Top NBA Centers: Best of All Time Ranked

Who are the greatest centers of all time in the NBA? These basketball icons have left an indelible mark on the sport with their skill, dominance, and lasting contributions to their teams. From Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to Hakeem Olajuwon, these legends have shaped the game and stood the test of time.

Key Takeaways:

• The NBA has seen its fair share of legendary centers who have redefined the game.
• Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s longevity and remarkable achievements make him a strong contender for the GOAT title.
• Bill Russell’s 11 championships and defensive prowess solidify his place among the top centers in NBA history.
• Wilt Chamberlain’s offensive dominance and countless records place him in the conversation of the all-time greats.
• Shaquille O’Neal’s combination of size, strength, and skill made him an unstoppable force on the court.

Now, let’s dive deeper into the rankings and explore the accomplishments and impact of these NBA legends.

1. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is widely regarded as one of the greatest centers in NBA history. His extraordinary career spanned two decades, leaving an indelible mark on the game. Abdul-Jabbar’s list of accomplishments is staggering, including six NBA titles, six MVP awards, and numerous accolades highlighting his scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking prowess. Standing at 7 feet 2 inches tall, his signature skyhook shot was virtually unstoppable, solidifying his status as an offensive juggernaut.

Abdul-Jabbar’s NBA journey began in 1969, when he was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks as the first overall pick. Alongside fellow Hall of Famer Oscar Robertson, Abdul-Jabbar quickly made an impact, leading the Bucks to their first NBA championship in 1971. His scoring ability and dominance in the paint made him an unstoppable force throughout his career.

Abdul-Jabbar’s accolades include the following:

• Six-time NBA champion (1971, 1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, 1988)
• Six-time NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) (1971, 1972, 1974, 1976, 1977, 1980)
• 19-time NBA All-Star
• 10-time All-NBA First Team selection
• Five-time NBA All-Defensive First Team selection

Abdul-Jabbar’s remarkable longevity and consistency allowed him to amass impressive individual records. He currently holds the record for the most points scored in NBA history, ranking first with 38,387 points. Additionally, he ranks third in all-time rebounds (17,440) and blocks (3,189), highlighting his skill as a shot-blocker and rebounder.

Abdul-Jabbar’s impact on and off the court extends beyond his statistics. As a social activist and philanthropist, he has become an influential figure, using his platform to advocate for various causes and inspire future generations of athletes.

“I have never been comfortable being considered one of the greatest. I prefer to be thought of as someone who wanted to be great, who worked hard to achieve his goals.”

2. Bill Russell

Bill Russell’s impact on the game of basketball is undeniable. With an unprecedented 11 NBA championships, Russell holds a record that may never be surpassed. Beyond the titles, Russell was a dominant force on both ends of the court.

His tenacity, athleticism, and defensive prowess made him a nightmare for opposing teams. Russell’s ability to disrupt opponents’ shots and control the boards made him one of the greatest rebounders in NBA history.

But it wasn’t just his defensive contributions that set Russell apart. He was also an exceptional scorer, consistently putting up strong offensive numbers. Russell’s ability to score, rebound, and lead by example earned him multiple MVP awards throughout his career.

However, it’s important to note that Russell’s impact on the game goes beyond statistics. His leadership and ability to bring out the best in his teammates were instrumental in the success of the Boston Celtics during the 1950s and 1960s.

Here’s a closer look at Bill Russell’s remarkable achievements:

Bill Russell’s dominance in the NBA during his era solidified his status as one of the greatest centers to ever play the game.

3. Wilt Chamberlain

Wilt Chamberlain is often regarded as the most dominant offensive player in NBA history. His scoring and rebounding records remain unassailable, and he had impressive performances throughout his career. However, Chamberlain’s team success did not always match his individual brilliance, and his impact on the game is sometimes debated due to the era in which he played.

4. Shaquille O’Neal

Shaquille O’Neal, widely known as Shaq, was a physical specimen and one of the most dominant centers in NBA history. Standing at 7’1″ and weighing over 300 pounds, O’Neal used his imposing size, strength, and skill to overpower his opponents on the court.

During his illustrious career, Shaq won four NBA titles, three with the Los Angeles Lakers (2000-2002) and one with the Miami Heat (2006). His contributions to these championship-winning teams were invaluable, as he consistently showcased his ability to score in the paint, grab rebounds, and protect the rim.

O’Neal’s dominance was further exemplified by his individual accolades, including the NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) award in 2000, as well as being named an All-Star 15 times throughout his career. His combination of power and finesse made him virtually unstoppable near the basket, making him a nightmare for opposing defenders.

Off the court, Shaq’s larger-than-life personality and jovial nature endeared him to fans worldwide, elevating his status as not just a basketball superstar but also a popular cultural figure.

