The point guard position in basketball is often considered the most crucial role on the court, acting as the team’s primary playmaker and leader. Over the years, numerous players have not only excelled in this position but have also redefined what it means to be an exceptional point guard.
This listicle explores the top 15 point guards in NBA history, showcasing their incredible careers and everlasting impacts on the game.
15. Allen Iverson
Allen Iverson, the 6-foot dynamo, revolutionized the point guard position with his electrifying style. Over his 14-year NBA career, “The Answer” averaged an impressive 26.7 points and 6.2 assists per game. A four-time scoring champion and 11-time All-Star, Iverson’s impact on the game transcended statistics, inspiring a generation of players with his fearless approach and cultural influence.
14. Damian Lillard
Damian Lillard has cemented his place among the NBA’s elite point guards. With career averages of 25.2 points and 6.8 assists per game, Lillard’s scoring prowess and clutch performances have earned him seven All-Star selections. His 32.2 points per game in the 2022-23 season showcased his offensive dominance, solidifying his status as one of the game’s premier shooters and playmakers.
13. Russell Westbrook
Russell Westbrook’s explosive athleticism and relentless drive have defined his 17-year NBA career. The 2017 MVP has averaged 21.4 points, 8.1 assists, and 7.1 rebounds per game. With nine All-Star selections and two scoring titles, Westbrook’s triple-double prowess and competitive spirit cement his place among the NBA’s elite point guards.
12. Walt Frazier
Walt “Clyde” Frazier was a defensive stalwart and offensive maestro for the New York Knicks. He averaged 18.9 points, 6.1 assists, and 5.9 rebounds per game over his career, leading the Knicks to two NBA championships. Frazier’s seven All-Star selections and induction into the Hall of Fame solidify his legacy as one of the greatest point guards in NBA history.
11. Gary Payton
Gary “The Glove” Payton was a defensive powerhouse, earning nine All-Defensive First Team selections. He averaged 16.3 points, 6.7 assists, and 1.8 steals per game over his 17-year career. Payton’s tenacity and trash-talking made him a formidable opponent, leading the Seattle SuperSonics to the 1996 NBA Finals.
10. Bob Cousy
Bob Cousy revolutionized the point guard position with his flashy ball-handling and innovative passing. The “Houdini of the Hardwood” led the NBA in assists for eight consecutive seasons and won six championships with the Boston Celtics. Cousy’s career averages of 18.4 points and 7.5 assists per game solidify his place among the all-time greats.
9. Jason Kidd
Jason Kidd’s exceptional court vision and rebounding prowess set him apart. He retired second all-time in assists and steals, led the NBA in assists five times, and ranks sixth in career triple-doubles. Kidd’s transformation into a reliable three-point shooter later in his career showcased his adaptability. His NBA championship with Dallas and two Olympic gold medals highlight a Hall of Fame career.
8. Jerry West
Jerry West, known as “Mr. Clutch,” revolutionized the point guard position with his scoring prowess and playmaking abilities. Averaging 27.0 points and 6.7 assists per game over his 14-year career, West led the Lakers to nine NBA Finals appearances. His silhouette became the iconic NBA logo, cementing his legendary status in basketball history.
7. Steve Nash
Steve Nash revolutionized the point guard position with his exceptional playmaking and shooting. A two-time MVP and eight-time All-Star, Nash led the league in assists five times and is one of only four players to achieve the 50-40-90 shooting split multiple times. His impact on the game’s pace and spacing continues to influence modern NBA offenses.
6. Chris Paul
Chris Paul, known as “CP3,” is one of the most prolific point guards in NBA history. With career averages of 17.5 points, 9.4 assists, and 2.1 steals per game, Paul’s court vision and leadership are unparalleled. He’s a 12-time All-Star and led the league in assists five times. Paul’s career is still ongoing, currently playing for the San Antonio Spurs in the 2024-25 season.
5. Isiah Thomas
Isiah Thomas, the Detroit Pistons legend, was a fierce competitor and exceptional playmaker. He led the “Bad Boys” to back-to-back championships (1989-1990) and remains the franchise’s all-time leader in points, assists, and steals. Thomas’s career averages of 19.2 points and 9.3 assists per game showcase his elite two-way skills.
4. John Stockton
John Stockton, the Utah Jazz legend, holds the NBA records for career assists (15,806) and steals (3,265). His exceptional court vision, precise passing, and tenacious defense made him a 10-time All-Star. Stockton’s durability was remarkable, playing all 82 games in 16 of his 19 seasons.
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3. Oscar Robertson
Oscar “The Big O” Robertson revolutionized the point guard position with his versatile play. He averaged a triple-double for an entire season (1961-62) and career averages of 25.7 points, 9.5 assists, and 7.5 rebounds. Robertson’s impact earned him 12 All-Star selections, an MVP award, and an NBA championship.
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2. Stephen Curry
Stephen Curry revolutionized basketball with his unparalleled three-point shooting. A four-time NBA champion and two-time MVP, Curry holds the record for most career three-pointers made. His impact extends beyond statistics, inspiring a generation of players to embrace long-range shooting. Curry’s clutch performances and leadership have solidified his legacy as one of the greatest point guards ever.
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1. Magic Johnson
Magic Johnson revolutionized the point guard position with his 6’9″ frame and unparalleled court vision. He averaged a staggering 11.2 assists per game over his career, along with 19.5 points and 7.2 rebounds. Johnson’s five NBA championships, three MVP awards, and 12 All-Star selections solidify his status as the greatest point guard in NBA history.
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