The Greatest Point Guards of all time | Basketball-Reference.com

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The Greatest Point Guards of all time

Posted by Vivek Singh on January 27, 2024

The point guard (PG), often called as the ‘floor general’ for a team, is arguably the most important position for a team on the offensive end. They organize the team’s offense and help everyone get high quality shots. However they aren’t just expected to play on one end of the floor. In the modern NBA where most PGs are elite scorers as well, you need your point guard to be able to defend their matchup as well. So without further ado, let’s have a look at some of the greatest PGs of all time.

Photo of Magic Johnson

Magic Johnson

Earvin Johnson Jr. ▪ Twitter: MagicJohnson

(Magic, Buck, E.J. the Deejay, Tragic, The Magic Man, Junior)

Position: Point Guard, Shooting Guard, and Power Forward ▪ Shoots: Right

6-9, 215lb (206cm, 97kg)

Born: August 14, 1959 (Age: 64-117d) in Lansing, Michigan us

College: Michigan State

High School: Everett in Lansing, Michigan

Draft: Los Angeles Lakers, 1st round (1st pick, 1st overall), 1979 NBA Draft

NBA Debut: October 12, 1979

Hall of Fame: Inducted as Player in 2002 (Full List)

Career Length: 13 years

32
SUMMARY

Career

G

906

PTS

19.5

TRB

7.2

AST

11.2

FG%

52.0

FG3%

30.3

FT%

84.8

eFG%

53.3

PER

24.1

WS

155.8

Magic Johnson, a basketball icon, made a lasting impact on the NBA in the 1980s. Born Earvin Johnson Jr. in 1959, he earned the nickname “Magic” for his extraordinary skills on the court. Johnson played his entire career with the Los Angeles Lakers, where he became a key figure in the “Showtime” era.

Standing 6 feet 9 inches tall, Magic Johnson was a 12-time all-star and revolutionized the point guard position with his unique combination of size, skill, and charisma. His flashy style of play, highlighted by no-look passes and fast breaks, captivated fans worldwide. Magic led the Lakers to five NBA championships and was a three-time NBA Finals MVP.

Off the court, Johnson’s magnetic personality and business acumen made him a successful entrepreneur. In 1991, he shocked the sports world by announcing his retirement after contracting HIV. Despite his health challenges, Magic has been an advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness and has continued to thrive as a businessman.

Photo of Stephen Curry

Stephen Curry

Pronunciation: \STEFF-in\

Wardell Stephen Curry II ▪ Twitter: StephenCurry30 ▪ Instagram: stephencurry30

(Steph, Baby-Faced Assassin, Chef Curry, The Human Torch, Threezus)

Position: Point Guard ▪ Shoots: Right

6-2, 185lb (188cm, 83kg)

Born: March 14, 1988 (Age: 35-270d) in Akron, Ohio us

Relatives: Brother Seth Curry; Brother-in-law Damion Lee; Father Dell Curry

College: Davidson

High School: Charlotte Christian in Charlotte, North Carolina

Draft: Golden State Warriors, 1st round (7th pick, 7th overall), 2009 NBA Draft

NBA Debut: October 28, 2009

Experience: 14 years

30 30
+1
SUMMARY

2023-24

Career

G

19

901

PTS

29.2

24.7

TRB

5.0

4.7

AST

4.5

6.5

FG%

47.5

47.5

FG3%

42.9

42.8

FT%

93.0

90.9

eFG%

61.0

58.4

PER

23.0

23.8

WS

2.4

130.4

Stephen Curry, a revolutionary force in the National Basketball Association (NBA), has redefined the game with his unparalleled shooting prowess and dynamic style of play. Rising to prominence with the Golden State Warriors, Curry is a 9x all star and the only unanimous MVP in NBA history.

His ability to effortlessly sink long-range shots has not only shattered records but also transformed the way basketball is played. The term “Curry Range” has become synonymous with shooting from seemingly impossible distances.

Beyond his scoring ability, Curry’s ball-handling skills and court vision set him apart. His electrifying style of play has made him a fan favorite, drawing admirers from all corners of the globe.

