When we talk about the top NBA centers of the 21st century, a few names invariably come up. These are the players who have dominated the paint with their towering presence, incredible skills, and game-changing performances. I'll take you through a stroll down memory lane to appreciate these legends who defined basketball for me and many others.
One of the first names that pops up is Shaquille O'Neal. Standing at 7 feet 1 inch and weighing 325 pounds, Shaq was a dominant force in every aspect of the game. He won the NBA Finals MVP three times from 2000 to 2002. His average during those years? A staggering 29.9 points per game and 13.2 rebounds per game. He was a player who could single-handedly change the course of a game. With a player efficiency rating of 30.6 during his peak, he was nothing short of a human wrecking ball.
Tim Duncan, although primarily a power forward, also spent significant time at center for the San Antonio Spurs. Tim won five NBA championships and bagged three NBA Finals MVP awards. His impact on the game is not just measured in points and rebounds. Duncan posted a career defensive rating of 95, showcasing his prowess on the defensive end. Known as "The Big Fundamental," his technique and footwork were exemplary.
Yao Ming deserves mention for being an icon not just in the NBA but internationally. At 7 feet 6 inches, Yao played for the Houston Rockets and was an eight-time All-Star. Despite injuries limiting his career to eight seasons, he averaged 19 points and 9.2 rebounds per game. His presence in the league spanned more than just numbers—he brought the NBA closer to China, enhancing its global appeal.
Now, can we overlook Dwight Howard? The man who carried the Orlando Magic to the NBA Finals in 2009. Dwight dominated with his athleticism and incredible shot-blocking ability. He led the league in rebounds and blocks for multiple seasons. With a career rebound average of 12.3 per game and over 2 blocks per game, he redefined the role of a defensive center.
Then there’s DeMarcus Cousins, who despite facing multiple injuries, established himself as one of the most skilled centers. His best season saw him average 27.8 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game. His versatility allowed him to stretch the floor, something rare for centers at the time. He even shot over 35% from beyond the arc in his peak seasons, which added another layer to his game.
One can't miss Marc Gasol, who was pivotal for the Toronto Raptors winning their first-ever NBA Championship in 2019. He’s known for his exceptional basketball IQ and passing ability. Gasol averaged 4.2 assists per game in 2018, unheard of for someone predominantly playing center. His blend of defensive grit and offensive vision made him a valuable asset.
Can we ignore the impact of Nikola Jokic? Dubbed the "Joker," this Serbian sensation completely revolutionized the center position. Jokic averages nearly 6.6 assists per game over his career, often leading his team in assists. In the 2020-2021 season, Jokic achieved a player efficiency rating of 31.3, the highest in the league. His skill set is so diverse that he was awarded the NBA MVP.
Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers is another name that cannot be overlooked. Standing at 7 feet and weighing 280 pounds, Embiid averages 24.8 points and 11.3 rebounds per game for his career thus far. His ability to dominate both inside and outside the arc makes him a formidable opponent. In fact, in the 2020-2021 season, Embiid shot nearly 38% from three-point range, astonishing for a player of his size.
Speaking of finesse and skill, Anthony Davis, who has played both power forward and center, has made a significant impact since joining the Los Angeles Lakers. Davis brings more than just size to the court; his agility and shot-blocking abilities are outstanding. In the 2019-2020 season, Davis averaged 26.1 points and 9.3 rebounds per game and played a key role in securing the Lakers’ 17th NBA championship.
The league has also seen other remarkable centers like Rudy Gobert, known for his defensive prowess and multiple Defensive Player of the Year awards. Gobert’s impact is evident in his career average of 2.2 blocks per game. His ability to control the paint offers immense value.
Of course, these examples merely scratch the surface of what each player brings to the court. There’s so much more in terms of their contributions and specific talents. Each of these players created their own legacy while advancing the center position in remarkable ways. Their contributions have made watching basketball a truly exhilarating experience. For more detailed discussions and deeper dives into stats click here: arena plus.