***
I thought with the
All-Star game taking place in Houston (in the dUck's general vacinity), and another weekend with no cable (resorting to watching highlights/updates on
ESPN.com... sigh), I thought it best to keep my brain "percolating" (famous Walt Frazier saying... not mine) by coming up with an "
All-Time Top-50 Greatest Player's List".
Criteria for such a list would be:
- Achievements
- Career Averages
- Points/Rebounds/Steals/Assists/Blocks ect...
- Reputation
- Defense/Offense
- Longevity
- Did they introduce something new to the year, something unique...
So, who's #1? Well, that's just too easy.
#1
Michael Jordan
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Actually, if I had to complite a "
Greatest List of Pro-Athletes", it would still be Jordan... and I don't think it's that close. To sum him up best, watching the
Bulls on NBC ('96-98) during the BULLS last 3-peat, specifically Jordan, was like watching
SUPERMAN. You know who's going to win at the end. There will always be some dramatics to keep you on the edge of your seat, but you know who'll ultimately prevail. In what would be "Seinfeld's" final season, would ultimately be The
BULLS final (great) season as well.
NBC, in '98, had 5 of the top rated shows on television. FRIENDS, E.R., FRASIER, SEINFELD, and The "Michael Jordan" show. Literally, 15% of all commercials (prime-time/evening schedule that is...) in '98 (on NBC) had some form of Michael Jordan in them that year. That same year, the
BULLS had their most challenging playoff run. They were taken to 7 hard-fought games versus the
Indiana Pacers, in what was probably the most difficult series that Michael Jordan's
BULLS had won. After having to play a 7th game (a press conference immediately after a tough and close loss to the
Pacers that night), Michael Jordan, with
FIRE in his eyes (and no reporters saying anything), kept repeating... "Indiana... Utah... still gotta' come through Chicago... still gotta' come through Chicago... Indiana... Utah... still gotta' come through Chicago...", he kept repeating the same thing for something like 3-minutes (which means
FOREVER on live TV). He kept repeating it for so long, that I had enough time to call my friend long-distance, in hopes that he was seeing what I was seeing (to which he was). I think if they would have played back-to-back games that night, Jordan would have gone off for 150 points. IF he played
Superman a game of 1-on-1 that very night, Jordan may very well have won.
Side note: Jordan only uses that intense look during games. The way he conducts himself in interviews, he's calm and articulate, and works the room like no one else. But the look he had in that specific press-conference, I've only seen on Barry Bonds face. Not when Bonds is loafing (or acting as if the game is too easy for him... which may be true), but when Bonds' teams are trailing, and he starts chewing sunflower seeds, and he's no longer blinking (or roll-his-eyes as to how everyone is beneath him in Little... er... the Major Leagues), and sitting there, no saying boo, but you can see that his mind is racing, and seeing things we're not. A "crazed look", that he's going to murder the ball. Well, if you know what I'm talking about (as I'm unsure why the baseball commentators never say... "Bonds" has got that "crazed" look, he's going to murder the ball next at bat), Jordan had that very look in the press conference.
Once you get past the career numbers, averages, MVP's, FINALS MVP's, All-Star game MVP's, the 1st-Team All-Star and 1st-Team All-Defense squads, the dunks, the challenges, the commercials, the interviews, the off-season conditioning, SNL, "Come-Fly-With-Me" video, the retirements, the coming-out-of-retirements, and to do it all as a 2-guard, he's the greatest player ever.
#2 Bill Russell
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I used to think that Russell was overrated, because his greatness only stemmed from his being a cog in probably the greatest Dynasty in all of pro-sports (the
Yankees,
Montreal Canadians,
49ers, and
Manchester United are just as great as the
Celtics in the context of their respective sports... but Russell won 11 Championships in only 13 seasons!!!). I used to wonder why some (not all) considered him equal if not greater than the "Big Dipper" (Wilt C.), or "Kareem Abdul-Jabbar". He never averaged 50-points per game for an entire season (like Wilt), he wasn't a giant (he's probably about 6'9"), and getting back to scoring... he never even averaged 20-points per game in any season of this 13-career. So how can he be #2?
He's a winner, and something lost of most basketball player these days, he played team-ball. Wilt didn't. Kareem did, but what about those crappy Lakers of the late '70s (they were so bad, they were fortunate enough to land Magic Johnson)? Kareem and Wilt made their teams better (Kareem moreso than Wilt) because of their sheer greatness, but Russell sacrificed everything with the only thought of helping his team win. Actually, playing "team-ball" would be considered "sacrifice" to 90% of basketball players, but one would have to think that Russell didn't see it as a sacrifice. Imagine Bill Russell on the
Pistons team this year (and over the last 2). They'd probably win 75 games a year.
There are no records of blocks or steals prior to the early '70s, but if there were, I'd have to think that Russell would be the All-Time blocked-shots leader (though in fairness... Wilt was also a great shot-blocker), and he'd probably rank right up there in steals. In case you didn't know, Russell's career averages were:
42.3 minutes per game/22.5 rebounds per games/4.3 assists per game/15.1 PPG
Like Dr. J and MG, they're great ambassadors for the game.
#3 Magic Johnson
I had no problem with #1 and #2 picks, but it gets MUCH harder now.
