Not every great teammate drops 30 points a night or makes the highlight reels. Some guys are just the glue that holds everything together – the ones who make the locker room better and the game more enjoyable.
Whether it was their unselfish play, positive attitude, or just being the guy who always had your back, these players were the ones everybody wanted to share the floor with. From role players to All-Stars, this list celebrates the NBA’s ultimate “you want this guy on your team’ players.
20. Shane Battier
He wasn’t flashy, but he was a basketball nerd’s dream and always knew where to be. Battier made stars shine brighter by doing all the dirty work.
19. Udonis Haslem
He rarely filled the stat sheet, but Haslem was Miami’s emotional anchor for two decades. Every team needs a guy who brings the heat without ever needing the ball.
18. Tyrese Haliburton
Still early in his career, but he’s already known for making everyone around him better. Teammates love how unselfish and joyful his game is.
17. Boris Diaw
Diaw could play any position and never cared about his stats. He was the ultimate connector, making beautiful basketball possible.
16. Jrue Holiday
Defense, effort, humility—Holiday brings it all and never demands the spotlight. Teammates trust him to guard the best player and still find them open looks.
15. Pau Gasol
Pau was the kind of teammate who’d make you better without ever making you feel small. His intelligence and kindness went just as far as his skill.
14. Andre Iguodala
Iggy did whatever was needed, whether that meant defending stars, running the offense, or coming off the bench. He always seemed to know the right play at the right time.
13. J.J. Redick
He spaced the floor and stayed in his lane, all while being one of the most respected locker room presences. Teams appreciated his honesty and professionalism.
12. Jose Calderon
Calderon was like having a coach on the floor. Teammates loved how easy he made the game and how little ego he brought to the table.
11. Brook Lopez
From stretch-five to rim protector to comic relief, Lopez has been a low-key team favorite everywhere he’s played. He fits in anywhere and always brings good vibes.
10. Derek Fisher
Say what you want about his coaching stint, but as a player, Fisher was clutch, calm, and respected. Teammates knew they could count on him when it mattered.
9. Malcolm Brogdon
Brogdon is a pro’s pro—steady, reliable, and all about the team. Coaches and players rave about his maturity and focus.
8. Manu Ginóbili
He could’ve been a star on his team, but Manu embraced his role and gave the Spurs everything. His selflessness and fire made him beloved by every teammate.
7. Al Horford
Horford brings experience, consistency, and a lack of drama. He’s the grown-up in the room that every young team wishes they had.
6. Kyle Lowry
Lowry is a bulldog who plays through pain and always looks out for his guys. He makes winning plays, and teammates love him for it.
5. Muggsy Bogues
Despite being the smallest player in league history, Muggsy was big on leadership. He earned respect with effort, heart, and a true team-first mentality.
4. Mike Conley
Conley’s calm demeanor and smart play have earned him praise across multiple franchises. He never tries to be the guy, but often ends up being the guy everyone trusts.
3. Steve Kerr
Before he coached dynasties, Kerr was the type of teammate who always knew his role and excelled in it. He lightened the mood and hit big shots without ever asking for credit.
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2. Tim Duncan
Duncan led with actions instead of words, setting the tone for a selfless team culture. His humility made him the kind of superstar teammates would run through walls for.
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1. Magic Johnson
Nobody in NBA history made playing basketball look more fun than Magic. He passed the ball as if it were a gift, making every teammate feel like a star.
