Top 15 Power Forwards of the Last 25 Years
This list ranks the 15 best power forwards from the last 25 years based on their performance, impact, and achievements.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 5 min read
Power forwards have played a major part in the evolution of basketball over the past two and a half decades. Many of these players stood out for their scoring, rebounding, defense, and leadership. This ranking highlights the 15 most impactful power forwards from 2000 to 2025.
15. Jermaine O’Neal
Keith Allison on Wikimedia Commons
Jermaine O’Neal became a top player in the early 2000s with the Indiana Pacers. He was named an All-Star six times and won the NBA’s Most Improved Player award in 2002. O’Neal was known for his shot-blocking, rebounding, and low-post scoring. Injuries shortened his peak, but he was a top power forward for several seasons.
14. Zach Randolph
Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Zach Randolph was known for his scoring and rebounding inside the paint. He averaged a double-double in multiple seasons and made two All-Star teams. Randolph helped lead the Memphis Grizzlies to playoff success during the “Grit and Grind” era. His physical style and tough attitude defined his game.
13. Chris Webber
RVR Photos-Imagn Images
Chris Webber was one of the most skilled forwards of his time. He averaged over 20 points and 10 rebounds across several seasons and made five All-Star teams. Webber was a great passer for his position and led the Sacramento Kings during their strongest years. He was elected to the Hall of Fame in 2021.
12. Blake Griffin
Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Blake Griffin entered the league with elite athleticism and became a star with the Los Angeles Clippers. He made six All-Star teams and won Rookie of the Year in 2011. Griffin later improved his ball-handling and outside shooting. At his peak, he was one of the best scoring forwards in the league.
11. Rasheed Wallace
Sam Sharpe-Imagn Images
Rasheed Wallace had a smooth shooting touch and was a strong defender. He played a key role on the 2004 Detroit Pistons team that won the championship. Wallace made four All-Star teams and was respected for his basketball IQ. His fiery personality often drew attention, but his impact on the court was clear.
10. Draymond Green
Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images
Draymond Green is one of the best defensive players of his era. He has won four championships with the Golden State Warriors and was named Defensive Player of the Year in 2017. Green is not a high scorer, but he contributes through passing, rebounding, and defense. He plays a central role in the Warriors’ system.
9. LaMarcus Aldridge
Brendan Maloney-Imagn Images
LaMarcus Aldridge was one of the most reliable scorers among big men. He made seven All-Star teams and scored over 19,000 points in his career. Aldridge was known for his mid-range jumper and strong low-post moves. He played important roles in both Portland and San Antonio.
8. Chris Bosh
Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Chris Bosh began his career as the top option in Toronto before joining Miami’s championship teams. He was an 11-time All-Star and could shoot from mid-range and defend multiple positions. Bosh accepted a smaller role with the Heat and became a vital part of their success. His career ended early due to health issues, but his impact remains significant.
7. Shawn Marion
Matthew Emmons-Imagn Images
Shawn Marion was known for his defense, rebounding, and athleticism. He made four All-Star teams and was a major contributor to the Phoenix Suns and later the Dallas Mavericks. Marion guarded multiple positions and brought energy on both ends of the court. He helped Dallas win the 2011 championship.
6. Kevin Love
Rhona Wise-Imagn Images
Kevin Love was a dominant rebounder and scorer in his early years with the Minnesota Timberwolves. He later became the third star on Cleveland’s title team in 2016. Love made five All-Star teams and was known for his three-point shooting and outlet passing. He played an important role in changing how power forwards play offense.
5. Anthony Davis
Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Anthony Davis has been one of the most talented forwards of the past decade. He has made multiple All-Star teams and was a key player in the Lakers’ 2020 championship run. Davis is known for his defense, shot blocking, and ability to score in various ways. When healthy, he is one of the most dominant two-way players in the league.
4. Amar’e Stoudemire
Keith Allison on Wikimedia Commons
Amar’e Stoudemire was a powerful scorer and finisher, especially in pick-and-roll situations. He was a six-time All-Star and won Rookie of the Year in 2003. Stoudemire’s best years were with the Phoenix Suns, where he was a key part of their fast-paced offense. Knee injuries affected his career, but his peak was elite.
3. Pau Gasol
Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
Pau Gasol was a skilled and intelligent player who brought success wherever he went. He helped the Lakers win two championships and was selected to six All-Star teams. Gasol had excellent footwork, passing ability, and a strong understanding of team play. He also had a major international career with Spain, winning several medals.
2. Kevin Garnett
Brace Hemmelgarn-Imagn Images
Kevin Garnett was known for his energy, defense, and leadership. He won the MVP in 2004 and helped the Celtics win a championship in 2008. Garnett was a 15-time All-Star and ranks high in rebounds and defensive stats. He played with intensity and had a major influence on how power forwards played defense.
1. Tim Duncan
Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Tim Duncan is widely considered the best power forward of all time. He won five NBA championships, two MVPs, and three Finals MVPs. Duncan was a 15-time All-Star and played his entire career with the San Antonio Spurs. His fundamentals, defense, and consistency made him a model of excellence.