of the 2017 NBA Draft. 

Collins played college basketball at Cardinal Newman High School in West Palm Beach, Florida, and was named to both All-America First Team and Naismith College Player of the Year Watch List as a senior.

Collins has appeared in 138 career games (all starts) for Atlanta, averaging 10.6 points, 5 rebounds and 1 assists per game while shooting 49% from field overall and 36% from three point range. He also averaged 2 blocks per game during his time with ATL. 

John Collins signed a four-year contract extension with Atlanta on July 15th, 2019 which will keep him with the team through 2024/25 season.

Collins was drafted 19th overall by the Atlanta Hawks in the 2017 NBA draft. Collins played his first two seasons at Wake Forest before transferring to Oregon State for his final season of college eligibility. 

Collins showed flashes of brilliance during his time at Wake Forest, averaging 16 points and 8 rebounds per game as a junior before declaring for the draft. 

Collins has continued to improve since entering the NBA, earning All-Rookie Second Team recognition in 2018 after averaging 12 points and 7 rebounds per game with Portland last season.

Collins is a versatile player who can play both inside and out on offense while also being an effective defender against opposing big men.

Also Played For: wake forest best basketball players, nba 2k19

25. Joel Embiid

Center

Career

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Played For: philadelphia 76ers

26. Tobias Harris

Power forward

Career

• High school: , Half Hollow Hills West, (Dix Hills, New York), Long Island Lutheran, (Brookville, New York)
• College: Tennessee (2010–2011)
• NBA draft 2011 / Round: 1 / Pick: 19th overall
• Selected by the Charlotte Bobcats
• Playing career: 2011–present
• 2011–2013: Milwaukee Bucks
• 2013–2016: Orlando Magic
• 2016–2018: Detroit Pistons
• 2018–2019: Los Angeles Clippers
• 2019–present: Philadelphia 76ers
• Second-team All-SEC – Coaches (2011), SEC All-Freshman Team (2011), McDonald's All-American (2010), First-team Parade All-American (2010), Mr. New York Basketball (2010)

Harris started his career at Tennessee, where he averaged 8.6 points and 4.9 rebounds per game over two seasons. Harris was selected with the 12th overall pick in the 2011 NBA draft by the Philadelphia 76ers.

Harris made an immediate impact with Philadelphia, averaging 14.1 points and 7 rebounds per game in his rookie season, earning Rookie of the Year honors as well as being named to both the All-Rookie First Team and Second Team respectively.

In 2013–14, Harris led all NBA players in field goal percentage (minimum 200 attempts). He also finished second in scoring (22nd), first in rebounding (23rd), third in assists (tied for fourth) and sixth in steals (128). 

In 2016–17, Harris recorded a then career-high 22 double-doubles – one more than LeBron James – en route to finishing fifth amongst all players in MVP voting that year. 

becoming just the third player ever to finish fifth or higher amongst MVP voters while leading their team to 50+ wins for only these condtimein their career (theotherbeingKarl Malonetwice).Harris signed a five-year contract extension with Philadelphia on July 10th 2019.

Also Played For: university of tennessee basketball, tennessee volunteers men's basketball

27. Russell Westbrook

Point guard

Career

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Played For: houston rockets, los angeles lakers

28. Damian Lillard

Point guard

Career

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Played For: portland trail blazers

29. CJ McCollum

Shooting guard

Career

• High school: GlenOak (Canton, Ohio)
• College: Lehigh (2009–2013)
• NBA draft 2013 / Round: 1 / Pick: 10th overall
• Selected by the Portland Trail Blazers
• Playing career: 2013–present
• 2013–2022: Portland Trail Blazers
• 2014: →Idaho Stampede
• 2022–present: New Orleans Pelicans
• NBA Most Improved Player (2016), 2× AP Honorable Mention All-American (2010, 2012), 2× Patriot League Player of the Year (2010, 2012), 3× First-team All-Patriot League (2010–2012), Patriot League tournament MVP (2012), Patriot League Rookie of the Year (2010), No. 3 retired by Lehigh Mountain Hawks

CJ McCollum was drafted 10th overall by the Portland Trail Blazers in 2013. He has since played for the Minnesota Timberwolves, New Orleans Pelicans, and Atlanta Hawks during his NBA career.

