20 Most Powerful NBA Superstars Of All Time

Player power has never been higher than it is now and players such as LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Giannis Antetokounmpo are extremely responsible for their team’s success and can guide the behaviors of management every year. Looking back throughout history, we have collected the 20 NBA superstars with the most power in NBA history and there will be more than a handful of current players who make the cut.

1. Michael Jordan

Michael Jordan’s influence on the NBA is unparalleled and he remains the most powerful figure in history and the first player who became a billionaire. As the centerpiece of the Chicago Bulls’ dynasty in the 1990s, Jordan led the team to six championships, winning Finals MVP in each of those victories. His power extended beyond the court, as he became a global icon who transcended the sport.

Jordan’s dominance was evident in his ability to take over games in critical moments, exemplified by his clutch performances in the playoffs. His iconic shot over Craig Ehlo in the 1989 playoffs and his 1997 “Flu Game” are just a few examples of his ability to impact the game when it mattered most.

Jordan’s impact also redefined the business side of the sport. He revolutionized athlete endorsements and played a crucial role in the global expansion of the NBA. His partnership with Nike led to the creation of the Air Jordan brand, which remains one of the most recognizable and successful athlete endorsements in history. The greatest player of all time became the first billionaire in NBA history and his presence on and off the court helped elevate the NBA’s global profile, making him one of the most influential figures in American history.

2. LeBron James

LeBron James’ power in the NBA is reflected in his versatility and ability to shape the league. As a four-time NBA champion and four-time MVP, James has consistently demonstrated his dominance. His move to Miami in 2010, famously announced in “The Decision,” was a pivotal moment in NBA history, marking a shift towards player empowerment and superteams. James taught players how to control their own futures, and we saw that with how Kevin Durant later joined the 73-9 Golden State Warriors in free agency.

No doubt, LeBron’s decision to join forces with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh not only altered the landscape of the league but also set a precedent for how star players could collaborate to pursue championships. James’ influence extends beyond his on-court achievements because he is the only active billionaire in the league.

His leadership in social justice causes and his role in founding the I PROMISE School for at-risk youth in Akron, Ohio, highlight his commitment to making a difference off the court. Add in the fact that LeBron was able to ensure Bronny James, his eldest son, was drafted to the Los Angeles Lakers ascertain his elite power in sports.

3. Magic Johnson

Magic Johnson’s impact on the NBA was transformative, particularly in the way he played the point guard position. Standing at 6’9″, Magic was a revolutionary force, known for his exceptional passing and court vision. His ability to orchestrate the Los Angeles Lakers’ “Showtime” offense led the team to five championships during the 1980s. Johnson’s performance in the 1980 NBA Finals, where he famously played center in Game 6 as a rookie, demonstrated his unique skill set and ability to influence the outcome of games.

Off the court, Magic Johnson’s business ventures and his role in the NBA’s ownership group of the Los Angeles Lakers have been significant. His successful ventures, including Magic Johnson Enterprises, have made him a prominent figure in sports business and entertainment. Until today, Magic is held to a standard of being an example of a figure who can influence people’s behaviors, and seeing his pearly whites and wide smile is ingrained in the minds of basketball funds.

4. Kobe Bryant

Kobe Bryant’s career with the Los Angeles Lakers spanned two decades, during which he won five NBA championships and earned two Finals MVP awards. If there was a play that was going to happen, Bryant had a say in it and it usually involved him taking the big shots. Often times it was Kobe’s way or the highway, and it is hard to argue against the results when looking at his resume. 

Kobe’s commitment to excellence and his “Mamba Mentality” inspired countless players to elevate their games, and his leadership attracted top talent to the Lakers, such as Pau Gasol, who played a pivotal role in the Lakers’ back-to-back championships in 2009 and 2010. Even when Bryant did not want a player, such as Shaquille O’Neal or Dwight Howard, his time would almost always be up no matter how great they were. That was the true power of The Black Mamba. 