I'm going with Magic at #3, because of his being a winner as well. He won 5 Championships, to Bird's 3. If Bird won more, than I'd list Bird as #3. There numbers are quite similar. If Bird scored more, than Magic racked-up more assists. But really, if you compare their numbers, they're both triple-double-type players. Magic is a player who could have averaged 10 rebounds a game (he averaged 7.2 per game), but he had to direct the offense more than concentrating on that element of his game. He was and probably is the greatest distributor the game has even seen (although John Stockton was a GREAT distributor as well... tough call). He wasn't a great 3-point shooter, yet when it mattered, he made his shots. Magic was so great at the offensive part of the game, that people (or critics) rarely go on about his not-so-great defense. Like Bird, he was a great anticipator on defense when the game was close. Regardless (even though I'm BIG on defense), he's my #3 choice.
Side note: Had Johnson continued to play (instead of retiring in mid-career), he would have easily recorded (and well over) 20,000 points/10,000 rebounds/10,000 assists. Actually, he may have gotten closer to 30,000/14,000/16,000 based on the fact that he probably could have played for another 7-8 years if he had wanted to, and surely another 3-4 great seasons.
#4 Larry Bird
On par with Jordan, Bryant, and Reggie Miller when the game came down to the last few seconds. Rather, they're on par with him. Brilliant scorer, distributor from the wing, rebounder, and again... anticipator. It's surprising that Bird and Johnson are so similar in vision and reading the plays, and they came up at the same time. They were about the same size in height and weight (although Johnson was about 3-years younger). Magic Johnson was clearly more athletic (or quicker), although Bird was probably the smarter player at picking his spots. When comparing the two though, while both equally respected, Bird may have been the more feared of the two. When the "white-hpye" label is thrown around, it's quickly waved-off by people like Jordan. Those who played with and against Bird, knew that he was the real deal.
#5 Kareem Abdul Jabbar
If you were an expansion team, and you could pick any player in the history of the game, I'd have to think that a great percentage of GM's would want to build their teams around Jabbar. His credentials are great. He's probably the greatest NCAA player of All-Time, one of the brightest (if often misunderstood) players to have played the game, hold various NBA records with the most important being All-Time leading scorer with 38,387 points (although Jordan has the highest points-per-game average). He was a very good defensive center (if not great), he had great-great hands, and he was probably the most fundamentally-sound centers to have played the game (with the possible exception of Hakeem and yes... Bill Walton). He has what is often considered the deadliest offense weapon in the history of the game... his patented "Hook-Shot", or "Sky-Hook". He was a 6-Time MVP, and by various observers, is considered the greatest center AND player of All-Time.
Alcindor (his previous name) is/was often criticized because he looked as though he wasn't giving it his best efforts. He made the game look too easy (similar to Barry Bonds), which turned people off. Also, many (like me) will point to his not making those Lakers teams of the late '70s better, and that he needed Magic (and a loaded Lakers team) to win. Regardless, he was a winner, and he has 6-rings to prove it (1 with the
Bucks).
#6 Jerry West
"Mr. Clutch" is often regarded as the games greater gunner. What is often overlooked though, was that he was a great defensive stopper, and that he played the whole game. He could do everything. Steal, pass, rebound, and even block (as I've been told) the occasional shot, and most certainly score.
What always puzzles me though, is that he's called "Mr. Clutch" for his scoring efforts when the games mattered most (and when Elgin Baylor would disappear), yet, those Lakers teams were defeated 7-times in the NBA Finals in a row, before he won it for the 1st time in '72. It's not necessarily his fault they lost, but you'd think that he ALWAYS won with that name.
A great GM, a classy personality, and although it's never confirmend, most likely the silhouette on the NBA emblem.
#7 Oscar Robertson
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Confidence supreme, he still thinks he's the greatest player of All-Time. While I don't think so, maybe he is/was. He's quite often regarded as the games greatest guard (point of shooting), and hey, he's "Mr. Triple-Double". He narrowly missed averaging a Triple-Double for 5-years straight ('61-65)!!! While LeBron James certainly looks like he's the next Robertson (statistically, and by sheer power), Robertson was also a great and fearless defender (often forgotten aspect of his game).
It would have been great though (like West), if he could have won more than 1-Championship. Some of those Bucks teams (with Alcindor) were the greatest in the history of the sport (on paper). They should have won at least 3.
#8 Wilt Chamberlain
What?! How can Chamberlain be this low. Various experts have him as their #1 player of All-Time. He's generally #1-3 on most people's lists. Not on mine.
Look, like Shaquille O'Neil, he was scary and changes the entire complexion of the game when he's playing. He was probably the most athletic centers to have played the game (like David Robinson), actually, he was well-known for being great at many sports (a great Beach Volleyball player... actually... GREAT GREAT Beach Volleyball player). He was an athlete with tons of talents. He averaged over 50 points per game for an entire season!!! He scored 100 points in a single game!!! He led the league in assists one season, and he's a center!!! He's stats are AWESOME!!!
That's all true. It's EASY to make a case that he's the games greatest player. He was probably the greatest force the game has ever seen (Shaquille is right there also).
