The NBA has seen many greatest shooting guards in NBA history who have revolutionized the game with their scoring, athleticism, and leadership. From Michael Jordan to Kobe Bryant, these players have left an unforgettable mark on basketball. Here’s a ranking of the 10 greatest shooting guards in NBA history, based on their career achievements, impact, and overall dominance.
List of 10 Greatest Shooting Guards in NBA
10. Klay Thompson
Klay Thompson is one of the best shooters in NBA history and a key member of the Golden State Warriors’ dynasty. His quick release, elite defense, and ability to score in bunches make him one of the Greatest Shooting Guards in NBA history. He played a crucial role in the Warriors’ multiple championships, including his legendary 60-point game on just 11 dribbles.
Career Achievements:
- Teams: Golden State Warriors (2011-Present)
- Championships: 4 (2015, 2017, 2018, 2022)
- Honors: 5× All-Star, Hall of Fame (Likely Future Inductee)
| Points Per Game | Rebounds Per Game | Assists Per Game | FG% | 3PT% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19.6 | 3.5 | 2.3 | 45.8% | 41.6% |
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9. Ray Allen
Ray Allen was one of the best three-point shooters in NBA history. His smooth shooting stroke and ability to perform in clutch moments made him a key player for multiple championship teams. His most memorable moment came in the 2013 NBA Finals when he hit a game-tying three-pointer in Game 6 to save the Miami Heat’s title hopes, solidifying his place among the Greatest Shooting Guards in NBA history.
Career Achievements:
- Teams: Milwaukee Bucks (1996-2003), Seattle SuperSonics (2003-2007), Boston Celtics (2007-2012), Miami Heat (2012-2014)
- Championships: 2 (2008, 2013)
- Honors: 10× All-Star, Hall of Fame (2018)
| Points Per Game | Rebounds Per Game | Assists Per Game | FG% | 3PT% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18.9 | 4.1 | 3.4 | 45.2% | 40.0% |
8. Reggie Miller
Reggie Miller was one of the most feared perimeter shooters of his time. Known for his rivalry with the New York Knicks and his ability to perform under pressure, Miller is one of the most clutch players in Greatest Shooting Guards in NBA history.
Career Achievements:
- Teams: Indiana Pacers (1987-2005)
- Championships: 0
- Honors: 5× All-Star, Hall of Fame (2012)
| Points Per Game | Rebounds Per Game | Assists Per Game | FG% | 3PT% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18.2 | 3.0 | 3.0 | 47.1% | 39.5% |
7. George Gervin
George Gervin was known for his smooth scoring ability and his signature move, the finger roll. He won four scoring titles in his career and dominated with his effortless style, earning his place among the Greatest Shooting Guards in NBA history.
Career Achievements:
- Teams: Virginia Squires (1972-74), San Antonio Spurs (1974-1985), Chicago Bulls (1985-86)
- Championships: 0
- Honors: 9× All-Star, Hall of Fame (1996)
| Points Per Game | Rebounds Per Game | Assists Per Game | FG% |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25.1 | 5.3 | 2.6 | 50.4% |
6. Allen Iverson
Allen Iverson was one of the most electrifying players in Greatest Shooting Guards in NBA history. Despite his small size, he dominated the game with his scoring ability, ball-handling, and toughness.
Career Achievements:
- Teams: Philadelphia 76ers (1996-2006, 2009-10), Denver Nuggets (2006-08), Detroit Pistons (2008-09), Memphis Grizzlies (2009)
- Championships: 0
- Honors: MVP (2001), 11× All-Star, Hall of Fame (2016)
| Points Per Game | Assists Per Game | Rebounds Per Game | Steals Per Game |
|---|---|---|---|
| 26.7 | 6.2 | 3.7 | 2.2 |
5. Clyde Drexler
Clyde Drexler was a complete player, capable of scoring, rebounding, and passing at a high level. He led the Portland Trail Blazers to two NBA Finals before winning a championship with the Houston Rockets in 1995, earning his place in Greatest Shooting Guards in NBA history.
Career Achievements:
- Teams: Portland Trail Blazers (1983-1995), Houston Rockets (1995-1998)
- Championships: 1 (1995)
- Honors: 10× All-Star, Hall of Fame (2004)
| Points Per Game | Rebounds Per Game | Assists Per Game | Steals Per Game |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20.4 | 6.1 | 5.6 | 2.0 |
4. Dwyane Wade
Jerry West was one of the most complete guards in Greatest Shooting Guards in NBA history. His clutch performances and ability to lead his team made him a legendary figure.
Career Achievements:
- Teams: Miami Heat (2003-2016, 2018-2019), Chicago Bulls (2016-2017), Cleveland Cavaliers (2017-2018)
- Championships: 3 (2006, 2012, 2013)
- Honors: Finals MVP (2006), 13× All-Star, Hall of Fame (2023)
| Points Per Game | Rebounds Per Game | Assists Per Game | FG% |
|---|---|---|---|
| 22.0 | 4.7 | 5.4 | 48.0% |
3. Jerry West
Kobe Bryant was one of the greatest scorers and hardest workers in Greatest Shooting Guards in NBA history. His legendary work ethic, clutch performances, and five championships cemented his place among the best.
Career Achievements:
- Teams: Los Angeles Lakers (1960-1974)
- Championships: 1 (1972)
- Honors: Finals MVP (1969), 14× All-Star, Hall of Fame (1980)
- Career Stats:
| Points Per Game | Assists Per Game | FG% |
|---|---|---|
| 27.0 | 6.7 | 47.4% |
2. Kobe Bryant
Kobe Bryant was one of the greatest scorers and hardest workers in NBA history. His legendary work ethic, clutch performances, and five championships cemented his place among the best.
Career Achievements:
- Teams: Los Angeles Lakers (1996-2016)
- Championships: 5 (2000, 2001, 2002, 2009, 2010)
- Honors: MVP (2008), 18× All-Star, Hall of Fame (2020)
| Points Per Game | Rebounds Per Game | Assists Per Game | FG% |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25.2 | 5.3 | 4.8 | 44.7% |
1. Michael Jordan
Michael Jordan is widely considered the Greatest Shooting Guard in NBA history. His six championships, unmatched scoring ability, and killer mentality make him the GOAT.
Career Achievements:
- Teams: Chicago Bulls (1984-1998), Washington Wizards (2001-2003)
- Championships: 6 (1991-1993, 1996-1998)
- Honors: 5× MVP, 10× Scoring Champion, Hall of Fame (2009)
| Points Per Game | Rebounds Per Game | Assists Per Game | FG% |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30.1 | 6.2 | 5.3 | 49.7% |
Who is Your Favorite Shooting Guard?
These ten shooting guards changed basketball forever with their incredible performances. Who do you think is the best shooting guard of all time? Let us know in the comments!
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