Though they may not be Michael Jordan or LeBron James, every fan base has a player they believe is the GOAT in their eyes because of the memories and joy they brought to them.
Bob Petit never played in Atlanta but played for the Hawks franchise his whole career. He scored over 20,000 points for the Hawks and led them to their only championship in 1958
The Celtics have many legends to choose from, but it's hard to ignore 11 championships in a 13-year career like Bill Russell did. According to Basketball References, he also won five NBA MVPs.
Kidd led the franchise to back-to-back NBA Finals and was a five-time All-Star, six-time All-Defensive, and two-time All-NBA First Team as a Net.
Walker holds the Hornets' records for most points, field goals, three-point field goals, and minutes played. He was a three-time All-Star and was named All-NBA in 2019.
Jordan is arguably the best player in NBA history and was the dominating figure in Chicago's glittering success. He won six titles in eight years, secured five MVPs, and ten scoring titles.
Like Jordan, James is considered the best player ever. 'The King' led the Cavs to multiple NBA Finals appearances and won their only title in 2016, returning from a 3-1 deficit.
Dirk Nowitzki had a 20-year career with the Mavericks, scoring 31,560 points, winning the 2007 MVP award, and leading the franchise to their only title in 2011.
Jokic is still an active player, but his resume makes him the best Nugget ever. The Serb led the Nuggets to the NBA title in 2023, securing the Finals MVP. He's also won three MVP awards.
Thomas spent his whole 13-year NBA career with the Pistons, leading them to back-to-back NBA titles in 1989 and 1990 as part of the 'Bad Boy' Pistons.
Despite still playing, Steph Curry has established himself as the greatest Warrior, winning four NBA titles, one Finals MVP, two MVPs, and the NBA's all-time three-point record.
Olajuwon steered the Rockets to their only championships in 1994 and 1995 and leads the team in multiple records, including points, rebounds, steals, and blocks.
Miller was a demon shooter for the Pacers, scoring over 25,000 points and leading the franchise in assists and steals. He led the Pacers to the 2000 NBA Finals and was a five-time All-Star.
While playing for the Buffalo Braves (now Clippers), McAdoo averaged 28.2 points in 334 games. He won three straight scoring titles and was named MVP in 1975, according to Planet Sport.
Bryant spent the entirety of his 20-year career with the Lakers, winning five championships, securing two scoring titles, two Finals MVPs, and an MVP. He is the Laker leader in points and fourth all-time (33,643).
Randolph scored 9,261 points for the Grizzlies in 551 games. The franchise has retired his number 50 jersey. Due to his defensive presence, Randolph was known as a nightmare to play against.
Dwayne Wade has just had a statue built outside Miami's arena, and for good reason. He won two titles with LeBron James and one in 2006, winning Finals MVP after averaging 34.7 in the finals.
Antetokounmpo ended a 50-year wait for a championship in Milwaukee after winning the title in 2021, securing the Finals MVP. He is an eight-time All-Star and two-time MVP.
Garnett leads the Timberwolves' records in points, steals, blocks, assists, and rebounds. He was the 2004 NBA MVP and led the Wolves to the Western Conference Finals.
According to The Sportster, during his seven-year stint with the Pelicans, Davis averaged 23.7 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks. He was a six-time All-Star and had three All-NBA selections.
Legendary Knicks center Patrick Ewing leads the franchise in points scored, blocks, rebounds, and games played. If it weren't for Michael Jordan, he would have rings on his fingers.
Russell Westbrook was unstoppable with OKC, averaging a triple-double for four NBA seasons. He was a two-time scoring champion and two-time MVP while playing in Oklahoma.
O'Neal is more remembered for his time with the Lakers. However, 'Shaq' made his name in Orlando. In four years, O'Neal averaged 27.2 points and led the Magic to the NBA Finals.
'Dr J' is one of the most influential players in NBA history. In 11 seasons with Philadelphia, Erving was an All-Star every season. He was named the MVP in 1981 and was an NBA champion in 1983.
Nash led Phoenix in their most exciting period, the fast-paced 'seven seconds or less' offense. Nash won two MVPs with the franchise and averaged 9.4 assists in 744 games played.
Drexler spent 12 years in Portland, securing eight All-Star selections. Drexler led the Trail Blazers to the NBA Finals in 1992 but was pipped by Michael Jordan's Bulls.
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