The Greatest Point Guards in NBA History

Over 27.8K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Greatest Point Guards in NBA History
Voting Rules
Only NBA players who played primarily point guard for most of their career
Latest additions: Bob Davies, Markelle Fultz, Henry Bibby
Most divisive: Isaiah Thomas

Who are the greatest point guards in NBA history? Certain names stand out, including several players who are definitely among the best NBA players of all time. The best point guards to ever play the game were leaders: they kept their teams in the hunt for championships and kept their opponents at bay.

Vote for the good basketball players that you think deserve the title of best point guards ever, vote down any you don't like and certainly, re-rank this list anyway you want. Anytime you're dealing with a "best ever" list of professional basketball players, you're going to have some disagreement. Everyone, it seems, has an opinion.

Some believe that Magic Johnson is the best point guard to ever grace the hard courts; others might go with John Stockton or even Oscar Robertson. There's absolutely no denying that several players on this list are among the best current point guards in the NBA, and the best 2012 overall NBA players, too. While a player's stats are certainly important, when it comes to the point guard position, it's about way more than that: It's also about a players overall intelligence and being a true leader on the floor. Who did it best? You decide. Who are the best point guards of all time?

Ranked by
  • Magic Johnson
    1
    Los Angeles Lakers
    13,704 votes
    • Position: Point guard
    • Birthplace: Michigan, USA, Lansing
    • Number: 32

    Earvin "Magic" Johnson revolutionized the point guard position with his unprecedented combination of size, court vision, and playmaking ability during his illustrious career for the Los Angeles Lakers. As the orchestrator of the Showtime Lakers in the 1980s, Magic's flashy style and captivating skill set not only led to multiple championships but also played a significant role in popularizing the NBA worldwide. His storied rivalry with Larry Bird, transcendent performances in clutch moments, and affable personality etched his name as one of the greatest and most beloved point guards to ever grace the hardwood.

  • Steph Curry
    2
    Golden State Warriors
    15,404 votes
    • Position: Point guard
    • Birthplace: Akron, Ohio

    Stephen Curry, fondly known as the Baby-Faced Assassin, is a transcendent talent who has unequivocally changed the landscape of basketball by shattering the traditional notions of what constitutes a good shot. His jaw-dropping shooting range, silky-smooth dribbling skills, and off-the-ball movement have made him an absolute nightmare for opposing defenses and a highlight reel staple. With his unprecedented accuracy from beyond the arc, he has not only shattered numerous three-point records but also altered the way the game is played, leaving an indelible impact on future generations of basketball players.

  • Oscar Robertson
    3
    Cincinnati Royals, Milwaukee Bucks
    10,927 votes
    • Position: Point guard
    • Birthplace: Tennessee, USA, Charlotte
    • Number: 1, 14

    The Big O Oscar Robertson was a man ahead of his time, showcasing a rare combination of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking abilities that would become the gold standard for versatility among point guards. His extraordinary basketball IQ, refined offensive game, and relentless pursuit for excellence allowed him to achieve unparalleled success, both individually and as a member of the Milwaukee Bucks. Widely regarded as the original triple-double king, Robertson's contributions to the sport have paved the way for the modern-day do-it-all point guards.

  • John Stockton
    4
    Utah Jazz
    12,559 votes
    • Position: Point guard
    • Birthplace: Spokane, Washington
    • Number: 12

    John Stockton, the consummate floor general, made a name for himself with his unrivaled ability to control the tempo of a game and establish synergy among his teammates. The epitome of consistency, Stockton's cerebral approach to the game, and remarkable understanding of spacing and timing made the pick-and-roll with Karl Malone a staple of the Utah Jazz offense. His relentless work ethic, commitment to excellence, and quiet demeanor encapsulate the essence of what it means to be a true leader on the basketball court.

  • Jerry West
    5
    Los Angeles Lakers
    7,497 votes
    • Position: Point Guard
    • Birthplace: Chelyan, West Virginia
    • Number: 44

    Jerry West, aptly nicknamed "The Logo" due to his silhouette adorning the NBA emblem, is a legendary figure synonymous with excellence and grit. Renowned for his lethal scoring prowess, clutch performances, and unwavering determination, West was a force to be reckoned with on both ends of the floor. His remarkable abilities as a playmaker, combined with his scoring ability, set a high benchmark for future generations of point guards to follow.

  • Allen Iverson
    6
    Philadelphia 76ers, Denver Nuggets, Detroit Pistons
    10,574 votes
    • Position: Point guard
    • Birthplace: USA, Virginia, Hampton
    • Number: 1

    Few players have captured hearts and minds like "The Answer" Allen Iverson, whose electric offensive game and fearless attitude made him a cultural icon. Standing at only 6 feet tall, Iverson's lightning-quick crossover, incredible speed, and unparalleled scoring instincts allowed him to compete against giants and etch his name into the annals of history. While his off-court antics and tumultuous relationship with the media often overshadowed his on-court brilliance, there is no denying Iverson's impact on the game and his status as one of the most entertaining and talented point guards ever.