When it comes to ranking the greatest centers in NBA history, no list is ever safe from debate. Former NBA guard Will Barton learned that quickly after sharing his five picks on the Ball Don’t Stop podcast.
Barton’s list, given without order, was simple but bold: Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Hakeem Olajuwon, Shaquille O’Neal, and Nikola Jokic.
On the surface, it’s a lineup of giants, literally and historically. Wilt shattered records in the 1960s and remains a statistical marvel. Kareem’s skyhook and six MVP awards cement him as arguably the most decorated center ever. Hakeem’s footwork and defensive dominance made him a nightmare for opponents.
Shaq’s physicality defined an entire era. And Jokic, still in his prime, has already built a résumé with multiple MVPs, a Finals MVP, and a reputation as the greatest passing big man ever.
But while Barton’s list sparked admiration, fans online immediately noticed who wasn’t on it. The absence of San Antonio Spurs legend Tim Duncan had social media buzzing.
“Dwight and Timmy not up is wild,” one fan wrote.
“No Duncan ,” another added.
Others were more direct. “Tim Duncan better than Jokic. This conversation is just for laughs and clicks if Tim ain’t in his top 5,” a frustrated fan commented.
“All this list is missing is Tim Duncan,” another wrote, echoing the general consensus.
Some even took aim at Barton’s inclusion of Jokic over Duncan: “Jokic plays 0 defense. Can’t be the best!”
The debate ultimately boils down to positional identity and timing. Duncan is officially listed as a power forward for most of his career, though many argue he spent enough time at center to qualify in conversations like these.
His five championships, two MVPs, and three Finals MVPs, combined with his defensive accolades, place him in nearly every “greatest big men” discussion. Leaving him out felt, to many fans, like a glaring oversight.
On the other hand, Barton’s inclusion of Jokic reflects how quickly the Denver Nuggets star has climbed all-time lists. Jokic has changed perceptions of what a center can be with his elite playmaking, efficient scoring, and basketball IQ. But critics point out that, unlike Duncan, his defensive presence doesn’t yet match the standard set by past greats.
The debate also highlights the tension between honoring legends and acknowledging modern dominance. Wilt, Kareem, Hakeem, and Shaq are cemented. Jokic, however, is still writing his story, while Duncan’s is complete and, for many fans, complete in such a way that it’s impossible to overlook.
What Barton’s list proves is that “greatest of all time” debates are as much about perspective as they are about numbers. Some value peak dominance, others reward longevity and consistency. Barton clearly leaned toward players who transformed the game in their own eras. But leaving out Duncan, a player often regarded as the most fundamentally sound big man ever, was always going to invite backlash.
In the end, Barton’s top five centers sparked exactly what these lists are supposed to: discussion, disagreement, and passion. And judging by the fan reaction, Tim Duncan’s name isn’t going to be left out of the conversation anytime soon.
