Unicorns – a term coined for players who exhibit an extraordinary combination of size, skill, and athleticism – have become a captivating phenomenon in the realm of the NBA. These remarkable individuals transcend the conventional boundaries of their positions, reshaping the game’s dynamics. Currently, the league is witnessing the arrival of two highly touted unicorns in the form of rookies Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren.
Towering figures on the court, these budding talents have already generated considerable excitement within the basketball community with their exceptional abilities. As we explore the books of NBA history, it’s pertinent to appreciate the legacy left by the game’s greatest unicorns, who, through their unique prowess, have influenced a new era of basketball excellence.
Honorable Mention
Charles Barkley
Stats: 22.1 PPG, 11.7 RPG, 3.9 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.8 BPG
Honors: 1x MVP, 11x All-Star, 11x All-NBA, 1990-91 All-Star MVP, 1986-87 Rebounds Champion, 1984-85 All-Rookie Team Selection, Hall of Fame
Charles Barkley, a force of nature on the basketball court, left an indelible mark on the NBA with his formidable skills and larger-than-life personality. A relentless power forward, Barkley dominated the stat sheets throughout his illustrious career, averaging an impressive 22.1 points, 11.7 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 1.5 steals, and 0.8 blocks per game. His impact went far beyond the numbers, as evidenced by his 11 All-Star selections and 11 All-NBA team nods, showcasing his consistency as one of the league’s premier players.
Barkley’s prowess reached its zenith in 1993 when he earned the NBA MVP award, a testament to his unparalleled contributions to the Phoenix Suns that season. Beyond the accolades and statistics, Barkley’s charismatic personality added a layer of entertainment to the NBA, making him not only a basketball icon but also a beloved figure in the hearts of fans. Charles Barkley’s legacy as one of the greatest unicorns in NBA history is firmly etched in the history of the sport, embodying the essence of what it means to be a transcendent player.
1. Wilt Chamberlain
Stats: 30.1 PPG, 22.9 RPG, 4.4 APG
Honors: 2x NBA Champion, 1971-72 Finals MVP, 4x MVP, 13x All-Star, 10x All-NBA Team Selection, 1959-60 All-Star Most Valuable Player, 2x All-Defensive Team Selection, 1959-60 Rookie of the Year, 7x Scoring Champion, 11x Rebounding Champion, 1967-68 Assist Champion, Hall of Fame
Wilt Chamberlain’s basketball prowess transcended the conventional boundaries of the game, solidifying his status as the quintessential unicorn in NBA history. The sheer dominance he exhibited on the court is encapsulated in his eye-popping statistics, where he averaged an unprecedented 30.1 points, 22.9 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game throughout his illustrious career. Chamberlain’s ability to score at will, coupled with an unmatched rebounding tenacity, not only set him apart from his contemporaries but also established him as a transformative force in the league.
What truly distinguishes Chamberlain as a unicorn is the combination of his imposing physical attributes and unprecedented statistical achievements. Standing at 7 feet 1 inch tall, he possessed an extraordinary blend of size, strength, and agility that was unprecedented in his era. His 100-point game in 1962, a single-game scoring record that still stands today, exemplifies the extraordinary scoring prowess that defines a unicorn. Moreover, Chamberlain’s remarkable athleticism allowed him to excel not only as a dominant scorer but also as a prolific playmaker, showcasing a versatility that was unparalleled in his time.
The honors bestowed upon Chamberlain further underscore his unicorn status. A 13-time All-Star, 10-time All-NBA selection, and a two-time NBA champion, Chamberlain’s impact was not confined to individual brilliance; he was a catalyst for team success. The four MVP awards he earned reflect not only his statistical dominance but also his ability to elevate his team’s performance.
Wilt Chamberlain’s legacy as a unicorn is grounded in his exceptional skill set, a convergence of athleticism, versatility, and sheer dominance that forever altered the perception of what a basketball player could achieve on the grand stage of the NBA.