But, for all of that... he won 2 Championships. He generally was on the 1st All-NBA squads ahead of Russell, yet, he only won 2 Championships. Look, if you're Charles Barkley or Dominique Wilkins, and you weren't able to win a Championship, it's more than understandable. It's hard to do that from the 3 and 4 positions. But Chamberlain was a center, and to most, the greatest center to have played. And... he played on lots of teams with loaded line-ups (not at the beginning of his career though), yet his teams records weren't so brilliant.
Chamberlain, could be great whenever he wanted to be (like Shaq). But the desire wasn't always there. Better yet, he was NOT a coach's dream (like Russell). He's a GM's dream though.
I think he put himself ahead of his teams, and that's where he loses so many points to Russell and even with Jabbar.
#9 John Havlicek
VERY underrated player. A great role-player (coming off the bench for many years), and a great leader and go-to-guy (later on in his career). Very athletic, or if he wasn't athletic, he could sure run-run-run-and-run (like Richard Hamilton or Clyde Drexler in that regard). Did everything well, and was also a terror on the defensive side of the game.
Something I've never understood about the topic of Havlicek, was that he (as far as I know) didn't seem to gain the same respect from Red Auerbach, that Auerback would thrust on Bird (his great prize). I would never argue that Havlicek was as great as Bird, because that may very well be true. Havlicek was a great icon, and someone to look up to. Maybe I'm wrong, maybe Auerback loved Havlicek, but I've yet to read or come across anything that would suggest that.
Havlicek is just as important as Russell and Bird in
Celtics lore.
#10 Hakeem Olajuwon
I could understand if you may think that I've ranked Olajuwon too high, but actually, I would rank him higher if I had a little more confidence.
I'll say this also, with all the centers ranked ahead of him on this list, or amongst his peers including Shaquille O'Neil, I have a hard time believing that any center in the history of basketball could have been better than Olajuwon was from '93-95. Why?
Nevermind the obvious, that he led those Houston Rocket teams to 2 Championships (back-to-back), or how he did it (by destroying David Robinson, and making O'Neil and to a lesser extent... Patrick Ewing... look silly and inept).
It was a combination of the following:
- His defense was AWESOME at that time... the best in the league... consisting of a great number of steals, blocks, rebounds, but more importantly, an intimidating presence, and an understanding as to how to stop centers ranging from the graceful Robinson to the powerful O'Neil. He adapted to each center/power forward, and beat them on EACH challenge. I bet that's how Bill Russell or a Nate Thurmond were at their peaks, but I imagine that even they weren't on par with Olajuwon at his peak.
- His offense was DEVASTATING at that time... the best in the league... consisting of some of the most devasting post-moves from the center position EVER!!! Similar to how Kevin McHale used to dominate the post from the power-forward position. He was so graceful and quick on his feet, athletic, everything. Robinson may have been a better sprinter (and have a great body), but Hakeem was uber-athletic as well, and he could have been a great dancer at that time (for a man his size... not a Barishnakov). Actually Michael Jordan said it best, "He's a small forward." The "Dream-Shake" will never be as famous as the "Sky-Hook", but it's just as unstoppable.
- His presence offensively, defensively, and in his abilities on and off the court were at their strongest. He was a great leader. He wasn't a yeller, he was someone who would just do it. And like Russell, although Olajuwon scored more, was a great team player. While there's no question that Olajuwon could always do everything on the court, it was never what it would become 10-years into his career. He was (only) slightly raw when he first came into the league (most players should so lucky to be that raw and THAT good coming into the league), and after summers of playing against Moses Malone and learning how to be "tougher", he would "get it".
If I could take any center in the history of the game at their peak, Olajuwon would be my selection (and I'd get him at an underrated discount).
#11 Shaquille O'Neil
Shaq could be #1 on the list before he's done, but at this point, it probably won't be happening (unless his
HEAT can reel off a dynasty while his maintaining his current production for another few years).
Shaq puts the scare into opposing teams (like Wilt), but not like a Jordan does. Shaq is not JUST size. Shaq is an extremely athletic and talented player for his size. He's intriguing in that sense. Players have bulked-up like him (although probably never as big... although his old LSU teammate Stanley Roberts comes to mind), and there are other 7-footers in the league, but combining his weight and height, no one has his quickness in the box. And he has hops (he doesn't need them though). He's a pretty good (at times very good) passer. He's developed quite a few nice post moves (more than people and critics realize), and his arsenal is sufficiently diverse. His power moves are unstoppable. His reflexes are never dull, and despite how he looks, sounds and what he choses to say, Shaq is quite bright as well.
What always bothers me about Shaq, is his massive ego that confuses his perception on what (really) "IS". What that entails, is that even during the Jordan era (even though he has a tremendous amount of respect for Jordan), he would always proclaim himself as the games best player. And despite all that Duncan has done (in the most boring fashion), he STILL thinks he's the greatest playing now (and to have ever played the game). He's still right up there, no doubt, even with his declining abilities (mostly physical).
Also, I've found that with Penny Hardaway, as well with Kobe Bryant (and although doubtful... you never know with Dwayne Wade), is that they got the brunt of the heat for Shaq's leaving both clubs. Now, Hardaway and Bryant are the easiest guys to like either, but I have a very easy time seeing that Shaq's massive ego made him a cancer in both clubhouses. Shaq can and has made his teammates better. But, I'm convinced that he's a part of the problem more often than not.
Shaq is a great player. He's not a disappointment, but with having been part of those Magic and Lakers squads, and being who he is, one would have to have imagined that he'd have at least 5 Championships by this point of his career.
