In the rich tapestry of the National Basketball Association’s history, there have been many moments that have left an indelible mark on the sport. However, few events have been as significant and impactful as the NBA’s announcement of the “50 Greatest Players in NBA History” in 1996. This historic occasion not only celebrated the league’s 50th anniversary but also paid tribute to the legends who had graced the hardwood and forever etched their names into the annals of basketball history.
The NBA’s 50th anniversary was a milestone that warranted a grand celebration. The league had grown from humble beginnings into a global phenomenon, and this momentous occasion presented the perfect opportunity to reflect on its history and the icons who had shaped it.
This list of the 50 greatest players was announced 28 years ago today.
Selecting the 50 greatest players in NBA history was no easy task. The panel responsible for this challenging job included former players, coaches, team executives, and media members. They were tasked with evaluating players’ contributions to the game, their impact on and off the court, and their overall basketball excellence.
The criteria for inclusion ranged from statistical achievements and individual awards to championships won and the influence a player had on the game. The 50 players selected not only met these criteria but also set new standards for excellence in the sport.
The list itself featured some of the most iconic names in basketball history and included Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Nate Archibald, Paul Arizin, Charles Barkley, Rick Barry, Elgin Baylor, Dave Bing, Larry Bird, Wilt Chamberlain, Bob Cousy, Dave Cowens, Billy Cunningham, Dave DeBusschere, Clyde Drexler, Julius Erving, Patrick Ewing, Walt Frazier, George Gervin, Hal Greer, John Havlicek, Elvin Hayes, Earvin Johnson, Sam Jones, Michael Jordan, Jerry Lucas, Karl Malone, Moses Malone, Pete Maravich, Kevin McHale, George Mikan, Earl Monroe, Shaquille O’Neal, Hakeem Olajuwon, Robert Parish, Bob Pettit, Scottie Pippen, Willis Reed, Oscar Robertson, David Robinson, Bill Russell, Dolph Schayes, Bill Sharman, John Stockton, Isiah Thomas, Nate Thurmond, Wes Unseld, Bill Walton, Jerry West, Lenny Wilkens, and James Worthy
During the 1997 All-Star Weekend in Cleveland, the NBA celebrated the list with their 50th anniversary ceremony, while honoring them during half-time of the All-Star Game.