Off the court, Kobe’s impact extended into various ventures, including business, media, and philanthropy. He founded Granity Studios, a multimedia content company that produced the Oscar-winning short film “Dear Basketball,” showcasing his storytelling talent. Kobe’s dedication to mentoring young players and promoting women’s basketball, particularly through his support of the WNBA and his coaching of his daughter Gianna’s basketball team, highlighted his commitment to the sport’s growth at all levels.

5. Stephen Curry

Stephen Curry’s influence on attracting players to the Golden State Warriors and directing management decisions is rooted in his status as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history and a transformative player for the franchise. Curry’s revolutionary style of play, characterized by his exceptional three-point shooting and ball-handling skills, has changed the game and made the Warriors a perennial contender.

His unselfish play and leadership have created a team-first culture that appeals to free agents and trade targets. For instance, the recruitment of Kevin Durant in 2016, which led to two additional championships for the Warriors, was heavily influenced by Curry’s presence and the team’s unselfish, winning environment. Durant cited the team’s style of play and Curry’s selflessness as key factors in his decision to join the Warriors.

Curry’s power extends beyond the court as he has significant sway in management decisions regarding free agency and trades. His influence was evident when the Warriors retooled their roster after Durant’s departure, acquiring players like Andrew Wiggins to make a difference. Curry’s leadership and ability to keep the team competitive have made Golden State an attractive destination for players seeking to win championships, and being fun to play with means the point guard has extreme power.

6. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s career is defined by his extraordinary longevity and sustained dominance. As the NBA’s all-time leading scorer with 38,387 points, Abdul-Jabbar’s skyhook shot became one of the most unstoppable moves in basketball history. He won six NBA championships and was named Finals MVP twice. His influence was particularly notable during the 1970s and 1980s when his presence helped the Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Lakers secure six titles as he was the best player of the 1970s decade.

The greatest example of Abdul-Jabbar’s power is his standing as a cultural figure and advocate for social justice, using his platform to address various issues during his time in the NBA. Even after his playing career, Kareem’s autobiography and educational initiatives further highlight his commitment to leveraging his influence for positive change, cementing his legacy as one of the most powerful figures in history.

7. Larry Bird

Larry Bird’s impact on the NBA was profound, particularly through his contributions to the Boston Celtics’ success in the 1980s. Bird’s exceptional shooting, clutch performances, and fierce competitiveness helped the Celtics win three championships. His rivalry with Magic Johnson, highlighted by the 1984 and 1987 NBA Finals, was a defining feature of the era and showcased Bird’s ability to perform under pressure.

Bird’s influence continued after his playing career as he transitioned into a successful executive role. As the President of Basketball Operations for the Indiana Pacers, he played a key role in building competitive teams, including the 2000 NBA Finals appearance. Bird’s impact on the game, both as a player and an executive, underscores his significance in NBA history, and the power the swingman held in the 1980s was truly exceptional because he carried the league alongside Magic Johnson.

8. Shaquille O’Neal

Shaquille O’Neal’s dominance in the NBA was marked by his imposing physical presence and skillful play. Standing 7’1″ and weighing over 300 pounds, O’Neal was a force in the paint, leading the Los Angeles Lakers to three consecutive championships from 2000 to 2002. His dominance during the 2000 NBA Finals, where he was named Finals MVP, exemplified his ability to control games and impose his will on opponents.

O’Neal’s influence also extended into the entertainment industry, where he became a prominent figure in music, film, and television. His charisma and larger-than-life personality made him a marketable star, and his ventures in media and business have cemented his status as a multifaceted and influential figure in and out of sports. Not to mention, if anybody were to get under O’Neal’s skin (players or management), the intimidation factor played a larger role than they would like to admit, and that signals raw power.