Photo of Isiah Thomas

Isiah Thomas

Pronunciation: \eye-ZAY-uh\

Isiah Lord Thomas III ▪ Twitter: IsiahThomas

(Zeke, The Baby-Faced Assassin, Tuss, Pocket Magic)

Position: Point Guard ▪ Shoots: Right

6-1, 180lb (185cm, 81kg)

Born: April 30, 1961 (Age: 62-223d) in Chicago, Illinois us

College: Indiana

High School: St. Joseph in Westchester, Illinois

Draft: Detroit Pistons, 1st round (2nd pick, 2nd overall), 1981 NBA Draft

NBA Debut: October 30, 1981

Hall of Fame: Inducted as Player in 2000 (Full List)

Career Length: 13 years

11
SUMMARY

Career

G

979

PTS

19.2

TRB

3.6

AST

9.3

FG%

45.2

FG3%

29.0

FT%

75.9

eFG%

46.5

PER

18.1

WS

80.7

Isiah Thomas, a legendary figure in the NBA, left an indelible mark on the league during his illustrious career. Born on April 30, 1961, Thomas rose to prominence as the point guard for the Detroit Pistons in the 1980s. A 12-time NBA All-Star, he played a pivotal role in leading the Pistons to back-to-back championships in 1989 and 1990.

Thomas was known for his exceptional ball-handling skills, court vision, and clutch performances in crucial moments. Off the court, he became a successful executive, serving as the President of Basketball Operations for the New York Knicks. Despite controversies and intense on-court rivalries with the Chicago Bulls, the Los Angeles Lakers and the Boston Celtics, Isiah Thomas remains a basketball icon, leaving an enduring legacy as one of the greatest point guards in NBA history.

Jerry West

Photo of Jerry West

Jerry West

Jerry Alan West

(Mr. Clutch, Zeke From Cabin Creek, The Logo, Cabin Creek Comet, Tweety, Tweety Bird)

Position: Point Guard and Shooting Guard ▪ Shoots: Right

6-3, 175lb (190cm, 79kg)

Born: May 28, 1938 (Age: 85-195d) in Chelyan, West Virginia us

College: West Virginia

High School: East Bank in East Bank, West Virginia

Draft: Los Angeles Lakers, 1st round (2nd pick, 2nd overall), 1960 NBA Draft

NBA Debut: October 19, 1960

Hall of Fame: Inducted as Player in 1980 (Full List)

Career Length: 14 years

44 44
+1
SUMMARY

Career

G

932

PTS

27.0

TRB

5.8

AST

6.7

FG%

47.4

FT%

81.4

PER

22.9

WS

162.6

Jerry West is a basketball icon. As a player, coach and executive, Jerry showcased his brilliant basketball mind at all levels. Known as “The Logo” for being the silhouette in the NBA’s official emblem, West played for the Los Angeles Lakers from 1960 to 1974, earning 14 All-Star selections. His scoring prowess and tenacity led the Lakers to the NBA Finals nine times, though he faced challenges against dominant Celtics teams. West’s career averages of 27 points per game showcase his offensive brilliance.

Transitioning to the front office, West continued his success, orchestrating significant moves as an executive. His leadership with the Lakers and later with the Golden State Warriors contributed to multiple championships. West’s impact on the game extends beyond statistics; his legacy as a player and architect of successful teams cements his status as a basketball legend.

Oscar Robertson

Photo of Oscar Robertson

Oscar Robertson

Oscar Palmer Robertson

(Big O, Mr. Triple Double, Ozzie, Oscar the Grouch)

Position: Point Guard ▪ Shoots: Right

6-5, 205lb (196cm, 92kg)

Born: November 24, 1938 (Age: 85-015d) in Charlotte, Tennessee us

College: Cincinnati

High School: Crispus Attucks in Indianapolis, Indiana

Draft: Cincinnati Royals, 1st round (1st pick, 1st overall), 1960 NBA Draft (territorial selection)

NBA Debut: October 19, 1960

Hall of Fame: Inducted as Player in 1980 (Full List)

Career Length: 14 years

14 1
+1
SUMMARY

Career

G

1040

PTS

25.7

TRB

7.5

AST

9.5

FG%

48.5

FT%

83.8

PER

23.2

WS

189.2

Oscar Robertson, a basketball icon and Hall of Famer, left an indelible mark on the NBA with his exceptional skills and all-around brilliance. Born in 1938, Robertson played the majority of his career with the Cincinnati Royals and later the Milwaukee Bucks in the 1960s and 1970s. Renowned for his versatility, the 6’5″ guard was the first player to average a triple-double for an entire season in 1961-62, a feat that remained unmatched for decades.

Nicknamed “The Big O,” Robertson was a 12-time NBA All-Star and won an NBA championship with the Bucks in 1971. His impact extended beyond the court as he played a pivotal role in the formation of the players’ union. Robertson’s legacy endures as one of the greatest players in basketball history, celebrated not only for his statistical achievements but also for his contributions to the game’s evolution.

