The modern NBA may be dominated by guard play and perimeter shooting, but the center position remains as critical as ever in shaping a team’s success. The prime examples are three-time (and likely four-time) MVP Nikola Jokic and two-time scoring champion Joel Embiid.
Unfortunately for us, Embiid has only appeared in five games so far this season. With the 2024-25 season underway, a handful of centers have separated themselves from the pack with their dominance on both ends of the floor.
In this article, we rank the top 10 centers based on their performances so far this season. We have already seen how dominant point guards can dictate the play, how talented shooting guards can score, and how small forwards and power forwards can ultimately make a difference. Let’s focus on the league’s big men next.
1. Nikola Jokic
Statistics In 2024-25: 32.3 PPG, 13.6 RPG, 10.2 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.7 BPG, 3.7 TOV, 56.3% FG, 50.6% 3-PT FG, 80.8% FT
Win-Loss Record: 12-10
Jokic is in the midst of another jaw-dropping season, further cementing his place as arguably the best player in the NBA. Averaging a triple-double with 32.3 points, 13.6 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game, the three-time MVP has been a statistical juggernaut while maintaining ridiculous efficiency (56.3% FG, 50.6% 3PT). What’s even more astonishing is how Jokic blends his scoring with playmaking, orchestrating the Nuggets‘ offense like a maestro.
Despite his brilliance, the Nuggets’ 12-10 record suggests some growing pains this season, mainly due to roster adjustments after losing another key piece this summer. Yet, Jokic’s individual dominance ensures Denver stays competitive. His ability to carry a team offensively and create for others sets him apart from any other center in the league which is why he is on track to win his fourth MVP in five years.
2. Karl-Anthony Towns
Statistics In 2024-25: 25.1 PPG, 13.3 RPG, 3.1 APG, 0.8 SPG, 1.0 BPG, 2.3 TOV, 53.1% FG, 44.7% 3-PT FG, 85.3% FT
Win-Loss Record: 15-9
Karl-Anthony Towns has been a force offensively this season, showcasing his versatility as a scorer and his ability to stretch the floor with his elite shooting. While his traditional big-man numbers like rebounds and blocks are solid, it’s his offensive arsenal that makes him unique. No doubt, the Timberwolves are greatly missing their second-best player from last season while the Knicks are more than happy with their guy.
With the Knicks sitting at a respectable 15-9, Towns’ impact is evident, though consistency has sometimes been an issue. Defensively, questions still linger about his ability to anchor the paint, but his offensive brilliance often outweighs those concerns. As the Knicks continue to find a better defensive balance, Towns could lead them deeper into playoff contention.
3. Victor Wembanyama
Statistics In 2024-25: 23.6 PPG, 10.4 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.2 SPG, 3.4 BPG, 3.6 TOV, 48.0% FG, 34.1% 3-PT FG, 86.8% FT
Win-Loss Record: 12-12
The second-year sensation has lived up to the hype and then some, averaging 23.6 points, 10.4 rebounds, and a staggering 3.4 blocks per game. His combination of length, skill, and defensive instincts makes him a two-way terror, with flashes of dominance rarely seen in a second-year player. Victor Wembanyama’s ability to protect the rim and simultaneously stretch the floor offensively has redefined what a modern big man can be.
While the Spurs’ 12-12 record reflects a young team still finding its way, Wembanyama’s influence is undeniable. His versatility allows San Antonio to experiment with lineups, and his ceiling as a franchise cornerstone seems limitless. It’s not hyperbolic to say he’s already one of the best defensive players in the league, and his offensive game is growing at a rapid pace.
4. Bam Adebayo
Statistics In 2024-25: 16.0 PPG, 10.1 RPG, 5.2 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.8 BPG, 1.9 TOV, 43.9% FG, 33.3% 3-PT FG, 72.4% FT
Win-Loss Record: 12-10
Bam Adebayo continues to be the anchor of the Miami Heat, combining defensive excellence with an evolving offensive game. His 16.0 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game demonstrate his versatility, particularly his playmaking ability from the high post. Adebayo’s defensive IQ remains his calling card, as he can switch onto guards, protect the rim, and disrupt passing lanes with ease.
However, the Heat’s 12-10 start has highlighted the need for consistent offensive contributions beyond Adebayo and Jimmy Butler. While Bam’s shooting efficiency (43.9% FG) has dipped slightly, his willingness to take on more responsibility offensively is a positive sign for Miami’s long-term success. He remains one of the most complete big men in the NBA, a true leader on both ends.
5. Alperen Sengun
Statistics In 2024-25: 18.5 PPG, 10.6 RPG, 5.3 APG, 1.1 SPG, 1.1 BG, 2.2 TOV, 47.3% FG, 25.0% 3-PT FG, 76.7% FT
Win-Loss Record: 16-8
Alperen Sengun continues to be a revelation for the Rockets, emerging as a skilled offensive hub with averages of 18.5 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game. His footwork and creativity in the post are reminiscent of vintage big men, but his passing vision and ability to initiate offense make him uniquely modern. At just 22 years old, Sengun has already shown flashes of superstardom.