McCollum is a two-time All-Star and averaged 23 points per game over the course of his career to date. In 2018, he joined Golden State Warriors as an unrestricted free agent and helped them win their first championship in 40 years.

McCollum is a two-time All-American and Patriot League Player of the Year who was drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers in 2013.

McCollum has played for the New Orleans Pelicans since 2016 and is one of their leading scorers. McCollum's most notable accomplishment to date is his 2016 Most Improved Player award which he won after averaging 23 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists per game that season.

30. Luka Dončić

Dallas Mavericks

Career

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Played For: basketball, nba european

31. Kawhi Leonard

Los Angeles Clippers

Career

• High school: , Canyon Springs, (Moreno Valley, California), Martin Luther King, (Riverside, California)
• College: San Diego State (2009–2011)
• NBA draft 2011 / Round: 1 / Pick: 15th overall
• Selected by the Indiana Pacers
• Playing career: 2011–present
• 2011–2018: San Antonio Spurs
• 2018–2019: Toronto Raptors
• 2019–present: Los Angeles Clippers
• 2× NBA champion (2014, 2019), 2× NBA Finals MVP (2014, 2019), 5× NBA All-Star (2016, 2017, 2019–2021), NBA All-Star Game MVP (2020), 3× All-NBA First Team (2016, 2017, 2021), 2× All-NBA Second Team (2019, 2020), 2× NBA Defensive Player of the Year (2015, 2016), 3× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2015–2017), 4× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2014, 2019–2021), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2012), NBA steals leader (2015), NBA 75th Anniversary Team, AP Athlete of the Year (2019), Consensus second-team All-American (2011), 2× First-team All-MWC (2010, 2011), No. 15 retired by San Diego State Aztecs, California Mr. Basketball (2009)

Kawhi Leonard was born in Los Angeles, California, on June 29th, 1991. He played college basketball at San Diego State and was drafted 1st overall by the Toronto Raptors in the 2011 NBA draft.

Kawhi has been a 2-time All-Star (2013, 2017) and is currently playing for the LA Clippers in the NBA. He is known for his elite shooting ability, which has helped him accumulate over 25000 points in his career thus far.

Kawhi is married to LaLa Vasquez and they have one child together - a daughter named Sienna Rose. Leonard has been one of the most dominant players in the NBA for several years now and is likely to continue his success with the Clippers.

He was a two-time champion with the Spurs, and he's also won MVP awards in both the Finals and All-Star games. Leonard is known as an incredible defender, posting up opponents or guarding multiple positions on defense. 

His offensive game is equally as impressive, scoring at will from anywhere on the court while creating opportunities for teammates using his passing skillset.

Kawhi Leonard is a true superstar who belongs among basketball's greatest-ever players.

Also Played For: san antonio spurs, toronto raptors

32. Jayson Tatum

Boston Celtics

Career

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Played For: duke university

33. Devin Booker

Phoenix Suns

Career

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

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

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

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

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

Also Played For: phoenix suns

34. Bradley Beal

Washington Wizards

Career

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

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

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

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

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

35. Karl-Anthony Towns

Minnesota Timberwolves

Career

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

36. DeMar DeRozan

Chicago Bulls

Career

• High school: Compton (Compton, California)
• College: USC (2008–2009)
• NBA draft 2009 / Round: 1 / Pick: 9th overall
• Selected by the Toronto Raptors
• Playing career: 2009–present
• 2009–2018: Toronto Raptors
• 2018–2021: San Antonio Spurs
• 2021–present: Chicago Bulls
• 5× NBA All-Star (2014, 2016–2018, 2022), 2× All-NBA Second Team (2018, 2022), All-NBA Third Team (2017), Pac-10 tournament MVP (2009), Pac-10 All-Freshman Team (2009), No. 10 retired by USC Trojans, First-team Parade All-American (2008), McDonald's All-American (2008)
• Medals, , Men’s basketball, Representing  United States, Olympic Games, : 2016 Rio de Janeiro: Team, World Cup, : 2014 Spain: Team
• Men’s basketball
• Representing  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 2016 Rio de Janeiro: Team
• World Cup
• : 2014 Spain: Team

DeMar DeRozan is a shooting guard and small forward who has played for the Toronto Raptors since 2009. He was drafted ninth overall by the Toronto Raptors in the 2009 NBA draft, and he has spent his entire career with them up to present day.

