How Old NBA Superstars Were When They Won Their First Championship

• One superstar managed to win his first championship at the young age of 20 years old

• It took LeBron James nine years in the league before capturing his first ring

• Some NBA superstars had to wait until their thirties to win a ring

For NBA superstars, winning that elusive first championship is not only a personal triumph but also a defining moment that cements their legacy in the annals of basketball history. It is time to delve into the fascinating journey of NBA superstars and examine the ages at which they achieved that coveted championship ring for the very first time.

From the early prodigies who claimed titles in their early twenties to the seasoned veterans who tasted championship glory later in their careers, this exploration sheds light on the diverse paths that lead to NBA championship success. From Michael Jordan’s iconic Chicago Bulls dynasty to LeBron James’ quest to bring glory to his hometown Cleveland Cavaliers, we’ll recount the moments that have left an indelible mark on the history of the NBA.

Legends who might be among the top-25 all-time including Elgin Baylor and Allen Iverson were not included because they never won a championship in their careers. So, join us as we explore the pivotal ages at which NBA superstars achieved the pinnacle of basketball success – their first NBA championship.

25. Scottie Pippen – 25 Years, 8 Months, 18 Days

1991 NBA Finals: Chicago Bulls vs. Los Angeles Lakers 4-1

Stats: 20.8 PPG, 9.4 RPG, 6.6 APG, 2.4 SPG, 1.0 BPG

Prior to the 1991 season, Scottie Pippen had already established himself as one of the league’s rising stars. His combination of size, athleticism, and versatility made him a standout player in the NBA. Pippen played a crucial supporting role alongside the legendary Michael Jordan, who was the centerpiece of the Chicago Bulls’ success. This partnership allowed Pippen to learn from one of the greatest players in NBA history.

Pippen’s contributions in the 1991 NBA Finals were instrumental in the Chicago Bulls’ victory over the Los Angeles Lakers (4-1). His all-around excellence complemented Jordan’s scoring and helped the Bulls capture their first championship of the ’90s dynasty. The small forward was the primary playmaker and wing rebounder and the Lakers had no chance as a result.

Winning his first championship at 25 marked the beginning of an illustrious career for Pippen. He went on to win six NBA championships with the Bulls and further solidified his legacy as one of the greatest forwards in NBA history.

24. Isiah Thomas – 28 Years, 1 Month, 14 Days

1989 NBA Finals: Detroit Pistons vs. Los Angeles Lakers 4-0

Stats: 21.3 PPG, 2.5 RPG, 7.3 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Isiah Thomas had already established himself as a dynamic and charismatic leader for the Detroit Pistons by the late 1980s as he made eight All-Star appearances before his first ring. He was not only a top-tier point guard but also the heart and soul of the team. The Detroit Pistons, known as the “Bad Boys,” were characterized by their physical and defensive style of play. Isiah Thomas played a central role in defining this team’s identity, and it was under his leadership that the Pistons embraced this rugged brand of basketball.

While not known primarily for his defensive prowess, Thomas was a tenacious defender. The Pistons’ defensive strategy often revolved around making it difficult for opponents to score, and Thomas played a role in this. Isiah Thomas’ contributions were instrumental in the Detroit Pistons’ victory in the 1989 NBA Finals. The Pistons defeated the Los Angeles Lakers in a four-game sweep, highlighting their dominance and the effectiveness of their team-oriented approach.

23. John Havlicek – 23 Years, 16 Days

1963 NBA Finals: Boston Celtics vs. Los Angeles Lakers 4-2

Stats: 8.5 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 1.8 APG

John Havlicek entered the NBA in the early 1960s, and he quickly established himself as a versatile and talented player. His youthful energy and skill set made him a valuable asset to the Boston Celtics. Havlicek was part of the Boston Celtics, one of the most dominant teams in NBA history. During the 1960s, the Celtics, led by legendary coach Red Auerbach, won multiple championships. Havlicek’s arrival added depth and talent to an already formidable roster.

Havlicek’s contributions were instrumental in the Boston Celtics’ victory in the 1963 NBA Finals. The Celtics defeated the Los Angeles Lakers in a six-game series, showcasing their dominance during that era. Winning his first championship at the age of 23 was just the beginning of a remarkable career for John Havlicek. He would go on to win a total of eight NBA championships with the Celtics, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players in NBA history.

