Who is the best NBA center of all time?

Rim-rattlers, shot-blockers, and unstoppable post scorers — the center position has been home to some of the most dominant forces in NBA history across every era. Who stands tallest?

1

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

The NBA's all-time leading scorer whose unstoppable skyhook and six championships across two franchises define his unrivaled 20-year dominance.

2

Bill Russell

The defensive anchor of the Boston Celtics dynasty who won an unprecedented 11 championships in 13 seasons.

3

Wilt Chamberlain

The most statistically dominant player in NBA history, including his legendary 100-point game and 55-rebound single-game record.

4

Hakeem Olajuwon

The Nigerian-born 'Dream' whose footwork and Dream Shake move made him the most skilled post player in history, leading Houston to back-to-back titles.

5

David Robinson

The Admiral combined military discipline with elite athleticism and led the San Antonio Spurs to two NBA titles.

6

Patrick Ewing

The Georgetown legend anchored the Knicks for 15 seasons and remains one of the most complete and feared centers ever to play in New York.

7

Nikola Jokic

The modern-era revolutionary whose passing vision and basketball IQ redefined what a center can do, leading Denver to a 2023 title.

8

Dikembe Mutombo

The shot-blocking legend who won four Defensive Player of the Year awards and became a symbol of African excellence in the NBA.

9

Willis Reed

The inspirational Knicks captain whose heroic limping return in Game 7 of the 1970 Finals is one of the most iconic moments in sports history.

10

Bob Lanier

An underrated Hall of Famer and eight-time All-Star who was one of the most skilled offensive big men of the 1970s.

11

Alonzo Mourning

A two-time Defensive Player of the Year whose tenacity on both ends made him one of the most feared centers of the 1990s.

12

Nate Thurmond

A pioneer and Hall of Famer who dominated the Golden State Warriors era before statistics fully captured his two-way brilliance.

13

Bill Walton

When healthy, one of the most complete centers ever, leading UCLA to two titles and the Trail Blazers to an NBA championship.

14

Robert Parish

The Chief's 21-year career included four championships alongside Larry Bird in Boston, making him one of the most durable greats in history.