Who is the greatest NBA player ever, pound for pound? Just as we do in the world of mixed martial arts and boxing, we can apply the greatest pound-for-pound ranking for the greatest NBA players ever. There have been countless superstars who have left an indelible mark on the game. While many players are celebrated for their towering height and physical prowess, there’s a unique category of athletes known for their exceptional skills and impact on the court, irrespective of their size.
These are the pound-for-pound legends of the NBA, individuals who, despite being relatively smaller in stature compared to their counterparts, showcased an extraordinary combination of talent, heart, and basketball IQ. This list explores the top 10 greatest pound-for-pound NBA players of all time, acknowledging their contributions to the sport and the indomitable spirit that allowed them to shine regardless of their physical stature. Taking pure skill and analyzing it per pound of body weight, here are the 10 greatest pound-for-pound stars in history.
10. Magic Johnson
Pounds: 215
Career Stats: 19.5 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 11.2 APG, 1.9 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Career Achievements: 5x NBA Champion, 3x Finals MVP, 3x MVP, 12x All-Star, 10x All-NBA Team Selection, 4x Assist Champion, 2x Steals Champion, Hall of Fame
PPG Per Pound: 0.09
RPG Per Pound: 0.03
APG Per Pound: 0.05
Magic Johnson was a basketball prodigy known for his exceptional court vision, passing ability, and versatility. Standing at 6’9″, he had the skills of a guard and could play multiple positions, making him a unique talent in NBA history.
Magic’s ability to control the game through his passing and leadership was unparalleled. He led the “Showtime” era of the Los Angeles Lakers and played a pivotal role in five NBA Championships, earning three Finals MVP awards including one in his rookie season with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Johnson’s list of achievements is impressive. He was a 12-time All-Star, a 10-time All-NBA Team selection, and a three-time MVP. He also led the league in assists four times and steals twice, showcasing his all-around abilities. Magic is a member of the Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players in NBA history.
Magic Johnson’s unique combination of size, skill, and accolades makes him a strong candidate for one of the greatest pound-for-pound NBA players of all time, especially when looking at his stats per pound of bodyweight (0.09 PPG, 0.03 RPG, 0.05 APG). His scoring per pound isn’t as high as the players ahead of him, but his playmaking is undeniably great and he has to be considered the best playmaker ever as a result.
9. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Pounds: 225
Career Stats: 24.6 PPG, 11.2 RPG, 3.6 APG, 0.9 SPG, 2.6 BPG
Career Achievements: 6x NBA Champion, 2x Finals MVP, 6x MVP, 19x All-Star, 15x All-NBA Team Selection, 11x All-Defensive Team Selection, 2x Scoring Champion, 4x Blocks Champion, 1969-1970 Rookie of the Year, Hall of Fame
PPG Per Pound: 0.11
RPG Per Pound: 0.05
APG Per Pound: 0.02
Arguably the greatest center ever, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was known for his dominant scoring ability, particularly with his signature skyhook shot. He is the NBA’s second all-time leading scorer, a testament to his scoring prowess. His height and skill combination made him nearly unstoppable in the post.
His impact on the game was immense. He led his teams to six NBA Championships, earning two Finals MVP awards along the way. His shot-blocking ability and rebounding were crucial for his team’s success. His longevity in the league also speaks to his impact, as he played for 20 seasons.
Abdul-Jabbar’s combination of high PPG per pound (0.11), impact (0.05 RPG), and extensive accolades make him one of the greatest pound-for-pound NBA players in history. His scoring records and overall contributions to the sport are legendary and even as a 7’2” big man, Kareem was rather slender and was extremely dominant which is why he is the only big man that appears on this list. More often than not, Abdul-Jabbar dominated through skill along with size rather than pure size like most other elite big men.
8. Kyrie Irving
Pounds: 195
Career Stats: 23.4 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 5.7 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Career Achievements: 2015-16 NBA Champion, 8x All-Star, 3x All-NBA Team Selection, 2011-12 Rookie of the Year
PPG Per Pound: 0.12
RPG Per Pound: 0.02
APG Per Pound: 0.03
Kyrie Irving is known for his exceptional ball-handling, finishing ability, and clutch performances. His scoring ability, especially in crucial moments, makes him one of the most skilled players in the league. He is averaging 0.12 points per pound of bodyweight, along with 0.02 rebounds and 0.03 rebounds per pound as well.
Despite his size, Kyrie has had a significant impact on the game. He played a crucial role in the Cleveland Cavaliers’ 2015-16 NBA Championship, hitting the game-winning shot in Game 7 of the NBA Finals. His ability to create opportunities for himself and his teammates has made him a valuable asset on the court.
Kyrie’s eight All-Star selections and three All-NBA Team selections demonstrate his consistency and recognition as one of the league’s top players. He was also named the Rookie of the Year in the 2011-12 season, showcasing his immediate impact in the NBA.
While Kyrie may not have the same physical stature as some of the other players on your list, his skill, impact on the game, and accolades make him a strong contender for one of the greatest pound-for-pound NBA players of all time.
