Beyond the stats: Top 10 NBA players who shaped the game

The National Basketball Association (NBA) has been home to some of the greatest basketball players in history. These athletes not only dominated the court but also changed the way the game was played. 

Key takeaways

• Some of the best NBA players of all time who changed how the game is played include Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird.
• Improve your chances of winning when betting on NBA matches by researching teams and players, learning different bet types, and staying updated. 

Meet the top NBA players of all-time who left a lasting impact on basketball, influencing the next generations and how the sport is played below: 

Michael Jordan

Michael Jordan played most of his career with the Chicago Bulls, winning six NBA championships. Jordan was known for his incredible scoring ability, athleticism, and competitiveness.

​​His style of play and work ethic inspired many players and fans worldwide. Beyond his on-court success, Jordan helped popularise the NBA globally, making basketball a major sport everywhere. His influence continues today, both in how the game is played and in the business of basketball, as he became a successful brand and businessman after retiring in 2003.

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Lebron James

Lebron James is known for his incredible skills and basketball IQ. He has played for the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, and Los Angeles Lakers, winning four NBA championships. LeBron is not just a great scorer; he excels at passing and rebounding, making him an all-around player. 

He has also been named the NBA Finals Most Valuable Player (MVP) four times, a testament to his dominance in the biggest games of the season. His performances in the championship series have solidified his status as a clutch performer and a leader who can elevate his team to new heights.

Kobe Bryant

Kobe Bryant spent his entire 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers, winning five NBA championships. Known for his scoring ability, work ethic, and fierce play, Kobe inspired many players and fans with his dedication to the game.

Kobe’s signature moves, including his famous fadeaway jumper, left a lasting mark on basketball. Beyond his achievements on the court, Kobe was also a mentor to younger players and contributed to the growth of the game globally.

Sadly, Bryant's life was cut short in a helicopter accident in 2020. His untimely death shocked the basketball world and beyond. However, his legacy will live on forever and he will continue to be remembered as one of the greatest basketball players of all time to ever grace the court.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar played for the Milwaukee Bucks and the Los Angeles Lakers, winning six NBA championships. Aside from his unstoppable skyhook shot, Kareem was also a skilled rebounder and an excellent defender, making him a complete player. 

He was also a 19-time NBA All-Star, a 15-time member of the All-NBA team, and an 11-time member of the All-Defensive team. Kareem was also named the NBA's MVP six times, proving his legacy and dominance, 

Kevin Durant

Kevin Durant can shoot from anywhere on the court, including beyond the three-point line, and is also a great passer and rebounder. He played for the Oklahoma City Thunder, Golden State Warriors, and Brooklyn Nets, winning two NBA championships with the Warriors.

Durant has two NBA All-Star Game MVP Awards and four NBA scoring titles. His ability to fit in with different styles of play and his willingness to sacrifice for the team has made him a valuable asset to any franchise.

Bill Russell

Bill Russell is a legendary centre that stands as one of the most dominant and influential players in NBA history. He played his entire career with the Boston Celtics and won an incredible 11 NBA championships, more than any other player in history. 

Russell was also a master at altering shots, disrupting opponents' offensive rhythm, and controlling the game. His defensive dominance played a crucial role in the Boston Celtics' unparalleled success, making it one of the most decorated teams in the NBA. 

Magic Johnson

Magic Johnson played for the Los Angeles Lakers and is best known for his incredible passing and playmaking skills. Standing at 6'9, Magic could play multiple positions, making him one of the all time great NBA players.

He won five NBA championships and was a key part of the Lakers' ‘Showtime’ era, which featured fast-paced, exciting basketball. Magic's ability to make his teammates better and create scoring chances set a new standard for point guards.

Magic teamed up with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to form one of the most dominant duos in NBA history. Johnson's playmaking skills and Abdul-Jabbar's scoring prowess propelled the Lakers to great heights.

Larry Bird

Larry Bird is considered one of the best NBA players ever due to his deadly shooting touch. His exceptional scoring ability, leadership, and competitive spirit defined an era of basketball known as the ‘Boston Celtics Dynasty’. 

He brought the team to five finals and three NBA championships. Larry was a master of the fadeaway jumper, the turnaround, and the pull-up, making him a nightmare for opposing defences. His rivalry with players like Magic Johnson also helped make the NBA more popular in the 1980s.

Wilt Chamberlain

Wilt Chamberlain was known for his incredible size and athleticism, standing at 7 feet tall. Wilt dominated the game in the 1960s, setting various records, including scoring 100 points in a single game, a record that still stands today.

He won two NBA championships and was a force on both offence and defence, known for his scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking talents. Wilt's style of play changed how basketball was played, pushing teams to adapt to his unique skills.

Stephen Curry

Compared to other giant players, Stephen Curry is considered a mini point guard with an uncanny shooting touch. Playing for the Golden State Warriors, his unparalleled three-point shooting ability, leadership, and impact on the game have made him a global icon.

He has won four NBA championships and two MVP awards, and his style of play has made him a fan favourite. Curry is also known for his excellent ball-handling and playmaking skills, making him a well-rounded player.

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What does it take to be ranked as the best NBA player of all time?

To be considered the best NBA player of all time, various key factors come into play. These include: 

• Statistical excellence → A player needs impressive stats, such as points, rebounds, assists, and efficiency ratings. Great numbers help show their overall impact on the game.
• Championships and awards → Winning championships and earning awards like MVPs are crucial. These achievements showcase a player’s ability to perform at the highest level when it matters most.
• Impact on the game →  The best players often change how the game is played, inspiring others and leaving a lasting legacy. Their style or skills influence future generations.
• Consistency → Endurance and the ability to perform well over many seasons are important. A player needs to be reliable and maintain high performance throughout their career.
• Skill set → A diverse range of skills—like shooting, passing, defence, and leadership—sets top players apart. The more well-rounded a player is, the more valuable they become.
• Fan engagement → Connecting with fans and building a strong following enhances a player’s legacy. Charisma and the talent to engage with the community can elevate a player's status in the eyes of fans.

How to bet on NBA matches at Gamdom?

Do you want to support the next best NBA player of all time? Betting on NBA matches to support your favourite teams and players is easy. All you have to do is follow these quick steps.

• Register at Gamdom by providing your username, password, and email address.
• Deposit money to place bets by clicking your ‘Wallet’ and selecting your payment method.
• Once that’s done, click the ‘Sports Betting’ tab and proceed to the ‘Basketball’ section.
• Select the NBA match you want to bet on and explore the odds and markets available. 

Tips when betting on NBA matches

Take your betting session to the next level and increase your odds of winning with these simple tips:

• Research teams and players → Look into team performance, player stats, injuries, and recent form. Knowing how teams and key players are doing helps you place smart bets.
• Follow the schedule → Know when games are played. Back-to-back games affect team performance, especially if a team is tired or travelling.
• Check for injuries → Injuries impact a game and a team’s winning chances. Make sure to check the injury report before placing your bets.
• Understand betting types → Learn the different types of bets, like match winner, handicap, and over/under totals. Knowing how each works helps you choose the best option for your predictions.
• Consider home court advantage → Home teams often perform better due to familiar settings and fan support. Keep this in mind when making your picks.
• Stay updated → Follow news and updates about the league, teams, and players. Changes happen quickly, and staying informed gives you an edge.

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