9. Bill Russell

Bill Russell’s career was defined by his unparalleled success as a winner and with that comes immense power. With 11 NBA championships, Russell holds the record for the most titles won by a player, a testament to his defensive prowess and leadership. His ability to anchor the Boston Celtics’ defense and make crucial plays in high-stakes games was instrumental in establishing the Celtics as a dynasty in the 1950s and 1960s.

Russell’s impact also extended to his role as a pioneer for African American players. As a vocal advocate for civil rights, Russell used his platform to address social issues and fight for equality. His contributions both on and off the court have left a lasting legacy, making him a key figure in the history of the NBA and social change.

10. Wilt Chamberlain

Wilt Chamberlain’s career was characterized by his unmatched scoring and rebounding abilities and let’s face it: his immense physical power and aura. Known for his legendary 100-point game in 1962, Chamberlain’s dominance was a defining feature of his era. He led the Philadelphia Warriors to an NBA championship in 1967 and was a dominant force on the court, setting numerous records that remain unparalleled.

Wilt was the man in the NBA during the 1960s alongside Bill Russell and holding as many records as he has only lends itself to having supreme power. The 1960s and early 1970s had Wilt’s name written all over it and we cannot deny just how powerful he was. Quite frankly, had he played today, his power would have reached another level entirely.

11. Hakeem Olajuwon

Hakeem Olajuwon’s impact on the NBA was marked by his exceptional defensive skills and offensive versatility. Leading the Houston Rockets to back-to-back championships in 1994 and 1995, Olajuwon was a dominant force in the paint and was the face of the league when Michael Jordan retired for the first time. His defensive prowess earned him two Defensive Player of the Year awards, and his signature move, the “Dream Shake,” became a key aspect of his offensive game.

Olajuwon’s influence also extended to his role as a mentor and trainer. After his playing career, he worked with numerous players to improve their skills, further demonstrating his impact on the game. His contributions as a player and mentor highlight his significance in the history of the NBA, and despite his rather humble demeanor, he was a supremely powerful figure in the NBA.

12. Oscar Robertson

Oscar Robertson’s impact on the NBA was significant due to his all-around game and groundbreaking achievements. Robertson was the first player to average a triple-double over an entire season, a feat he accomplished in 1962. His ability to score, rebound, and assist made him a versatile and influential player during his career and he is often regarded to be one of the 15 greatest talents to ever grace the court.

Robertson’s influence extended into his role as a pioneer for players’ rights and representation. As the first president of the NBA Players Association, he played a crucial role in advocating for better working conditions and benefits for players. His contributions to the game and his advocacy for player rights have left a lasting legacy in the NBA as a superstar in the NBA.

13. Charles Barkley

Charles Barkley’s impact on the NBA was defined by his dominant play and outspoken personality. Known for his powerful rebounding and scoring ability, Barkley was a force in the league despite his relatively short stature for a power forward. His 1993 MVP season and his role in leading the Phoenix Suns to the NBA Finals were highlights of his career and the franchise was more than fortunate to have him on the squad.

Barkley’s influence also extended to his role as a prominent media personality. His candid commentary and analysis on NBA coverage have made him one of the most recognizable voices in sports media. Barkley’s impact both on and off the court demonstrates his significance in the history of the NBA and there is no doubt the power forward shaped what his teams did in the 1990s.

14. Giannis Antetokounmpo

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s status as one of the NBA’s premier players has made him a magnet for attracting talent to the Milwaukee Bucks. Giannis has established himself as a dominant force in the league. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor makes him an attractive teammate for players seeking to compete for championships. For example, in November 2020, the Bucks traded for Jrue Holiday, a two-way guard known for his defensive prowess and playmaking ability.

The acquisition of Holiday was seen as a direct effort to bolster the roster around Giannis and convince him to sign a long-term extension. Holiday’s arrival helped the Bucks secure the 2021 NBA Championship, with his defense and leadership playing crucial roles in their success. 