22. Giannis Antetokounmpo – 26 Years, 7 Months, 14 Days

2021 NBA Finals: Milwaukee Bucks vs. Phoenix Suns 4-2

Stats: 35.2 PPG, 13.2 RPG, 5.0 APG, 1.2 SPG, 1.8 BPG

Giannis Antetokounmpo secured his first NBA championship in 2021 as the centerpiece of the Milwaukee Bucks. Winning the championship at the age of 26 years, 7 months, and 14 days marked a significant milestone in his already impressive career. Here’s a closer look at his journey to that title:

Giannis Antetokounmpo, often referred to as “The Greek Freak,” had rapidly risen to superstardom in the NBA by the early 2020s. His unique combination of size, athleticism, and skill set made him one of the most dominant players in the league. Giannis was the cornerstone of the Milwaukee Bucks franchise. His remarkable ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor made him an invaluable asset.

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s contributions were pivotal in the Milwaukee Bucks’ victory in the 2021 NBA Finals. The Bucks defeated the Phoenix Suns in a six-game series, with Giannis delivering iconic performances, including a 50-point game in the closeout Game 6. Winning his first championship at the age of 26 marked a significant milestone in Giannis Antetokounmpo’s career. 

21. Dwyane Wade – 24 Years, 5 Months, 3 Days

2006 NBA Finals: Miami Heat vs. Dallas Mavericks 4-2

Stats: 34.7 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 3.8 APG, 2.7 SPG, 1.0 BPG

Dwyane Wade entered the NBA in 2003 and quickly emerged as one of the league’s most promising young talents. His athleticism, scoring ability, and tenacity on the court made him a standout player. Wade became the face of the Miami Heat franchise. He was not only a dynamic scorer but also a leader on and off the court, setting the tone for the team.

In the 2006 NBA Finals, Wade averaged an impressive 34.7 points per game, showcasing his scoring ability. Dwyane Wade’s contributions were instrumental in the Miami Heat’s victory in the 2006 NBA Finals. The Heat faced the Dallas Mavericks and overcame a 2-0 series deficit to win in six games. Wade’s performance in the finals, including a memorable 42-point game in Game 3, played a central role in the Heat’s comeback.

Winning his first championship at the age of 24 marked the beginning of a successful career for Dwyane Wade. He would go on to win two more NBA championships with the Heat in 2012 and 2013, solidifying his status as one of the greatest shooting guards in NBA history.

20. Kevin Garnett – 32 Years, 29 Days

2008 NBA Finals: Boston Celtics vs. Los Angeles Lakers 4-2

Stats: 18.2 PPG, 13.0 RPG, 3.0 APG, 1.7 SPG, 1.0 BPG

Kevin Garnett began his NBA career with the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he quickly became one of the league’s premier talents. Despite his individual success, he did not win an NBA championship during his tenure with the Timberwolves. In 2007, Garnett was traded to the Boston Celtics, a move that would change the trajectory of his career. The Celtics, led by Garnett, Paul Pierce, and Ray Allen, formed a “Big Three” that was expected to contend for an NBA championship.

Kevin Garnett’s contributions were instrumental in the Boston Celtics’ victory in the 2008 NBA Finals. The Celtics defeated the Los Angeles Lakers in a six-game series, securing their first championship in over two decades as Garnett posted 18.2 points and 13.0 rebounds per game. Garnett’s intensity and leadership were key factors in the team’s success.

Winning his first championship at the age of 32 marked the culmination of Kevin Garnett’s illustrious career. He would go on to have a lasting impact on the Celtics franchise and cement his status as one of the greatest power forwards in NBA history.

19. Dirk Nowitzki – 32 Years, 11 Months, 24 Days

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3A1kAqYgXv8

2011 NBA Finals: Dallas Mavericks vs. Miami Heat 4-2

Stats: 26.0 PPG, 9.7 RPG, 2.0 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Dirk Nowitzki, hailing from Germany, was one of the first European players to make a significant impact in the NBA. His unique combination of size, shooting ability, and versatility set him apart. Nowitzki was the franchise player for the Dallas Mavericks for the majority of his career. He was not only a skilled scorer but also a symbol of loyalty to his team, lasting 13 seasons before finally winning a title.