2. LeBron James
Stats: 27.1 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 7.3 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.8 BPG
Honors: 4x NBA Champion, 4x Finals MVP, 4x MVP, 19x All-Star, 19x All-NBA Team Selection, 3x All-Star Most Valuable Player, 3x All-Defensive Team Selection, 2007-08 Scoring Champion, 2019-20 Assist Champion, 2003-04 All-Rookie Team Selection, 2003-04 Rookie of the Year, 2023-24 IST MVP
LeBron James, a modern-day basketball virtuoso, has etched his name into the pantheon of NBA legends as a true unicorn of the game. His statistical resume is nothing short of extraordinary, boasting averages of 27.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 7.3 assists per game. Beyond the numbers, it’s the versatility of his game that defines him as a unicorn, seamlessly blending the roles of scorer, playmaker, and rebounder throughout his illustrious career.
What sets LeBron apart as a unicorn is not only his statistical output but the sheer impact he has on every facet of the game. Standing at 6 feet 9 inches and possessing a rare combination of speed, strength, and basketball IQ, he defies traditional position labels. LeBron’s ability to play and guard multiple positions, coupled with his unparalleled court vision, has redefined the role of a forward in the modern NBA. His on-court versatility allows him to adapt seamlessly to changing game dynamics, making him a perennial threat in various playing styles.
The multitude of accolades in LeBron’s storied career further underscores his unicorn status. A 19-time All-Star and 19-time All-NBA selection, he has been a consistent force of nature for over a decade. His four NBA championships, four MVP awards, and four Finals MVP honors exemplify not only individual brilliance but also a commitment to team success.
As the NBA evolves, LeBron James stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of unicorns, players who transcend statistical achievements and redefine the very essence of basketball greatness.
3. Giannis Antetokounmpo
Stats: 23.1 PPG, 9.7 RPG, 4.8 APG, 1.1 SPG, 1.3 BPG
Honors: 2021 NBA Champion, 2021 Finals MVP, 2x MVP, 7x All-Star, 7x All-NBA Team Selection, 2020-21 All-Star MVP, 2013-14 All-Rookie Team Selection, 5x All-Defensive Team Selection, 2016-17 Most Improved Player, 2019-20 Defensive Player of the Year
Giannis Antetokounmpo stands as a prime exemplar of the modern NBA unicorn. His statistical profile, with averages of 23.1 points, 9.7 rebounds, 4.8 assists, 1.1 steals, and 1.3 blocks per game, attests to his exceptional all-around skills. Giannis’s unique combination of size, athleticism, and versatility not only sets him apart statistically but also defines his unicorn status on the court.
What distinguishes Giannis as a unicorn is his ability to seamlessly navigate between multiple positions. Standing at 6 feet 11 inches with a wingspan that seems to stretch indefinitely, he possesses the physical attributes of a dominant big man while boasting the ball-handling skills and court vision of a guard. Giannis’s versatility is further highlighted by his ability to impact both ends of the floor, showcasing defensive prowess alongside offensive brilliance. His agility and speed for a player of his size are reminiscent of a guard, allowing him to cover ground swiftly and execute plays with finesse.
The numerous accolades that adorn Giannis’s career underscore his unicorn status. With seven All-Star selections, seven All-NBA nods, an NBA Most Improved Player award, a Defensive Player of the Year title, two MVP awards, an NBA Championship, and a Finals MVP, Giannis has achieved a level of excellence that solidifies his place among the game’s greats. His remarkable journey from a raw prospect to a two-way superstar speaks to his work ethic and determination.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s impact on the court is a testament to the evolving nature of unicorns in the NBA, as players like him redefine the expectations of what a forward-center can achieve in the contemporary game.