Giannis’s influence also extends to retaining key teammates and directing management decisions in free agency and trades. After winning the championship in 2021, the Bucks successfully re-signed Bobby Portis and other vital contributors, ensuring the core team remained intact. Whatever Giannis wants in Milwaukee, he normally gets and that might include having Thanasis Antetokounmpo on the team.

15. Kevin Durant

Even if a player of his caliber often doesn’t get traded, Kevin Durant has flexed his power on more than one occasion throughout history. Known for his smooth offensive game, Durant has won four scoring titles and two NBA championships with the Golden State Warriors. His ability to perform in clutch situations and his impact on the Warriors’ success were significant factors in his career achievements.

However, Durant’s power was truly shown when he shaped the free agency period by leaving the Oklahoma City Thunder before the 2016-17 season. Deciding to join a 73-9 Warriors team despite having an elite roster around him with the Thunder proves that the superstar had immense power to completely shape the league by breaking the mild. Even when he wasn’t happy in Brooklyn with the Nets, he forced a trade to where he wanted to go: the Phoenix Suns. Whatever Durant has wanted, he has gotten over his illustrious career. 

16. Jerry West

As a superstar player, there is no doubt that Jerry West was a key figure for the Los Angeles Lakers during the 1960s and one of the most impactful figures in American sports. His contributions on the court included being named to 14 All-Star teams and winning the Finals MVP in 1969. His greatness as a player cannot be overstated which is why he became the first (and likely last) player who would win a Finals MVP award despite losing in a Finals series.

West’s influence extended into his role as an executive and general manager. His success in building competitive teams, including his role in the Lakers’ championships during the 1980s and 2000s, demonstrated his impact on the game from behind the scenes. West’s contributions to the NBA as both a player and executive highlight his lasting legacy and his passing forced us to remember what a legend he was.

17. Elgin Baylor

Hall of Famer Elgin Baylor’s impact on the NBA was marked by his athleticism and scoring ability. Known for his explosive play and remarkable performances, Baylor was a key player for the Los Angeles Lakers in the 1960s. His scoring prowess and ability to elevate his game in crucial moments were highlights of his career.

Baylor’s influence also extended to his role as a pioneer for players’ rights. As one of the first African American players to achieve significant success in the NBA, he helped pave the way for future generations and he was one of the first true superstars. His contributions to the game and his role in advancing player rights have left a lasting impact on the NBA.

18. Dwyane Wade

Dwyane Wade’s influence in the NBA is marked by his exceptional play, leadership, and ability to attract top talent to his teams. Known for his explosive athleticism, scoring prowess, and defensive skills, Wade led the Miami Heat to three NBA championships. His performance in the 2006 NBA Finals, where he won the Finals MVP, is considered one of the greatest in history.

Wade’s power was most evident in 2010 when he played a crucial role in forming the Miami Heat’s “Big Three” by recruiting LeBron James and Chris Bosh, which reshaped the league and led to four consecutive NBA Finals appearances and two championships. Even when Wade could not agree to a deal with Pat Riley and the Heat organization before departing to the Chicago Bulls and Cleveland Cavaliers, he ended up retiring as a member of the team that took him No. 5 overall in 2004.

19. Allen Iverson

20. Dirk Nowitzki

Dirk Nowitzki’s influence in the NBA is marked by his transformative impact on the power forward position and his loyalty to the Dallas Mavericks. Dirk revolutionized the game with his signature one-legged fadeaway jumper and consistent scoring. Over his 21-year career, all with the Mavericks, Dirk amassed over 31,000 points, becoming one of the league’s all-time leading scorers. His crowning achievement came in 2011 when he led the Mavericks to their first NBA championship, earning Finals MVP honors for his heroic performances against the heavily favored Miami Heat.

Dirk’s ability to attract talent, like Jason Kidd and Tyson Chandler, to Dallas was instrumental in building the championship team. The Mavericks continued to build around the German, and the fact that the player would take pay cuts to help the team sign other key players further underscores his influence within the organization.