Dirk Nowitzki’s contributions were pivotal in the Dallas Mavericks’ victory in the 2011 NBA Finals. The Mavericks faced the Miami Heat, a team with a star-studded lineup that included LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh. Despite being considered underdogs, the Mavericks won the series in six games, with Nowitzki’s leadership and scoring (26.0 points on 41.6% from the field) playing a central role in the victory.

18. David Robinson – 33 Years, 10 Months, 19 Days

1999 NBA Finals: San Antonio Spurs vs. New York Knicks 4-1

Stats: 16.6 PPG, 11.8 RPG, 2.4 APG, 1.0 SPG, 3.0 BPG

David Robinson, known as “The Admiral,” was one of the most dominant and well-rounded players in NBA history. He was renowned for his scoring, shot-blocking, and rebounding abilities. The center was the face of the San Antonio Spurs for over a decade. His presence in the paint and leadership qualities made him the cornerstone of the franchise.

David Robinson’s contributions were instrumental in the San Antonio Spurs’ victory in the 1999 NBA Finals. The Spurs faced the New York Knicks and won the series in five games, securing their first championship in franchise history. Robinson’s presence in the paint on both ends of the court played a crucial role in the Spurs’ success. Winning his first championship at the age of 33 was a fitting culmination of David Robinson’s illustrious career.

17. Julius Erving – 33 Years, 3 Months, 9 Days

1983 NBA Finals: Philadelphia 76ers vs. Los Angeles Lakers 4-0

Stats: 19.0 PPG, 8.5 RPG, 5.0 APG, 1.3 SPG, 2.8 BPG

Julius Erving was already a basketball legend before joining the NBA. He had gained fame in the ABA (American Basketball Association) as one of its brightest stars. His high-flying style of play and creativity on the court made him an iconic figure in the sport. Erving’s arrival in the NBA was highly anticipated. In 1976, the ABA-NBA merger brought him to the Philadelphia 76ers, where he continued to dazzle fans with his extraordinary skills.

Julius Erving’s contributions were instrumental in the Philadelphia 76ers’ victory in the 1983 NBA Finals. The 76ers faced the Los Angeles Lakers and won the series in six games, securing their first championship since 1967. Erving’s leadership, scoring, and iconic moments, such as his reverse layup in Game 4, were key factors in the 76ers’ success. 

Winning his first NBA championship at the age of 33 added another layer to Julius Erving’s legendary career. He would continue to play in the NBA for a few more seasons before retiring as one of the most influential and beloved figures in the history of basketball.

16. Moses Malone – 28 Years, 2 Months, 8 Days

1983 NBA Finals: Philadelphia 76ers vs. Los Angeles Lakers 4-0

Stats: 25.8 PPG, 18.0 RPG, 2.0 APG, 1.5 SPG, 1.5 BPG

Moses Malone was widely regarded as one of the most dominant centers in NBA history. His prowess in the low post, rebounding ability, and scoring efficiency were unparalleled. Before joining the NBA, Malone had already established himself as a force to be reckoned with in professional basketball. He played in the ABA (American Basketball Association) and made a name for himself as a young, highly skilled center.

Moses Malone’s contributions were instrumental in the Philadelphia 76ers’ victory in the 1983 NBA Finals. The 76ers faced the Los Angeles Lakers and won the series in four games, sweeping the Lakers to secure their first championship since 1967. Malone’s dominant presence in the paint on both ends of the court played a central role in the 76ers’ success. 

Winning his first NBA championship at the age of 28 was a significant achievement in Moses Malone’s illustrious career. He would go on to have a lasting impact on the NBA as one of the greatest centers to ever play the game.

15. Jerry West – 33 Years, 11 Months, 10 Days

1972 NBA Finals: Los Angeles Lakers vs. New York Knicks 4-1

Stats: 19.8 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 8.8 APG

Jerry West, known as “Mr. Clutch,” was already an iconic figure in the NBA before winning his first championship. He was widely regarded as one of the greatest guards in the history of the league. Jerry West’s journey to his first NBA championship was notable because it came after years of coming close but falling short in the finals. The Lakers had been to the NBA Finals multiple times with West but had not won a championship before 1972.

