Ranking the 15 Best NBA Players of the 21st Century

The NBA has long been a stage for some of the most talented and dynamic athletes in the world, each leaving their mark on the game in unique ways.

From the explosive playmakers to the strategic titans, these players have redefined the basketball landscape, setting standards for excellence and inspiring the next generation. In this article, we count down and celebrate the achievements of 15 of the most influential NBA players of the modern era, highlighting their contributions and impact on the sport.

15. Russell Westbrook

Russell Westbrook, a nine-time All-Star, has been a dominant force in the NBA since 2008. Known for his explosive athleticism and triple-double prowess, Westbrook averaged 13.0 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 6.4 assists per game in the 2024-25 season with the Denver Nuggets, showcasing his continued impact on the court.

14. Kawhi Leonard

Kawhi Leonard, known as “The Klaw,” is a defensive powerhouse and offensive juggernaut. With two NBA championships, two Finals MVP awards, and two Defensive Player of the Year honors, Leonard’s impact is undeniable. His recent performance for the LA Clippers showcases his continued dominance.

13. James Harden

James Harden, known for his signature beard and step-back threes, has been a dominant force in the NBA since 2009. Harden’s ability to draw fouls and create scoring opportunities has made him one of the most prolific scorers in NBA history.

12. Chris Paul

Chris Paul, known as “CP3,” is a legendary point guard with exceptional court vision and leadership. As of 2025, he’s played 20 NBA seasons, amassing over 22,000 points and 12,000 assists. Paul’s career averages of 17.5 points and 9.4 assists per game showcase his consistent excellence and impact on the game.

11. Dwyane Wade

Dwyane Wade’s explosive athleticism and clutch performances made him a Miami Heat legend. The 13-time All-Star led the franchise to three NBA championships, earning Finals MVP in 2006. Wade’s acrobatic drives, shot-blocking ability, and leadership skills cemented his status as one of the greatest shooting guards in NBA history.

10. Kevin Garnett

Kevin Garnett, nicknamed “The Big Ticket,” was a versatile power forward known for his intensity and defensive prowess. He won the NBA MVP in 2004 and led the Boston Celtics to a championship in 2008. Garnett’s career achievements include 15 All-Star selections and 9 All-NBA Team honors, solidifying his place among the greatest players of his era.

9. Dirk Nowitzki

Dirk Nowitzki revolutionized the power forward position with his deadly one-legged fadeaway. The German sharpshooter spent his entire 21-year career with the Dallas Mavericks, earning 14 All-Star selections, an MVP award, and leading the team to its first NBA championship in 2011. Nowitzki ranks sixth all-time in NBA scoring with 31,560 points.

8. Giannis Antetokounmpo

Giannis Antetokounmpo has dominated the NBA since his debut in 2013. The “Greek Freak” boasts an impressive resume, including two MVP awards, an NBA championship, and a Finals MVP. In the 2024-25 season, he’s averaging 31.8 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game, showcasing his continued excellence and versatility.

7. Nikola Jokic

Nikola Jokic, the Serbian center for the Denver Nuggets, has revolutionized the game with his exceptional passing and versatile play. With two MVP awards and an NBA championship, Jokic’s unique skill set has solidified his place among the NBA’s elite.

6. Kevin Durant

Kevin Durant is a scoring machine, averaging 27.3 points per game over his career. With four scoring titles, two NBA championships, and an MVP award, Durant’s versatility and efficiency make him one of the most dominant players of his era. As of February 2025, he’s on the verge of becoming only the 8th player in NBA history to reach 30,000 career points.

5. Shaquille O’Neal

Shaq dominated the early 2000s, winning three consecutive NBA championships with the Lakers (2000-2002) and a fourth with the Heat in 2006. He earned the NBA MVP award in 2000 and was named Finals MVP three times. O’Neal’s unstoppable presence in the paint and charismatic personality made him one of the most iconic players of his era.

4. Tim Duncan

Tim Duncan, the “Big Fundamental,” led the San Antonio Spurs to five NBA championships between 1999 and 2014. A two-time MVP and 15-time All-Star, Duncan’s career was marked by consistency and excellence. He retired in 2016 with 26,496 points, 15,091 rebounds, and 3,020 blocks, ranking among the NBA’s all-time leaders.

3. Stephen Curry

Stephen Curry revolutionized basketball with his unparalleled three-point shooting. The four-time NBA champion and two-time MVP has led the Golden State Warriors to multiple titles. In the 2024-25 season, at age 36, Curry continues to impress, averaging 22.1 points, 6.2 assists, and 4.6 rebounds per game.

2. Kobe Bryant

Kobe Bryant’s legendary career spanned 20 seasons with the Lakers, earning him 5 NBA championships, 2 Finals MVPs, and 18 All-Star selections. His unparalleled work ethic and “Mamba Mentality” made him one of the most influential players in NBA history. Bryant’s 81-point game in 2006 remains the second-highest single-game scoring performance ever.

1. LeBron James

LeBron James, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, has dominated the league since 2003. With four championships, four MVP awards, and 21 All-Star selections, he’s widely regarded as one of the greatest players ever. In 2025, at age 40, James set a new record as the oldest player to score 40 points in an NBA game.

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