Top 15 NBA Sixth Men Who Became Stars
These 15 NBA players started as bench spark plugs and evolved into full-blown superstars.
- Chris Graciano
- 4 min read
In the NBA, not every star starts under the spotlight. Many of the league’s biggest names began their careers as sixth men. They bring energy, scoring, and grit off the bench. This list highlights the top 15 players who used their sixth man role as a launchpad to stardom.
15. Kyle Lowry
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Lowry spent his early years bouncing around as a role player, but he grew into a six-time All-Star and champion in Toronto. He brought leadership, defense, and clutch play to the Raptors.
14. John Starks
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Starks went undrafted and started on the bench, but his fire and fearless play made him a Knicks icon. Known for his tenacity and clutch moments, he eventually earned an All-Star selection.
13. Andre Iguodala
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Iguodala took a bench role with the Warriors but made his biggest mark as Finals MVP in 2015. Before that, he was an All-Star and team leader in Philly. His unselfishness made the Warriors dynasty work. A star who didn’t need stats to prove his worth.
12. Paul Millsap
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Millsap came off the bench in Utah before breaking out and becoming a four-time All-Star in Atlanta. His work ethic and toughness set him apart as he transitioned to a leading role. He evolved into a defensive anchor and reliable scorer.
11. Jamal Crawford
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Known for his dazzling handles and microwave scoring, Crawford won three Sixth Man of the Year awards. Over time, he earned starter minutes and respect as one of the league’s most feared scorers.
10. Michael Cooper
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A defensive ace off the bench, Cooper was crucial to the Showtime Lakers’ success. His versatility allowed him to guard multiple positions and hit timely shots. Eventually, he became a respected starter and won the Defensive Player of the Year award.
9. Jeff Hornacek
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Hornacek began in a supporting role but evolved into a sharpshooting starter for Utah’s Finals runs. His off-ball movement and basketball smarts made him the perfect backcourt mate for John Stockton.
8. Cedric Maxwell
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“Cornbread” Maxwell brought energy and scoring off the bench before becoming a Finals MVP for the Celtics in 1981. His efficiency and toughness made him a fan favorite.
7. Detlef Schrempf
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Schrempf broke out with the Pacers and later the SuperSonics after two Sixth Man of the Year awards. His shooting and high basketball IQ made him an integral starter on playoff teams.
6. Lou Williams
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A walking bucket, Lou Will carved a legendary sixth man career before becoming a go-to scorer. He won three Sixth Man of the Year awards, thanks to his clutch play and fearless scoring.
5. Lamar Odom
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Odom thrived as the Lakers’ sixth man, bringing size, skill, and court vision to the second unit. His unselfishness and ability to play multiple positions were key to L.A.’s back-to-back titles in 2009 and 2010.
4. Toni Kukoč
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Kukoč was a matchup nightmare coming off the bench for the Bulls during their second three-peat. His European flair and versatility made him a unique threat. Eventually, he played a more prominent role and even won Sixth Man of the Year in 1996.
3. Kevin McHale
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McHale terrorized defenses off the bench for the Celtics in the early ‘80s before becoming a full-time starter. Known for his elite footwork and post moves, he helped Boston dominate during its golden era.
2. Manu Ginóbili
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Ginóbili embraced the sixth man role in San Antonio, but his impact was anything but secondary. With crafty offense and relentless defense, he became a cornerstone of the Spurs dynasty.
1. James Harden
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Harden came off the bench behind Russell Westbrook in Oklahoma City but didn’t stay in the shadows for long. Once traded to Houston, he became the face of the franchise and a perennial MVP candidate. His scoring, playmaking, and unique style changed the game.