Jerry West’s contributions were instrumental in the Los Angeles Lakers’ victory in the 1972 NBA Finals. The Lakers faced the New York Knicks and won the series in five games, securing their first championship since relocating to Los Angeles. West’s leadership, scoring, and playmaking were key factors in the Lakers’ success.

Winning his first NBA championship at the age of 33 added a significant chapter to Jerry West’s storied career because he finally got over the hump with a Finals record of 1-8 which does not look too impressive.

14. Stephen Curry – 27 Years, 3 Months, 2 Days

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-dxPX4njxI

2015 NBA Finals: Golden State Warriors vs. Cleveland Cavaliers 4-2

Stats: 26.0 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 6.3 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Stephen Curry had already emerged as one of the brightest stars in the NBA before winning his first championship. His shooting prowess, ball-handling skills, and leadership made him a household name in the basketball world as he won the MVP award in 2015 by posting 23.8 points and 7.7 assists per game for the Golden State Warriors.

Stephen Curry’s contributions were instrumental in the Golden State Warriors’ victory in the 2015 NBA Finals. The Warriors faced the Cleveland Cavaliers and won the series in six games, securing their first championship since 1975. Curry’s ability to spread the floor with his shooting and his ball-handling skills created matchup problems for the Cavaliers as the point guard posted 26.0 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game on 38.5% shooting from three.

Winning his first NBA championship at the age of 27 marked the beginning of a championship era for Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors. He would go on to lead the Warriors to three more championships and further solidify his status as one of the greatest shooters and point guards in NBA history.

13. Kevin Durant – 28 Years, 8 Months, 14 Days

2017 NBA Finals: Golden State Warriors vs. Cleveland Cavaliers 4-1

Stats: 35.2 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 5.4 APG, 1.0 SPG, 1.6 BPG

Kevin Durant had already established himself as one of the most prolific scorers in the NBA before winning his first championship. The superstar forward won four scoring titles with the Thunder and made the NBA Finals in 2012 in a listing effort. 

However, Durant’s path to his first NBA championship included a highly scrutinized decision in the summer of 2016 when he left the Oklahoma City Thunder to join the Golden State Warriors, a team that had already won a championship and boasted a “super team” lineup led by Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green.

Despite the criticism, the Warriors went on to win 67 games and make it to the NBA Finals. Kevin Durant’s contributions were pivotal in the Golden State Warriors’ victory in the 2017 NBA Finals. The Warriors faced the Cleveland Cavaliers and won the series in five games, securing their second championship in three years. Durant won Finals MVP by posting 35.2 points and 8.2 rebounds per game.

Winning his first NBA championship at the age of 28 was a significant achievement for Kevin Durant. He would go on to win another championship with the Warriors in 2018, further solidifying his status as one of the greatest scorers and forwards in NBA history after going ringless in one Finals appearance with the Oklahoma City Thunder alongside Russell Westbrook.

12. Oscar Robertson – 32 Years, 5 Months, 6 Days

1971 NBA Finals: Milwaukee Bucks vs. Baltimore Bullets 4-0

Stats: 23.5 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 9.5 APG

Oscar Robertson, often referred to as “The Big O,” was already a basketball legend before winning his first NBA championship. He was known for his exceptional skills as a point guard and had achieved numerous accolades, including being named an NBA All-Star 11 times before the 1971 season. 

Robertson’s path to his first NBA championship included a significant move in 1970 when he was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks. The Bucks, led by a young Lew Alcindor (later known as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar), were on the rise.

Oscar Robertson’s contributions were instrumental in the Milwaukee Bucks’ victory in the 1971 NBA Finals. The Bucks faced the Baltimore Bullets and won the series in four games, securing their first NBA championship in franchise history. Robertson’s leadership, playmaking, and veteran presence were key factors in the Bucks’ success as he posted 23.5 points and 9.5 assists per game even though Alcindor was Finals MVP.