#12 Julius Erving (a.k.a. Dr. "J")
The face of the ABA. Apparently, the most respected former NBA player by the way he carries himself. Articulate, slick, stylish, smart... the Sidney Potier of the NBA.
Renowed as the greatest "practice" dunkers. An ABA, NBA, and street-ball legend. The giant 'fro that made him look like a 7-footer (and Artis Gilmore was a 7'2" GIANT who had an even bigger 'fro that made him look 7'8"). Finally won it all, with a very deep and talented 76ers squad ('83). Actually, he was a part of MANY talented 76ers squads. That just happened to be the only one that won it all.
#13 Rick Barry
Actually, I can easily reverse Barry with Dr."J", because while their games are completely different, they're both ABA and NBA All-Stars who excelled in most facets of the games. Barry was a better passer, and I think at his peak, was hungrier. Barry usually loses points with people because of his absolute arrogance (still does). Although, I could listen to him forever, because he speaks what's on his mind, and he's quite brilliant as far as his basketball I.Q. is concerned.
While Dr."J" is the symbol of the ABA, I think that Rick Barry might have been just a tiny bit better, comparing both players against each other in their early '20s. Barry was a great college player, and he was the best scorer in the NBA prior to bolting to the ABA, where he would be then become the ABA's best scorer (and best player for his brief stay there).
Dr."J" wins out, because he played for a longer period, and was still quite good his last year. Barry fizzled-out with the Rockets, and I think his heart was no longer in it either. He WAS the Golden State Warriors' team that won it all in '05.
#14 Bob Pettit
The games first great power forward. Actually, the games best power forward until Tim Duncan (arguably Karl Malone... maybe even Elvin Hayes).
Retired a bit early (as far as I'm concerned), because he was still scoring around his career averages per 40 minutes.
Was voted on the 1st Team All-NBA squad his 1st ten years in the league, and made the 2nd All-NBA squad his last (that year, he had his minutes reduced).
I think that by the time Duncan is finished (if not already), he'll easily be the greatest power forward to have played the game. But I'd argue that within the context of when Bob Pettit was playing, he's the 2nd greatest.
#15 Elgin Baylor
One of the most explosive scorers in the history of the game. Maybe the most explosive scorer, when driving to the hoop. I've heard many times, that Baylor is a Top-5 All-Timer, and even I used to have him as my #3 guy! But, I've gained a lot of perspective on those Lakers teams, and from what I know, Baylor was a floater on defense. And he was a choker in crunch-time (wonder why the Lakers were able to lose all of the 7 Finals that he reached).
Nevertheless, he was a great player. Great rebounder, and I imagine that despite not being tall, he was like a rhyno running the lanes.
#16 Dolph Schayes
One can only hope that historians will remember that he was nothing like his son on the court (though his son was okay, had a long career, and was valued as a reserve). Schayes, with Mikan, Arizin, and Cousy, was amongst the 1st wave of superstars in the game. Great rebounder, soft-hands, and quite durable. He had set many records prior to his retirement. People don't like to vote the old-timmers this high, but in the context of when he was playing, he was awesome.
#17 John Stockton
Behind the curtain that was Karl Malone, is the wizard of Utah... John Stockton. Fearless in crunch-time, and clutch, AND could have been a 20 point-per-game scorer if he wanted it. But, that wasn't his game. He was there to do a little bit of everything, and most importantly, direct and set-up the offense as best he could.
Stockton seemed to accurate in everything he did. Nothing was wasted. It must really eat him up these days, that he didn't take the ball more often in those 4th quarters of those big games. I mean... he still did shoot. But, he should have been the go-to-guy more times than he was.
Great steals guy. A very good defensive player, knew when and how to draw fouls, and exceptional at setting up the offense even when not carrying the ball (setting picks). His off-the-ball movements, and positioning were ahead of the competition. A master at quite a few tricks. Great, great, player. Coaches dream, because he executes, and doesn't bitch. Could still be coming off the bench for 20 minutes a game. Durable.
#18 Moses Malone
Like Ewing, was always sweating, even before tip-off. Tenacious rebounder. Like Sir Charles. Good defender, though despite being an excellent rebounder (best in the league for a few years), could have been an even better defender. Ball goes in, it's never coming back out. Hustle offense. Grinding, always grinding, never tiring (although always sweating). Scored a ton of points (5th All-Time NBA), but not necessarily gifted offensively like you'd expect from those numbers. He REALLY worked for those points. For every 2-points he scored, the other team probably gained an extra 4-5 bruised on the play. Hard points. Well respected player.
#19 Scottie Pippen
I used to think that Pippen was SOOOOOO overrated. Boy, was I wrong on that one. Way off. Actually, even when I was watching him in his prime, I knew he was great. I just assumed that he WAS that great because he was Jordan's teammate. I didn't appreciate Pippen enough, for what he brought to the table. He was exceptional at everything, and could play all 5-positions (yes, he'd play center on occasion, for brief spells). His defense was as great as Frazier's, as was his scoring. He may be the best passer from the wing position, certainly at directing the offense.
Pippen probably lost lots of fans for being perceived as a baby for the "migraine" that kept him on the bench at the end of a critical
BULLS vs.