John Stockton

Photo of John Stockton

John Stockton

John Houston Stockton

(Stock)

Position: Point Guard ▪ Shoots: Right

6-1, 170lb (185cm, 77kg)

Born: March 26, 1962 (Age: 61-258d) in Spokane, Washington us

Relatives: Sons David Stockton, Michael Stockton

College: Gonzaga

High School: Gonzaga Prep in Spokane, Washington

Draft: Utah Jazz, 1st round (16th pick, 16th overall), 1984 NBA Draft

NBA Debut: October 26, 1984

Hall of Fame: Inducted as Player in 2009 (Full List)

Career Length: 19 years

12 12
+1
SUMMARY

Career

G

1504

PTS

13.1

TRB

2.7

AST

10.5

FG%

51.5

FG3%

38.4

FT%

82.6

eFG%

54.6

PER

21.8

WS

207.7

John Stockton, a legendary figure in the NBA, etched his name in basketball history through unparalleled skill and tenacity. Born on March 26, 1962, in Spokane, Washington, Stockton spent his entire illustrious 19-season career with the Utah Jazz. Renowned for his exceptional passing ability, Stockton holds the NBA records for career assists (15,806) and steals (3,265). Teaming up with Karl Malone, Stockton formed one of the most formidable duos in NBA history, leading the Jazz to consecutive NBA Finals appearances in 1997 and 1998.

The 10-time All-Star and two-time Olympic gold medalist was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2009. Stockton’s impact extends beyond records; his dedication, leadership, and basketball IQ continue to inspire aspiring players and solidify his legacy as one of the greatest point guards to grace the hardwood.

Jason Kidd

Photo of Jason Kidd

Jason Kidd

Jason Frederick Kidd ▪ Twitter: RealJasonKidd

(J-Kidd, Ason Kidd, The Engine, The Kidd, Mr. Triple Double)

Position: Point Guard and Shooting Guard ▪ Shoots: Right

6-4, 205lb (193cm, 92kg)

Born: March 23, 1973 (Age: 50-261d) in San Francisco, California us

College: California

High School: Saint Joseph of Notre Dame in Alameda, California

Draft: Dallas Mavericks, 1st round (2nd pick, 2nd overall), 1994 NBA Draft

NBA Debut: November 5, 1994

Hall of Fame: Inducted as Player in 2018 (Full List)

Career Length: 19 years

5 32 32 5 2 5
+5
SUMMARY

Career

G

1391

PTS

12.6

TRB

6.3

AST

8.7

FG%

40.0

FG3%

34.9

FT%

78.5

eFG%

46.4

PER

17.9

WS

138.6

Born on March 23, 1973, Kidd entered the league in 1994 as a first-round pick for the Dallas Mavericks. Over a illustrious 19-year career, he played for several teams, including the Phoenix Suns and New Jersey Nets, and won an NBA championship with the Dallas Mavericks in 2011.

A ten-time NBA All-Star, Kidd’s mastery of the game was most evident in his extraordinary passing ability, ranking second in career assists. His defensive prowess was equally impressive, earning him a spot on the NBA All-Defensive Team multiple times. After retiring as a player, Kidd transitioned to coaching, becoming the head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks and later the Dallas Mavericks. His impact on the game, both as a player and a coach, cements Jason Kidd’s legacy as one of the NBA’s all-time greats.

Chris Paul

Photo of Chris Paul

Chris Paul

Christopher Emmanuel Paul ▪ Twitter: CP3 ▪ Instagram: cp3

(CP3, The Point God, The Skate Instructor)

Position: Point Guard ▪ Shoots: Right

6-0, 175lb (183cm, 79kg)

Born: May 6, 1985 (Age: 38-217d) in Winston-Salem, North Carolina us

College: Wake Forest

High School: West Forsyth in Clemmons, North Carolina

Recruiting Rank: 2003 (6)

Draft: New Orleans Hornets, 1st round (4th pick, 4th overall), 2005 NBA Draft

NBA Debut: November 1, 2005

Experience: 18 years

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3
+7
SUMMARY

2023-24

Career

G

19

1233

PTS

8.6

17.8

TRB

3.6

4.5

AST

7.2

9.4

FG%

39.5

47.1

FG3%

31.8

36.8

FT%

92.9

87.0

eFG%

46.6

52.2

PER

15.0

24.2

WS

1.5

206.5

Chris Paul is often referred to as the ‘point god’ because of his exceptional scoring and playmaking abilities. Born on May 6, 1985, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Paul is renowned for his court vision, precise passing, and defensive prowess. Throughout his illustrious career, he has earned numerous All-Star selections and All-NBA Team honors.