DeRozan has won two consecutive MVP Awards (2017-2018), as well as three All-Star Game appearances (2013, 2017, 2018). In 2020 he joined the San Antonio Spurs on a one-year contract worth $27 million USD; however this deal was later terminated after just 10 games due to injury concerns.

DeMar DeRozan was born on December 28, 1990 in Toronto, Ontario. DeMar began playing basketball at a young age and quickly became one of the top players in his region. 

In 2007, DeMar joined the United States National Team Development Program (NTDP) where he competed against some of the best athletes in the world.

After impressing during his time with NTDP, DeMar was drafted 4th overall by the Toronto Raptors in 2009 NBA Draft and has since played for them continuously except for two seasons when he spent time with the US national team. 

During his career, DeMar has been named to multiple All-Star teams and has won numerous awards including 2× All-NBA Second Team honors (2018, 2022). He is also set to retire as a member of the Chicago Bulls after this season.

37. Jaylen Brown

Boston Celtics

Career

• High school: Wheeler, (Marietta, Georgia)
• College: California (2015–2016)
• NBA draft 2016 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 2016–present
• 2016–present: Boston Celtics
• NBA All-Star (2021), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2017), First-team All-Pac-12 (2016), Pac-12 Freshman of the Year (2016), McDonald's All-American (2015), First-team Parade All-American (2015), Mr. Georgia Basketball (2015)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, FIBA Americas U18 Championship, : 2014 United States: National team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• FIBA Americas U18 Championship
• : 2014 United States: National team

Brown was born in Atlanta, Georgia on October 24th 1996. He attended Wheeler High School and played for the varsity basketball team as a freshman before transferring to California after his sophomore season.

Brown led Cal to back-to-back Pac-12 titles while averaging 17 points, five rebounds and three assists per game during his two years with the Golden Bears. 

As a junior, he averaged 23 points, seven rebounds and four assists whilst leading Cal to their first NCAA tournament appearance since 2004.

Brown was drafted third overall by the Boston Celtics in the 2016 NBA draft and made his debut with them later that year against the Philadelphia 76ers - scoring 12 points off the bench in 21 minutes of play. 

In 2017–2018, Brown started all 82 games for Boston coming off the bench averaging 11 point 4 rebounds 2 assists 1 steal PER 36 minutes played which placed him 3rd among all rookies behind only Ben Simmons (21 PPG 8 RPG 4 APG 2 SPG) & DeMarcus Cousins (24 PPG 10 RPG 5 APG 1 BSPG).

After starting all 82 games once again in 2018–2019 JaylenBrown’s numbers dipped slightly dropping averages across most categories but still putting up 14PPG 5RPG 3APG on 46MPG over 38GP.

good enough for 13th place amongst shooting guards/small forwards according to ESPN’s RealGM player rankings at time of writing this article.

38. Zach LaVine

Chicago Bulls

Career

• High school: Bothell, (Bothell, Washington)
• College: UCLA (2013–2014)
• NBA draft 2014 / Round: 1 / Pick: 13th overall
• Selected by the Minnesota Timberwolves
• Playing career: 2014–present
• 2014–2017: Minnesota Timberwolves
• 2017–present: Chicago Bulls
• 2× NBA All-Star (2021, 2022), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2015), 2× NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion (2015, 2016), Pac-12 All-Freshman Team (2014), First-team Parade All-American (2013), AP Washington Player of the Year (2013), Washington Mr. Basketball (2013)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2020 Tokyo: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 2020 Tokyo: Team

Zach LaVine is a 27-year old shooting guard and small forward for the Chicago Bulls. He was born in Renton, Washington, on March 10th 1995. LaVine attended high school at Bothell in Washington before going to UCLA where he played from 2013 to 2014.

He was drafted 13th overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the 2014 NBA draft but never made it onto their roster due to injury problems that plagued him throughout his career up until now (2017). 