KNICKS (sans M.J.) game 7. For whatever reason, not the guy I want taking shots at the end of a game. If you don't understand why, all you need to know is 2000 Conference Finals,
Portland carrying a 17-point lead in the 2nd half versus the
Lakers,
Portland misses (I believe) 15-shots in a row (thank you Bonzie Wells and Scottie Pippen). Unlike Jordan, got rattled too easily. Sensitive.
Nevertheless, the BULLS were great because M.J. and Pippen could feed off each other. Underrated because he'll forever be in M.J.'s shadow. May have been better with Jordan... but that's crazy for those who'd believe that. Jordan ALWAYS challenged Pippen... made him stronger, and greater.
#20 Isiah Thomas
The greatest dribbler I've ever seen (even more than Pete Maravich). Great scorer when it mattered most. Underrated assist man for some reason. Not a great defender, but better than he was bad (IOW, he was solid). The guy never ages, despite being about 45, looks like he could still play (even after being in New York as the GM!!!... you'd think he'd look 80). Quick player, darted-in-and-out like no one else (though Kenny Anderson once had that ability). Confidence was great, as was his ego. Deadly smile. Dumars probably gets more respect in Detroit these days, and was a GREAT defender, but Thomas made those Pistons teams go.
#21 Walt Frazier
Just like Scottie, but mentally stronger. Could rank ahead of Pippen, but I think Pippen's career was greater, longer, and I think that Scottie was a better scorer (for the 1st 3-quarters that is) who could have scored more had he been the featured player. Frazier is probably the most loved Knick in Knick lore (although the do love Ewing). Great commentator. Personified the '70s New York scene.
Great defense, wonderful passing ability, very silky smooth player.
#22 Elvin Hayes
It's funny. I always read/hear that Hayes fundamentals were crap. What I mean by that is he wasn't good at some of the basic skills one would need to become a great basketball player. That became evident throughout his teams practices, while running drills. He couldn't do them. He was also known for being too private, and had difficulties with the media (who doesn't?). And lots has been made of these facts.
What is somehow being forgotten though, was that Hayes was a great scorer. He may have done the same exact move to score the majority of his 27,313 points (6th All-Time), but it always worked for him. It was his bread-and-butter. Teams knew what he was going to do, he was predictable, and they could never stop him. How is that bad? Hayes was also a GREAT rebounder (4th All-Time) and shot-blocker (15th All-Time). He was an important part of a great Washington Bullets team, that made it to 3 NBA Finals (and winning 1).
Another important bit that's been forgotten about Hayes, was that he was one of the greatest college players of All-Time. He played in probably one of the most memorable college games ever. University of Houston versus an undefeated UCLA team, with probably the greatest college player of All-Time, Lew Alcindor. Hayes bested the nations greatest player, and the Houston team won. That year, Hayes won College Player of The Year, stealing it from Alcindor.
Whatever negative things that have been written up about Elvin Hayes, he was a great player.
#23 Karl Malone
Okay, I've waited a long time to put the 2nd All-Time leading scorer on my list. Perhaps he's a Top-10 player, I just don't happen to think so. He routinely looked bad in big games. His numbers are sensational, and maybe I'm being too harsh on him. Malone was a gifted athlete who always worked hard, on and ESPECIALLY off the court. Malone was huge, and he looked huge standing next to HULK HOGAN back in '98 (Hogan and Rodman vs. Malone and D.D.P. WCW match). Malone takes too many hits for being a "white" black man. But that bullshit. He's himself, and he doesn't need to be the "hood" if that isn't him. I respect Malone for that (driving around in a 16-wheeler, being a Mark McGwire fan, owning a ranch, listening to country, and endorsing Rogaine). I don't know if he's a model citizen, but from what I've gathered, I think he happens to be a pretty good role-model (despite the Kobe Bryant debacle in '04).
At the same time, while certainly being gifted, and working hard, I don't think of him amongst the greatest. I think that Stockton made him greater than he was, and certainly made it easier for him to score those points than not. To be fair, Malone certainly helped Stockton as well. I'll just say this, if Elvin Hayes had Stockton, he may have scored more points than Kareem.
#24 Kevin McHale
Had McHale played longer than he had, or rather, had his peak been longer, I'd have to consider him being #1 amongst power forwards. His arsenal in the post is unmatched. His repertoire was extensive. His long arms on defense, was a nightmare to deal with for the opposing players. While Bird was okay on defense, and Robert Parish was certainly good, McHale was the anchor back there, with Dennis Johnson manning the outside. Great shot-blocker. Teams didn't play the "inside" game against the Celtics at that time, rather taking their chances with mid-range/long-distance games. Fundamentally, McHale is in the Top-5% of all the players who've donned an NBA jersey.
#25 Charles Barkley
Malone's numbers are great than Barkley's, and he did a bit more. Barkley, though, was more talented and was able to do so much despite being shorter than his listed height of 6'6". Awesome rebounder, relentless at backing that big 'ol ass of his against his defenders at the top of the key, pounding the ball in, and excellent outlet passer when facing double teams. Offensively, despite owning an ugly shot, was a very capable scorer mid-range, and certainly great in the post. So-so defender, but certainly a tough-guy. Jumped Shaq once, and probably could hold his own (raw-hide skin is my guess).