11. Hakeem Olajuwon – 31 Years, 5 Months, 1 Day

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M3LIzFcpdSo

1994 NBA Finals: Houston Rockets vs. New York Knicks 4-3

Stats: 26.9 PPG, 9.1 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.6 SPG, 3.9 BPG

Hakeem Olajuwon’s contributions were instrumental in the Houston Rockets’ victory in the 1994 NBA Finals. The Rockets faced the New York Knicks and won the series in seven games, securing their first NBA championship in franchise history. Olajuwon’s dominance in the paint, especially his performance in the decisive Game 7, played a crucial role in the Rockets’ success.

Winning his first NBA championship at the age of 31 was a significant achievement in Hakeem Olajuwon’s illustrious career. Posting 26.9 points and 9.1 rebounds per game, Olajuwon proved to be the king of the NBA following Michael Jordan’s retirement. He would go on to win a second championship with the Rockets in 1995, further solidifying his status as one of the greatest centers in NBA history.

10. Wilt Chamberlain – 30 Years, 8 Months, 3 Days

1967 NBA Finals: Philadelphia 76ers vs. San Francisco Warriors 4-2

Stats: 17.7 PPG, 28.5 RPG, 6.8 APG

Wilt Chamberlain was one of the most dominant and physically imposing players in NBA history. Standing at 7 feet 1 inch tall, he possessed remarkable scoring and rebounding abilities and he already had records broken including a 100-point game and a game where he posted an incredible 55 rebounds.

However, Chamberlain’s path to his first NBA championship included a trade to the Philadelphia 76ers in 1965. This move paired him with other talented players, including Hal Greer and Billy Cunningham and finally, after eight years, the chance to actually win a title and not get outdone by Bill Russell and the Boston Celtics was here.

Wilt Chamberlain’s contributions were instrumental in the Philadelphia 76ers’ victory in the 1967 NBA Finals as he had an exceptional double-double with 17.7 points and 28.5 rebounds once the 76ers faced the San Francisco Warriors (now Golden State Warriors) and won the series in six games, securing their first NBA championship since relocating to Philadelphia.

9. Bill Russell – 23 Years, 2 Months. 1 Day

1957 NBA Finals: Boston Celtics vs. St. Louis Hawks 4-3

Stats: 13.3 PPG, 22.9 RPG, 3.3 APG

Bill Russell is widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive players in NBA history. His shot-blocking, rebounding, and ability to disrupt opponents’ offenses were unmatched along with holding the recognition of being the greatest winner in basketball. With 12 Finals appearances, Russell won 11 rings including the first one in his rookie campaign.

Russell’s path to his first NBA championship began when he was drafted by the Boston Celtics as the No. 2 overall pick in the 1956 NBA Draft and won 44 games in the season before pushing the team to the Finals. Bill Russell’s contributions were instrumental in the Boston Celtics’ victory in the 1957 NBA Finals. 

The Celtics faced the St. Louis Hawks and won the series in seven games, securing their first NBA championship since the franchise’s inception. Russell’s defensive prowess, particularly his rebounding and shot-blocking, were key factors in the Celtics’ success.

Winning his first NBA championship at the age of 23 was just the beginning of a historic career for Bill Russell. He went on to win a total of 11 NBA championships with the Celtics, the most by any player in NBA history. The late and great Russell’s impact on the game extended beyond the court, as he was a prominent advocate for civil rights and a player-coach later in his career.

8. Larry Bird – 24 Years, 5 Months, 7 Days

1981 NBA Finals: Boston Celtics vs. Houston Rockets 4-2

Stats: 15.3 PPG, 15.3 RPG, 7.0 APG, 2.3 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Before even arriving in the NBA, Larry Bird had already made a name for himself in college basketball. He played for the Indiana State Sycamores and had a memorable showdown with Magic Johnson’s Michigan State Spartans in the 1979 NCAA Championship Game. Eventually, Bird was selected by the Boston Celtics with the No. 6 overall pick in the 1978 NBA Draft. However, he initially chose to stay in college for one more year before joining the NBA.

As soon as his rookie campaign, in 1979-80, Bird was a superstar who averaged 21.3 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game while leading the Celtics to 61 games. The following year, Bird was the man who carried the Celtics to 62 wins and all the way to the Finals. The Celtics faced the Houston Rockets and won the series in six games, securing their 14th NBA championship. Bird’s scoring, playmaking, and leadership were key factors in the Celtics’ success.