4. Kevin Durant
Stats: 27.3 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 4.4 APG, 1.1 SPG, 1.1 BPG
Honors: 2x NBA Champion, 2x Finals MVP, 2013-14 MVP, 13x All-Star, 10x All-NBA Team Selection, 2x All-Star MVP, 4x Scoring Champion, 2007-08 All-Rookie Team Selection, 2007-08 Rookie of the Year
Kevin Durant is one of the most prolific offensive forces in NBA history and epitomizes the essence of a unicorn with his unparalleled skill set and versatility. His statistical dominance, boasting averages of 27.3 points, 7.0 rebounds, 4.4 assists, 1.1 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game, reflects his ability to impact every facet of the game. Durant’s unique combination of height, shooting ability, and athleticism places him in a rare category of players who have redefined the role of a forward in the modern era.
Durant’s unicorn status is grounded in his ability to seamlessly operate as both a scoring machine and a playmaker. Standing at 6 feet 10 inches, he possesses the physical attributes of a forward-center, yet his ball-handling skills and shooting prowess rival those of the most skilled guards in the league. Durant’s remarkable scoring efficiency, especially his deadly accurate three-point shooting, makes him a matchup nightmare for defenders. His ability to score effortlessly from anywhere on the court has revolutionized the concept of what a forward can achieve in terms of offensive production.
The extensive list of accolades in Durant’s career serves as a testament to his unicorn-like impact on the game. With 13 All-Star selections, 10 All-NBA team nods, two NBA Championships, an MVP award, and two Finals MVPs, Durant has consistently demonstrated excellence on both ends of the floor. His instrumental role in leading his teams to championships, including his pivotal performances in the NBA Finals, cements his legacy as one of the game’s greatest unicorns.
Kevin Durant’s influence extends beyond his scoring prowess; it encompasses a transformative approach to the forward position, solidifying his place among the most extraordinary players in NBA history.
5. Michael Jordan
Stats: 30.1 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 5.3 APG, 2.3 SPG, 0.8 BPG
Honors: 6x NBA Champion, 6x Finals MVP, 5x MVP, 14x All-Star, 11x All-NBA Team Selection, 3x All-Star MVP, 9x All-Defensive Team Selection, 10x Scoring Champion, 3x Steals Champion, 1987-88 Defensive Player of the Year, 1984-85 All-Rookie Team Selection, 1984-85 Rookie of the Year, Hall of Fame
Michael Jordan, widely regarded as the greatest player to ever step foot on a basketball court, not only dominated the game but transcended it, earning his place as a legendary unicorn in NBA history. His statistical prowess, averaging an impressive 30.1 points, 6.2 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 2.3 steals, and 0.8 blocks per game, underscores his unmatched ability to impact every facet of the game. Jordan’s statistical excellence is only a glimpse into the comprehensive skill set that defined his illustrious career.
What sets Jordan apart as a unicorn is not just the numbers, but the sheer magnitude of his influence on the culture and legacy of the NBA. His Airness, as he came to be known, combined extraordinary athleticism with an unmatched work ethic, creating a player whose impact went beyond the hardwood. Jordan’s competitive spirit, highlighted by his infamous work ethic and clutch performances, set a standard for excellence that few have been able to match. His scoring ability, marked by an array of acrobatic dunks, mid-range jumpers, and buzzer-beaters, remains unparalleled in the records of basketball history.
The extensive list of honors accumulated by Jordan further cements his unicorn status. With 14 All-Star selections, 11 All-NBA team nods, six NBA Championships, five MVP awards, six Finals MVPs, and a Defensive Player of the Year title, Jordan’s impact on the game is etched in the record books.
His ability to lead the Chicago Bulls to six championships in the 1990s, with an unprecedented run of two three-peats, solidifies him as one of the greatest winners in the history of professional sports. Michael Jordan’s legacy as a unicorn extends beyond the court, symbolizing an era of basketball excellence that remains unparalleled to this day.
6. Magic Johnson
Stats: 19.5 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 11.2 APG, 1.9 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Honors: 5x NBA Champion, 3x Finals MVP, 3x MVP, 12x All-Star, 10x All-NBA, 2x All-Star MVP, 4x Assists Champion, 2x Steals Champion, 1979-80 All-Rookie Team Selection, Hall of Fame
Magic Johnson, the maestro of Showtime basketball, stands as a true unicorn in the NBA, forever altering the perception of what a point guard could achieve on the court. His statistical contributions, boasting averages of 19.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, and a staggering 11.2 assists per game, tell only part of the story. Magic’s impact was not confined to individual brilliance; it was about orchestrating a symphony of basketball excellence that elevated his teams to unparalleled heights.
