The history of the NBA dates back more than 68 years with many popular players and organizations. Many great players have come and gone during this long journey. However, some players hold a unique place in people’s minds. Factors like individual wins, team success, and statistics are factors that place some players on top over others. Here are the 10 most popular NBA players who have not been replaced until now.
- Michael Jordan
No wonder Michael Jordan is accredited to be the greatest player of all time. He has achieved everything a player could wish for from his game. His awards and stats speak for him. He has also won the NBA title, making him the GOAT of basketball.
- Hakeem Olajuwon
Hakeem Olajuwon is considered to be the most skilled player in the history of NBA games. His dominance in the game was a delightful sight for all basketball fans. He was also known to be one of the best defenders the game has ever had.
- Tim Duncan
Tim Duncan is well-known for his consistency. His statistics show not much variation. However, his Final records were destroyed in the last season’s series loss even though four out of his five games were not that bad.
- Shaquille O’Neal
Shaquille O’Neal was one of the most dominant players of not only his generation but also of all time. He easily defeated other defenders with his strength. He was the man behind the Los Angeles Lakers winning three consecutive NBA Championships during the early 2000s.
- Wilt Chamberlain
He has had a sports career in the NBA for about 14 years and is accredited to be one of the greatest players in the history of the NBA. He has many records to his credit in NBA history for his durability, rebounding, and scoring abilities.
- Larry Bird
Even though Larry Bird was not known for his athletic skills, he covered them easily with his basketball IQ, his jump shots, and fierce competitive power. He has won three NBA Championships with his team, Boston Celtics.
- LeBron James
LeBron James has won the championship two times, fulfilling the expectations his fans had of him. He only has 10 NBA seasons and is already regarded as one of the best players the NBA has had. His MVP counts and statistics prove his ability and greatness.
- Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is also known for his consistency like Duncan. He has competed for 20 NBA seasons and has been successful in maintaining his averages. He is also the all-time leading scorer in the history of the NBA with many other records too to his credit.
- Bill Russell
Bill Russell is one of the greatest defenders who has led his team, the Boston Celtics, to win a record 11 NBA Championships. He could vigorously dominate the whole game with his defensive skill.
- Magic Johnson
Magic Johnson proved his greatness at the start of his career itself and has never looked back. His win in the Finals MVP is one of the best in his whole career. He had the skill to defend with the greatest precision.