Ranking The 10 Best NBA Centers Of All Time

Welcome to our ranking of the 10 best NBA centers of all time! The center position has always been a crucial part of basketball, with players expected to dominate the paint and control the game on both ends of the court. Throughout the history of the NBA, there have been countless talented centers that have left their mark on the game. In this article, we will be counting down the top 10 centers in league history, based on their statistics, accolades, and overall impact on the game. From the early days of the league to the present day, these players have set the standard for what it means to be a dominant center. So without further ado, let's get started on our ranking of the 10 best NBA centers of all time.

Bill Russell

With a record 11 championships to his name, Bill Russell is widely considered the greatest NBA center of all time. A dominant defensive presence, Russell was the anchor of the Boston Celtics' dynasty in the 1950s and 1960s and was named to the All-NBA First Team five times.

Wilt Chamberlain

Known for his scoring prowess and physical dominance, Wilt Chamberlain is one of the most dominant centers in NBA history. He holds the record for the most points in a single game (100) and averaged a staggering 50 points and 25 rebounds per game in the 1961-1962 season.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

With six MVP awards and a record six championships, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is one of the most decorated centers in NBA history. He also holds the record for the most points scored in a career, making him one of the most unstoppable offensive players of all time.

Shaquille O'Neal

Shaquille O'Neal was a dominant force in the paint during his career, winning four championships and being named to the All-NBA First Team eight times. His size and strength made him nearly impossible to guard, and he remains one of the most dominant centers of all time.

Hakeem Olajuwon

A two-time champion and two-time Finals MVP, Hakeem Olajuwon was a dominant defensive presence in the paint. He was named to the All-NBA First Team four times and was also named the NBA Defensive Player of the Year twice.

Tim Duncan

Tim Duncan was the cornerstone of the San Antonio Spurs dynasty, winning five championships and being named to the All-NBA First Team 10 times. He was a dominant two-way player, known for his defensive prowess and his steady offensive game.

David Robinson

David Robinson was a dominant force in the paint during his career, winning two championships and being named to the All-NBA First Team 10 times. He was also named the NBA Defensive Player of the Year twice and remains one of the best centers of all time.

Moses Malone

A three-time MVP and one-time champion, Moses Malone was one of the most dominant centers of the 1980s. He was named to the All-NBA First Team six times and was known for his physical play and rebounding ability.

Patrick Ewing

Patrick Ewing was a dominant force in the paint during his career, making the All-NBA First Team five times and leading the New York Knicks to the NBA Finals twice. He was also a two-time Olympic gold medalist and remains one of the greatest centers in NBA history.

Dwight Howard

Dwight Howard is a physically dominant center known for his shot-blocking and rebounding ability. He has been named to the All-NBA First Team five times and has won a championship with the Los Angeles Lakers.