7. LeBron James
Pounds: 250
Career Stats: 27.2 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 7.3 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.8 BPG
Career Achievements: 4x Finals MVP, 4x MVP, 19x All-Star, 19x All-NBA Team Selection, 6x All-Defensive Team Selection, 2007-08 Scoring Champion, 2019-20 Assist Champion, 2003-04 Rookie of the Year
PPG Per Pound: 0.11
RPG Per Pound: 0.03
APG Per Pound: 0.03
LeBron James is undoubtedly one of the greatest pound-for-pound NBA players in history even if he weighed at an impressive 250 lbs, and his statistics and accolades further illustrate his impact and excellence. James possesses a rare combination of size, athleticism, and skill.
He can score, rebound, and facilitate as effectively as any player in the history of the game. His scoring average of 27.2 points per game is a testament to his scoring ability, and he’s known for his versatility as both a forward and point guard. After all, his impact on the game is immeasurable.
He has been a dominant force in the NBA for over a decade, leading his teams to numerous NBA Finals appearances and championships. His leadership, basketball IQ, and versatility make him a game-changer on both ends of the floor.
LeBron James’ list of achievements is extensive and includes being a four-time Finals MVP, four-time NBA MVP, 19-time All-Star, and 19-time All-NBA Team selection. He has also been named to the All-Defensive Team six times over an incredible 21-year career at an extremely high level.
LeBron James’ ability to excel in multiple facets of the game, his leadership, and his numerous accolades make him one of the greatest pound-for-pound NBA players in history. His impact extends beyond just statistics and awards, as he’s been a transformative figure in the league both on and off the court.
6. Kobe Bryant
Pounds: 212
Career Stats: 25.0 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 4.7 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Career Achievements: 5x NBA Champion, 2x Finals MVP, 2007-08 MVP, 18x All-Star, 15x All-NBA Team Selection, 12x All-Defensive Team Selection, 2x Scoring Champion, Hall of Fame
PPG Per Pound: 0.12
RPG Per Pound: 0.02
APG Per Pound: 0.02
Kobe Bryant was renowned for his scoring ability and work ethic. He had a vast repertoire of offensive moves and was known for his “Mamba mentality,” a relentless pursuit of excellence. His 81-point game in 2006 is the second-highest single-game scoring performance in NBA history, showcasing his scoring prowess.
Kobe’s impact on the game and the Los Angeles Lakers was immense. He led the Lakers to five NBA Championships and was a two-time Finals MVP. His leadership and clutch performances in critical moments are a part of his legacy. With Shaquille O’Neal by his side and later Pau Gasol, Bryant always won championships when he had a big man to help out in the paint.
Kobe Bryant’s impressive PPG per pound (0.12), scoring records, skill, and numerous accolades make him one of the greatest pound-for-pound NBA players in history. His impact on the game and his “Mamba mentality” continue to inspire basketball players and fans around the world.
5. Stephen Curry
Pounds: 185
Career Stats: 24.7 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 6.5 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Career Achievements: 4x NBA Champion, 2021-22 Finals MVP, 2x MVP, 7x All-Star, 7x All-NBA Team Selection, 2x Scoring Champion, 2015-16 Steals Champion
PPG Per Pound: 0.13
RPG Per Pound: 0.03
APG Per Pound: 0.04
Stephen Curry is widely regarded as the greatest shooter in NBA history. His three-point shooting ability has revolutionized the game, and he has set numerous records for three-pointers including most in a career (3,418). His ball-handling, creativity, and scoring ability are exceptional.
Curry’s impact on the game has been significant, as he helped lead the Golden State Warriors to four NBA Championships. His style of play has influenced a new generation of players and has changed the way the game is played, emphasizing the importance of long-range shooting.
Stephen Curry has achieved numerous accolades, including four NBA Championships, two MVP awards, nine All-Star selections, and nine All-NBA Team selections. He has also led the league in scoring twice and was the first-ever unanimous MVP when he shot 50-40-90 from the field and led the NBA in scoring that season.
Stephen Curry’s high PPG per pound, his revolutionary impact on the game with his three-point shooting, and his numerous accolades make him one of the greatest pound-for-pound NBA players in history. He has reshaped the way basketball is played and has achieved tremendous success throughout his career with pure skill and shooting instead of size and even if his defense is often criticized, his scoring production is undeniably great.
4. Oscar Robertson
Pounds: 205
Career Stats: 25.7 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 9.5 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Career Achievements: 1970-71 NBA Champion, 1963-64 MVP, 12x All-Star, 11x All-NBA Team Selection, 6x Assist Champion, 1960-61 Rookie of the Year, Hall of Fame
PPG Per Pound: 0.13
RPG Per Pound: 0.04
APG Per Pound: 0.05
It is time to put respect on Oscar Robertson’s name. He was one of the earliest players to make the triple-double seem perfectly normal. His scoring, rebounding, and playmaking abilities were unmatched in his era. Despite being a point guard, Robertson averaged 0.13 PPG, 0.04 RPG, and 0.05 APG per pound of body weight.