Winning his first NBA championship at the age of 24 and only in his second NBA season marked the beginning of a remarkable career for Larry Bird. He would go on to become one of the greatest forwards in NBA history, winning three NBA championships and three MVP awards along with being revered as the ultimate winner and competitor.

7. Tim Duncan – 23 Years, 2 Months

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mmk0HUlgQBE

1999 NBA Finals: San Antonio Spurs vs. New York Knicks 4-1

Stats: 27.4 PPG, 14.0 RPG, 2.4 APG, 1.0 SPG, 2.2 BPG

Before entering the NBA, Tim Duncan had a standout college career at Wake Forest University. He was known for his shot-blocking and rebounding prowess and was considered one of the top prospects in the 1997 NBA Draft. No surprise, Duncan was selected by the San Antonio Spurs as the No. 1 overall pick in the 1997 NBA Draft. His arrival in San Antonio signaled the start of a new era for the franchise as he won Rookie of the Year posting 21.1 points and 11.9 rebounds per game.

In his second season, Duncan’s contributions were instrumental in the San Antonio Spurs’ victory in the 1999 NBA Finals. The Spurs faced the New York Knicks and won the series in five games, securing their first NBA championship in franchise history. 

Duncan’s scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking were key factors in the Spurs’ success and the player would go on to win a total of five championships with the Spurs, establishing himself as the single greatest power forward in NBA history.

6. Shaquille O’Neal – 28 Years, 3 Months, 13 days

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2rDhkcaJDRo

2000 NBA Finals: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Indiana Pacers 4-2

Stats: 38.0 PPG, 16.7 RPG, 2.3 APG, 1.0 SPG, 2.7 BPG

Shaquille O’Neal was one of the most dominant centers in NBA history. His combination of size, strength, and agility made him a formidable force in the paint as soon as he was taken No. 1 overall by the Orlando Magic. Shaq won Rookie of the Year averaging 23.4 points and 13.9 rebounds per game and the rest was history.

O’Neal made the Finals in 1995 but was defeated by the Hakeem Olajuwon-led Houston Rockets in a four-game sweep. Once Shaq was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers and eventually had a young Kobe Bryant by his side, the big man would soon make four Finals appearances with the team and win his first ring in 2000.

The Lakers faced the Indiana Pacers and won the series in six games, securing their first NBA championship since 1988. Shaq’s scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking were key factors in the Lakers’ success as his numbers were video-game-like. Eventually, O’Neal would win the 2001 and 2002 rings with the Lakers and another one with the Miami Heat in 2006 which made him an all-time great player with a nearly incomparable resume.

5. Kobe Bryant – 21 Years, 9 Months, 27 Days

2000 NBA Finals: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Indiana Pacers 4-2

Stats: 15.6 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 4.2 APG, 1.0 SPG, 1.4 BPG

Kobe Bryant was drafted by the Charlotte Hornets with the No. 13 overall pick in the 1996 NBA Draft but was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers shortly thereafter. He entered the NBA directly from high school, which was a relatively rare occurrence at the time.

By the time of his first championship win in 2000, Kobe Bryant had already established himself as one of the most promising young talents in the league. He was known for his athleticism, scoring ability, and work ethic as he made the All-Star Team in 1998 and was slowly becoming a force in the NBA alongside superstar center Shaquille O’Neal.

The Lakers faced the Indiana Pacers and won the series in six games, securing their first NBA championship since 1988. Kobe’s scoring, defense, and clutch performances were key factors in the Lakers’ success even if O’Neal won the Finals MVP award. Eventually, Bryant would retire with five NBA championships and a legacy that will forever remain intact.

4. Magic Johnson – 20 Years, 9 Months, 2 Days

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H906s1BZu-Y

1980 NBA Finals: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Philadelphia 76ers 4-2

Stats: 21.5 PPG, 11.2 RPG, 8.7 APG, 2.7 SPG, 0.3 BPG

No player has had a rookie season remotely close to Magic Johnson’s. The greatest point guard ever, Johnson first rose to prominence in college basketball while playing for Michigan State University. He led the Spartans to an NCAA championship in 1979 and was known for his exceptional passing and versatility.

