Editor’s Note: This story is included in The Athletic’s Best of 2022. View the full list.

Do you want to know who the top 75 players in NBA history are? Look no further! We have compiled a list of the greatest basketball players of all time, voted on by our panel of experts. From the iconic Michael Jordan to the legendary Lenny Wilkens, we’ve got it all covered. So let’s dive in and explore the best of the best.

The Undisputed GOAT: Michael Jordan

At number one, it’s no surprise that we have Michael Jordan. His greatness is undeniable and his impact on the game is unparalleled. From his six NBA championships to his breathtaking highlight reel, Jordan is the epitome of basketball excellence. There is no debate here, he is the GOAT.

LeBron James: The Modern-Day Superstar

Coming in at number two is LeBron James. With his impressive resume of MVP awards and championship titles, LeBron has solidified his status as one of the greatest players of all time. His combination of skill, athleticism, and basketball IQ has made him a force to be reckoned with on the court.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: The Scoring Machine

At number three, we have Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer. His patented skyhook shot and incredible longevity in the game have made him a true legend. With six MVP awards and six championships to his name, Abdul-Jabbar’s impact on the game is undeniable.

Bill Russell: The Ultimate Winner

Number four on our list is Bill Russell, the ultimate winner. With an NBA record 11 championships and five MVP awards, Russell’s impact on the game goes beyond statistics. His leadership and defensive prowess made him a force to be reckoned with on the court.

Magic Johnson: The Maestro of Showtime

Coming in at number five is Magic Johnson, the maestro of Showtime. Johnson’s ability to elevate his teammates and his show-stopping performances on the court made him one of the most beloved players in NBA history. With five championships and three MVP awards, Magic’s impact on the game is timeless.

These are just a few of the incredible players that make up our top 75 NBA players of all time. From Wilt Chamberlain to Larry Bird, Shaquille O’Neal to Tim Duncan, the list goes on and on. Each player on this list has left an indelible mark on the game of basketball and has contributed to its rich history.

If you want to learn more about these players and dive deeper into their stories, be sure to check out our in-depth profiles on each player. And remember, for all the latest sports news and updates, visit Sports News, your go-to source for everything sports-related.

(Illustration by Wes McCabe / The Athletic)