Robertson’s impact on the game was revolutionary. His triple-double averages in the 1961-62 season were a testament to his versatility and ability to impact every facet of the game. He changed the way point guards were perceived and set a new standard for the position.
Oscar Robertson was a 12-time All-Star, an 11-time All-NBA Team selection, and a 1963-64 MVP. He led the league in assists six times and won an NBA Championship in the 1970-71 season. His high PPG per pound, all-around skills, revolutionary impact on the point guard position, and significant accolades make him one of the greatest pound-for-pound NBA players in history. His triple-double accomplishments remain legendary in the NBA’s history.
3. Jerry West
Pounds: 175
Career Stats: 27.0 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 6.7 APG, 2.6 SPG, 0.7 BPG
Career Achievements: 1971-72 NBA Champion, 1968-1969 Finals MVP, 14x All-Star, 12x All-NBA Team Selection, 5x All-Defensive Team Selection, 1969-1970 Scoring Champion, 1971-1972 Assist Champion, Hall of Fame
PPG Per Pound: 0.15
RPG Per Pound: 0.03
APG Per Pound: 0.04
Jerry West was known for his scoring ability, ball-handling, and clutch performances. His nickname, “Mr. Clutch,” reflects his ability to perform under pressure. He was an exceptional shooter and scorer, averaging 27.0 points per game during his career.
West’s impact on the game went beyond his statistics. He was a leader and a key contributor to the success of the Los Angeles Lakers, leading them to an NBA Championship in 1971-72. His competitive spirit and tenacity on the court set a standard for excellence.
The superstar’s list of achievements is impressive, including 14 All-Star selections, 12 All-NBA Team selections, and 5 All-Defensive Team selections. He was a scoring champion and assist champion during his career. His contributions to the game were further recognized when he was inducted into the Hall of Fame.
Jerry West’s high PPG per pound (0.15), combined with his skill, impact, and accolades, make him a strong candidate for one of the greatest pound-for-pound NBA players of all time. His influence on the game and his legacy as a clutch performer are widely celebrated.
2. Michael Jordan
Pounds: 198
Career Stats: 30.1 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 5.3 APG, 2.3 SPG, 0.8 BPG
Career Achievements: 6x NBA Champion, 6x Finals MVP, 5x MVP, 14x All-Star, 11x All-NBA Team Selection, 9x All-Defensive Team Selection, 1987-88 Defensive Player of the Year, 10x Scoring Champion, 3x Steals Champion, 1984-85 Rookie of the Year, Hall of Fame
PPG Per Pound: 0.15
RPG Per Pound: 0.03
APG Per Pound: 0.03
Michael Jordan’s scoring ability and versatility were second to none. He was a prolific scorer with an array of offensive moves and unmatched athleticism. His ability to score in clutch moments and lead his team to victory is legendary.
Jordan’s impact on the game is immeasurable. He led the Chicago Bulls to six NBA Championships and was a six-time Finals MVP. His competitive spirit and leadership on the court set a standard for excellence. His impact extended off the court, as he helped popularize the NBA globally.
Michael Jordan’s combination of high PPG per pound, skill, impact, and numerous accolades make him the basketball legend and the widely regarded GOAT. His influence on the game and the culture of basketball is enduring, and the records (6-0 Finals) and achievements speak for themselves.
Even with the most incredible resume ever and a career built on raw dominance, Michael Jordan was not the greatest pound-for-pound star ever because he did weigh 198 lbs of pure muscle and also benefitted from supreme athleticism. There is only one player ahead of Jordan in the all-time rankings.
1. Allen Iverson
Pounds: 165
Career Stats: 26.7 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 6.2 APG, 2.2 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Career Achievements: 2000-01 MVP, 11x All-Star, 7x All-NBA Team Selection, 8x All-Defensive Team Selection, 4x Scoring Champion, 3x Steals Champion, 1996-97 Rookie of the Year, Hall of Fame
PPG Per Pound: 0.16
RPG Per Pound: 0.02
APG Per Pound: 0.04
Known as “The Answer”, Allen Iverson was a dynamic scorer and ball-handler. He was known for his ability to create his own shot, break down defenders with his crossovers, and finish at the rim. His scoring average of 26.7 points per game is a testament to his scoring prowess.
His impact on the game was significant, despite his relatively small stature. He was a cultural icon and a fan favorite. His tenacity and fearlessness on the court inspired many. He led the Philadelphia 76ers to the NBA Finals in 2001, earning the MVP award that season.
Allen Iverson’s fearless style of play and cultural impact make him one of the greatest pound-for-pound NBA players in history. He was a transcendent figure in the NBA and remains an iconic player in the league’s history.
Amazingly, Iverson managed a higher PPG average per pound of body weight than Michael Jordan who is considered the most dominant scorer (10 scoring titles) and best player ever. If Iverson was any bigger with at least 30-40 more pounds of weight similar to other stars, we could be looking at the most dominant to have ever done it.