To truly appreciate Shaquille O’Neal’s impact, let’s take a closer look at his career statistics:

These impressive numbers reflect O’Neal’s impact on the game and his ability to dominate in multiple aspects of play. His combination of scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking made him a generational talent and a true force to be reckoned with on the court.

5. Hakeem Olajuwon

Hakeem Olajuwon, widely regarded as one of the greatest centers in NBA history, left an indelible mark on the sport. Known for his exceptional skills on both ends of the floor, Olajuwon’s impact was felt in every aspect of the game.

Over the course of his career, Olajuwon won two NBA titles, solidifying his status as a champion. His dominance was recognized with an MVP award, highlighting his exceptional performance and contributions to his team’s success.

Olajuwon’s offensive prowess was evident in his scoring ability, consistently ranking among the league leaders. With his unmatched footwork and agility, he could score from anywhere on the court and had a wide repertoire of moves that left defenders in awe.

Not only was Olajuwon a force offensively, but he also showcased his brilliance on the defensive end. His shot-blocking skills were unparalleled, swatting away opponents’ attempts with precision and timing. His ability to protect the rim often frustrated opposing players and disrupted their offensive strategies.

Additionally, Olajuwon’s defensive prowess extended beyond blocking shots. He possessed quick hands and anticipation, allowing him to excel in stealing the ball from his opponents. His defensive versatility made him a true game-changer and elevated the performance of his team.

To showcase the excellence of Hakeem Olajuwon’s NBA career, here is a breakdown of his key accomplishments:

As seen in the table, Hakeem Olajuwon’s accomplishments are a testament to his incredible impact on the game. He left an enduring legacy as one of the most well-rounded and skilled centers in NBA history.

Stay tuned for the final section where we unveil the last two centers on our list, concluding our journey through the top NBA centers of all time.

6. Moses Malone

Moses Malone is often regarded as one of the most underappreciated superstars in NBA history. His dominance as a rebounder and scorer, coupled with his physicality and toughness, made him a feared presence in the paint.

Malone’s outstanding ability on the offensive glass sets him apart as one of the greatest offensive rebounders of all time. His relentless pursuit of second-chance opportunities was instrumental in his team’s success and his own individual achievements.

“Moses Malone was an absolute force on the boards. His ability to grab offensive rebounds and convert them into points was unmatched. He was a relentless competitor and a key contributor to his team’s success.” – NBA analyst

Throughout his career, Malone earned numerous accolades, including three NBA titles and three MVP awards. His remarkable scoring ability, combined with his tenacity on the boards, solidified his legacy as one of the most impactful players of his era.

Malone’s contributions to the game extended beyond individual statistics. His leadership and presence on the court inspired his teammates and instilled fear in opponents. Despite his often overlooked status, his impact on the game cannot be underestimated.

7. David Robinson

David Robinson, known as “The Admiral,” was a remarkable player who left an indelible mark on the basketball court. With his unparalleled athleticism, scoring prowess, and defensive abilities, Robinson solidified his status as one of the best centers in NBA history.

During his illustrious career, Robinson achieved great success, including multiple NBA titles with the San Antonio Spurs. His leadership and on-court contributions played a vital role in the team’s victories, demonstrating his ability to elevate the performance of those around him.

Robinson’s impressive achievements extended beyond team success. He was recognized individually with an MVP award, a testament to his exceptional skills and impact on the game. His scoring ability and dominant presence in the paint made him a force to be reckoned with.

Not only was Robinson a formidable offensive threat, but he also excelled on the defensive end. His shot-blocking skills were unmatched, intimidating opponents and altering countless shots throughout his career. Additionally, Robinson’s rebounding prowess ensured his team’s possession of the ball, securing precious opportunities to score.

David Robinson’s legacy as one of the NBA’s greatest centers remains intact, serving as an inspiration to future generations. His combination of skill, versatility, and leadership continues to be revered and celebrated in the basketball community.

8. Patrick Ewing

Patrick Ewing, a legendary big man of the ’90s, left an indelible mark on the NBA as one of the best centers in history. Throughout his career with the New York Knicks, Ewing showcased his exceptional shot-blocking abilities and scoring prowess, both inside the paint and from mid-range.

Ewing’s defensive presence was truly remarkable, as he consistently deterred opposing players with his imposing size and timing. His shot-blocking ability earned him numerous All-Star selections, highlighting his impact on the game and recognition from his peers.

Not only was Ewing a formidable shot-blocker, but he was also a prolific scorer and rebounder. His offensive arsenal included powerful dunks, accurate jump shots, and an array of post moves that made him a force to be reckoned with in the paint.

Although Ewing never won an NBA title during his career, his contributions on both ends of the court make him one of the most respected centers of his era. Ewing’s legacy as a dominant and versatile player endures, solidifying his place among the NBA’s greatest.

FAQ

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