Ranking the 20 greatest players in NBA history


Throughout the history of the NBA, there have been many incredible players. Some have been great scorers, while others excelled at defense and rebounding. Their personal and team accolades have left a legacy that keeps them in the minds and mouths of basketball fans to this day.
Like all sports, the NBA has endured its own evolutionary path. From its heyday of physical play and defensive tenacity, through the transition to a athleticism and finesse. Today’s game offers the best of all worlds, as players have truly mastered the craft, leading to the most advanced level of play that has ever been seen on the hardwood.



All of the players on this list have left a strong mark on the game of basketball, and their legacy is forever placed in NBA history. Some players on this list are continuing to add to their illustrious careers, and only time will tell just how they will be viewed when it’s all said and done.
So who is the greatest of all time? Which players have etched their names atop the basketball world? Let’s dive in and take a look at Sports Retriever’s list of the Greatest players in NBA history.
[post_page_title]Scottie Pippen [/post_page_title]
The only Bulls player to play alongside Michael Jordan for all six of his championships, Pippen is an inseparable part of the team’s success in the 1990’s Bulls dynasty. Often overlooked, due to the accolades and attention garnered by his teammates, Pippen was one of the greatest players of his time. A relentless defender, who was selected to the NBA All-Defensive First Team eight times in a row, his physicality and toughness were among the greatest ever. When Jordan stepped away from the game to pursue a baseball career, Pippen was able to flourish on an individual level, leading the Bulls in scoring, assists, and blocks. He was also named All-Star Game MVP, showing just how good he really was, going up against the best players in the league.

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