Top 20 NBA Players of the 2010s — Ranked
This is a countdown celebrating the top 20 NBA stars who shaped the 2010s.
- Daisy Montero
- 5 min read
This article ranks the 20 most impactful NBA players of the 2010s, from rising stars to league-changing icons. Each slide highlights a player’s key achievements, signature skills, and influence on and off the court. Perfect for fans wanting to revisit the era’s greatest moments.
20. Chris Paul
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The floor general whose passing precision and leadership guided the Clippers to multiple playoff runs. A seven-time All-Star, CP3’s basketball IQ defined team offense during Lob City’s peak.
19. Dirk Nowitzki
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The German sharpshooter whose 2011 Finals MVP run and graceful post-prime play inspired a generation of stretch fours with his signature one-legged fadeaway.
18. Tim Duncan
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“The Big Fundamental” anchored the Spurs with quiet dominance, elite defense, and leadership — earning his last NBA title in 2014 and epitomizing sustained excellence.
17. Giannis Antetokounmpo
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The Greek Freak transformed into a two-way MVP, earning his first MVP late in the decade and leading Milwaukee as a dominant force in the post.
16. Dwyane Wade
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Wade blended fearless drives with crafty mid-range scoring, becoming the heart of Miami’s championship runs. His leadership helped the Heat capture back-to-back titles alongside LeBron and Bosh. Even as injuries slowed him later, his clutch play and loyalty to Miami made him one of the most beloved players of the decade.
15. Klay Thompson
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Thompson’s ability to catch fire instantly made him a nightmare for defenses. His record-breaking shooting nights, like his 37-point quarter, showcased his unique scoring bursts. On top of his offensive explosions, his calm demeanor and elite defense made him essential to the Warriors’ dynasty.
14. Kyrie Irving
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Irving’s handles were like a magician’s wand, dazzling fans and defenders alike. His game-winning shot in Game 7 of the 2016 Finals cemented his place in NBA history. Even amid controversy, his combination of creativity, finishing, and late-game confidence made him one of the most captivating stars of the decade.
13. Paul George
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George battled back from a devastating leg injury to reclaim his status as a two-way superstar. His smooth shooting and perimeter defense made him a cornerstone wherever he played. Whether leading Indiana deep into the playoffs or earning MVP votes in Oklahoma City, his versatility kept him among the league’s elite.
12. LaMarcus Aldridge
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LaMarcus Aldridge was one of the most consistent scorers of the decade, known for his smooth mid-range shot. He earned multiple All-Star selections playing for both the Trail Blazers and Spurs. His quiet, steady play made him a reliable star throughout the 2010s.
11. Russell Westbrook
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Westbrook played with unmatched energy, attacking every possession with full throttle. His 2017 MVP season, averaging a triple-double, was something most thought impossible in the modern NBA. His passion, athleticism, and ferocity became his trademark, reshaping expectations of what a point guard could contribute.
10. Blake Griffin
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Blake Griffin amazed fans with his powerful dunks and exciting plays during his time with the Clippers. His athleticism helped him become a six-time All-Star in the 2010s. Over time, he added better passing and shooting to his game, keeping him a top player for many years.
9. Kawhi Leonard
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Leonard’s quiet demeanor masked a fierce competitor who thrived on both ends of the court. His historic 2019 playoff run delivered Toronto its first title, cementing his status as one of the decade’s best two-way players. His ability to lock down stars while delivering clutch offense made him a nightmare for opponents.
8. Chris Bosh
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Bosh transitioned from being the main star in Toronto to a vital piece of Miami’s Big Three. His defense, rebounding, and clutch shooting in the Heat’s championship runs often went underappreciated. His versatility allowed Miami to play small-ball long before it became the league norm.
7. Damian Lillard
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Damian Lillard became known for his deep shooting and clutch shots. He made some of the biggest game-winners of the decade. Even without a championship, he stayed loyal and kept Portland strong for many years.
6. James Harden
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Harden’s offensive mastery was unmatched, blending incredible ball handling with elite shooting. He transformed the Rockets into perennial contenders and redefined what efficiency looked like for high-volume scorers. His style sparked debates, but his production spoke for itself as one of the top offensive engines of the era.
5. Draymond Green
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Draymond Green became the emotional leader and defensive anchor of Golden State’s dynasty. His ability to guard every position made the Warriors’ switch-heavy defense nearly impossible to break. Along with his passing and fiery leadership, he played a crucial role in securing three championships.
4. Anthony Davis
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Anthony Davis dominated with his size, speed, and skill on both ends of the court. He was a constant double-double threat and one of the best shot blockers of the decade. His move to the Lakers helped him win his first NBA championship.
3. Kevin Durant
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Durant’s scoring was both smooth and lethal, capable of taking over games in any situation. His success with Golden State elevated his resume, adding championships and Finals MVPs to his long list of accolades. Even after joining superteams, his individual brilliance remained undeniable.
2. Stephen Curry
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Curry’s shooting transformed not just his team, but the entire league’s approach to offense. His off-the-dribble threes became his signature, forcing teams to rethink how defense is played. As the face of the Warriors’ dynasty, Curry’s impact extended far beyond the box score.
1. Lebron James
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LeBron’s consistency, versatility, and leadership defined the decade. No player combined scoring, playmaking, and defense like he did, leading multiple franchises to championships. His dominance over a full decade elevated him into the greatest-of-all-time conversation and set a new standard for sustained excellence.