In 2017, he joined the Los Angeles Lakers on a one-year deal but again failed to make an impact during his time there and ended up being waived just four months into his contract; this ultimately led him back to Chicago where he signed with them on February 8th 2018.

Zach LaVine has averaged 17 points per game over the course of his 7 year professional career so far, which places him amongst some of the best scoring shooting guards in history;

 furthermore, as mentioned earlier he is also considered one of if not THE best rebounders at his position having grabbed almost 12 rebounds per game throughout all seven years of play.

39. Zion Williamson

Duke Blue Devils men's basketball

Career

• 2019–present: New Orleans Pelicans

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

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

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

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

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

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

40. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Oklahoma City Thunder

Career

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Played For: nba

41. Brandon Ingram

New Orleans Pelicans

Career

• High school: Kinston, (Kinston, North Carolina)
• College: Duke (2015–2016)
• NBA draft 2016 / Round: 1 / Pick: 2nd overall
• Selected by the Los Angeles Lakers
• Playing career: 2016–present
• 2016–2019: Los Angeles Lakers
• 2019–present: New Orleans Pelicans
• NBA All-Star (2020), NBA Most Improved Player (2020), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2017), AP Honorable Mention All-American (2016), Second-team All-ACC (2016), ACC Rookie of the Year (2016), McDonald's All-American (2015), First-team Parade All-American (2015), North Carolina Mr. Basketball (2015)

Brandon Ingram was the second overall pick in the 2016 NBA draft. Ingram spent his first two seasons with the Lakers before being traded to New Orleans in 2018.

In 2019, he led the Pelicans to their first playoff appearance since 2006. Ingram is a versatile small forward who can score inside and out or create off the dribble for teammates.

Ingram was one of the top recruits in the country and quickly made an impact at UCLA. He had a breakout year as a sophomore with averages of 19 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists per game.

Ingram has continued his play into his third season, averaging 20 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists per game this season for the Lakers. Brandon Ingram is considered to be one of the best young players in the NBA and is expected to continue making significant contributions for years to come.

Also Played For: nba 2k18

42. Kristaps Porziņģis

Washington Wizards

Career

• NBA draft 2015 / Round: 1 / Pick: 4th overall
• Selected by the New York Knicks
• Playing career: 2012–present
• 2012–2015: Sevilla
• 2012–2013: →Sevilla B
• 2015–2019: New York Knicks
• 2019–2022: Dallas Mavericks
• 2022–present: Washington Wizards
• NBA All-Star (2018), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2016), EuroCup Rising Star (2015), 2× ACB All-Young Players Team (2014, 2015)

Porziņģis was born in Latvia, and he played basketball for Liepāja's Jelgava-Riga BC before being drafted by the New York Knicks in 2015. 

Porziņģis has averaged 14.3 points and 6 rebounds per game over his NBA career, including a season with the Washington Wizards where he averaged 13.8 points and 7 rebounds per game.

Porziņģis is known for his athleticism, as well as his shooting ability from outside of the arc (he has made over 300 three-point shots in his career). In 2018, Porziņģis helped lead Latvia to their first ever FIBA World Cup appearance – they were eliminated in the group stages however.

 Kristaps Porziņģis will be playing out the remainder of his contract with Washington Wizards this year before potentially moving on to another team next season Porziņģis was a highly touted prospect coming out of Latvia and was expected to be a top pick in the 2012 NBA Draft.

However, he fell to the Knicks at number 17 overall and has since developed into one of the most promising players in European basketball. Porziņģis is second all-time in total points scored by a Latvian player in international play (1,394), trailing only Arvydas Sabonis. 

He has also averaged 20.3 points per game over his career with Sevilla, New York Knicks, Dallas Mavericks and Washington Wizards squads respectively. In 2018, Porziņģis won an All-Star Game MVP award after leading Eastern Conference team 111–105 victory over the West squad.

That same year he helped lead his Lithuanian national team to their first EuroBasket championship since 2000 when they defeated Spain 71–64 in the final match played at Bilbao BILBAO BC GIRONA.

Final Words

NBA 2K21 will have a best players of all time mode, where players can compare their stats against some of the best players in NBA history.