What distinguishes Magic as a unicorn is his revolutionary approach to the point guard position. Standing at 6 feet 9 inches, he shattered traditional size expectations for his role, showcasing an unprecedented blend of size, skill, and court vision. Magic’s ability to play multiple positions, coupled with his innate passing instincts, transformed him into a player who could dominate as a scorer while orchestrating the offense with flair. His no-look passes and flashy style of play not only entertained fans but also redefined the artistry of basketball.
The accolades adorning Magic’s career further underscore his unicorn status. With 12 All-Star selections, 10 All-NBA team nods, five NBA Championships, three MVP awards, and three Finals MVPs, Magic left an indelible mark on the league. His leadership and infectious charisma were the driving forces behind the Los Angeles Lakers’ “Showtime” era, a period of basketball excellence that captivated fans worldwide.
Magic’s impact transcended statistics; it was about revolutionizing the very essence of how basketball was played and enjoyed. Magic Johnson’s legacy as a unicorn endures as a testament to his transformative influence on the game.
7. Larry Bird
Stats: 24.3 PPG, 10.0 RPG, 6.3 APG, 1.7 SPG, 0.8 BPG
Honors: 3x NBA Champion, 2x Finals MVP, 3x MVP, 12x All-Star, 10x All-NBA Team Selection, 1981-82 All-Star MVP, 3x All-Defensive Team Selection, 1979-80 All-Rookie Team Selection, 1979-80 Rookie of the Year, Hall of Fame
Larry Bird epitomizes the essence of a unicorn in NBA history with his exceptional skill set, basketball IQ, and unparalleled competitive spirit. His impressive statistics, averaging 24.3 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game, only scratch the surface of Bird’s impact on the game. What sets him apart is not just the numbers but the artistry and leadership he brought to the court.
Bird’s unicorn status is grounded in his extraordinary scoring ability, marked by a deadly accurate shooting touch and a basketball IQ that elevated the Boston Celtics to new heights. Standing at 6 feet 9 inches, Bird was not only a prolific scorer but also a tenacious rebounder and a maestro of playmaking. His court vision and passing skills were reminiscent of a point guard, making him one of the most versatile forwards the league had ever seen.
The extensive list of honors adorning Bird’s career underscores his unicorn status. With 12 All-Star selections, 10 All-NBA team nods, three NBA Championships, three MVP awards, and two Finals MVPs, Bird’s impact on the Boston Celtics’ dynasty in the 1980s is indelible. His fierce rivalry with Magic Johnson defined an era of basketball, and Bird’s clutch performances in critical moments became the stuff of legend.
Larry Bird’s legacy as a unicorn extends beyond the stat sheet; it’s a testament to his transformative influence on the game, shaping an era of basketball that is remembered as one of the league’s golden periods.
8. Nikola Jokic
Stats: 20.6 PPG, 10.6 RPG, 6.8 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.7 BPG
Honors: 2023 NBA Champion, 2022-23 Finals MVP, 2022-23 Western Conference Finals MVP, 2x MVP, 5x All-Star, 5x All-NBA Team Selection, 2015-16 All-Rookie Team Selection
Nikola Jokic, the Serbian sensation, and Denver Nuggets’ centerpiece, stands as a contemporary unicorn in the NBA with his unique skill set, defying traditional expectations for a center. His well-rounded statistics, averaging 20.6 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 6.8 assists per game, highlight his versatility and playmaking ability, setting him apart in a league that increasingly values skill diversity.
Jokic’s unicorn status is grounded in his ability to transcend the limitations of his position. As a center, he possesses the passing acumen of an elite point guard, often orchestrating the offense with a precision uncommon for players of his size. His basketball IQ is evident in his decision-making on the court, creating scoring opportunities for teammates and ensuring a dynamic offensive flow. Jokic’s scoring versatility, combining inside presence with an accurate outside shot, adds an additional layer to his unicorn-like skill set.
