20 NBA players who defined their generation

The NBA is rich in extraordinary players who have left their mark on the rise of this beloved sport worldwide. From the mythical times of the 80s to the contemporary period marked by emerging talents such as Luka Dončić, these athletes have not only ruled the court, but have also shaped the world of basketball. Explore the 20 NBA basketball players who have truly shaped their generation, from past to present.

Michael Jordan, generally perceived as the best basketball player in history, reconfigured the very notion of a world star. Jordan, with five MVP awards and six NBA trophies, not only ruled the courts during the 90s, but also played a key role in the globalization of the NBA. His famous "The Last Dance", his winning basket during the 1998 Finals, and his legacy beyond the court via his Air Jordan range, established his stature as an eternal icon of popular culture and sport.

LeBron James is one of the most complete players in NBA history. He revolutionized the game thanks to his impressive physical condition, his versatility in terms of positions played and his tactical basketball sense. With four championship crowns and as many MVP awards, this professional player left his indelible mark on the 2000s. In addition to his sporting prowess, he has largely changed the perception of the role of sportsmen and women in society, transforming himself into a representative for social issues and an example of leadership.

With his unique tactical approach, unwavering determination and "Mamba" philosophy, Kobe Bryant left an indelible mark on the first two decades of the 2000s. With five championships and a Finals MVP title in 2009, Kobe was the heart and soul of the Los Angeles Lakers over the course of two decades. His competition with the likes of LeBron James and Tim Duncan made him one of the NBA's most notable icons.

Magic Johnson revolutionized the position of point guard or MJ in the 1980s. Thanks to his ability to control the pace and his exceptional vision of the game, the Los Angeles Lakers were the masters of the league, winning five NBA titles during that decade. Magic also paved the way for other MJs with his ability to rack up assists while remaining a constant offensive threat. His competition with Larry Bird propelled the NBA into a new phase of popularity.

Larry Bird, a true icon of the Boston Celtics, was one of the most astute and tactical players in the annals of the NBA. He made his mark in the 80s with his ball control, precise shooting and unwavering defense. His supremacy is evidenced by three MVP awards and three championship titles with the Celtics. His competition with Earvin is among the most notorious in sports history, and this has enabled the NBA to reach a new threshold in terms of visibility and media popularity.

Shaquille O'Neal exerted his hold on the NBA during the 90s and 2000s thanks to a blend of pure skill and physical strength. He was a constant threat near the hoops. His low-post game was second to none, and with four championship crowns and three Finals MVP trophies, Shaq is an undisputed icon. Off the court, it was his oversized personality and business initiatives that made him an icon in both the basketball and media worlds.

Tim Duncan has left an indelible mark on the NBA thanks to his impeccable control, unflappable calm and consistency on the floor. His supremacy with the San Antonio Spurs is impeccably evidenced by his five league titles and three Finals MVPs. Despite a less flashy style of play than other stars, Duncan has shown that efficiency and vision can lead to a remarkable career and lasting supremacy.

Stephen Curry is the designer of the contemporary NBA game. His magnificent three-point shooting ability has transformed the league's offensive styles. This American basketball player, with two MVPs and three championship titles, has shown that success doesn't depend on size. His influence can be seen in the way teams and the NBA have begun to place greater emphasis on long-range shooting. Beyond basketball, he has established himself as an example of leadership and an ambassador for the game.

Kevin Durant is one of the most feared offensive powerhouses in the NBA. With a shot as accurate as it is deadly, his ability to play virtually every position on the court makes him an exceptionally versatile player. Durant won two championships with the Golden State Warriors and was voted MVP of the Finals. His ability to assert himself offensively while defending effectively against first-rate opponents places him among the best of his generation.

Wilt Chamberlain is undoubtedly one of the most imposing players in the NBA. His feat of scoring 100 points in a single game is one that has yet to be matched. Averaging over 50 points per game over the course of a season, he laid the foundations for body domination in the NBA. Despite the occasional lack of support from a robust team, Wilt remained an undeniable icon in the annals of basketball.

With his fiery character and ability to control rebounds, this former NBA player established himself as one of the NBA's most illustrious players. Even without ever winning a championship, his influence on the sport was significant. He was named MVP in 1993 and left his mark on the 90s with his powerful game and leadership qualities. This player remains the most influential figure in contemporary basketball, thanks to his expertise and remarks as a commentator.

There's no doubt that Dirk Nowitzki is the most remarkable European basketball player ever to play in the NBA. With his distinctive mid-range shooting and ability to score from the outside, he has redefined the pivot position in the league. His championship win in 2011 with the Dallas Mavericks is among the most memorable moments of his NBA career, and his persistence shows superb consistency. Find out how this unassuming star has put European basketball on the international map.

With over 38,000 points to his credit, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is one of the best basketball players in the NBA. His famous "skyhook" is one of the most fearsome and distinctive techniques in basketball. With six MVPs and six championship titles, he left his indelible mark on history by reigning over the 1970s. His impact extends beyond basketball, as he is also a writer and political rights activist.

Luka Dončić is already perceived as one of the NBA's greatest players. His way of playing, combining strength and finesse, has quickly made him a celebrity. With numerous All-Star appearances and outstanding playoff performances, this player is predestined to leave his mark on this generation. His total understanding of the game and his perception of the court distinguish him as an exceptional player in the NBA world.

Allen Iverson, with his fiery character and dazzling play, left his mark on the NBA during the 2000s. His 2001 MVP award, coupled with his ability to stand out despite his limited stature, made him a basketball legend. This player of his generation was also one of the most culturally influential sportsmen, bringing new fashions to basketball, including his casual style of dress and famous braids.

Oscar Robertson, also known as "The Big O", transformed the game with his approach to the triple-double. He was the very first player to enter the NBA world, during the 1961-1962 season, to complete a full season with an average triple-double. This American player scored over 26,000 points, while also recording over 7,000 rebounds and 9,000 assists. His influence and control of the game paved the way for icons such as LeBron James, and his dominance continues to guide young players.

With his dominant physique and vivacity under the hoops, Dwight Howard or "Superman" left his mark on the NBA, positioning himself as one of the most outstanding defenders in history. He was named Basket Guard of the Year on three occasions and led the league in rebounding for five straight years. Superman, despite not always being recognized for his skills, was an essential part of the Orlando Magic's run to the NBA Finals in 2009.

This player was a key component of the Boston Celtics during their period of supremacy in the 2000s. Dubbed "The Truth", he led the Celtics to the NBA championship in 2008, winning the Finals MVP award. Pierce is renowned for his ability to score in multiple phases of the game, whether through his long-range shooting or his expertise in moving without the ball. Despite ranking among the most unsung basketball players of his generation, his influence on the game is undeniable, with a total of over 26,000 points scored throughout his career.

He's one of the most striking athletes the NBA has ever seen. With his combination of size, power and speed, he can perform impressive feats on the court. In 2021, this Greek player led the Milwaukee Bucks to NBA championship victory, winning Finals MVP after a stunning performance. His MVP honors and dominance on the court make him a constant threat, and with just a short time to go before his peak, he's well on his way to leaving an even deeper imprint on the NBA universe.

Dwyane Wade played a pivotal role with the Miami Heat, leading the team to three NBA titles, including a victory in 2006 when he was named Finals MVP. His speed, ability to penetrate to the basket and defensive aptitude propelled his stature among the most successful backs of his generation. For over fifteen years, this American basketball player led the Heat, and his loyalty to the team places him among the living legends of basketball.