I like Sir Charles, but the more I hear him in interviews, it's become clearer that he's a total racist, rather than an "equal-opportunist" that he thinks he is. I've always liked the fact that he speaks his mind, and doesn't care what others think. But he seems to be going down the Joe Morgan lane, of not being a good analyst (being redundant). Barkley was also a VERY lazy player when it came to conditioning (although his body fat was down to 4% while with the
SUNS, although he didn't look it
), hence the fallout with he and Pippen with the
ROCKETS.
#26 Bob Cousy
The first player to electrify. The magician. Worked very well with Bill Russell, long passes, both ways. Master at dribbling. Not a good shooter, at all. Like Iverson, but he was smart enough NOT to always shoot, and make his team better by his willingness to pass and break down the oppositions defense. Good commentator, and the first great face of the Celtics dynasty.
#27 George Mikan
The 1st great name is NBA history. True or not, maybe debatable. Certainly the 1st great center. Unbelievable that the Lakers have had Mikan, Chamberlain, Abdul-Jabbar, Shaq, and to a much lesser extent, Vlade Divac manning the middle over 50-years.
#28 Wes Unseld
Maybe he should be higher. Underrated as time goes on. Great passer. Best quote when desribing him, was that it takes 2 minutes to get around his body. If you see some pictures of him, you'll get it. Round. Barkley is
round. Unseld is...
ROUND!!!
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While it's often said that players like Walton and Kareem were great at feeding cutters, and set-up the offense in the key (top of the key that is), and that they had revolutionized that, I'm not so sure that was true. Unself ALSO did JUST that. He was very successful at everything, and scored when he needed to. A better defensive player than he gets credit for, but what was known was that he was a monster rebounder, and unmovable in the paint. He was so big, low to the ground, and he had THE perfect center-of-gravity for basketball. Couldn't be moved.
#29 Nate Thurmond
Thurmond at his peak, could certainly hold his own against the greats. Widely considered to be the most difficult player to play against (amongst centers and power-forwards). Like Dave Cowens, but better, bigger, and longer. It's a shame that they didn't keep blocked-shots back when he first came into the league. They did introduce that particular stat when he was on the downside of his career, and he still averaged over 2 per game!!! He missed a lot of time, and his numbers could have been greater.
He always worked hard, never taking a night off. At one time, backed-up Wilt when they both played for the Warriors.
#30 Clyde Drexler
He could still put up great numbers when he decided to walk away. Wonderful at working the lanes. Tireless. Would run 6-10 miles a day in the offseason. Gifted passer on the fly, solid rebouder, good defensively (anticipation of the play), wonderful teammate who always made his teams better. With Olajuwon, also made 3 Final Four appearances with 2 Finals (Phi Slamma Jamma), again with Houston (also in '94-95 Champions). Fast and slick runner. Solid gunner. Wonderful and spectacular open-court dunker. Cutter/slasher... but most importantly, finisher.
#31 Paul Arizin
Maybe he should rank higher. He the first great small forward. Wonderful scorer, finisher and shooter. Great rebounder despite being slender. Was still putting up big numbers when he called it quits. Teamed with Wilt for a few years. Next to Cousy, the most popular player while he played.
#32 David Robinson
Physically, light-as-a-feather, and wiry-strong (built like a model). Actually "wiry" is too much. He was bigger than that. Great definition and tone. Naval Officer (I believe), so "Officer & A Gentleman" is quite correct. Pretty good piano player (lol), in the John Tesh mold
barf: ).
Good post moves, but they didn't look so good against Hakeem (who made him look like Manute Bol on offense). Great all-around game. Seemed as though he was going to become one of the greatest centers of All-Time at one point, that is... until Hakeem schooled him. Seemed to lose a ton of confidence after that. Enter Tim Duncan, and Robinson seemed to want to fade into the background. Although strong, soft. Critical of others, but a hypocrite. Polite yet arrogant. Lots of little injuries.
Regardless (I'm being too negative), he was a sensational center. He was a superb rebounder, scorere, and shot-blocker.
#33 Patrick Ewing
Actually, I'd rather have Ewing on my team over Robinson. I know the perception is that Ewing is a hog, but what you see is what you get. He ALWAYS worked hard, and was never afraid to mix-it-up with anyone. When Hakeem embarassed Shaq and Robinson, I thought that Ewing did the best against him (even though it was far from enough).
Perhaps he didn't live up to his hype, but he was still a franchise player who could match-up well against other HOFers. Even the HOFers took notice of Ewing.
Side note: I read yesterday that Ewing had very small hands. He certainly had long arms, and physically, he was fine (until the end). If you ever wondered where the scouts went wrong, is that the didn't take notice that he has small hands. Funny, scouts look at these things, I'm surprised they didn't make anything of that small detail. Despite those small hands, he was still a very good shot-blocker, rebounder, and the best mid-range jump-shot artist that was a center (yes, better than McAdoo).
#34 Jerry Lucas
Averaged a 20/20 (points/rebounds) in '95 and again in '96!!! Strong rebounder, and productive scorer. Key acquisition for those great Knick teams. Maybe the 2nd or 3rd greatest college basketball player of All-Time. Surprisingly, wasn't selected until the 6th spot of the '62 NBA draft.
