Can we talk about the absolute ballers in the NBA since the turn of the century? These dudes have taken the game to a whole new level. I’m talking about players like Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Tim Duncan, and Kevin Durant. It’s not just the talent; it’s the way they’ve consistently put up insane numbers, adapted to the ever-evolving league, and dominated over extended periods.
Kobe Bryant, for instance, dropped 81 points in a single game against the Toronto Raptors back in 2006. Eighty-one points, man! The sheer volume is mind-blowing. Then you have LeBron James, who, as of 2023, has played for 20 seasons and accumulated over 38,000 points, over 10,000 rebounds, and over 10,000 assists. This guy is a walking triple-double threat every night. And let’s not forget Tim Duncan, the “Big Fundamental,” who won five NBA championships with the San Antonio Spurs and epitomized consistency with his stellar post play, defense, and IQ. Duncan also logged over 26,000 points and 15,000 rebounds in his career. Serious stuff.
The prowess doesn’t stop at scoring. Some of these legends have revolutionized the concepts of gameplay. For example, Kevin Durant’s unique combination of size (6’10” with a 7’5″ wingspan) and skill set up as an almost undefendable force on the court. Durant, by the end of 2022, has racked up over 26,000 career points while shooting nearly 50% from the field and better than 38% from three-point range. His efficiency is just otherworldly.
Stephen Curry deserves mention too. He broke the single-season record for three-pointers (402) in the 2015-2016 season while guiding the Golden State Warriors to a historical 73-9 record. His impact on the game has reshaped offensive spacing and defensive strategies league-wide. Curry’s career three-point percentage of around 43% through the end of 2022 is a testament to his sharpshooting prowess.
arena plus Basketball fans always debate about the greatest, but looking at stats and game impact, it’s hard to ignore these facts. Shaquille O’Neal, another heavyweight, dominated the early 2000s. He won three consecutive NBA Finals MVPs from 2000-2002 with the Los Angeles Lakers. His size (7’1″ and over 300 pounds) combined with agility and skill made him an unstoppable force under the basket. He retired with over 28,596 points, and 13,099 rebounds. Powerful!
Looking at defensive juggernauts, Dwight Howard’s prime years were insane. From the mid-2000s to the early 2010s, he led the NBA in rebounding five times and blocks twice. Howard’s athleticism and timing made him a shot-blocking machine, and he hauled in over 15,000 rebounds in his career. He also has eight All-Star selections and three Defensive Player of the Year awards to his name.
And how about Dirk Nowitzki? This guy brought an entirely new dimension to the power forward position with his deadly shooting touch. Dirk’s career highlights include winning the 2011 NBA Championship with the Dallas Mavericks and earning Finals MVP honors. Over his 21-year career, Dirk amassed over 31,000 points, ranking him sixth all-time as of his retirement. His signature one-legged fadeaway? Near impossible to defend.
It’ll be a travesty not to mention Dwyane Wade, who brought fire and defensive grit to the Miami Heat. Wade led the Heat to their first NBA title in 2006 and earned Finals MVP honors while averaging a staggering 34.7 points in the series. Over his illustrious career, Wade accumulated three NBA Championships, 13 All-Star selections, and over 23,000 points.
Another shining star? Giannis Antetokounmpo. The “Greek Freak” brought an international flair to the league and became one of the most physically dominant players in recent years. By the age of 27, Giannis had already claimed two MVP titles, a Defensive Player of the Year award, and led the Milwaukee Bucks to an NBA Championship in 2021. The guy’s a stat-sheet stuffer with career averages inching close to 30 points, 11 rebounds, and 6 assists per game.
Even looking at younger stars, the future seems bright. Luka Dončić, at just 23 years old as of 2023, already has several All-NBA First Team selections and has become one of the youngest players to achieve 5000 career points. His vision, playmaking, and scoring ability have drawn comparisons to some of the all-time greats.
Seeing these names and stats makes you appreciate the evolution of the game. These players have left indelible marks on the sport and continue to inspire the next generation of basketball talent. The 21st century has indeed been a golden era for the NBA.