The honors garnered by Jokic further solidify his standing as a contemporary great. With five All-Star selections, five All-NBA team nods, an NBA Championship, two MVP awards, and a Finals MVP, he has become the face of the Denver Nuggets and a symbol of the evolving role of big men in the modern NBA. Jokic’s impact epitomizes the shift towards positionless basketball, where players are valued not solely for their traditional roles but for their ability to contribute across various aspects of the game.
As the league continues to evolve, Nikola Jokic stands as a testament to the changing dynamics of basketball, a new-age unicorn rewriting the expectations for players in the center position.
9. Stephen Curry
Stats: 24.7 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 6.4 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Honors: 4x NBA Champion, 2021-22 Finals MVP, 2021-22 Western Conference Finals MVP, 2x MVP, 9x All-Star, 9x All-NBA Team Selection, 2021-22 All-Star MVP, 2x Scoring Champion, 2015-16 Steals Champion, 2009-10 All-Rookie Team Selection
Stephen Curry, the maestro of the three-point revolution and the heartbeat of the Golden State Warriors, stands as a revolutionary unicorn in the NBA with his transcendent shooting ability and impact on the game. His statistics, averaging 24.7 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 6.4 assists per game, only tell part of the story. What sets Curry apart is his unprecedented influence on how the game is played, transforming the perception of what a guard can achieve.
Curry’s unicorn status is grounded in his revolutionary impact on the game, particularly his mastery of long-range shooting. His ability to stretch defenses beyond the three-point arc has not only redefined the role of the point guard but has reshaped team strategies across the league. Curry’s off-the-dribble shooting, limitless range, and unmatched ball-handling skills make him a constant threat, creating a new paradigm where perimeter shooting is as valued as any other skill in a player’s arsenal.
The extensive list of honors adorning Curry’s career underscores his unicorn status. With nine All-Star selections, nine All-NBA team nods, four NBA Championships, two MVP awards, and a Finals MVP, he has not only been a statistical force but a leader in propelling his team to success.
Curry’s influence extends beyond the court, inspiring a new generation of players to embrace the art of shooting and fundamentally altering the landscape of the game. As the NBA continues to evolve, Stephen Curry remains at the forefront, a testament to the transformative power of a true unicorn in the league’s history.
10. Kevin Garnett
Stats: 17.8 PPG, 10.0 RPG, 3.7 APG, 1.3 SPG, 1.4 BPG
Honors: 2008 NBA Champion, 2003-04 MVP, 15x All-Star, 2002-03 All-Star MVP, 9x All-NBA Team Selection, 2007-08 Defensive Player of the Year, 12x All-Defensive Team Selection, 4x Rebounding Champion, 1995-96 All-Rookie Team Selection, Hall of Fame
Kevin Garnett, the “Big Ticket” and a defensive stalwart, cements his legacy as a true unicorn in the NBA with a skill set that redefined the expectations for a power forward and center. Garnett’s statistics, averaging 17.8 points, 10.0 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 1.3 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game, showcase his versatility and impact on both ends of the floor.
Garnett’s unicorn status is rooted in his unique ability to combine the offensive prowess of a forward with the defensive instincts of a center. Standing at 6 feet 11 inches, he possessed the athleticism and agility of a guard, allowing him to navigate the court with remarkable fluidity. His scoring repertoire included a smooth mid-range jumper, a reliable post game, and an intensity that fueled his effectiveness as a rebounder and shot-blocker.
The extensive list of honors adorning Garnett’s career underscores his unicorn status. With 15 All-Star selections, nine All-NBA team nods, an NBA Championship, an MVP award, and a Defensive Player of the Year title, he left an indelible mark on the Minnesota Timberwolves and later the Boston Celtics. Garnett’s leadership and tenacity were instrumental in the Celtics’ 2008 championship run, breaking a long-standing title drought for the franchise.