#35 Hal Greer
People sometimes think that Hal Greer was just a scorer, much like they would think of Mitch Richmond. A second banana. Yes, well that much is true. But Greer was a very good defensive player, and worked the entire court each second he played. He was tenacious, and it's a shame that his teams almost always finished 2nd to those great Celtics teams of the '60s. Greer perhaps could have had statistics that could resemble a Jerry West (or at least closer to 30 points per game than 20), but he wasn't the featured scorer on a good number of his teams (he played with Wilt for a number of years). He really had no weaknesses, other than he didn't really get as much attention as he may or may not have deserved.
#36 Dan Issel
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Probably considered more of a great ABA player, but his great game did translate to the NBA. Soft hands, although younger fans of the game would think that he was some type of "Bobby Clark" (NHL) player, having all his front teeth missing. He was an exceptional rebounder, and he did most things well.
#37 Dominique Wilkins
Dominique was probably considered the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th most dangerous scorer during the '80s (exceptions being M.J. of course, Bird, possibly Alex English). He was certainly considered the 2nd best scorer by the late-80s/early '90s, 2nd only to Jordan. Great leaper, and ALWAYS a great scorer. Not a good defensive player, but active, and most certainly not bad. He kept his teams competitive, but they were never really great.
#38 Alex English
Super stats. Believe it or not, as Jack Morris was the winningest pitcher in baseball through the '80s, Alex English scored the most points in the '80s!!!
Although sometimes viewed as someone who shot too much, that just isn't true. His FG% hovered around 50%, which means that he's converting a high percentage of his shots. He was a solid mid-range shooter, he could run and drive (like Richard Hamilton today), as he was a pretty good passer and rebounder. I guess, playing Doug Moe's system, did great things for English's numbers, but he was a very good (All-Star worthy) player. Underrated these days, actually, back then too.
#39 George Gervin
Hmmm, how could I put one of the games most prolific scorers this low? Well, first things first. Gervin was a great scorer. And he's called "The Iceman" because he looked as though he was always cool, never sweating. I'll counter that by saying that he wasn't sweating because he didn't play defense. His defense was no better and perhaps worse than Glenn Robinson's. He didn't play it. So, he's a 100% scorer. To me, he's a World B. Free-type who was a better scorer than World B. Free, therefore he's considered great. And he is a great "scorer". But as a passer, he was a black-hole. Rebounding? Not really. Forgetting my list though, Gervin is appreciated, and I'd love to see some more of his games on DVD/Cassette. Don't get me wrong, he was an exciting player who people would gladly pay to watch.
#40 Dave Cowens
I'd like to put Cowens MUCH higher than he is here. He's an MVP, and one of the toughest centers to play against. He was a very good scorer, good passer, fierce rebounder and good at blocking shots. But, his career was too short... too brief. He's a champion, but I can't put him any higher. Greater than English or the Iceman? Please, of course, but longevity and totals do count.
#41 Dennis Johnson
I suppose that if Johnson played the role of featured scorer, he would be rank higher in the minds of many NBA minds. You may find it hard that he ranks this high, but I think he was a massive contributor to all of his teams (especially come playoff time). Remember, he was a key member (the MVP) of a Seattle team that won it all. He also made a Phoenix team that much better as well. And, most certainly, his work with the Celtics. A wonderful defensive player. Actually, he, Maurice Cheeks, and Sidney Moncrief were probably the two best "small" defenders throughout the majority of the '80s (before Jordan). The bigger the game, the better Dennis Johnson would become.
#42 Willis Reed
Well never know what a full-career would have looked like. I'd probably rank him ahead of Cowens, but they basically did the same, and Cowens played longer. I think a tad overrated by the NBA historians, but he was the leader of those great Knick teams. And those teams were loaded with leaders, so his being the "leader" must mean a heckuva lot.
#43 Robert Parish
Parish probably accomplished more than most of the centers on this list. And he was a very good, and highly respected center. A strong work ethic, great career milestones reached because of his dedication (conditioning), and yes, a solid player. He scored a lot of points, and not just because he played the most games in NBA history (although he's 8th All-Time in minutes played). There was a bit of a log-jam, playing in that deep front court for all of those years. Parish was left to jobble-up whatever was left from Bird and McHale. As I'm writing this and reviewing his statistics, and considering that he played on some great Celtic teams, he's pretty underrated. He's known, but he's somehow become an afterthought.
#44 Gary Payton
The "Glove" is still playing these days, but in a reduced role (sometimes starter). Up until 3-years ago, or essentially prior to joining the Lakers, Payton was still doing everything. He's was an exceptional defensive player (9 time 1st-Team), better distributor than critics give him credit for, and a wonderful scorer. If he's somehow able to keep his career going for another 3-4 years (very doubtful), he could reach 10,000 career assists. If he were to win a Title with the Heat, while raising his game up a level come playoff time, he'd be higher on this list (and maybe he should be higher anyways).
#45 Reggie Miller
There have been greater scorers in league history, but I don't think (outside of Jordan) I'd rather have anyone else take and make a big shot for my team. While Ray Allen is in hot-pursuit of Miller's career record of 3-pointers made, Miller still stands as the greatest long-range marksman (although Rick Barry and Jerry West were great from deep as well). One of the most hated players in the history of the game (college as well), Miller has an uncanny ability to make his detractors look bad. One of my favorite players.