Paul’s journey in the NBA includes stints with the New Orleans Hornets, Los Angeles Clippers, Houston Rockets, Oklahoma City Thunder, Phoenix Suns and the Golden State Warriors. His impact on and off the court extends beyond statistics; he’s revered for mentoring young players and advocating for social justice initiatives. In 2021, Paul led the Phoenix Suns to the NBA Finals, showcasing his enduring competitiveness.

Russell Westbrook

Photo of Russell Westbrook

Russell Westbrook

Russell Westbrook III ▪ Twitter: russwest44 ▪ Instagram: russwest44

(The Brodie, Russ, Beastbrook, Mr. Triple Double)

Position: Point Guard ▪ Shoots: Right

6-4, 200lb (193cm, 90kg)

Born: November 12, 1988 (Age: 35-027d) in Long Beach, California us

College: UCLA

High School: Leuzinger in Lawndale, California

Draft: Seattle SuperSonics, 1st round (4th pick, 4th overall), 2008 NBA Draft

NBA Debut: October 29, 2008

Experience: 15 years

0 0 4 0 0
+4
SUMMARY

2023-24

Career

G

20

1114

PTS

11.9

22.2

TRB

6.7

7.3

AST

5.1

8.3

FG%

43.7

43.8

FG3%

26.4

30.5

FT%

62.5

77.7

eFG%

47.0

46.9

PER

15.6

22.1

WS

0.9

109.3

Russell Westbrook, a dynamic point guard, is renowned for his explosive athleticism, relentless energy, and triple-double prowess. The 9-time NBA All-Star has left an indelible mark on the league with his fearless playing style and tenacity. Westbrook, often referred to as “The Brodie,” has achieved the rare feat of averaging a triple-double for multiple seasons, showcasing his unparalleled ability to impact every facet of the game.

His aggressive drives to the basket and tenacious defense make him a constant threat on the court. Notably, he spent the majority of his career with the Oklahoma City Thunder before joining the Houston Rockets and later the Washington Wizards. Westbrook’s electrifying presence and competitive spirit continue to captivate basketball enthusiasts, solidifying his status as one of the NBA’s most iconic players.

Steve Nash

Photo of Steve Nash

Steve Nash

Stephen John Nash ▪ Twitter: SteveNash

(MVSteve, Two Time, Nashty)

Position: Point Guard ▪ Shoots: Right

6-3, 195lb (190cm, 88kg)

Born: February 7, 1974 (Age: 49-305d) in Johannesburg, South Africa za

College: Santa Clara

High School: Saint Michaels University School in Victoria, Canada

Draft: Phoenix Suns, 1st round (15th pick, 15th overall), 1996 NBA Draft

NBA Debut: November 1, 1996

Hall of Fame: Inducted as Player in 2018 (Full List)

Career Length: 18 years

13 13 13 13 10
+4
SUMMARY

Career

G

1217

PTS

14.3

TRB

3.0

AST

8.5

FG%

49.0

FG3%

42.8

FT%

90.4

eFG%

55.6

PER

20.0

WS

129.7

Steve Nash, a Canadian basketball legend, left an indelible mark on the NBA with his exceptional shooting and playmaking skills. Born on February 7, 1974, Nash enjoyed a illustrious 18-season career in the league. A two-time NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP), Nash was renowned for his dazzling playmaking and sharpshooting. The point guard’s vision and passing ability made him one of the greatest facilitators in NBA history.

Nash played a significant role in revolutionizing the game with his up-tempo style, influencing a generation of point guards. His tenure with the Phoenix Suns, where he earned his MVP honors, showcased his ability to elevate a team’s performance. In addition to his on-court prowess, Nash transitioned to coaching and became the head coach of the Brooklyn Nets, further contributing to the sport’s evolution.

Who is the greatest PG in NBA history?

While Magic Johnson is widely considered as the greatest PG of all time, there is a new generation of fans who give that title to Stephen Curry. While a highly controversial debate, we don’t believe there is a wrong answer here.

Who is the most underrated PG of all time?

There is no one answer to this question. The league has witnessed some exceptional talent across its decades of existence. Names like Kevin Johnson, Rod Strickland, Jrue Holiday, Mike Conley, Tim Hardaway and Penny Hardaway are often talked about as some of the most underrated PGs of all time.

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This entry was posted on Saturday, January 27th, 2024 at 6:34 am and is filed under Top 10 Lists. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.

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