Houston’s 16-8 record is partly a testament to Sengun’s improved defense, where he’s added shot-blocking (1.1 BPG) and better positioning to his repertoire. While his three-point shot (25.0%) remains a work in progress, his overall growth has made him the centerpiece of Houston’s rebuild. Few centers in the league possess his blend of skills and upside which is why the Rockets have a strong record right now.
6. Nikola Vucevic
Statistics In 2024-25: 21.0 PPG, 9.8 RPG, 3.2 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.8 BPG, 1.8 TOV, 58.7% FG, 47.4% 3-PT FG, 85.2% FT
Win-Loss Record: 10-15
Amidst trade rumors, Nikola Vucevic has been a steady presence for the Bulls this season, showcasing his offensive efficiency with 21.0 points on 58.7% shooting, including an impressive 47.4% from deep. His ability to stretch the floor while still providing a strong interior scoring option makes him invaluable in Chicago’s offense. The big man has also been a solid rebounder, grabbing 9.8 boards per game.
However, the Bulls’ 10-15 record raises questions about whether Vucevic’s contributions are translating into wins. Defensively, he’s been serviceable but not elite, and Chicago’s lack of perimeter defense often leaves him exposed. Still, his offensive production remains among the best for centers, and his versatility as a scorer keeps him in the conversation as one of the league’s top bigs.
7. Rudy Gobert
Statistics In 2024-25: 10.6 PPG, 11.0 RPG, 2.0 APG, 0.7 SPG, 1.5 BPG, 1.7 TOV, 64.7% FG, 0.00% 3-PT FG, 78.8% FT
Win-Loss Record: 12-11
Rudy Gobert remains one of the league’s most impactful defensive players, averaging 11.0 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game while shooting a career-best 64.7% from the field. His presence in the paint is still enough to deter opponents from attacking the rim, and his ability to anchor the Timberwolves’ defense has been crucial to their success.
That said, Gobert’s offensive limitations continue to cap his ceiling. With just 10.6 points per game, his contributions on that end are limited to lobs and putbacks and that might not be enough with Karl-Anthony Towns gone. Nevertheless, Minnesota’s 12-11 record reflects his defensive influence, and his efficiency on both ends keeps him among the NBA’s elite centers.
8. Myles Turner
Statistics In 2024-25: 15.3 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 1.6 APG, 0.8 SPG, 2.0 BPG, 2.6 TOV, 47.4% FG, 41.9% 3-PT FG, 71.6% FT
Win-Loss Record: 10-15
Myles Turner’s ability to space the floor and protect the rim makes him a unique two-way contributor. With 15.3 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks per game, he continues to excel in his role as the Pacers’ defensive anchor. His 41.9% shooting from beyond the arc further elevates his value, giving the Pacers a stretch-five who fits perfectly in their offensive system.
Despite his individual success, Indiana’s 10-15 record underscores the team’s struggles to capitalize on Turner’s contributions. While he’s been consistent, the Pacers need to address their defensive lapses on the perimeter to complement Turner’s shot-blocking. Regardless, his combination of rim protection and shooting keeps him among the league’s top centers.
9. Jarrett Allen
Statistics In 2024-25: 13.4 PPG, 10.4 RPG, 1.8 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.9 BPG, 1.0 TOV, 68.3% FG, 0.00% 3-PT FG, 73.8% FT
Win-Loss Record: 21-4
Jarrett Allen is the unsung hero of Cleveland’s scorching 21-4 start, anchoring a defense that has stifled opponents night after night. Averaging 13.4 points and 10.4 rebounds per game on 68.3% shooting, Allen thrives as a pick-and-roll finisher and lob threat. His defensive impact, while not as flashy as some, is essential to the Cavaliers’ system.
While Allen doesn’t stretch the floor like some modern bigs, his elite finishing around the rim and consistent effort on the boards make him invaluable. Cleveland’s success speaks volumes about his ability to contribute within a team concept, proving that not all great centers need to dominate the ball to make an impact.
10. Ivica Zubac
Statistics In 2024-25: 14.8 PPG, 12.2 RPG, 2.3 APG, 0.5 SPG, 1.0 BPG, 2.0 TOV, 60.2% FG, 0.00% 3-PT FG, 53.4% FT
Win-Loss Record: 14-11
Ivica Zubac is quietly having one of the best seasons of his career, averaging 14.8 points and 12.2 rebounds while shooting 60.2% from the field. His interior presence has been key for the Clippers, who sit at 14-11. Zubac’s physicality and hustle provide L.A. with a reliable anchor in the paint.
Though Zubac isn’t flashy, his effort and production are invaluable to the Clippers’ system. His ability to contribute on both ends of the court makes him an underrated but essential piece of their roster.
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