Magic Johnson was then selected by the Los Angeles Lakers as the No. 1 overall pick in the 1979 NBA Draft. His arrival in Los Angeles signaled the start of a new era for the franchise, as the Lakers would pair him with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and make a push to the NBA Finals immediately. The Lakers faced the Philadelphia 76ers and won the series in six games, securing their first NBA championship since 1972.

Magic’s playmaking, leadership, and ability to adapt to various roles on the court were key factors in the Lakers’ success. Magic Johnson’s ability to seamlessly transition from point guard to center in the absence of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar showcased his incredible versatility in a close-out Game 6. Starting at center, Magic posted 42 points, 15 rebounds, 7 assists, and 3 steals while capturing his first championship and Finals MVP award.

3. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar – 24 Years, 14 days

1971 NBA Finals: Milwaukee Bucks vs. Baltimore Bullets 4-0

Stats: 27.0 PPG, 18.5 RPG, 2.8 APG

Before entering the NBA, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, then known as Lew Alcindor, had a remarkable college career at UCLA. He was a dominant force in college basketball, leading the UCLA Bruins to three consecutive NCAA championships.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 1969 NBA Draft by the Milwaukee Bucks. His arrival in the NBA was highly anticipated due to his collegiate success and towering presence as a 7-foot-2 center. After a dominant rookie season, Kareem ended up in the Finals in his second campaign in the league.

The Bucks faced the Baltimore Bullets and won the series in four games, securing their first NBA championship in franchise history. Kareem’s scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking were key factors in the Bucks’ success as the superstar captured the Finals MVP trophy averaging 27.0 points and 18.5 rebounds per game.

2. LeBron James – 27 Years, 5 Months, 13 days

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XsSVTG-gz_8

2012 NBA Finals: Miami Heat vs. Oklahoma City Thunder 4-1

Stats: 28.6 PPG, 10.2 RPG, 7.4 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.4 BPG

LeBron James secured his first NBA championship in 2012 as a member of the Miami Heat. Winning the championship at the age of 27 marked a significant milestone in his career as he could not get over the hump for seven years as a member of the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Finally, in 2010, LeBron made a highly publicized decision to leave the Cleveland Cavaliers and join the Miami Heat, forming a “super team” alongside Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh. After failing in the 2011 Finals against the Dallas Mavericks, James returned to the Finals in 2012 against the young Oklahoma City Thunder.

James won the championship at 27 years old, giving himself credence for announcing himself as “The King” earlier on. Averaging an impressive 28.6 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 7.4 assists per game, the superstar forward utilized the hate from fans and media members to fuel his first of four Finals victories.

1. Michael Jordan – 28 Years, 3 Months, 26 Days

1991 NBA Finals: Chicago Bulls vs. Los Angeles Lakers 4-1

Stats: 31.2 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 11.4 APG, 2.8 SPG, 1.4 BPG

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1AbIkcballk

Michael Jordan entered the NBA in 1984 as the third overall pick by the Chicago Bulls after a standout college career at the University of North Carolina. From the outset, Jordan displayed incredible scoring prowess and athleticism, winning the Rookie of the Year award.

The Detroit Pistons, led by their physical and defensive-minded style of play, proved to be a significant obstacle in Jordan’s path to championship success. The Pistons, often referred to as the “Bad Boys,” eliminated the Bulls from the playoffs in consecutive years (1988, 1989, and 1990). Despite the playoff frustrations against the Pistons, Jordan established himself as the NBA’s premier player as he had five scoring titles, an MVP award, and a Defensive Player of the Year trophy before the 1991 Finals.

In the 1990-1991 season, the Chicago Bulls finally broke through the barrier presented by the Detroit Pistons. Jordan’s leadership and scoring were complemented by the emergence of Scottie Pippen as a star. The Bulls defeated the Pistons in the Eastern Conference Finals, a series remembered for the Pistons’ “walk-off” exit, symbolizing a passing of the torch.

With the Pistons out of the way, the Bulls advanced to the 1991 NBA Finals, where they faced the Los Angeles Lakers. Michael Jordan’s stellar performance, combined with Scottie Pippen’s growing impact, helped the Bulls secure their first NBA championship. Jordan was named the Finals MVP, and the victory marked the beginning of the Bulls’ dynasty in the 1990s when the superstar was a little over 28 years old.