#46 Artis Gilmore
Monster with the 'fro. Tall, very tall. Strong, very strong. Wilt/Shaq type of strength. Exceptional rebounder, good shot-blocker (as he should be), and for a man of his height, he had some hops. Like Moses Malone, no college. Like Malone, major coup when the Kentucky Colonels lured him away from entering the NBA, 1st overall selection. Intimidating, and at times, a pretty good scorer. After leaving the NBA, would still play ball overseas in Europe.
#46 Dave DeBusschere
Relentless defenders, really worked for everything. Was more key to the Knicks becoming a great team, than Earl Monroe was (different teams though). Knicks traded Walt "Bells" Bellamy (almost made my Top-50) to get DeBusschere. When he came, they were instant contenders. Lots of heart, maybe Pete Rose's answer to basketball, minus the longevity (and being a disgrace to game and humans).
#47 Joe Dumars
I used to think that Dumars was highly overrated. And... again, I was wrong. Jordan has said time and again, that Dumars defended him the best (although Jordan also said the same thing about Doug Christie and Sidney Moncrief). Or maybe it was that he defended him the closest. I don't really know. Regardless, a fine scorer, a super GM (right vision), and great all around player that any team in the history of the game could use.
#48 Dennis Rodman
I know what you're thinking. Rodman, ahead of Bernard King, Dave Bing, Pete Maravich, Terry Cummings, Truck Robinson, Bobby Jones, Billy Cunningham, Tiny Archibald, Sam Jones, Earl Monroe, Lenny Wilkens, Bill Sharman, Walter Davis, Mark Aguirre, Andrian Dantley, Jack Sikma, Chet Walker, or even a Reggie Theus? Am I mad? Yes, apparently I am.
Ignore what you're thinking about Rodman, or what first springs to mind.
- He was twice voted Defensive Player of The Year in '90 and '91. He probably could and should have won more, but people don't like voting for someone like Dennis.
- He was a 7-time All-Defense (1st) Team member, and once again, a 2nd Team member.
- He led the league in rebounding per game, 7 straight years.
I've read in articles and book, and heard on TV or radio interviews, by people like Bill Russell, that Dennis Rodman is the greatest rebounder he's ever seen. One more that I liked, was David Robinson commenting on his comparison of Tim Duncan to having to work with Dennis Rodman, and Robinson said that Rodman was a much better rebounder.
Rodman was never a scorer, but was a wonderful role-player. If you ignore the antics, he's one of the games greatest defenders. Not just rebounds, Rodman knew how to draw fouls, get under the opposition's skin, and how to get in front of his man. Jordan and Pippen held grudges against Rodman, not because he was a goofball, or that he colored his hair, they despised him because of his tenacious defense.
#49 Bill Walton
I hated the fact that Walton was a member of the NBA's 50-Greatest Players list 10-years ago. He barely played. He was always injured. How could he have made it?
Well, over the years I've changed my mind on Walton. Walton could have been a Top-5 center of All-Time, certainly a Top-15 or 20 player at any position. He didn't. But, when he did play, when healthy, Walton was better than any center I listed here, other than Olajuwon, Shaq, Jabbar, Wilt, or Russell. Actually, if he had an injury free career, he would have revolutionized the game. I know that sounds silly to some, but he was more Russell than any of the other centers I mentioned. Plus, his post skills were phenominal. The only player I can think of, who reminds me of Walton, would Arvydas Sabonis. Now, the Sabonis we saw, was playing on two bad knees. But Sabonis (like Walton) in his prime, was a superstar. He could run, jump (he couldn't jump in Portland), and do everything from the center spot. Walton and Sabonis were like octopuses, directing everything, controlling the entire flow of the game. They were both superb passers (only Webber or Divac as big men can be compared), and both had great post-moves that we rarely got to see.
I'll leave Russell out of this one, but when comparing Walton (and Sabonis) in his prime to the other greats, his (their) game (s) aren't about points being scored, moreso about creative the offense from the top of the key. From that spot, Walton can see his teammates cutting and slashing, who's open for a 3, or to just back-his-man-in, and post-him-up. Walton's vision, and ability to read the plays were ahead of it's time (and still is). Chamberlain, Jabbar, and O'Neil, all have the capacity to do this at times, but there games are made a different way. They're go-to-guys, who want to be option #1. Walton and Sabonis didn't want there to be an option #1, rather select the best option from the best spot on the floor. If that meant them, so be it. Floor generals.
#50 Bernard King
King, like the "
Ice Man", was pretty much a ball-hog. He was an awesome scorer though, and all I've ever read when summing up his career, was that he was impossible to stop, and always bulled his defenders. People hated having to guard him. Why?
a) He'd embarrass you.
b) He'd clobber you.
c) The player may have gotten injured on the same play where he embarrassed AND clobbered you.
It was hard not rooting for King. He came back twice, overcoming two major injuries (career threatening). What could have been... well never know.
I'll post another list of those who just missed the cut, or those who were left off the list because they're still in mid-career (eg. Kobe Bryant)
Steed
***
). The NBA (apologies to Toronto) is played in U.S. cities, yet people all over the world routinely watch NBA games. People outside North America rarely watch NFL football, and although baseball is certainly popular in Asia, it means nothing to most Europeans. Hockey, while certainly big in various sectors of Europe and Russia (anywhere that's cold), still isn't received like basketball is. 
