The NBA is the premier basketball league in the world. It’s known internationally for its blend of athleticism, skill, and entertainment. What sets the NBA apart is how the league has become synonymous with its players, whose personalities and talents have shaped its identity for decades. From the era-defining performances of legends like Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird, to the global influence of modern stars like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Giannis Antetokounmpo, the NBA is a player-driven league to its core. The players not only dominate the court, but also influence culture, media, and even social issues, making the NBA a dynamic and ever-evolving platform for expression and competition. We’ve done the hard work for you, and found the best 10 players in a league of 390 individuals. We’ve ranked them by their current basketball ability only. Enjoy.

#1

Nikola Jokic truly and genuinely defines the term ‘unguardable’. He’s the best passer in the league, but if you take away the pass, he’ll hit you with a move right out of 24 hour fitness, and score before you even know what happened. If you force him beyond the three point line, he’ll catapult a bomb into the bottom of the net. Combine that with generational Basketball IQ that more than makes up for his athletic struggles, and you’ve got a six foot eleven tank that is coming off his third MVP season in four years. Your best defense against The Joker? Pray.

#2

Giannis gets a lot of flak for being a one trick pony; drive to the basket, dunk, repeat. To that we say: who can stop it? The Greek Freak can put up 30+ points any night by just playing his game. He also has developed underrated playmaking ability, getting his teammates involved more than ever. Maybe his best skill is his ability to lead by example for his team, never taking a night off if he can avoid it. Oh, he’s also a former defensive player of the year that can swat away any shot.

#3

With the body of a middle-aged father, the demeanor of a toddler, and the speed and explosiveness of a Toyota Prius, Luka Dončić is a wolf in sheep’s clothing. He is the most complete offensive player the game has ever seen, combining no-look dimes, stepback threes, a deadly accurate floater and the tightest handle in the league. He is a defense’s worst nightmare. After making his first finals appearance last year, he’s the early MVP favorite coming into the season. The only blemish on his game remains his clumsy defense.

#4

Have you ever watched Joel Embiid’s highlight tape? If not, keep it that way. His production is otherworldly, as he’s become the best scorer in the league today while remaining a daunting defensive presence, but he’s very difficult to like. His foul-baiting antics are often uncalled for and unnecessary, and his free throw rates leave a bad taste in many fan’s mouths. However, numbers are numbers. If he can stay healthy (and that’s a big if), he’s a surefire MVP candidate.

#5

The Canadian born SGA has been on a consistent rise through the NBA since he arrived in 2018. In 2024, he has become the king of isolation scoring, with a game that is equally hypnotizing to defenders and viewers alike. Leading the league in steals per game last season, he’s become the league’s premier two-way guard. One of his only weaknesses is a mediocre three ball, which he will look to improve this season. With a young and talented core of players around him, the pressure is on to start filling his trophy case.

#6

There is no more misunderstood player in the league than Jayson Tatum. Early on, we saw flashes of a phenom scorer, but while he won his first championship last season, he wasn’t even the offensive focus on his own team. Where others see a supposed superstar taking a backseat on his way to a ring, we see a selfless team player who will take on any role to win. His defensive versatility alone makes him a basketball swiss army knife, but his athleticism and passing boost him into rare air.

#7

Sometimes, you just have to smile. He’s won four championships, two MVPs, cemented himself as the greatest shooter to ever walk the earth, and he still takes it personally. The baby-faced assassin remains a gamebreaker for even the most elite defenses, and has settled into a leadership role while surrounded by a rapidly deteriorating roster. He will look to will his city to success this season against all odds, but he doesn’t mind. In fact, he wouldn’t have it any other way.

#8

It used to be a joke among the NBA community to call Anthony Edwards the son of Michael Jordan. Nowadays, a DNA test might be in order. The guy is pure electricity. He can put your favorite player on a poster while cheesing for the camera, all the while having shut down the opposing team’s No. 1 option with ease. The future looks bright for the young kid they call Ant Man.

#9

The embodiment of Unc status. Entering his 22nd (!) NBA season, King James has some life left in him. He’s displayed bionic durability through the years, and recently became the all time leading scorer. Despite increasingly suspect defense, nobody has more basketball experience than Lebron, making him the ultimate floor general. His four championships and 10 finals appearances speak for themselves, Lebron looks to cement his legacy and impact in his last few years.

#10

Kawhi Leonard is more machine than man. This goes not only for his stoic personality, but his body as well. Injuries have piled up for Leonard, resulting in him becoming relatively forgotten in NBA discussion. This is dangerous, however, as when Kawhi does manage to get on the court, he’s an absolute monster. He’s arguably the best perimeter defender of all time, while simultaneously being a severely underrated offensive engine. Go ahead and forget him if you want, but just hope your team doesn’t face off against a healthy Kawhi Leonard.

Graphics created by Jake Gates-Ehlers & Tyler Schiavone.