Most Influential NBA Players of All Time

Guess which professional basketball stars are the most influential NBA players in the history of the league. It seems pretty obvious. Names that come to mind include Michael Jordan, Bill Russell, Wilt Chamberlain, Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, LeBron James and Stephen Curry.

While Jordan is clearly the greatest basketball player of all time, LeBron James is the wealthiest active player. Back in June, James became the first active NBA player to reach billionaire status. The four-time MVP also led the league in jersey sales last season. So, enough said.

Michael Jordan (1984–1993, 1995–1998, 2001–2003)

Michael Jordan is to basketball as Babe Ruth is to baseball, and Tom Brady is to football. Jordan’s net worth in 2022 is $2.1 billion. He played 15 seasons in the NBA. The 6’6″ guard was selected third overall by the Chicago Bulls in the 1984 NBA Draft.

Through 1,072 career games, MJ averaged 30.1 points, 6.2 rebounds, 5.3 assists and 2.3 steals per game. The legend went on to complete two three-peats with the Bulls, winning a total of six NBA championships and Finals MVPs.

If not for the 10-time scoring champion, how many people would love basketball and support the NBA today? Does Air Jordan ring any bells? The shoe line is iconic. To add to that, Jordan’s dunk from the free throw line will always be remembered throughout course of history. Hands down, Jordan is at the top of our “Most Influential NBA Players of All Time” list.

Plus, his Game 1 jersey of the 1998 NBA Finals is expected to sell for $5 million at the Sotheby’s Auction House in September. The fact his memorabilia is still selling for seven figures in 2022 speaks volumes.

Bill Russell (1956–1969)

Bill Russell won 11 championships with the Boston Celtics. Not only did Russell help the NBA break race barriers in the fifties and sixties, but he also dominated opposing players on the court. In 963 career games, the 6’10” center averaged 15.1 points, 22.5 rebounds and 4.3 assists per game.

Also, he led the league in rebounds four times: 1958, 1959, 1964 and 1965. He went on to coach the Celtics from 1966–69. Under Russell, Boston won two NBA championships: one in ’68 and another in ’69. It should go without saying that the Monroe, Louisiana, native is one of the most influential NBA players of all time.

Additionally, if not for Russell’s mark on the NBA, would MJ still have played? It’s just something to think about. Both Jordan and Russell were named to the NBA’s 50th and 75th Anniversary Team. When Russell passed away on July 31, Jordan was asked about the player’s significance to the game of basketball.

The six-time NBA champion left this comment: “Bill Russell was a pioneer – as a player, as a champion, as the NBA’s first Black head coach and as an activist. He paved the way and set an example for every Black player who came into the league after him, including me. The world had lost a legend. My condolences to his family and may he rest in peace.”

Kobe Bryant (1996–2016)

Next, Kobe Bryant was selected 13th overall by the Charlotte Hornets in the 1996 NBA Draft. However, he was then immediately traded to the Los Angeles Lakers. At 18, Bryant was drafted out of Lower Merion High School. He was one of the youngest players ever to get drafted into the NBA, alongside Andrew Bynum, Jermaine O’Neal and LeBron James.

The memes on social media also made Bryant an icon. Throughout the 2000’s, kids would shout “Kobe” before tossing balled up paper into the trash can.

Moreover, Kobe won five NBA championships with the Lakers, two NBA Finals MVPs, four All-Star Game MVPs and one league MVP. He was also selected to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team.

In 1,346 career games, Black Mamba averaged 25 points, 5.2 rebounds, 4.7 assists and 1.4 steals per game. He retired from basketball in 2016 at the age of 38. And the Lakers retired his Nos. 8 and 24 jerseys.

Before the 1996-97 NBA season, Bryant signed a six-year deal with Adidas worth $48 million. Of course, his first signature shoe was the Equipment KB 8. His endorsement deals with Coca-Cola, McDonald’s, Spalding, Upper Deck and other companies only increased his popularity. And he was the cover athlete for nine different video games. Rest in peace to this legend.

LeBron James (2003–Present)

Lastly, LeBron James has to complete this particular list. In the minds of millions of fans, King James will retire a couple of seasons from now owning most records. His impact on the game of basketball is undeniable. In 2013, he led the league in shoe sales.

James was selected first overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2003 NBA Draft. He was drafted out of St. Vincent-St. Mary High School. As a rookie, James signed a seven-year, $87 million deal with shoe deal with Nike.

The 19-year veteran has won four NBA championships, four Finals MVPs, four MVPs and three All-Star Game MVP awards.

To add to those accomplishments, James has been selected All-NBA First Team a total of 13 times in his playing career. Through 1,366 career games, the forward has averaged 27.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, 7.4 assists and 1.6 steals per game.

Besides on-court achievements, his impact off the court is duly noted. He helped establish the LeBron James Family Foundation. This organization helps impoverished kids overcome challenges in Akron, Ohio, Bron’s hometown.

Equally important, James also participated in his “King for Kids” charity bike-a-thon in 2009. Chris Paul was one of the riders as well.

How about business investments? Five of his most notable business investments include owning Blaze Pizza, Uninterrupted, SpringHill Entertainment, Fenway Sports Group and Ladder.

Nonetheless, being a co-owner has to count for something. In 2011, James bought a 2% stake in Liverpool FC. Needless to say, LeBron James is one of the most influential NBA Players of all time.